Clay Middleton

Clay, a native Charlestonian, has dedicated his life to public service. He holds a degree from The Citadel and currently serves as a Battalion Commander in the South Carolina Army National Guard, holding the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

With combat and operational experience during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Clay has also actively supported various federal and state missions. He has made significant contributions to the SC National Guard Association Executive Council and has been recognized with numerous military honors and awards.

Selected by President Barack Obama, Clay served in the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships at the Corporation for National and Community Service. He started as an associate and later took on the role of acting director.

In 2017, Clay assumed the position of Director of Business Services for the city of Charleston. Leading the Business & Neighborhood Services division, he played a pivotal role in initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth and community development. Currently, Clay serves as a Managing Director at Mercury Public Affairs, a global public strategic affairs firm.

Clay’s extensive experience includes being a longtime aide to Congressman Jim Clyburn and previously serving former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Senator Cory Booker. He also served on the Biden-Harris transition team, demonstrating his commitment to public service.