FITSFocus: Reid McLeod

We weren’t quite sure what to expect when we asked Reid McLeod to participate in this interview/ photo shoot.

After all, she’s classy, sophisticated and sweet … terms that aren’t always (or ever) used to describe this website.

We’ve also heard the term “drop dead gorgeous” applied to Reid on multiple occasions, whereas most people just tell us to “drop dead” and leave it at that.

Still, the 22-year-old, Lexington, S.C. native graciously agreed to sit down with us, giving our founding editor Sic Willie her thoughts on everything from wake boarding to wading through the crazy world of S.C. politics.

She also posed for photographer Sarah Kobos, who captured this “it” girl brilliantly and boldly in the exquisite pictorial below.

Here’s the inaugural FITSFocus featuring Reid McLeod of SC BIPEC.

Enjoy …

FITS: What led you to the S.C. political scene?

Reid McLeod: I have always had an interest in both the political and legislative processes. Those interests led me to seek a page position in the House my sophomore year of college. After a year as a page, I was promoted to Executive Page managing the performance and schedules of other pages. That centered my interest on legislative matters.

FITS: Your current gig – tell us what you do?

RM: I am working as the Governmental Relations Liaison for (the) SC Business and Industry Political Education Committee. My responsibilities include membership correspondence, database maintenance for membership histories, maintaining the Political Parade section of the BIPEC website, and aiding in BIPEC’s research projects involving pre-filed and new bills for the SC Senate and House of Representatives during legislative session. I joined BIPEC in October 2008.

FITS: Looking down the road, where do you see yourself going in this business? Or do you even want to stay in politics?

RM: I’m interested in continuing to work in the legislative and political arenas.

FITS: Tell us why do you do what you do? What’s your motivation?

RM: My focus is on helping South Carolina be the best place it can be. I have lived in this beautiful state all my life, and it is so rich in history and natural resources. Those resources include the citizens of South Carolina. My work at SC BIPEC promotes jobs creation while promoting responsible stewardship of all our resources, both of which benefit the citizens of the Palmetto State.

FITS: What about your life away from politics – what keeps you busy outside of work?

RM: I love spending time with my family. I am blessed with wonderful parents and an older brother. Along with my brother I was adopted by some of his friends who are like brothers to me in many ways; while I dreaded some of their oversight, I now realize how lucky I am to have them as family. I am always with my girlfriends, Lisa, Brittany and Ashley. Whether it is out for sushi or at the house watching “American Idol” and “One Tree Hill” I always treasure my time with them. Additionally I love the outdoors- fishing, being on the lake, walking with my dog, the beach, wake boarding or just lying in the hammock.

FITS: What’s your State House style?

RM: BIPEC does not lobby so I do not spend much time at the State House. At work, I prefer to dress in a professional manner but with a strong emphasis on comfort. I am not a morning person, so whatever is ironed and ready to go works for me, throw on some make-up, some heels and run out the door. On weekends, you will always see me in jeans, flip-flops and some kind of t-shirt.

FITS: People obviously think you’re sexy. So we want to know, what do you think “sexy” is?

RM: I’m flattered that some might think that but I’m not certain why they would think that about me. “Sexy” to me is an appeal based in manner, composure and confidence. Chivalry is the main appeal for me in men. However, a guy who’s tall and handsome doesn’t hurt.

FITS: Alright … so this is the question everybody wants to know – are you dating anybody? Got a crush?

RM: I am single. I have a small crush on the character Jim off of the show, “The Office.” Jim and Pam are not married yet, so there is hope. A perfect date would be something original and seemingly spontaneous. Like a surprise flight to Paris for breakfast or something simple like a picnic packed for a cool fall day.

FITS: This state obviously has a lot of issues. What do you think is the biggest problem confronting South Carolina is?

RM: I think that one of the biggest problems confronting South Carolina is finding new ways to inspire our young people to make positive contributions to themselves, their families and to our state.

FITS: South Carolina has the lowest percentage of female elected officials in the nation. Could you ever see yourself running for office?

RM: Long term, I may be interested in public service, but right now my goal is to serve the members of SC BIPEC as effectively as possible.

FITS: Tell us about the women you admire … who are they? And what about them inspires you?

RM: All my life I’ve been surrounded by strong, admirable women. I admire them for who they are and what they have gone through. I’m inspired by women who are graceful even when challenged, can balance a strong work, and family life, are true to themselves, and, most importantly, women who are effective but do not take themselves too seriously to enjoy life. Of course, I owe my life to my Mom, and she will always be my role model.

PHOTOS: SARAH KOBOS

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