Aditi Bussells: Beyond Party Lines

"Until our districts become truly competitive, we should not expect transformational change."

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Aditi Bussells, a former Columbia City Council member, reflects on her time in office and the need for competitive districts in South Carolina to drive real progress. She argues that party loyalty should not substitute for thoughtful decision-making, and that removing redistricting control from legislators could help create a more responsive government.

Why it matters

Bussells' perspective highlights the challenges of achieving meaningful change in a political landscape dominated by uncompetitive districts, where elections are often decided before votes are cast. Her call for independent redistricting and a focus on problem-solving over party allegiance resonates with growing frustrations over the lack of accountability and responsiveness in the state's political system.

The details

Bussells describes her approach on the City Council as an 'independent voice,' working with lawmakers across the aisle to deliver real outcomes for her constituents. She argues that true competition, not party loyalty, is what drives accountability and progress. Bussells points to the 2024 legislative elections, where only 5 of 124 seats were decided by a margin of 10 points or less, as evidence that the current system protects incumbents rather than prioritizing fair representation.

  • In 2024, there were 124 legislative seats on the ballot in South Carolina.

The players

Aditi Bussells

A former member of the Columbia City Council who describes herself as an 'independent voice' focused on delivering real outcomes for her constituents.

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What they’re saying

“Until our districts become truly competitive, we should not expect transformational change.”

— Aditi Bussells

What’s next

Bussells calls for removing the authority to draw district maps from the hands of legislators and entrusting it to an independent third party, as many other states have done, in order to create more competitive elections and drive greater accountability.

The takeaway

Bussells' perspective challenges the notion that party allegiance should be the primary driver of political leadership, arguing instead for a focus on problem-solving, authenticity, and a willingness to work across the aisle. Her call for independent redistricting highlights the need to address the structural barriers to competitive elections and responsive governance in South Carolina.