R.C. Soles Jr. is the longest-serving member of the legislature.
In his 40th year in office, the state senator is seeking another term representing Columbus County. A Democrat, he has been re-elected every two years despite the influx of Republicans into his area.
Soles, 73, started as a familiar type: A local lawyer with growing influence in the county party who learned how powerful lawmakers cut deals. First elected to the state House in 1968, he moved to the Senate in 1976.
He is considered one of the more influential members, though he is easy to overlook. He ran for the top job of president pro tem 15 years ago, losing to Senate leader Marc Basnight, who still has the job.
Soles has also worked on bills that would seem to help allies and friends. (N&O)
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