James B. Edwards

James B. Edwards was an American politician and healthcare professional who served as the 78th Governor of South Carolina from 1975 to 1979. Prior to his political career, he was a surgeon and medical school professor. Edwards was known for his efforts to modernize South Carolina’s economy and government, promoting education, economic development, and infrastructure improvements. After his governorship, he served as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Ronald Reagan from 1981 to 1983. His leadership combined medical expertise with political dedication, making significant contributions to both healthcare policy and state governance.