Blandhard For Sheriff
Benji For Mayor

About Benji

Comprehensive Bio:

Benjamin Cranford Jr., affectionately known as “Benji” by his fellow Thomson residents, epitomizes the American dream. Born and raised in Thomson, Benji’s journey is one of resilience, hard work, and a deep love for his hometown.

Benji’s early years were marked by financial hardship. He and his twin brother faced the challenge of limited resources, often sharing a single bowl of cereal for breakfast. It was during these formative years that Benji’s innate entrepreneurial spirit began to shine through. Together with his brother, they initiated a leaf-raking service in their neighborhood, demonstrating their natural talent for problem-solving and business acumen from a young age.

After graduating from Thomson High School in 1993, Benji embarked on a path that eschewed the traditional route of higher education. Instead, he opted for a hands-on approach to life and work. Between 1993 and 1998, he undertook various odd jobs, honing his work ethic and determination.

In 1998, Benji took a significant step by investing the last $10,000 he had to purchase a dump truck. This marked the inception of Cranford Trucking, a venture that he embarked upon with a friend. Despite the inevitable challenges and setbacks that come with starting a business, Benji’s resilience and unwavering commitment to success kept him moving forward.

In 2000, Benji saw an opportunity and established C&H Paving, a business that would become a cornerstone of Thomson’s economic landscape. He started from scratch, building the company’s reputation on large-scale projects, including commercial developments, government contracts, and the construction of parking lots, sidewalks, and roads. At the pinnacle of C&H Paving’s success, Benji employed nearly 400 individuals, making a significant impact on the local job market.

Notably, C&H Paving remains rooted in Thomson, a testament to Benji’s dedication to his community. His remarkable achievements were acknowledged when he received the Small Business of the Year award from the Thomson-McDuffie Chamber of Commerce, an accolade that underscored his commitment to the town and its prosperity.

Today, Benji Cranford Jr. is taking the next step in his journey by running for mayor. His platform is firmly rooted in the principles of fairness, inclusivity, and progress. He aims to ensure that every Thomson resident has a voice in their local government and to create an environment where businesses can thrive without unnecessary bureaucracy. Benji emphasizes that he is not a career politician but rather a good friend and neighbor who wants the best for Thomson. He continues to reside in Thomson, where he is a proud father to four sons, who actively participate in his business and share in his passion for their beloved town.