Mark Kruea

 Longtime public information officer Mark Kruea is entering the Myrtle Beach mayor’s race.  “Soon after retiring last April, people began encouraging me to run for mayor in 2025,” Kruea said.  “This opportunity came to me; I did not go looking for it.  They say it’s time for a change on City Council, and that my background and experience in city government are a good fit.  I am honored to be able to do this.”  The nonpartisan election is Tuesday, November 4, 2025.  

Kruea brings 26 years of responsive communication and public transparency to the role.  He is well known as the city’s spokesperson, with a broad knowledge of city operations and services.  And he’s a resident of the Market Common district, which represents a quarter of the city’s population.  Now, after much reflection in response to the many requests, he’s offering to be the mayor who listens, who starts conversations and who puts residents first.  

“Truly, the amount and variety of support from all corners of the city has been astounding,” Kruea said.  “I hear the concerns from citizens and businesses about the city’s future.  I am not a politician, but it’s clear that we need to listen to our people and put their interests first.  I’m doing this for all of the people who aren’t happy with the current trajectory of the city.  We have such great promise, but only if we work together to realize the future.”

These are just a few starting points for the conversations that City Council needs to have.  The mayor can and should lead these discussions.  “Running for mayor isn’t a ‘me’ thing,” Kruea said.  “This wasn’t on my radar, but I’ve been genuinely surprised by how many people want something different.  It’s time for a change, and they are looking to me to make it happen.”  

Kruea’s family vacationed along the Grand Strand during his youth, so he is aware of the growth that has occurred.  He’s a 1980 graduate of Wake Forest University with a B.A. in English.  Career-wise, Mark worked in radio and television news before transitioning to media and public relations, culminating with two and a half decades as Myrtle Beach’s spokesperson.  

During his time with the city, Kruea originated the idea for R.A.I.N., Remembering Animals in Need, to support the Grand Strand Humane Society.  He also served 12 years on the Horry County United Way Board and currently serves on the Market Common YMCA Advisory Board.

In all, Mark brings 42 years of experience in communications and public service to the task of steering, engaging and representing Myrtle Beach as its next mayor.  The campaign process is an extended interview.  “During the months leading up to the election, you’ll have a chance to ask questions, express concerns and generally get to know me,” Kruea said.  “I’m interviewing for the job.  On election day, I hope you’ll hire me as your mayor for the next four years.”