Henry McMaster is an American politician serving as the 117th governor of South Carolina. He took office on January 24, 2017, after the resignation of Nikki Haley, who became the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. McMaster is a member of the Republican Party and previously held the position of lieutenant governor. Before becoming governor, McMaster served as the attorney general of South Carolina from 2003 to 2011. He has a background in law and has been involved in state politics for many years, focusing on issues such as economic development and education reform.