Headlines, 10/30 to 10/31

US SENATE: Odd rivals clash for Senate seat
US Sen. Lindsey Graham and challenger Bob Conley are add rivals for South Carolina's US Senate seat, especially after Conley supported Ron Paul's presidential bid. Source: Myrtle Beach Sun News

• Graham responds to questions
US Sen. Lindsey Graham is responding to questions posed to him by the Daniel Island News. Source: Daniel Island News

US HOUSE: Clyburn calls for USA to get back on right track
US Rep. Jim Clyburn is telling voters that he needs their support to send him back to Washington to get the nation back on the right economic track. Source: The Aiken Standard

• Clyburn visits Oconee to stump for Dyer
Source: Anderson Independent Mail

• USC-Aiken gets visit from Barrett
Source: WJBF News

• Wilson associate says tax error not noticed for years
An unnoticed tax error in Lexington County allowed US Rep. Joe Wilson and an associate pay lower property taxes than what was right, prompting accusations from Democrats of unfair treatment. Source: The State / AP

• District 6 candidates answer questions
Source: Daniel Island News

• Spratt facing 2 challengers for re-election bid
Source: The Sumter Item

• Barrett calls for a return to basic economic principles
Source: The Aiken Standard

• Ketner challenges Brown for seat
Source: Myrtle Beach Sun News

• Political event gets rowdy
Source: Myrtle Beach Sun News

SC SENATE: Tough talk in Senate 28 race
State Sen. Dick Elliot and challenger Bill McKown are engaged in a hotly contested race for the Senate 28 seat along the Grand Strand. Source: Myrtle Beach Sun News

• Gay robocalls stir debate in Senate District 16 race
Source: Rock Hill Herald

• Candidates stump for voter support
Source: The Sumter Item

• Horry voters to choose 4 to send to Columbia
Source: Myrtle Beach Herald

• Q&A with Senate 28 candidates
Source: Myrtle Beach Sun News

SC HOUSE: Cobb-Hunter urges responsibility for health
Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter is urging residents of her district to take their health into their own hands and make responsible decisions. Source: Orangeburg Times & Democrat

• Crump says Simrill has had enough time
Rep. Gary Simrill's opponent Herb Crump is arguing that the incumbent has had enough time in the legislature and that the seat needs some new blood. Source: Rock Hill Herald

• Erickson denies cemetery claim
Source: Hilton Head Island Packet

ELECTION: Final days of campaigns
Candidates for office are making their final push to convince voters that they are best suited to be elected. Source: The State

• York County residents ponder election
Source: Rock Hill Herald

• Tempers short in long voting lines
Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

• Ware Shoals students getting involved in politics
Source: Greenwood Index-Journal

• Experts predicting Obama victory
Source: Seneca Daily Journal

• Getting the vote out in Sumter
Source: The Sumter Item

• Campaigns entering final days
Source: The Greenville News

• Sunday alcohol sales on some ballots
Source: The Post & Courier

• Republicans will revisit image after election
Source: The New York Times

• Tuesday is Election Day
Source: Florence Morning News

• Lawmakers received money from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
Source: WIS 10 News

• Voters reaching decision time
Source: Cheraw Chronicle

• Voters to make history at the polls
Source: Seneca Daily Journal

• Voters going to the polls early
Voters coming to vote early are swamping the polls at county election offices. ource: The State

• Absentee voting keeping Orangeburg officials busy
Source: Orangeburg Times & Democrat

• Common election myths debunked
Source: Orangeburg Times & Democrat

• York County extending election hours
Source: Rock Hill Herald

• Election workers to monitor voters
Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

• School project on election crosses boundaries
Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

• Beaufort sued over ballot change
Source: The Beaufort Gazette

• Could South Carolina become a blue state?
Source: WIS 10 News

• Alexander to dispel voting myths
Source: Florence Morning News

• Watch what you wear to the polls
Source: The Sumter Item

• Expectations on Election Day
Source: Daniel Island News

• Teens engaged by mock election
Source: The State

• Absentee ballots setting records
Source: The State

• Election fraud hotline set up for SC
Source: The Greenville News

• Absentee voters facing long lines
Source: The Post & Courier

• Voter fraud hotline set up to report issues
Source: The Post & Courier

• Obama masks outsell McCain
Source: Myrtle Beach Sun News

Dibble endorsed by Hodges and Courson
GOP Sen. John Courson and former Gov. Jim Hodges have endorsed Susie Dibble in her candidacy for the Richland 1 school board. Source: The State

Drummond honored for service to state
Sen. John Drummond was honored for his service to the state by public officials at a ceremony at Lander University last night. Source: Greenwood Index-Journal

Noble speaks out against money from Rich
Phil Noble of the SC New Democrats is going on a tour of the state to bring attention to money coming to Republican candidates from New York businessman Howard Rich, who advocates school choice programs. Source: The Post & Courier

OPINION

Support Amendment 1 on the ballot
"Amendment 1, one of three state constitutional amendments on Tuesday's ballot, would delete the section of the state constitution that says an unmarried woman must be at least 14 years old to consent to sex. In a sense, this amounts to constitutional housekeeping. South Carolina's Constitution is loaded down with extraneous provisions that have no place in the Constitution." Source: Rock Hill Herald

Nation will be shaped by court appointments
"The U.S., in the beginning, was fortunate enough to have one of the wisest Chief Justices on the Supreme Court. John Marshall followed the Constitution and set the tone for much of the checks and balances concept that has served the nation well. Nowadays, though, some of the decisions handed down by federal judges seem, to some, to be directly contradictory to Justice Marshall’s record." Source: Greenwood Index-Journal

McCain for President
"In the race for president, John McCain represents the experience, know-how, bi-partisanship and toughness needed to lead the United States for the next four years. A Republican member of the U.S. Senate from Arizona, McCain is vastly more experienced than relative newcomer and his Senate colleague, Illinois Democrat Barack Obama. The charismatic Obama’s campaign mantra has been “Change,” and it has caught on in a country ready for a new look in Washington, an end to the war in Iraq and fresh ideas on resolving the current economic crisis. He is not the only change agent, however." Source: Seneca Daily Journal

All eyes on the election
"Election 2008 is being watched closely. For the first time an African-American Democrat and a Republican female are on the presidential and vice presidential ballots is an obvious attention-getter. More than that, Americans are seeing this as a pivotal election, given the nation's conditions now, what with the economic problems, terrorism and the conflicts we are ensnared in the Middle East. Which new American president will best handle these challenges?" Source: Barnwell People-Sentinel

Incumbents endorsed for Congress
"Every election year, one category on the ballot actually seems to invite the futility that causes many to be apathetic: the congressional races. Districts are so carefully gerrymandered to favor this party or that one that the partisan behavior we see on Capitol Hill is foreordained. Elect a candidate from a super-Democratic district, you get a super-Democrat; draw a district to be hyper-Republican, and that’s the kind of representative you get." Source: The State

Bolton: Voters need to take back Lexington-Richland 5
"As bad as Lexington-Richland 5 needs new schools, the district’s bond issue on the ballot Tuesday is about far more than bricks and mortar. It’s a referendum on voters’ commitment to success. The ballot question might as well be, “Shall Lexington-Richland 5 continue as a high-achieving, affluent district that attracts top-notch administrators and teachers, new families and new development?” Source: The State

Echols: Get to the polls on Tuesday
"Because of the hard work of hundreds of dedicated volunteers from many churches, civic and other community organizations, thousands of Upstate citizens of all age groups, income levels, and ethnic backgrounds have registered to vote in 2008. However, registering is only the first step of the electoral process. The second and most important step is actually going to the polls Tuesday and casting your ballot." Source: The Greenville News

Lowcountry endorsements for SC House
"Five seats are contested for the S.C. House of Representatives on local ballots Tuesday. We urge voters to choose Steven Smith, Leon Stavrinakis, Wallace Scarborough, Vida Miller and George Bailey. Political newcomer Steven Smith would be a voice for accountability and frugality in state government. Elect him as representative for District 109." Source: The Post & Courier

King for House District 49
"In the race for state House District 49, we endorse Democrat John King. The District 49 seat covers southern York County, including parts of Rock Hill and York. The seat was vacated this year by longtime state Rep. Bessie Moody-Lawrence, who retired. King is opposed by Republican Marvin Rogers, 32, who is running for public office for the first time. This was a tough race to call. Both candidates have attributes that would serve them well in office." Source: Rock Hill Herald

Casting absentee ballots nees multiple locations
"Early voting in southern Beaufort County has taken on an Election Day look with long lines of voters waiting to cast absentee ballots. Many probably showed up at Hilton Head Island's Town Hall to avoid just such a scene. It's not hard to figure out the problem nor hard to figure out the solution: We need more than one polling place in southern Beaufort County to handle the demand for in-person voting ahead of Election Day. We've heard no reports of long waits at the northern Beaufort County absentee voting site." Source: Hilton Head Island Packet

Bostic, Coakley, Condon endorsed for Charleston County Council
"Three seats are up for election on Charleston County Council. Voters will make their choices in single-member districts, but should consider candidates' broader aspirations for the county as a whole. Elect Coakley Hilton, an Independent, and incumbents Curtis Bostic, a Republican, and Colleen Condon, a Democrat." Source: The Post & Courier

Ford, Collins endorsed for SC Senate seats
"We don't share Sen. Robert Ford's views on a number of issues, including legalized gambling and unauthorized parking in handicapped spaces. But the long-serving Democrat has proven himself a hard-working and committed legislator. Voters in District 42 should give him another term." Source: The Post & Courier

Hollings: Next president needs fiscal responsibility of a governor
"I am often asked the difference between being a governor and a senator. As governor, if you want to increase revenues, you increase taxes. As senator, if you want to increase revenues, you cut taxes — stimulate the economy. By law, the secretary of the Treasury is required to post the increase in the national debt in a timely fashion, usually every other day around mid-morning."
Source: The Post & Courier

The Post And Mr. Brown

Surprise. The Post & Courier has endorsed Henry Brown for Congress. The rationale seems to be something along the lines of "his seat is already contoured and warm."

To begin with, the newspaper writes about Mr. Brown's "...good work [that] goes beyond helping constituents." And what is their evidence for this baseline level of constituent service that Mr. Brown seemingly goes beyond? Why, Henry Brown himself! "...Brown Jr. emphasizes his strong record of constituent service during four terms representing the 1st District in the U.S. House." My goodness. That is quite a complimentary self-assessment. But I must admit, every time I administer an introspective test of my abilities and worth, I too come out super-awesome. I'm sure Linda Ketner is just kicking herself for not telling the paper how amazing she is. "I am better than Henry Brown" may have been all the editorial board needed to write that Linda Ketner is better than Henry Brown. If only...

The paper goes on to write that Brown believes in the "...need for a new national energy policy — one that seeks greater production from a variety of sources." And yet, within the last 15 months Brown:

• Voted NO on tax incentives for energy production and conservation. (May 2008)
• Voted NO on tax incentives for renewable energy. (Feb 2008)
• Voted NO on investing in homegrown biofuel. (Aug 2007)

So while Brown may, according to the paper, "believe" in all of those things, he certainly votes the opposite. But then again, perhaps he just doesn't have the courage of his erroneously attributed convictions.

The newspaper enthusiastically supports the banal platitude of Brown's that "[w]e've got to reach a compromise with what's good for the environment and what's good for our quality of life." The ambivalence of that statement is only outdone by the absurdity of its premise: that somehow or another a clean environment is detrimental to our quality of life, hence the need for a compromise.

The Post continues by pointing out that Brown is as clear on energy as every single incumbent and challenger in this election cycle. "He correctly views the absence of a substantive energy policy as a national security issue, as dollars are transferred from the U.S. to oil-rich nations that don't necessarily share our interests." Yes, Post & Courier, truly that is what sets Brown apart from Ketner, the novel idea that energy is tied to national security. Quite the rogue the Henry Brown, or day I say it, "Maverick?"

Finally, the Post & Courier's most disappointing and upsetting rationale for their support of Henry Brown stems from a befuddling conflation of The War on Terror with the War in Iraq. "Rep. Brown has supported the administration's war on terror, including the surge in Iraq." All sarcasm aside, it pains me to think that there are still people, educated and influential individuals, who continue to link the War on Terror with the War in Iraq, as if one has anything to do with the other. Regardless of his support for the Surge, to suggest that its success (if we define success as not having prompted the Iraqi government to defend itself), has anything to do with the War on Terror does a grave disservice to readers. While Brown's support of the Surge is more than likely only evidence of an unwavering support for any policy put forward by President Bush, it says nothing about his understanding of the War on Terror or how to properly fight it.

Every reason given is based on a cliche. Void of evidence and indicative of little more than frantic last-minute googling of "Henry Brown + quotes," the Post & Courier's endorsement of Henry Brown will, hopefully, sway few minds.

Headlines, 10/28 to 10/29

PRESIDENT: Democrats hope Obama ads increase local turnout
Barack Obama TV ads played in Charlotte are popping up in homes in York County, and local Democrats are hopeful that the ads will boost Barack Obama's percentage in SC. Source: Rock Hill Herald

US HOUSE: Wilson, Miller spar over issues
US Rep. Joe Wilson and his Democratic challenger Rob Miller took each other to task over a number of issues, including the $700 billion bailout package and the Bush tax cuts. Source: The State

• Brown, Ketner ads get heated as election approaches
Source: WCSC TV

• Brown has narrow lead over Ketner, poll says
Source: WCSC TV

• Wilson paying for property tax mistake
Source: The State/AP

• Ketner giving Brown a tough fight
Source: Salisbury (NC) Post

• Brown, Ketner fight over campaign cash
Source: The Post and Courier

• Clyburn heavily favored in reelection
Source: Myrtle Beach Sun News

• Harrelson, Clyburn debate SC issues
US Rep. Jim Clyburn and his challenger Nancy Harrelson argued over taxes, economy and job creation in their Monday night debate aired on ETV. Source: The State

• Harrelson, Clyburn spar at debate
Source: The Post & Courier

• Inglis, Corden spar on economy
Source: The Greenville News

• Corden criticizes Inglis over spending
Source: The Greenville News

SC SENATE: Collins gaining on Rose
Independent candidate Bill Collins has out-fundraised his opponent, Republican Mike Rose, since his entry into the race for Senate District 38.
Source: Summerville Journal Scene

• Sanford endorses Rose
Source: Summerville Journal Scene

• Sanford supports Rose's Senate bid
Gov. Mark Sanford has given his support to Republican Mike Rose in his battle with independent Bill Collins. Source: The Post & Courier

• Riley supporting Nicholson in Senate bid
Source: Greenwood Index-Journal

• Compton endorsed by business industry
Source: Greenwood Index-Journal

ELECTION: Wild rumors going around about election day
Some ridiculous rumors have been spread around SC about the Nov. 4th election, ranging from the election being extended into Wednesday to people with outstanding traffic tickets being turned away from the polls.
Source: The State

• Youth vote very important on Nov. 4th
Source: Myrtle Beach Sun News

• State law only gives voters three minutes to vote
Source: WCBD

• Amendments on ballot surprise some
Source: WCSC TV

• Federal prosecutors want SC voters to report voting issues
Federal prosecutors reminded SC residents that agencies are prepared to handle reports of voter fraud or intimidation on Nov. 4th. Source: The State/AP

• SC says 2.5M registered to vote
SC election officials say that records have been broken in both voter registration and absentee voting. Source: The State

• Voter registration at an all time high
Source: Greenville News

• Toll-free number available to report voting issues
Source: The Post and Courier

• Record set in voter registration
Source: The Post and Courier

• ETV to provide full election day coverage
Source: The Post and Courier

• SC ready for election day
State election officials are telling the public they are ready for a record turnout on Election Day in one week. Source: The State

• Understanding the ballot questions
Source: WCSC Live 5 News

• Absentee voters see long lines
Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

• Task force prepares for election day
Source: The Post & Courier

• People voting early in election
Horry County voters are turning out in record numbers to vote before election day. Source: Myrtle Beach Sun News

Charleston business group backs school board candidates
The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce endorsed five candidates for Charleston School Board who it believes would focus on best preparing students for the workforce. Source: The Post and Courier

Greenville area candidates attend forum
Greenville area candidates for local, state, and federal office attended a three hour candidate forum Monday night. Source: The Greenville News

OPINION

Graham for US Senate
"Republican Lindsey Graham, in a single term, has established himself as a major figure in the U.S. Senate. He has been both a persuasive proponent of conservative causes and a pragmatic legislator adept at crafting bipartisan compromises. He has clearly earned your support for re-election." Source: The Post and Courier

Moredock: Fear will be deciding factor for white voters
"At the end of World War II, there were thousands of Japanese soldiers abandoned by their retreating comrades across China, Southeast Asia, and the islands of the South Pacific. In many cases, they had no radios or other means of communicating with the outside world; no way of knowing that the war was over, or how it ended. Mainland troops were rounded up quickly enough, but things were different on the remote islands." Source: Charleston City Paper

Masters: Obama will change the image of "black"
"Like Barack Obama, my mother is white, my father black. Having lived in the United States more years than I have in Jamaica, I have always been puzzled by the classification of race wherein the United States tries to place its citizens." Source: Greenville News

Clyburn for US House
"Democrat James E. Clyburn, as majority whip, is the most powerful South Carolinian in the U.S. House since Mendel Rivers. He earned that status through his mastery of the legislative process and his strong work ethic. He has earned the 6th District's support for re-election to a ninth term." Source: The Post and Courier

Brown for US House
"Republican Henry E. Brown Jr. emphasizes his strong record of constituent service during four terms representing the 1st District in the U.S. House. But his good work goes beyond helping constituents. He has been a strong supporter of national defense and a devoted advocate for America's military veterans. And as a member of the House Transportation Committee, he has an important role in shaping national transportation policy." Source: The Post and Courier

Vote yes on amendment questions
"S.C. voters on ballots Tuesday will find three constitutional amendment questions in addition to other issues including candidates for a raft of elected offices."
Source: Myrtle Beach Sun News

• All three amendments deserve approval
"South Carolina voters face three amendments to the state constitution on the ballot next week. Two amendments would allow local governments to get a better rate of return on their investments; the other would allow the General Assembly to set the age of consent for sexual activity. Voters should approve all three." Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

Hunter: Graham an embarassment to SC
"There are many things South Carolinians are expected to be ashamed of — slavery, segregation, low SAT scores. These are the least of our state's embarrassments. Our deepest shame is in being represented by U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham." Source: Charleston City Paper

District 17 needs Coleman
"In the race for the District 17 seat in the state Senate, we endorse Democrat Creighton Coleman. The District 17 seat is open this year because of the retirement of longtime Sen. Linda Short, D-Chester. The seat covers part of York and Union counties and all of Chester and Fairfield counties. Coleman’s opponent, Republican Mark Bennett, is a truck driver and part-time race car driver who goes by the nickname of 'The Richburg Rocket.' He has no previous political experience." Source: Rock Hill Herald

Voting should be influenced by Supreme Court choices
"The likely vacancies on the U.S. Supreme Court has been mentioned far too seldom in the presidential campaign. That one issue may be the most important consideration facing every voter. Every time someone is appointed to the court by the president he must be approved by the U. S. Senate. The process almost always erupts into a controversy based on the perceived or real political leanings of the appointee. It’s no secret that Democrats in Congress want someone with a liberal record. Likewise, Republicans want a conservative." Source: Greenwood Index-Journal

Graham for US Senate
"While it may seem superfluous, even redundant, to do so, we take the opportunity today to enthusiastically endorse Lindsey Graham for re-election to the U.S. Senate. Sen. Graham, unlike his good friend and ally John McCain, is cruising along toward certain victory in next week’s election. That’s mainly because his opponent is no Barack Obama. Far from it." Source: The State

Scoppe: Undecided about election
"I bought myself two weeks by copping out when our editorial board decided whom to endorse for president. For all the good it’s done so far. One week to go, and I remain an undecided voter. I’ve never been in this position before. Never stayed on the sidelines in an important endorsement decision before." Source: The State

McCain's Albatross and the Face of the GOP

Sarah Palin seems to be a bigger drag on the McCain ticket than anyone could have imagined. (With the possible exception of anyone who knew anything about her before her debut at the Republican Convention) Recent polling data suggests that she damages the McCain campaign even more than President Bush. That is saying something. However, her negative effects are not simply a result of her ridiculously incoherent ramblings or McCain's embarrassingly poor rollout. The Obama campaign played a risky game to attack a Vice Presidential nominee whose initial favorables were sky high and who packed houses from Anchorage to Atlanta.

Many pundits believed that a VP may assist in carrying a home state or assist in a region. They were quick to point to Dan Quayle to support the notion that a VP does not make or break an election. As such, commentators were perplexed as to why she was taking so many hits from Obama's surrogates. They were expected to level their attacks on McCain, not the former beauty queen. The attacks continued, steadily chipping away at her gleaming "80% approval in Alaska" and "by golly she is pretty" front. We can see why now.

Attacking Palin and drawing attention to her weaknesses in fact drew attention to some of the things that the Democrats could not say in the open. To begin with, her choice reflected McCain's impetuousness. This was not a well-thought choice. It showed with tremendous clarity that he was no contemplative or balanced leader. If he could make such an important choice so nonchalantly, how would he govern?

Secondly, as many have pointed out, the choice undercut his entire "experience" argument. McCain's was no longer a campaign whose advantage was an intimate knowledge of the inner workings of Washington. The constant reminder of "I know how to do it" was drowned out by her refrain of "[w]hat does the Vice President even do."

Finally, her choice highlighted concerns about McCain's age and health. Aside from the stark contrast between her youth and vitality, real questions arose as to her capacity to lead. The only phrase said more often than "heartbeat away" over the last few months has been "wall street/main street." When McCain repeatedly failed to fully disclose his health records, when he made gaffes for which other younger politicians might be excused, and when he strode on stage with the younger and taller Obama, the public questioned, without be prompted, McCain's physical condition and his ability to take on the taxing job of President.

The public can now see Sarah Palin for what she is. Beginning with her speech at the Republican Convention and concluding, hopefully, with her concession speech, she has been nothing but derisive, bitter, and angry. She mocked Senator Obama's efforts to better the lives of Chicago's most needy when he turned down high paying legal jobs. She spoke down to Katie Couric when she stated that Putin would "rear his head... over where — where do they go?" You can almost hear the sarcastic "oh yeah, that's right" before she answers her own question: Alaska.

When asked why she only got her passport last year, she insulted huge numbers of individuals by stating that she wasn't one of the lucky ones whose parents shipped them off to Europe after they graduated from college. That is just nonsense. People have been traveling the world over on shoestring budgets for generations. Whether its finding inexpensive flights, staying in hostels, traveling via backpack, working before each leg, to say that only those with money and privilege can travel shows a repugnant divisiveness and ignorance beyond comprehension. If she has no desire to learn about countries other than those she can see from her house, that's her world view. Don't dress it up as a pity party.

Finally, her answer at the VP debate in which she openly acknowledged that she would not answer questions from the mainstream media, but would speak as she wanted seems to have been the straw that broke the pitbull's back.

By focusing on Palin more than many thought they should have, the Obama campaign has made Sarah Palin the face of the 2008 incarnation of the GOP. Void of ideas, filled with anger, indecisive, and bitter. Keeping her in the spotlight has done more damage to McCain than any attempt linking him to President Bush. It has undermined every argument in his favor and hurts ever down ballot Republican in many states. Keep up the good work Governor Palin. You have a 100% approval rating with me.

The latest cartoon by Stegelin in SC Statehouse Report:


Also in the latest issue of Statehouse Report:

• Editor Bill Davis offers a look at energy alternatives in the third installment of the Power Trip series.
  
• MY TURN columnist Ashley Woodiwiss suggests a new type of campaign conversation would be helpful.
  
• Commentator Andy Brack says a new Winthrop/ETV poll offers clues for how SC politics may change.

Full issue: http://www.statehousereport.com/archives/08_issue43.energy3.htm

Headlines, 10/25 - 10/27

PRESIDENT: Students vote for Obama in mock election
At three Hilton Head schools, Democrat Barack Obama won mock elections over Republican John McCain by a margin of 61-32. Source: The State

US SENATE: Senate race anything but normal
The circumstances around Lindsey Graham's reelection bid and Bob Conley's attempt to take away his Senate seat have been abnormal to say the least, with both candidates drawing some of their sharpest criticisms from within their own party. Source: Greenville News

US HOUSE: Brown in a tough fight against Ketner
US Rep. Henry Brown is facing his toughest political challenge since being elected in 2000 against Democrat Linda Ketner, as the seat is on many watch lists for congressional seats that could switch parties this November. Source: The State

• 9 days out, Congressional candidates gearing up
Source: The State

• GOP losses not likely in SC
Source: Greenville News

• Clyburn optimistic about chances
US Rep. Jim Clyburn, who few pundits are picking to lose in his reelection bid, has said that the last two years as House Majority Whip have changed his life. Challenger Nancy Harrelson, who opted out of a televised debate with Clyburn, is choosing to use the grassroots to defeat Clyburn in November. Source: The Post and Courier

• Spratt, Spencer set up for rematch
Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

• Dyer on the stump in Seneca, trying to unseat Barrett
Source: Anderson Independent Mail

• Brown, Wilson face tough challengers, other Congressmen considered safe Source: SC Now

SC HOUSE: NRA backs Miller
The National Rifle Association Victory Fund has decided to endorse SC Rep. Vida Miller in her reelection bid.Source: The Post and Courier

Young black leaders poised to win in November
A number of African Americans are poised to win elections in Richland County this year, signifying a shift in the county's political landscape. Source: The State

SC sets new registration, absentee voting records
South Carolinians are participating more in this election than in any election in recent memory, as evidenced by record numbers in registration and absentee voting. Source: The State

• Voters stand in long lines to get early start on voting
Source: Greenville News

• 600 absentee voters a day in Greenville County
Source: Greenville News

Ballot initiative wants voters to put faith in market
Two amendments on the ballot in SC are asking voters to put faith in the stock market and allow retirement benefits to be invested in the stock market.Source: The State

Greenville neighbors square off in school board race
Danna Edwards and Darin Scheidly are neighbors in the Sugar Creek neighborhood in Greenville and now political rivals in the race for Greenville County School Board's 21st district seat. Source: Greenville News

Long ballot for Richland 1 voters
5 of the 7 Richland 1 School Board seats are up for reelection this year, and the 15 candidates for the 5 seats are scrambling for votes. Source: The State

Three amendments appear on November ballot
Three amendments will appear on voters' ballots statewide in November- one deleting the age of consent clause from the constitution and allowing the legislature to set the age of consent, the other two allowing government to invest benefits in the stock market. Source: Greenville News

OPINION

Brack: Poll gives clues to future politics
"In an election season that never seems to stop, maybe there's one thing South Carolinians can give thanks for: Because conservative South Carolina is a red state, we haven't been pummeled by thousands of campaign ads as have our neighbors to the north." Source: SC Statehouse Report

The State endorses McCain for President
"The editorial board of The State finds itself faced with a happy dilemma — a choice between two presidential candidates whom we unanimously and enthusiastically endorsed in their primary contests. Now the nation must choose between them, and while we believe either man would make a fine president, we endorse Sen. John McCain of Arizona."Source: The State

Bolton: Why I'm voting for Obama
"Mr. McCain and Mr. Obama are both capable, but only one possesses extraordinary qualities to shepherd our country through these extraordinary times. That’s Sen. Barack Obama." Source: The State

Warthen: McCain endorsement a tough call
"Many who know my views — and between my columns and my blog, readers probably know my mind better than they do any other editor’s of their acquaintance — assumed all along that we would endorse John McCain." Source: The State

Bush: Vouchers are bad for public education
"Most of us remember the famous words of President Reagan: 'There you go again.' Those words immediately spring to mind when reading the responses of Randy Page, president of South Carolinians for Responsible Government (SCRG), to any positive news about public schools." Source: The State

Greenville News endorses Barrett, Inglis for US House
"Both Upstate U.S. House representatives are up for re-election this year, and Republicans Bob Inglis and Gresham Barrett face credible Democratic opposition. The Greenville News recommends both incumbents based on their conservative outlooks that better reflect the values of these two Upstate districts." Source: Greenville News

Vote McCain on Nov. 4th
"In January when the eyes of the nation were on South Carolina for its first-in-the-South presidential primaries, The Greenville News endorsed Arizona Sen. John McCain in the Republican primary and Illinois Sen. Barack Obama in the Democratic primary. At that time McCain and Obama were their party's best chance at helping this country move past the horribly divisive partisan politics that have left this great nation unable to address problems that threaten its future." Source: Greenville News

Leap: Judeo-Christian values prevalent in campaign
"Someone recently asked me if I watched the debates. 'No,' I said. 'Debates make my stomach hurt.'" Source: Greenville News

Pavelka: I could never vote pro-choice
"Some years ago I would have been on the bandwagon for the Obama-Biden ticket. Then a dedicated liberal and feminist, I belonged to both the ACLU and NOW. I considered myself strongly pro-choice." Source: Greenville News

Woodiwiss: Looking for new way of campaign talk
"Can there be another way to get our candidates together, to talk to each other and the public, and done in such a way that all can leave civically edified?" Source: SC Statehouse Report

Mailer O' The Day

This gem was sent out to voters in House Dist. 115


Flier resurrects Scarborough gunshot incident
By Schuyler Kropf
The Post and Courier
Friday, October 24, 2008

State Rep. Wallace Scarborough's gunshot in the dark is coming back to haunt him.
A flier distributed by Anne Peterson Hutto, who is opposing state Rep. Wallace Scarborough, pictures an actor as a criminal.

A flier distributed by Anne Peterson Hutto, who is opposing state Rep. Wallace Scarborough, pictures an actor as a criminal.

Thousands of James Island voters this week received a home mail-out reminding them of the bullet Scarborough fired just moments after two South Carolina Electric & Gas Co. workers wandered onto his parents' property at night looking for storm damage.

Nobody was hurt in the July 2006 incident, and his two counts of assault with intent to kill were eventually dropped.

Scarborough's Democratic challenger, Anne Peterson Hutto, said the episode, and Scarborough's conduct afterward, are legitimate campaign fodder.

"It shows bad judgment on the part of Mr. Scarborough, and there is nothing in this mailer that isn't true," she said.

Scarborough said the mailer, emblazoned with a nearly life-size picture of a man's hand clutching a gun, is an inflammatory piece of negative advertising. But he said he'll ignore it.

"I feel it's just going to backfire on her," he said.
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The flier was sent to more than 7,000 voters in House District 115 on James Island and Folly Beach. Its cover features a photograph of a disheveled male actor posing as someone just charged with trying to kill someone.

Inside, above a grainy reproduction of Scarborough's mug shot, the flier says, "This man is our state representative — even though they were both charged with the same crime."

The flier doesn't indicate that the man pictured on the cover is an actor.

"Rep. Wallace Scarborough was sent to jail after being charged with two counts of assault with intent to kill," the ad says. "But instead of doing the right thing and resigning, he wants us to send him back to the Legislature as our representative."

The flier then mentions local issues like sprawl and education before adding: "Wallace Scarborough is just too distracted with his own problems to get the job done — and it's time for a change."
Scarborough

Scarborough

The only mention of Hutto is a note saying the message was "paid for by Hutto for House."

Hutto's campaign manager said the use of the photo of an actor posing as a criminal isn't an attempt to mislead. "The guy is not real; unfortunately, Wallace is," campaign manager Mike Meehan said.

Scarborough's arrest came on a stormy night in July 2006 after he saw bright flashlights moving outside in the backyard of his parents' Crescent neighborhood home in West Ashley. He was alone at the time and thought the people might be burglars.

Out in the yard, he had a confrontation with two uniformed SCE&G linemen who were looking for storm-damaged areas. As they were leaving the yard, Scarborough said later, his 9 mm handgun accidentally discharged into the ground as he was walking away from the men.

The linemen called police, and Scarborough was arrested and booked into the county detention center where he spent the night.

Days later, then-solicitor Republican Ralph Hoisington dropped the charges, saying the incident was a misunderstanding that escalated in the dark, and that Scarborough's conduct that night did not amount to assault with intent to kill.

Scarborough, who is seeking a fifth term in the House of Representatives, said Thursday he didn't want to react to the mail piece rekindling the old charge. "I'm just moving forward," he said.

Hutto said the ad accurately tells voters about Scarborough's character. "It's something that happened that I think people need to be aware of," she said.

Contact Schuyler Kropf at 937-5551, or skropf@postandcourier.com.

Palmetto Family Council. Give Us Our Money Back!

Refund your Federal Grant Money or Stop Campaigning for Candidates

Palmetto Family Council President Oran Smith has been on a roll lately. He’s been campaigning for state senate candidates so much; it’s hard to know how he’s getting any sleep.

Who’s paying for his campaign efforts?

You! The Tax-Payer!

That’s right. Mr. Smith and his organization just got a $3 million dollar federal grant to promote their agenda. (Associated Press 10-19-08)

So as Mr. Smith travels around the state, please know that you are paying for his gas.

The money is supposedly going to promote abstinence-only programs on the internet. The article cites the Palmetto Family Council’s “Plan” to target Facebook and MySpace to tell teenagers not to have sex.

Since when does it cost $3 million dollars to set up a Facebook page?

Oran, give us our money back.

SC Chamber endorses Statehouse candidates

The S.C. Chamber of Commerce today endorsed several candidates for Statehouse. Here's the news release from the Chamber:

Columbia, SC – The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, the state’s largest broad-based business organization, is pleased to announce their endorsements of pro-business candidates who face General Election opposition on November 4.

“If people want jobs and a strong economy, they need to know and support pro-business candidates,” said Otis Rawl, president and chief executive officer of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce. “It is important, as the unified voice of the business community, that we endorse candidates who have demonstrated support for business priorities and a commitment to advance a legislative agenda that promotes competitiveness in South Carolina. These candidates are deeply committed to representing the people in their respective districts who need good jobs, a competitive state economy and a pro-prosperity working environment to ultimately raise their individual income.”

The South Carolina Chamber is proud to support the following candidates in their election endeavors and encourages everyone to Get Out the Vote (GOTV) on November 4. Visit www.scchamber.net for voting information.

House of Representatives Candidates Endorsed by the South Carolina Chamber:

Bill Sandifer, District 2*
B.R. Skelton, District 3
Mike Gambrell, District 7
Mark Willis, District 16
Dennis Moss, District 29
Harold Mitchell, District 31*
Derham Cole, District 32
Mike Forrester, District 34*
Steve Parker, District 37
Joey Millwood, District 38
Deborah Long, District 45
Carl Gullick, District 48*
Jackie Hayes, District 55*
Phillip Lowe, District 60
Gilda Cobb-Hunter, District 66
David Herndon, District 79
Tom Young, District 81*
Don Smith, District 83
Chip Huggins, District 85
Nikki Haley, District 87
Jenny Horne, District 94*
Annette Young, District 98*
Ken Kennedy, District 101*
Tracy Edge, District 104
Wallace Scarborough, District 115
Tim Scott, District 117*
Leon Stavrinakis, District 119
Richard Chalk, District 123*
Shannon Erickson, District 124

Senate Candidates Endorsed by the South Carolina Chamber:

Larry Martin, District 2*
Kevin Bryant, District 3
Billy O’Dell, District 4
Mike Fair, District 6*
Dee Compton, District 10
Lee Bright, District 12*
Mick Mulvaney, District 16
Ronnie Cromer, District 18
Greg Ryberg, District 24*
Shane Massey, District 25
Nikki Setzler, District 26
Tom Davis, District 46

*South Carolina Chamber endorsed in primary, but has no General Election opposition.

Headlines, 10/23

PRESIDENT: Clyburn says Obama has chance to win SC
US Rep. Jim Clyburn says that a visit from Democratic presidential contender Barack Obama could tilt the state towards him in the November election. Source: The Post & Courier

• Lander students engage in mock debate
Lander students engaged in a political duel by engaging in a mock debate last night, with students arguing about the various platforms the candidates embrace. Source: Greenwood Index-Journal

US HOUSE: Iraq vet giving Joe Wilson a real challenge
US Rep. Joe Wilson is getting a serious challenge for his seat from Rob Miller, a Democratic candidate who is a veteran of the Iraq war. Source: The State / McClatchy Newspapers

• Spencer, Spratt clash over economic crisis
Source: The State

• Ketner, Brown bring out the big guns for final weeks
Source: The Post & Courier

• Bailout was big topic in Spratt, Spencer debate
Source: Rock Hill Herald

OPINION

Senate 13 needs Martin
"Shane Martin will bring a fresh, independent perspective to Columbia and will work on behalf of his constituents rather than his colleagues in the General Assembly. The Republican candidate is an engineer and a small-business owner. That kind of practical economic experience should serve him well in the Senate. Businesspeople have to balance their budgets and restrain their spending, skills badly needed at the Statehouse." Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

Send Graham back to Senate
"In the race for U.S. Senate, we endorse incumbent Lindsey Graham. Graham, a Republican, though reliably conservative on most issues, is too independent a thinker to simply vote the party line. He is willing to work with Democrats when conscience leads him to break with fellow Republicans and when he believes he is acting in the best interests of the nation." But claims that he is a liberal are warrantless. His lifetime rating by the American Conservative Union is 91, the same as the man he replaced, the late Strom Thurmond. Source: Rock Hill Herald

Age of consent deserves 'yes' vote
"Amendment 1 on the November ballot would remove a provision from the state constitution that sets the age of consent at 14, and leave it to the Legislature to determine when children can legally have sex. We’d feel better about doing this if the Legislature were a little more responsible in the way it handles our age-of-consent laws; two years after they “accidentally” passed a law to let 17-year-olds legally have sex with 14-year-olds, lawmakers still haven’t managed to close that loophole." Source: The State

Greenville county endorsements
"All Greenville County voters will have the opportunity to vote for sheriff, while the incumbents in the other countywide races escaped opposition. There are only two County Council races. The Greenville News endorses Sheriff Steve Loftis, and Liz Seman in District 24 and Lottie Gibson in District 25. Source: The Greenville News

Horry District 6 needs Grabowski
"Republican businessman Bob Grabowski is seeking his second term on Horry County Council on Nov. 4 but faces spirited challenges from not one but two candidates, James Millward and Constitution Party candidate Matt Jarfi. It's always great when voters have choices, but in this race, the incumbent is the best bet." Source: Myrtle Beach Sun News

Headlines, 10/21 to 10/22

PRESIDENT: Obama doll sales lead McCain
At the College of Charleston bookstore, dolls depicting US Sen. Barack Obama are outpacing the sales of dolls that resemble US Sen. John McCain.
Source: The Post & Courier

US SENATE: Conley has small account for election
US Senate candidate Bob Conley has a little over $5,000 for his campaign against incumbent US Sen. Lindsey Graham. Source: The State / AP

US HOUSE: Barrett a strong fundraiser
Gresham Barrett has raised over $1 million in his reelection bid, compared to less than $60,000 for his challenger. Source: Washington Times

• Brown says he and Ketner are in "dead heat"
Source: Charleston City Paper

• Washington weighs a second economic stimulus package
US Rep. John Spratt said that "momentum is building" for a second stimulus package. Source: Christian Science Monitor

• Inglis, Cordon debate on issues
US Rep. Bob Inglis and challenger Paul Corden debated immigration and Social Security at their debate on Monday night. Source: The Greenville News

SC SENATE: Heated race for District 16
Mick Mulvaney and Mandy Powers Norell have little in common except for their dislike of one another. Source: Rock Hill Herald

• Unemployment, school vouchers top issues in Senate 16 race
Source: Rock Hill Herald

• Senate District 10 candidates address issues at forum
Source: Greenwod Index Journal

• Nicholson, Compton disavow flyers
Recent flyers in the mailboxes of Greenwood voters have disparaged both Democrat Floyd Nicholson and Republican Dee Compton who are running for Senate District 10. Source: Greenwood Index-Journal

SC HOUSE: District 115 candidates battle over gifts
State Rep. Wallace Scarborough and challenger Anne Peterson Hutto are battling over $7,000 that was given to Scarborough's campaign by New York mogul and school choice activist Howard Rich. Source: The Post and Courier

• House 45 candidate returns donations alleged to be from Howard Rich
Source: Rock Hill Herald

• Thomas, Lond disagree on campaign financing but agree on schools
The race for SC House District 45 is heating up with Republican Deborah Long at odds against Democrat Fred Thomas over several issues, but both sides agree that the schools in the state need to be fixed. Source: Rock Hill Herald

• Voters impressed by candidates at forum
Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

ACORN focusing on tax, foreclosures in SC
The Association of Community Organizers for Reform Now, ACORN, is functioning in SC, but is focusing on tax and foreclosure assistance rather than voter registration, which has gotten the organization some bad press as of late. Source: The Post and Courier

VOTING: Record breaking voter turnout may create long waits
Record voter turnout for the Nov. 4th election will more than likely lead to long and frustrating waits on election day. Source: The Post and Courier

• Absentee voting on the rise
Source: Hilton Head Island Packet

• Richland voters waiting in line to vote early
Source: WIS

• Absentee voters already finding lines
Absentee voters in Spartanburg are finding that the lines are long to vote before the November 4 election. Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

• Beaufort ballot problems continue
Source: The Beaufort Gazette

OPINION

Rock Hill Herald endorse Fred Thomas
"In the race for state House District 45, we endorse Democrat Fred Thomas." Source: Rock Hill Herald

Rock Hill Herald endorses Gary Simrill
"In the race for state House District 46, we endorse incumbent Gary Simrill." Source: Rock Hill Herald

Eric Hayler for SC House
"Voters in state House District 37 will choose between two excellent candidates to represent their district in Columbia, but Eric Hayler is the better choice to bring needed reforms to state government." Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

Hunter: Voting against McCain or Obama is a wasted vote
"I have many Republican friends who are disgusted that I'm voting third party this election year. They believe stopping Barack Obama from becoming president outweighs all else. Meanwhile, I have many Democrat friends who are equally disgusted; for them, seeing John McCain defeated is more important than who wins. They are all wasting their votes." Source: Charleston City Paper

Nikki Setzler the better choice in Senate district 26
"There's a lot to like about both candidates running for the Senate District 26 seat in Lexington County. Sen. Nikki Setzler and former Rep. Margaret Gamble both offer a refreshing break from the rigid partisanship that defines so much of public life." Source: The State

Smith: Don't take a chance on Obama
"In his column last week, Mr. Roger Owens listed seven reasons to take a chance on Obama. I would like to list my seven reasons not to take a chance on Barack Obama." Source: Greenville News

Re-elect Graham and Brown
" Now that the national political tide seems to be turning against the Republicans, Democratic challengers offer a familiar - but not necessarily persuasive - argument for ousting GOP incumbents: Voters would be better off if they send majority-party legislators to represent them in Washington. But that's not really true. Too large a Democratic edge in the U.S. House and U.S. Senate would mean that massive new federal proposals get passed into law with too little scrutiny for defects and unintended consequences. That's the main reason local voters should return Republican incumbent Rep. Henry Brown to the House and Republican incumbent Sen. Lindsey Graham to the Senate." Source: Myrtle Beach Sun News

SC dynamics changed by new voters
"South Carolina may be a “red state” considered safe for Republicans and John McCain, but that isn’t stopping the countdown to Nov. 4 from growing more intense as both the GOP and Democrats look at the possibilities offered by a wealth of new voters. Republican Chairman Katon Dawson is telling the GOP faithful the race for president is close and an impact on state races is certain. He is appealing for assistance against what he calls “troubling” Democratic tactics. Source: Orangeburg Times & Democrat

More blacks to be at ballot