Tom Davis Statement re: Sanford and SLED Findings
FOR RELEASE ON JULY 3, 2009
Media Contact
Sherri Zedd
District Director – Senator Tom Davis
843-252-8583
sherri@senatortomdavis.com
Statement by Tom Davis re: Governor Mark Sanford
Over the past two weeks, South Carolinians have been disappointed, angry and embarrassed by the actions of Gov. Mark Sanford. I share these emotions. We cannot control the unfortunate circumstances that got us to this place, but we can and must control how we now move past them.
I have been Gov. Sanford’s friend for 30 years and the First Lady’s friend during their 20 years of marriage. God willing, we will remain friends for the next 30 years. I have not hidden my concern for Gov. Sanford and the First Lady or my support for them as they try to move forward together.
This is why as a friend, I asked Gov. Sanford on several occasions to consider resigning for the sake of his marriage and his family.
Gov. Sanford told me that discharging the duties of his office would not prevent him from working on that reconciliation, and the First Lady told me the same thing. I am not going to second-guess them in that personal matter.
As a state senator with responsibilities to my constituents, I met yesterday with SLED Chief Reggie Lloyd and Attorney General Henry McMaster to determine whether Gov. Sanford had violated any statutory or constitutional obligations. Both have assured me that Gov. Sanford did not break any laws and that he did not spend public dollars in this process.
Accordingly, unless any new facts are disclosed, I think it is time for me and other public officials to get back to work on the serious challenges facing our state.
That said, and as Gov. Sanford knows, he has no margin for further error in this particular matter. South Carolina simply cannot afford any additional embarrassment.
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TEA Party, NEA Protest
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Stop the Obama Abortion Agenda continues in S.C. at TEA Party, NEA protest COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina Citizens for Life will have a table Saturday, July 4, 2009, at the TEA Party at the State House to promote the national STOP THE ABORTION AGENDA campaign of National Right to Life. SCCL executive director Holly Gatling will speak on the economic impact of abortion. Ms. Gatling is also secretary to the National Right to Life Committee. Please come by the SCCL tent, sign our STOP THE ABORTION AGENDA petition, and pick up excellent pro-life literature. Be part of the nation’s most effective pro-life movement to stop Obama’s abortion agenda. (Also see www.stoptheabortionagenda.com.) Senator Jim DeMint will speak and hold a book signing at 2 p.m. The patriotic band Chaos will perform from 11 a.m. to Noon and the event will be emceed by the Charleston radio personality Rocky-D. See you at the TEA Party. Another event will be held Wednesday July 2, when Pro-Life Educators and Students will demonstrate against the pro-abortion National Education Association all across the country. The demonstration in Columbia, S.C., will take place at the State House from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The intent of the rally is to protest the NEA’s official stance supporting abortion and to convince them to take a neutral stance on this issue. The event is timed to coincide with the NEA’s national convention in San Diego, California. Pro-Life Educators and Students (PLEAS) is coordinating rallies in each of the state capitals. (See www.prolifeeducators.com for further information.) __________________________________________________________________ Saving babies’ lives in South Carolina’s most notorious former abortion facility. Street address: 1411 Barnwell St. Suite 3, Columbia SC 29201 |
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Fax: 803.252.3118Statement from the State Treasurer regarding the Governor
For Immediate Release: July 1, 2009 (6:10pm)
Contact: Scott Malyerck (803) 734-2665 office
(803) 446-2881 cell
STATEMENT FROM STATE TREASURER CONVERSE CHELLIS
“Up to now, I have refrained from commenting on the unfortunate circumstances involving Governor Sanford.
I have enjoyed working with the Governor and I have believed in his general philosophical approach to government.
Even when we have disagreed on how to address certain financial matters, I believe our State has benefited from that debate.
However, given the current atmosphere that exists, I believe our attention is being distracted from addressing the urgent
needs of our state. I do not foresee this situation changing or improving in the near future.
Given that, I believe that the time has now come for the Governor to seriously listen to members of his own political party, members of the
General Assembly, other State and local leaders, his political allies, and the people of South Carolina. I would urge him to do what is right for his wife and
for his children. I would also urge him to do what is in the best interest of the State of South Carolina.”
(Note: Converse Chellis is not a candidate for Governor in 2010, nor is he supporting any candidate.)
In “Love Story,” Governor Continues to Extol Mistress
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SC Dems Condemn Sanford’s Actions in Video
For Immediate Release
June 30, 2009
Press Contact: Keiana Page (803) 799-7798
SC Dems Condemn Sanford in New Video
The South Carolina Democratic Party today released a new web video, “No Laughing Matter,” highlighting how Governor Mark Sanford’s reckless behavior has made South Carolina into a national punchline that even leading national Republicans won’t defend.
“Governor Sanford’s irresponsible conduct has made South Carolina into a national laughing stock, but his abuse of power is no laughing matter. When Americans think of South Carolina, we want them to think of our beautiful beaches and Southern hospitality, not lies and scandal. After embarrassing South Carolinians for two weeks, Governor Sanford expected to be able to return to work with no questions asked. This latest admission from Mark Sanford is precisely the reason why we’ve pushed the Attorney General and Republican legislative leaders to investigate all of the Governor’s activities related to his extramarital affair. South Carolinians need to know if Governor Sanford’s reckless, irresponsible behavior constituted illegal behavior,” said S.C. Democratic Party Chair Carol Fowler.
To view the SCDP’s web video “No Laughing Matter,” visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txdZB8bVYEg
Paid for by the South Carolina Democratic Party – 1.800.841.1817 or www.scdp.org -
and not authorized by any federal candidate or candidate’s committee.
South Carolina Democratic Party
1529 Hampton St. Suite 200
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone 803-799-7798
info@scdp.org
Sewell Consultancy Welcomes New Partner: Evelio Silvera
You will be hard-pressed to find a more passionate person than Evelio Silvera. Whether it’s his beloved Tampa sports franchises, his native Cuban-cuisine or political issues and campaigns, Evelio brings a unique level of enthusiasm and excellence to every situation.
Evelio’s professional background includes working as the Executive Director of an consumer watchdog group, directing government relations for an international nonprofit organization, investigating Medicaid fraud for the Attorney General of Florida, as well as issue research and representation for a law and lobbying firm.
From involvement in several issue advocacy campaigns and extending to leadership positions in grassroots initiatives, Evelio has a proven track-record of success when actively taking on the administration and coordination of communication programs and outreach activities.
An acclaimed speaker and speechwriter with numerous national and international awards, Evelio works with grassroots organizations to educate and energize the public about conservative causes. Uniquely, Evelio has had the opportunity to work with organizations and state legislators on developing and communicating a broad range of policy initiatives. From gambling and embryonic stem cell research to judicial accountability and property taxes, he has crafted successful messages and public approaches for both popular and seemingly unpopular positions.
In managing and shaping the public image for a recent statewide campaign against a highly-funded, casino-backed ballot initiative, Evelio’s messaging received public attention and made a definite impact in a crowded election cycle as evidenced by a clean sweep of major newspaper endorsements, such as the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and Kansas City Star, and both candidates for Missouri Governor adopting and furthering his campaign’s arguments.
A native of Florida, Evelio currently resides with his wife Lorri and their Catahula Leopard Dog Cookie in Ocala.
“Evelio completes the Sewell Consultancy package and will allow us to expand our services as a political general consultancy. His experience, work ethic and passion for the business of getting good people into office is unsurpassed.”
~Jeffrey Sewell
Visit Sewell Consultancy – Win Your Election. “Do More With Less.”
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McMaster Requests SLED Review All Sanford Travel Records in Light of New Revelations
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STATEMENT: McMaster Requests SLED Review All Sanford Travel Records in Light of New RevelationsColumbia, S.C. June 30, 2009 - “In light of the governor’s disclosure of additional travel today, I have requested that SLED conduct a preliminary review of all Governor Sanford’s travel records to determine if any laws have been broken or any state funds misused.”
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I’m resigning; Sanford should, too
by Rep. Carl Gullick
South Carolina House of Representatives
Next month, I will be resigning from the South Carolina State Legislature. For the good of the citizens of South Carolina, I think Governor Mark Sanford should resign, as well.
My decision was easy: my wife and I will be moving to another state later this year. Knowing this, I have timed my resignation to be in the best interests of the taxpayers. Sure, I could selfishly hold onto my seat for another 18 months, but I chose to put the citizens ahead of my own self-interest.
Gov. Sanford should also put the citizens first and step down.
The developments of the last week will render Sanford unable to effectively lead this state in the months ahead, and this immediate future is critical. South Carolina simply cannot afford to be rudderless as it faces the problems of record high unemployment, failing schools, and other serious challenges. These conditions demand strong and effective leadership.
Can Sanford recruit industries to solve the unemployment problem — currently third-worst in the nation? It’s hard to imagine many corporate CEO’s will now be recommending to their Boards of Directors that they open a new industrial plant in Mark Sanford’s state.
Unfortunately, Sanford can no longer get the job done. Some polls show that more than 70% of South Carolinians want the Governor to resign.
Despite this overwhelming public sentiment for Sanford’s resignation, a few politicians are now trying to stall Sanford’s resignation for THEIR own political interests. Three 2010 candidates for Governor — putting their political self-interests ahead of the clear public interest — are acting together in a coordinated campaign to stop Lt. Governor Andre Bauer from taking over.
They have embarked on a media campaign to make Bauer seem to be an unappealing alternative, enlisting even national figures to cast subtle stones in Bauer’s direction.
But the South Carolinians who have watched him grow and mature into a solid public servant know that Lt. Governor Bauer is ready to lead.
Three key issues demonstrate Bauer’s readiness:
First, the ability to overcome obstacles.
These are tough times. Our state faces many of the same challenges we have struggled with for decades. Only now, we must find ways to overcome those challenges during the weakest global economy in history. Andre Bauer knows how to overcome obstacles… possibly more than any other elected official in the state.
Second, recruiting industry.
With the third highest unemployment in the nation, our governor must be able to recruit industry so we can put our people back to work. Bauer is a proven hard-worker who will put in whatever time it takes to bring new jobs to our state. He is a natural-born salesman, and an enthusiastic advocate for our state.
Third, and most importantly, is restoring trust in government.
We must return the communication, cooperation, and common sense to state government, which has been missing during Sanford’s six-and-a-half years. With the problems we face, we can ill afford to have the legislative and executive branches constantly in a state of war.
Bauer has a record of open, honest communication, get-it-done cooperation, and good, solid common sense. He understands how to stand up for his principles, but also use his common sense to promote the greater good of our state.
Not once, but twice, the people of South Carolina elected Andre Bauer as their Lt. Governor, with the trust that he could, at any time, accept the role of governor.
For the good of South Carolina, Mark Sanford should step down and hand the reigns to a highly qualified and ready Lt. Governor
Official Statement from Lt. Governor Andre Bauer
State of South Carolina
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
Official Statement from Lieutenant Governor André Bauer
Clearly the events of the last week have been emotionally difficult for everyone involved.
Mark Sanford now has some painful issues to resolve with his sons and his wife. I appreciate his plea for a zone of privacy around his family. I came from a broken family. I absolutely understand the trauma and confusion his sons are feeling, because when I was 10 years old the same pain rocked my life.
I assure you that Mark’s children need their father, and especially his reassurance that they will always enjoy a special place in his heart.
Even as we give Mark some space on his family issues, we must press ahead at the problems that are vexing all the families in our state.
We must stay focused on the big picture, which is the need to produce jobs and prosperity for our people in South Carolina.
Double digit unemployment, combined with fewer job opportunities, demands the best of our government.
All of our government. All of the time.
These are real issues that require answers – answers I am committed to finding – and it is where I am urging my esteemed colleagues in the Legislature – Democrat and Republican — to apply their focus.
As far as the issue of the Governor is concerned, we do have lots of questions – and the people are deserving of answers. We have constitutional questions – we need to ensure there is never any doubt over who is responsible for the safety of our citizens at any given time.
There are questions about how tax dollars and resources are spent and have been spent – and why. Fair and complete answers will restore confidence in our government And finally — there are questions – legitimate ones – about where we go from here.
However, do not look to me to be engaging or joining in calls one way or the other as they relate to Governor Sanford.
From my perspective it’s simply counterproductive. My focus is on my responsibilities, and what I can do to help our state – and our citizens — as we struggle to revive our great state, recover our pride, and begin moving forward.
-END-
Statement By Attorney General McMaster On Calls For Investigating Mark Sanford
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Statement By Attorney General McMaster On Calls For Investigating Mark SanfordColumbia, S.C. June 26, 2009 - “I have confidence in the professionalism and objectivity of SLED. If there is anything we don’t know, or if there is any credible evidence that any laws have been broken, then appropriate action should be taken.
At this point, none of the facts appear to be in dispute. The governor has freely admitted everything he has been accused of. Clearly, his actions were personally and professionally unwise and inappropriate. However, criminal investigations should never be politically inspired. I hope all sides will resist attempting to use the investigative and prosecutorial powers of law enforcement for political purposes. Mixing politics and law enforcement is never a good idea.” # # #
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