Staff reports | Gov. Henry McMaster, who was sworn into office for the third time Wednesday, touted the state’s economy and beauty in his inaugural address. The 75-year-old governor urged lawmakers to better preserve the beauty of the state with investments in prosperity, while vowing to make “transformative investments” to continue the state’s economic boom.
“I view our foundations for great prosperity and happiness as resting on three pillars: economic strength, education and our natural environment,” McMaster said.
The 20-minute address laid out several spending recommendations, including paying first-year teachers upwards of $50,000 a year by 2026 to help reel in a statewide teacher shortage.
“We must do whatever it takes to see that every child in our state has the opportunity to receive an excellent education,” he added.
In other news this week:
1st Congressional District illegally gerrymandered, judges rule. A panel of three federal judges ruled Friday that South Carolina legislators racially gerrymandered the district’s map in a constitutionally required remapping in 2021.
Democrats ask to probe Weaver’s credentials. South Carolina Democrats have asked the U.A. Department of Justice and state Attorney General Alan Wilson to look into new State Superintendent Ellen Weaver’s masters degree. The party alleges Weaver not only conspired to commit fraud but also received special treatment to obtain a master’s degree in time for the 2022 election.
S.C.’s McLeod quits Democratic Party. S.C. Sen. Mia McLeod of Richland County abruptly Tuesday quit the Democratic Party to become an independent, a surprise announcement that sent ripples and criticism against the party.
Embattled USC trustees forwarded to legislature for consideration. Five incumbent USC trustees, who were among those criticized heavily last year over lax oversight at the state’s largest college, have been screened and forwarded as recommended candidates to the legislature to reappoint.
What is Cunningham’s future? Joe Cunningham lost S.C.’s race for governor by double digits. This story contemplates his future.
Charleston metro job growth ranks 2nd in nation. The Charleston Metropolitan area saw a 6.6% increase in job growth last year, which was the second highest rate in the nation, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Trump prepares to start 2024 campaign in South Carolina. The former president said he will host a more “intimate” party in Columbia than his typical rallies later this month.
Hundreds stranded on Amtrak train in S.C. Hundreds of Amtrak passengers were stranded on a train stuck for about a day near Denmark, S.C., after a derailment by a CSX freight train.
We Can Do Better, South Carolina!