The State (Columbia SC): Economy, Mark Sanford baggage could burden GOP

Economy, Sanford baggage could burden GOP
By JOHN O’CONNOR - joconnor@thestate.com E-Mail


The campaigns of South Carolina’s Republican gubernatorial hopefuls will likely be dominated by the nation’s economy, with one year to go before primary day, observers said.

Campaign donations will be harder to come by. Voters will ask tough questions about jobs and economic issues. Economic policies from bank bailouts to the stimulus could impact candidates.

After the economy, experts said, the competition among South Carolina’s geographic regions and the legacy of Gov. Mark Sanford will also likely affect the race.

So far, four candidates have announced: U.S. Rep. Gresham Barrett of Westminster; state Sen. Larry Grooms of Bonneau; Lexington state Rep. Nikki Haley; and Furman University political scientist Brent Nelsen. Two others, Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer and state Attorney General Henry McMaster, are likely to enter the race.

“There’s a different dynamic because of the economy,” said S.C. GOP chairwoman Karen Floyd. “I’ve never seen anything like this.” .......,,(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.thestate.com/politics/story/817299.html

Of course, they kept returning Strom Thurmond to the Senate, so who knows? This may be the political microcosm where Darwin is meaningless.

Though I wouldn't bet money on it.