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First GOP gubernatorial debate planned

Republicans in Laurens and Newberry counties will host the state's first gubernatorial debate for the 2010 GOP nomination. The debate will be held at 7 p.m. Sept. 22 at the Newberry Opera House.

Expected to attend are all the announced and likely Republican candidates to replace term-limited Gov. Mark Sanford. They are 3rd Congressional District Rep. Gresham Barrett, Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer, state Sen. Larry Grooms of Bonneau, state Rep. Nikki Haley of Columbia and S.C. Attorney General Henry McMaster.

The party wants voters to watch and participate. Go to www.newberrygop.com to submit YouTube video questions in advance. To watch the debate live, go to www.wistv.com.

I am excited about the opportunity the debate is going to give the public to get involved. Newberry is a hike from Charleston, but this online forum makes it accessible. (Of course, you'll be able to read about it the P&C the next morning).

Here are statements from the two counties and the state party:

“The Laurens and Newberry County Republican parties are excited to offer voters in the Upstate and the Midlands the first chance to see all five of these candidates in a debate. We hope many across the state tune in to hear the candidates’ plans for South Carolina,” Laurens GOP Chairman Bobby Smith said.

“The Republican message is a winning message in South Carolina, and we’re incredibly pleased to be hosting these candidates to kick off what will prove to be an exciting gubernatorial primary. Newberry County is honored to be the venue for this first debate,” Newberry GOP Chairman Chad Connelly said.

“The state Republican Party is very proud of the work these county parties have done, and I know this event is one that every Republican in this state will be proud of as well. I’d like to thank all of our gubernatorial candidates for participating, and I look forward to seeing everyone on the 22nd,” S.C. Republican Party Chairman Karen Floyd said.

Tickets, which are $25, are available from the Republican Party in Newberry County and Laurens County. Sponsorships are also available. A drop-in reception will be held for the candidates and sponsors at 6 p.m. at the Opera House.

Democrats interested in the top job are the Rev. Amos A. Elliott, Sen. Robert Ford and attorney Mullins McLeod, all of Charleston; S.C. Education Superintendent Jim Rex; Columbia attorney and lobbyist Dwight Drake; and state Sen. Vincent Sheheen of Camden.

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