Good Morning, South Carolina - December 10, 2024
A daily political recap
Welcome to The Arena's daily political recap! Delivered straight to your inbox Monday through Friday, this series aims to keep you informed about the latest developments in South Carolina politics, all through a progressive lens.
As the state’s only progressive media outlet, we are dedicated to spotlighting stories you may have missed in the daily shuffle. Here’s what you need to know from yesterday:
SC Supreme Court to Hear Abortion Law Challenge—Again
For the third time in as many years, South Carolina's highest court will deliberate on the state's controversial abortion law. The hearing, scheduled for February 12, pits Planned Parenthood South Atlantic and physicians against the state and Governor Henry McMaster. This follows persistent legal challenges to the legislation, which has faced criticism for restricting reproductive healthcare access.
School Board Drama Escalates in the Midlands
A confrontation at a Lexington-Richland 5 school board meeting has led to a police report. Board member Catherine Huddle accused fellow member Mike Satterfield of intimidating her during an argument over an election mailer critical of Satterfield’s daughter, a teacher. The incident, captured in the board's minutes, highlights ongoing tensions over educational and political disputes in the district.
Santee Cooper's New Rates: More Money, More Planning
Santee Cooper customers should prepare for rate increases starting in April 2025. The utility's new pricing structure encourages customers to shift energy use away from peak hours to minimize higher bills. While the average residential bill is expected to rise by $10.72 per month, careful planning could limit the increase to $5.44. Expect a campaign in early 2025 to educate customers on energy-efficient practices.
Clyburn Says Biden Should Pardon Trump for Unity
In a surprising statement, Rep. Jim Clyburn urged President Biden to pardon Donald Trump and others targeted by legal actions. Comparing it to his advocacy for clemency for Hunter Biden, Clyburn emphasized the need to "move forward" rather than dwell on past grievances. The suggestion has sparked debate over its implications for accountability and justice.
Mount Pleasant Mayor Halts Controversial Sales Tax Proposal
Mount Pleasant Mayor Will Haynie announced the withdrawal of a proposed 1% sales tax that would have funded $186 million in development projects around Patriots Point. The plan, which included a convention center, parking structures, and upgrades to public infrastructure, faced backlash from residents and some council members. Concerns were raised about the rushed process and lack of transparency. Haynie apologized for the rollout, citing personal challenges during the plan's presentation, and pledged to seek less controversial funding mechanisms while continuing to advance parts of the broader development vision.
Blythewood’s New Deputy Administrator Opts Out of Appointment Amid Investigation
Tiffany Cooks, the newly hired deputy administrator of Blythewood, is under investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) regarding her tenure as Williamsburg County supervisor. The investigation stems from allegations over her approval of significant overtime pay, including over $100,000 between 2018 and 2022. Cooks, who was appointed in November, has opted not to take the Blythewood position amid the inquiry. This investigation adds to the town's ongoing legal issues, including a defamation lawsuit and a settlement over a public records dispute.
Have a story you want covered? Contact us at hello@thearenasc.com to give your tips or submit your work.
Stay tuned to The Arena for your daily dose of South Carolina’s political pulse.