Fowler: Sanford Needs to Find Political Fame Another Way

Columbia, SC – South Carolina Democratic Party Chair Carol Fowler issued the following statement today in response to Governor Mark Sanford's decision to request a portion of funds allocated to the state under the American Recovery and Reinvestment, while postponing a final decision on $700,000 meant to prevent the layoff of teachers and public safety officers.

"Mark Sanford certainly doesn't mind being the center of drama, even at the expense of South Carolina's school children. Maybe he thinks what he did today will divert attention and relieve some of the unprecedented public pressure he's getting. It's important to realize that he still hasn't agreed to use the funds as they were intended to be used. The governor needs to stop trying to extend his 15 minutes of fame and accept the fact that this money was designated for education and law enforcement; not for pushing his own political agenda," said Fowler. "South Carolinians who care about keeping teachers and public safety officials on the job need to keep reminding the governor and the legislature of the state's responsibilities to provide education and police protection."