SCDP Chair: Voting Rights Act Provision Still Necessary in South Carolina

South Carolina Democratic Party Chair Carol Fowler released the following statement in response to the Northwest Austin Municipal Utility District No. 1 v. Holder, 08-322 case being argued today before the U. S. Supreme Court. The case challenges the coverage and constitutionality of the Voting Rights Act's provision requiring federal review of new voting procedures in states with a history of discrimination in voting.

"I think that it is critical for the Supreme Court to uphold Congress' decision to renew this provision in the Voting Rights Act. Recent voting legislation introduced by Republican lawmakers in the South Carolina General Assembly shows us that this provision is still necessary in 2009. South Carolina voters need protection from the type of discrimination Republicans are trying to reinstate in South Carolina with the removal of in-person absentee voting and the implementation of state-issued ID requirements for voters," said Fowler.

House Democratic Caucus Hires New Executive Director

Columbia, S.C. – The South Carolina House Democratic Caucus is proud to announce the hiring of Tyler Jones as Executive Director. Tyler is currently a resident of Charleston and a native of New Bern, North Carolina. He served as the Lowcountry Field Director for John Edwards’ Presidential campaign, political director for Linda Ketner’s 2008 successful congressional primary, and most recently managed Rep. Leon Stavrinakis’ successful re-election bid for sta te house.

Democratic Minority Leader Harry Ott called Jones “one of the most respected political minds in the state.” Rep. Ott stated “we are thrilled to have him on the team. We look forward to working with Tyler as we move our agenda forward and increasing our numbers in the House of Representatives.”

“I’m extremely humbled by the opportunity to serve the Democratic Caucus and the people of South Carolina”, said Jones. “We have no time to waste and I will work vigorously from day one in order to obtain a Democratic majority in the House of Representatives.”

Best Speech You Won't Hear About

Last night, during the 2008 Democratic National Convention, I heard one of the most rousing and best speeches of the convention so far. (Note: I couldn't stay up for HIllary Clinton's speech, so I am not comparing it to that.) However, I know this one isn't getting any play on the MSM because of the message and the speaker.
Here is the speech.