Issues

Economic Development
We must do everything possible to accelerate the growth of South Carolina’s economy by creating jobs and raising income levels to nationally competitive levels. That begins with strengthening our business climate though pro-business policies that will help us attract high-growth companies. In addition, we need to help our existing companies be more competitive, so they can continue to grow in South Carolina and create jobs. Finally, we need to create a climate where entrepreneurship is valued, small businesses are supported, and our work force is prepared for the challenges of the New Economy.

Education
It’s time to raise the bar on public education in South Carolina by increasing accountability, measuring progress, encouraging parent involvement, and focusing on math and science. We cannot continue to have an excellence gap if South Carolina is going to compete in the global economy. Every one of our schools must offer a high-quality education that prepares our students to face the working world as adults. Among our top priorities should be reducing the drop-out rate and looking for ways to raise SAT scores of students in our state. Also, we have to address the “brain drain” and keep more of our best and brightest minds in South Carolina. To accomplish that, we must support South Carolina’s colleges and universities and increase scholarship funds for top students who are likely to remain here to work after graduation.

Taxes
We should look for every opportunity to reduce the tax burden on families in South Carolina, so that they can keep more of their hard-earned dollars. The SC General Assembly has made great progress in this area in recent years by lowering income tax brackets, eliminating the grocery tax, and providing property tax relief to homeowners. In addition, we must keep business taxes low to attract new companies to South Carolina and encourage existing companies to expand and add jobs. Keeping taxes low will grow the economy and enhance our competitive position.

Leaner government
The people of South Carolina deserve a government that is effective and highly efficient. To provide that government, we must look for ways to dramatically reduce waste and eliminate government bureaucracy. A more efficient government in South Carolina will be able to focus its resources on the truly important issues facing our state. We must also build accountability in government so that our state agencies are accomplishing their missions on time and in budget.

Government must also be good stewards of taxpayer dollars. That means that we have to ensure that every dollar sent to Columbia is used wisely on the real priorities of our state. South Carolina’s economic progress requires that state government abides by the same standards of fiscal discipline and common sense as hardworking families.