News

McMaster-Evette Campaign Releases New Ad, “Limitless”

November 4, 2022

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The McMaster-Evette campaign unveiled a new ad today entitled, “Limitless.” 

The ad features Lieutenant Governor Pamela S. Evette discussing the future of South Carolina and the positive impact Governor McMaster’s COVID-19 response had on South Carolina’s students, families and businesses. 

Watch the ad here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lA1oZitpU0

The script is as follows: 

 Lt. Governor Pamela S. Evette: “You know South Carolina is a proud business state and I think what it showed through COVID is that we walked the walk we talked. 

We allowed businesses to do what they do best, protect their employees. 

The governor put together the accelerateSC committee to give people confidence about coming out again. I was never so proud to sit with a governor that brought business to the table. 

So, as a business owner, as Lieutenant Governor, as a mom, I do not want Washington, D.C. reaching inside my business, reaching inside my classrooms, and reaching inside my home. 

If Washington would keep their hands out of our families, and our businesses, I think we can continue to grow like we did years ago. 

If we can harness all the energy and excitement that we have here in South Carolina, we’ll continue to grow.

What I want to see happen is really boundaries that are limitless for our children.”

Mayors from Across South Carolina Endorse McMaster for Re-Election

November 3, 2022

COLUMBIA, S.C. — As the 19-stop, statewide McMaster-Evette bus tour makes its way around South Carolina, mayors across the state today announced endorsements for Governor McMaster. The mayors, all of whom work closely with the governor, praised his leadership and thanked him for being a strong partner. 

“I am humbled by the support our campaign has received statewide and the confidence South Carolina’s mayors have placed in me as their governor,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “I look forward to continuing to work closely with our mayors to ensure we are doing all we can to optimize the quality of life for our people in cities and towns all across our great state.” 

From the pandemic to hurricanes and floods, Governor McMaster has worked hand in hand with our state’s mayors. As a critical partner, the governor stays in constant contact with mayors and ensures they – along with local leaders, from educators to members of the business community – have the resources needed to prosper and tackle any challenge that may arise. 

“I work hard everyday for the people of Columbia, just as I see Governor McMaster working hard for the people of our great state. His investments in education, infrastructure and law enforcement are a winning formula, for a winning team, and I can’t wait to keep working with the governor to rack up even more wins for our city and state,” said Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann. 

During Hurricane Ian, Governor McMaster devoted the full force of his administration to assist coastal mayors and local leaders in the path of the storm, including Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune. 

“Under the leadership of Henry McMaster, South Carolina is thriving. Why? Thanks in no small part to the businesses, that already call our state home, and the companies, he is recruiting, our cities are growing, and we take great pride in having a governor who works with our local teams to keep this momentum going. I am proud to endorse the governor for re-election and continue this great work,” said Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune. 

Mayors endorsing Governor McMaster include: 

Knox White, Greenville
Brenda Bethune, Myrtle Beach
Rick Osbon, Aiken
Daniel Rickenmann, Columbia 
Mike Fuesser, York
Carol Jayroe, Georgetown
Steve MacDougall, Lexington
Rocky Burgess, Williamston
Chris Gray, Tega Cay
Elenor Dorn,  Belton
Susan Holley, Bethune
Foster Senn, Newberry
Keith Summey, North Charleston
Brian Henry, Pawleys Island
John Gettys, Rock Hill
Marilyn Hatley, North Myrtle Beach
Derek Underwood, Prosperity

Gov. McMaster Endorsed by Medal of Honor Recipient, Veterans Coalition

November 2, 2022

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The McMaster-Evette campaign today was endorsed by a coalition of military veterans led by Medal of Honor Recipient Major General James E. Livingston and former Adjutant General and Major General Robert E. Livingston, Jr. 

Governor McMaster has been a fierce supporter of our veterans. The governor established the Department of Veterans’ Affairs to ensure our veterans have the best care possible. The governor also eliminated taxes on military retirement pay and was the first governor in the country to guarantee U.S. Army members up to five interviews at state agencies. 

“We could not be more grateful for the service, and sacrifice, of our veterans and their families – and we never miss an opportunity to thank them – but words are not enough,” said Governor McMaster. “That is why we took action. While we cannot ever repay the debt of gratitude we owe our veterans, we can show them how much we treasure them. From establishing the Department of Veterans Affairs to eliminating military retirement income tax, our administration has and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that South Carolina is the best place in the country for our veterans to live, work, and raise their families. There is no more patriotic state, and no better place for veterans to call home, than South Carolina.”

Major General James E. Livingston received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Vietnam War on May 2, 1968. According to the official citation, “Although wounded, he refused medical treatment and courageously led his men in the destruction of over 100 mutually supporting bunkers, driving the remaining enemy from their positions, and relieving the pressure on the stranded Marine company.”

“Governor McMaster has put our service members and veterans first time and time again,” said Maj. Gen. James E. Livingston. “His dedication and commitment to our military are second to none, and under his leadership, the quality of life for our veterans will only continue to improve.” 

Other members of the coalition include: 

Major General Bob Livingston
Al Guest
Ben Kinlaw
Bob Barnwell
Bob McCurry
Butch Kirven
Clinton Bittick
Dale Ellenburg
Dan Glick
David Neff
Debbie Gibson
Don Bowne
Don Jenkins
Don Odom
Dustin Savitsky

Major General James Livingston
Jack Narvel
Jason Freer
Jean Hoag
Jeff Pino
Jennifer Ross
Jim Gromley
Jim Philips
John Jeffries
Justin White
Kevin Thomas
Krishonda Torres
Larry Simmons
Matthew Muth
Michael Burch
Mitch TwiningPhillip PalmerRobert Elrod
Ron Plunkett
Sam Beck
Tim Glover
Woodrow Norris

McMaster-Evette Bus Tour to Visit Okatie, Beaufort, Charleston

November 1, 2022

Major Announcement Planned for Charleston Stop

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The McMaster-Evette bus tour will visit Okatie, Beaufort, and Charleston on Wednesday, November 2. During the Charleston stop, the campaign will make a major announcement. 

Okatie:

WHO:  Gov. McMaster, Lt. Gov. Evette, Congresswoman Nancy Mace, Beaufort Sheriff PJ Tanner, other elected officials

WHAT: McMaster-Evette Rally

WHEN: Wednesday, November 2 at 11:30 AM

WHERE: The Okatie Ale House, 25 William Pope Drive, Bluffton, S.C.

Beaufort:

WHO:  Gov. McMaster, Lt. Gov. Evette, Rep. Shannon Erickson, Beaufort County Sheriff PJ Tanner, other elected officials

WHAT: McMaster-Evette Rally

WHEN: Wednesday, November 2 at 2:00 PM

WHERE: Freedom Park, 1011 Bay Street, Beaufort, S.C. 

Charleston:

WHO:  Gov. McMaster, Lt. Gov. Evette, Congresswoman Nancy Mace, Sen. Chip Campsen, Maj. Gen. James Livingston, other elected officials

WHAT: McMaster-Evette Rally

WHEN: Wednesday, November 2 at 5:30 PM

WHERE: The Citadel, Buyer Auditorium in Mark Clark Hall, Avenue of Remembrance, Charleston, S.C. 

McMaster-Evette Campaign Releases New TV Ad “Better Way”

November 1, 2022

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The McMaster-Evette campaign today released a new 30-second television ad entitled, “Better Way.” 

“When the pandemic hit, Governor McMaster chose the right path for South Carolina,” said McMaster-Evette Spokesman Brandon Charochak. “Fighting to keep businesses, churches and schools open made a difference for families, and set us on a course to thrive. The governor laid the groundwork to build on the administration’s record-setting economic momentum, and our best days are ahead.”

Watch the ad here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEGhriBb6oE

The script is as follows: 

Governor McMaster: When the pandemic hit, experts in Washington told us to close our schools, businesses – even churches. 

They wanted us to shut down for two full years, but in South Carolina, we chose a better way.

People worked all their lives to build a business, to build a future, and our children only get to grow up once. 

Working together, we stayed open, we survived the storm, and thrived. In South Carolina, the best is yet to come.-###-

McMaster-Evette to Hold Official Bus Tour Kick-Off Event in Rock Hill

October 31, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC — The McMaster-Evette bus tour will hold its official kick off-event in Rock Hill at 9:00 AM, followed by stops in Lancaster and Camden tomorrow, Tuesday, November 1. 

For a full list of bus tour stops, click here.

Rock Hill:

WHO: Gov. McMaster, Lt. Gov. Evette, Rep. Gary Simrill, 16th Circuit Solicitor Kevin Bracket, SCGOP Chairman Drew McKissick, other elected officials

WHAT: McMaster-Evette Bus Tour Official Kick-off Event

WHEN: Tomorrow, Tuesday, November 1 at 9:00 AM 

WHERE: Ebenezer Grill, 1525 Ebenezer Road, Rock Hill, S.C. 

Lancaster:

WHO: Gov. McMaster, Lt. Gov. Evette, Lancaster County Sheriff Barry Faile, Sen. Michael Johnson, Rep. Brandon Newton, 6th Circuit Solicitor Randy Newman, SCGOP Chairman Drew McKissick, other elected officials 

WHAT: McMaster-Evette Rally

WHEN: Tomorrow, Tuesday, November 1 at 12:00 PM

WHERE: The Lodge at Sun City, 1353 Del Webb Boulevard, Fort Mill, S.C. 

Camden: 

WHO: Gov. McMaster, Lt. Gov. Evette, Kershaw County Sheriff Lee Boan, Fairfield County Sheriff Will Montgomery, Tom Mullikin, SCGOP Chairman Drew McKissick, other elected officials 

WHAT: McMaster-Evette Rally

WHEN: Tomorrow, Tuesday, November 1 at 5:30 PM

WHERE: Mullikin Law Firm, 1308 Broad Street, Camden, S.C. 

Note: Media availability will be held following each event. 

McMaster-Evette Bus Tour to Make First Stop in Chapin

October 28, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC — The McMaster-Evette bus tour will make its first stop in Chapin at the Tipsy Toad Tavern, on Sunday, October 30 at 2:00 p.m.

For a full list of bus tour stops click here.

WHO: Gov. McMaster, Lt. Gov. Evette, Chapin Mayor Al Koon, Chapin Police Chief Thomas Griffin, Rep. Nathan Ballentine, Rep. Chip Huggins

WHAT: McMaster-Evette Rally

WHEN: Sunday, October 30 at 2:00 p.m.

WHERE: Tipsy Toad Tavern, 103 Beaufort Street, Chapin, S.C.

Governor McMaster: The Clear Winner in Tonight’s Debate

October 26, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC — Governor McMaster was the clear winner in tonight’s gubernatorial debate, and people are taking notice. 

Governor McMaster touted his accomplishments during his time as governor, including historic income tax cuts, pay raises for police and teachers, and standing up to Washington. 

Meanwhile, Joe Cunningham made it clear he is just another Biden-Pelosi Democrat that will do and say anything to get elected. 

South Carolina’s top policymakers agree that Governor McMaster has put South Carolina first and will continue to do so: 

“Governor McMaster is not only the clear victor in tonight’s debate – but also the proven choice to best lead our state and it’s people. Thanks to Governor McMaster’s leadership, South Carolina is seeing unprecedented economic success and generating historic investments, all while remaining a staunch advocate for the values our citizens treasure most. South Carolina’s best days are ahead of her – with Henry McMaster leading the way,” said S.C. Speaker of the House Murrell Smith

“Hardworking families have a champion in Governor Henry McMaster, and he reminded us why in tonight’s debate, which he won. Governor McMaster is recruiting jobs, cutting taxes, and investing in education – and the best is yet to come. South Carolina cannot afford to sacrifice the progress we have made under Governor McMaster, who will stand up to Washington and fight for us, and that is exactly what would happen if Joe Cunningham were elected governor,” said S.C. House Majority Leader David Hiott

“There is no doubt who won the debate tonight, and that is our Governor Henry McMaster. Washington is out of control because of the reckless, spending policies that Biden Democrats push down on the states and Cunningham agrees with these ideas. As our governor says, we do things different and better in South Carolina, and, under the leadership of Henry McMaster, we will continue to,” said S.C. Senator Katrina Shealy

McMaster-Evette Campaign Announces 19-Stop Statewide Bus Tour

October 26, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC — The McMaster-Evette campaign today announced a statewide bus tour that will start in Chapin on Sunday, October 30, and conclude with stops in Seneca, Greenville, and Lexington the day before the election. 

Governor McMaster will be joined by grassroots supporters, candidates for office, and others in cities and towns across South Carolina. The bus tour will highlight the governor’s accomplishments including, the largest income tax cut in state history, law enforcement and teacher pay raises, transformative investments in the state’s infrastructure, and much more. 

The McMaster-Evette bus tour schedule is as follows:

Sunday, October 30

2:00 PM: Chapin
McMaster-Evette Rally
Tipsy Toad Tavern
103 Beaufort Street, Chapin, S.C. 

Tuesday, November 1

9:00 AM: Rock Hill
McMaster-Evette Bus Tour Official Kick-off Event
Ebenezer Grill
1525 Ebenezer Road, Rock Hill, S.C. 

12:00 PM: Lancaster
McMaster-Evette Rally
The Lodge at Sun City 
1353 Del Webb Boulevard, Fort Mill, S.C. 

5:30 PM: Camden 
McMaster-Evette Rally
Mullikin Law Firm
1308 Broad Street, Camden, S.C. 

Wednesday, November 2

11:30 AM: Okatie
McMaster-Evette Rally
The Okatie Ale House
25 William Pope Drive, Bluffton, S.C. 

2:00 PM: Beaufort
McMaster-Evette Rally
Freedom Park
1011 Bay Street, Beaufort, S.C. 

5:30 PM: Charleston 
McMaster-Evette Rally 
The Citadel
Buyer Auditorium in Mark Clark Hall
Avenue of Remembrance, Charleston, S.C. 

Thursday, November 3

9:00 AM: Florence 
Coffee with McMaster-Evette
Venus Restaurant and Catering
471 West Palmetto Street, Florence S.C. 

1:00 PM: Murrells Inlet
McMaster-Evette Rally
Inlet Affairs Catering
4024 US-17 Bus, Murrells Inlet, S.C. 

6:00 PM: Conway
Coastal Carolina football game
Brooks Stadium
965 One Landon Loop, Conway, S.C. 

Friday, November 4

9:00 AM: Newberry
Coffee with McMaster-Evette
Bill & Fran’s Restaurant
1174 SC-34, Newberry, S.C. 

12:00 PM: Greenwood 
McMaster-Evette Rally
Fat Daddy’s BBQ
115 Hampton Avenue, Greenwood, S.C. 

6:00 PM: Aiken
McMaster-Evette Rally in the Alley
Downtown Aiken
The Alley, Aiken, S.C. 

Saturday, November 5

9:00 AM: Berkeley
Berkeley GOP Breakfast
American Legion Post
116 Howe Hall Road, Goose Creek, S.C. 

1:00 PM: Summerville
McMaster-Evette Rally
Dorchester GOP Office
104 N. Magnolia Street, Summerville, S.C. 

Sunday, November 6

12:30 PM: Spartanburg 
McMaster-Evette Ice Cream Social
The Beacon
255 John B White Sr. Boulevard, Spartanburg, S.C. 

Monday, November 7

8:30 AM: Seneca
McMaster-Evette Breakfast
Seneca Family Restaurant
515 By Pass 123, Seneca, S.C. 

12:00 PM: Greenville
McMaster-Evette Rally
Stax Original Restaurant
1704 Poinsett Highway, Greenville, S.C. 

6:00 PM: Lexington
McMaster-Evette Rally
O’Hara’s Public House
131 E. Main Street, Lexington, S.C.

 -###-

ICYMI: SC Ethics Commission Has Not Verified Cunningham Numbers

October 25, 2022

WCIV: McMaster-Evette raises roughly $1 million more than Joe Cunningham in final quarter
October 25, 2022
Jasmine Pack 

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — McMaster-Evette’s campaign and Joe Cunningham’s campaign released their financial reports in the final quarter before the general election.

According to the McMaster-Evette press release, a record-setting fundraising total of more than $2.1 million was raised, with 90 percent of donors from South Carolina.

The McMaster-Evette campaign has raised more than $7.6 million and more than $2 million in cash on hand.

“Governor McMaster has delivered for the people of South Carolina,” said McMaster-Evette campaign spokesman Brandon Charochak.

“Thanks to the governor’s hard work, the people of the state are responding – thanking him for his work, whether it is keeping businesses open during COVID or fighting for pay raises for teachers and law enforcement – and making sure he has the resources needed to tell the story of what this work has meant.”

Joe Cunningham’s campaign stated it raised $1.2 million in the last quarter, roughly one million short of McMaster-Evette.

However, Cunningham’s fundraising numbers are not verified according to the South Carolina State of Ethics Commission’s requirements.

The South Carolina State Ethics Commission requires a pre-election report to be filed by candidates no later than 15 days.

“This is becoming a pattern of behavior for Joe Cunningham. First, he refused to disclose who is actually paying him and what they pay him to do. Now, he is flouting state law, in failing to disclose his donors,” said McMaster-Evette campaign spokesman Brandon Charochak.

To read the entire story click here.

Tik-Tok, Tik-Tok: Where is Joe Cunningham’s Campaign Finance Report?

October 25, 2022

COLUMBIA, S.C. — After dragging his feet and refusing to disclose who actually pays him for consulting services, Joe Cunningham is again having money problems. This time, he is breaking the law by failing to file a report of campaign donations 15 days prior to the election.

“This is becoming a pattern of behavior for Joe Cunningham. First, he refused to disclose who is actually paying him and what they pay him to do. Now, he is flouting state law, in failing to disclose his donors,” said McMaster-Evette campaign spokesman Brandon Charochak. “If Joe Cunningham won’t come clean about personal or campaign finances, how can we trust him to manage the state budget?”

According to the State Ethics Commission, a pre-election report must be filed by all candidates no later than 15 days prior to each election. This report is required from all candidates whether there has been any financial campaign activity or not.  

Yesterday, the McMaster-Evette campaign released a record-setting fundraising total of more than $2 million for the quarter and a total of more than $7.6 million for the cycle.

So, Joe, what’s the over/under you get this out before 5 p.m. today?

Follow along at the S.C. Ethics Commission website here.

Cunningham Vaccine Hypocrisy

October 17, 2022

“Joe is Talking Out of Both sides of His Mouth”

COLUMBIA, SC — Recently, Joe Cunningham was called out for being an outrageous hypocrite. Again.

According to the Post and Courier, “Mr. Cunningham also criticized the governor for fighting federal efforts to require vaccinations in some workplaces, before declaring to voters that ‘Whether it’s abortion bans or vaccine mandates, the government shouldn’t make medical decisions on our behalf.'”

That’s right. The same liberal Democratic candidate for governor, Joe Cunningham, who claims to oppose government mandates for vaccinations on his campaign website, has a brand new position on vaccines – and, apparently, government mandates.

When Governor Henry McMaster promised to stand up for South Carolina and vowed to fight back against the Biden Administration’s vaccine mandates, Cunningham called it ridiculous, even alleging the governor is killing people, in a Tweet.

But Cunningham proposed his own plan to vaccinate the people of South Carolina bringing to bear the tools of state government to get people vaccinated: it included delivering an “Oval Office-style address” regarding the importance of vaccines, a Vaccine Ambassador Program through DHEC, and developing a Vaccine Incentive Program with the S.C. Department of Commerce.

“Like a typical Washington politician, Joe Cunningham is talking out of both sides of his mouth,” said McMaster-Evette campaign spokesman Brandon Charochak. “Here is the truth: If Joe Cunningham had been governor during COVID, we would be in a much different and far worse place. Joe fought the governor on school openings, mask mandates, and vaccine mandates, all because the so-called experts from Washington told him to. Joe would have cost students even more instruction time and families jobs.”

Statement from the McMaster-Evette Campaign

September 22, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC —  The McMaster-Evette campaign today released the following statement:

“Another day of chasing social media stardom, another day Joe hasn’t released his tax returns. “

Statement from the McMaster-Evette Campaign

September 21, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC —  The McMaster-Evette campaign today released the following statement:

“⏰ tik tok – er, tick tock ⏰ where are those tax returns Joe?”

McMaster-Evette Campaign Releases New Statewide TV Ad: “Not Here”

September 19, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC — The McMaster-Evette campaign released a new 30-second television ad entitled, “Not Here.” 

The ad is scheduled to start running statewide on network and cable television today, Monday, September 19.

“Joe Cunningham and Joe Biden are cut from the same big government cloth,” said McMaster-Evette campaign manager Mark Knoop. “If Joe Cunningham is governor, there will be no bigger cheerleader for the Biden administration, and no one more willing to rollover for overreaching Washington Democrats. Governor McMaster has a proven record of fighting federal policies that are bad for our state and bad for our families, and we can count on him to never back down.”

Watch the ad here:

The ad script is as follows:

“It’s hard to find common ground these days. But one thing folks agree on: Washington is totally broken. 

In Washington, they spend money that doesn’t even exist. We don’t do that here.

In Washington, they try to defund the police. We don’t do that here.

“And they tried to close businesses and churches during COVID. Not here. 

I’m Henry McMaster. As long as I’m your governor, Washington will never happen here.”

Crickets from Cunningham as Biden Celebrates Inflation Law

September 14, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC — Days after Democrat Joe Cunningham took his TikTok campaign for social media stardom to a NASCAR race, Joe Biden took a victory lap in Washington in honor of his new inflation law.

As President Biden spoke, the CNN anchor covering the event cautioned, “There is this unfortunate split screen right now with the Dow taking a total beating…so it feels like it’s hard to be celebratory.”

Cunningham, who endorsed Biden for president after Biden endorsed him for Congress, was, of course, hiding from the Biden inflation law celebration.

The Democrat nominee for governor has evaded questions about where he stands on the so-called Inflation Reduction Act for weeks.

Over the weekend, The State newspaper reported, “Cunningham did not take a stance on the federal legislation touted by the Biden administration and Democrats in Washington.” (The State, 9/11/2022)

In August, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham also specifically called on McMaster’s Democratic opponent, former 1st District Congressman Joe Cunningham, to go on record on whether he supports it. Cunningham dodged the senator.

And instead of simply taking a position on the law, during a media availability at a Columbia brewery, an obviously frustrated Cunningham snapped, “I’m not in Congress anymore.” (ABC Columbia, 8/26/2022)

“A significant part of the job Joe Cunningham is campaigning for includes taking on the challenges of bad federal policy like the Biden inflation law, but Joe Cunningham does not respect the voters enough to tell them what his position is on it – or on other bad policy conceived by his Democrat colleagues in Washington,” said McMaster-Evette campaign manager Mark Knoop. “Voters deserve better. The silence from Joe Cunningham on this signature Democratic issue is deafening.” 

Biden Endorser Cunningham Tries to Abandon President, Refuses
Questions about Key Biden Initiatives

September 13, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC — Not too long ago, Joe Cunningham enthusiastically embraced an endorsement from Joe Biden, and Cunningham endorsed Biden for president.

But recently, while pandering to conservative voters in Darlington, Cunningham tried to run and hide from unpopular President Biden – and from voters, who want to know how he would handle governing the state as Biden and Democrats push policy down on South Carolina families from Washington.

Cunningham told The State, “It’s not my job to defend Joe Biden, and I’m not going to,” as the Democratic nominee for governor once again refused to answer questions about the Democratic Party’s signature Inflation Reduction Act.

“Cunningham did not take a stance on the federal legislation touted by the Biden Administration and Democrats in Washington,” according to The State.

“Joe Cunningham is not qualified to be governor because he has absolutely no understanding of what it takes to be governor,” said McMaster-Evette campaign manager Mark Knoop. “The job of governor requires the state’s chief executive to make tough decisions and fight for South Carolina, especially in the face of reckless and foolish federal policies, but Joe Cunningham continues to hide from voters or tell them precisely what he would do to protect them from Washington. It is as cynical as it is slick.”

In The State newspaper’s reporting, it points out that recent South Carolina governors have had to spend considerable time dealing with federal issues. For example, “in 2009, then-Gov. Mark Sanford refused to take $700 million in federal money…during former Gov. Nikki Haley’s term…she railed against the National Labor Relations Board for taking action against Boeing after it opened a plant in South Carolina and accused the company of union-busting.”

As Cunningham dodges questions, skeptics of the Biden policy weigh in: 

• “But one thing many analysts agree on is that the misnamed bill will likely have minimal impact on the inflation that’s eating away at American households and businesses.” (The Charleston Post and Courier, Editorial, 8/11/2022)
• “These new taxes will still deliver a blow to our industry’s ability to raise wages, hire workers and invest in our communities.” (Jay Timmons, President and CEO of the non-partisan National Association of Manufacturers, 8/6/2022)
• “This bill is a nightmare for South Carolina…The bottom line is that this bill raises taxes and creates new federal government programs at a time that we’re in a recession. The best way to get out of a recession is limit federal government spending and incentivize growth in the private sector.” (U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, 8/11/2022)

This is why it is unacceptable for a major party candidate for governor to get away with refusing legitimate policy questions.

“Once again, Joe Cunningham owes it to voters to come clean,” said Knoop. “They deserve to know whether he would fight back against the disastrous Biden Administration policies or whether he would roll over for Washington Democrats and turn South Carolina into another laboratory for failed liberal policy.”

Governors from across the country wrote to President Biden on Monday regarding his college loan forgiveness plan. In the letter, signed by 22 of the nation’s governors including Gov. Henry McMaster and distributed by the Republican Governors Association, they said, “Only 16-17 percent of Americans have federal student loan debt, and yet, your plan will require their debts be redistributed and paid by the vast majority of taxpayers. Shifting the burden of debt from the wealthy to working Americans has a regressive impact that harms lower income families.”

McMaster-Evette 22: What They Are Saying

September 8, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC — Here is what people are saying about the major endorsement Governor McMaster earned from the small business community.

“Governor Henry McMaster picked up an endorsement in his bid for a second term in office.” (ABC Columbia, 9/6/2022)

“A group that advocates for the interests of small businesses is backing Gov. Henry McMaster’s reelection.” (Joseph Bustos, The State, 9/6/2022)

“During an event at Wulbern-Koval Co., The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) announced its support for Governor Henry McMaster for a second full term.” (ABC News 4, Jasmine Pack, 9/6/2022)

“Today was about supporting small businesses.” (Count on 2, Brenden Clark, 9/6/2022)

“McMaster understands ‘challenges facing Main Street,’ business group says in endorsement.” (Joseph Bustos, The State, 9/6/2022)

“McMaster Receives Major Endorsement” (Live 5 News, 4:00 PM Broadcast, 9/6/2022)

“The National Federation of Independent Business, which describes itself as a grassroots organization that advocates for businesses, giving [its] endorsement to the governor today.” (Count on 2, Hanna Powers, 9/6/2022)

“Puts the considerable grassroots support of the state’s small businesses behind the governor’s campaign” (NFIB, News Release, 9/6/2022)

“NFIB will encourage its South Carolina members to help turn out the powerful small-business voting bloc on Election Day.” (NFIB, News Release, 9/6/2022)

“Good news for [the governor’s] re-election bid” (Live 5 News, 9/6/2022)

“The NFIB says McMaster stood with the business community with his policies during the height of the COVID pandemic. They say he kept the state open for business and [has] protected businesses from frivolous COVID-related lawsuits.” (Live 5 News, Nick Reagan, 9/8/2022)

“Governor McMaster has been an unwavering supporter of small business beginning when he served as attorney general and continuing through his first term as governor. Governor McMaster threaded the needle when it came to South Carolina’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor McMaster’s leadership helped protect both lives and livelihoods, and he has kept South Carolina’s economy strong despite global challenges such as inflation and disruptions in the supply chain.” (NFIB Director Ben Homeyer, News Conference, 9/6/2022)

NFIB Endorses McMaster for Governor

September 6, 2022

CHARLESTON, SC — During an event held at Wulbern-Koval Co., a veteran-owned small business founded in 1970, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) announced its endorsement of Governor Henry McMaster for a second full term.

Wulbern-Koval provides office furniture, interior design, and office supplies on federal, state, and healthcare contracts. The company employs 52 full-time members, and operates out of a company-owned 60,000 square foot facility in downtown Charleston.

NFIB State Director Ben Homeyer made the announcement today at Wulbern-Koval Co, a 50-year NFIB member. NFIB advocates for the interests of small businesses around South Carolina, and has a grassroots membership that is thousands-strong.

“Governor McMaster has been an unwavering supporter of small business beginning when he served as attorney general and continuing through his first term as governor,” Homeyer said.  “Governor McMaster threaded the needle when it came to South Carolina’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor McMaster’s leadership helped protect both lives and livelihoods, and he has kept South Carolina’s economy strong despite global challenges such as inflation and disruptions in the supply chain.”

The governor and lieutenant governor, who were both on hand for the event, were grateful for NFIB’s endorsement.

“I am honored to have the trust and confidence in this campaign and of so many small business owners and employees, who are the backbone of our economy,” said Gov. McMaster. “They fight alongside the NFIB to make it easier to realize the dream of owning and growing a business in our state. When the pandemic hit, we kept businesses, just like this one, open because we knew following the so-called experts in Washington would cost us dearly. Working together with small businesses across South Carolina, we have the wind at our back, and we can’t stop now – we have to continue to reduce the cost of doing business here, from cutting taxes to slashing red tape, and that’s exactly what we’ll do as long as I’m governor.”

“I founded Quality Business Solutions from the ground up and I’m proud of the success we’ve had. I know what it’s like to make a payroll, with people who count on you to make ends meet,” said Lt. Governor Evette. “That’s why it’s important for government to be an ally – not an enemy – for business owners like myself.”

Earlier this year, Homeyer praised the governor for delivering tax relief to small businesses and other South Carolinians:

“Our members are grateful to Gov. Henry McMaster for signing S. 1087 and to both the House and Senate for working together to craft legislation that’s going to help everyone during these difficult days,” Homeyter said. “It’s been a rough two years for South Carolina’s small businesses, beginning with the pandemic and continuing to the present day with supply chain and labor issues, higher fuel costs and inflation. This legislation is going to help small business owners and everyone else in the state by simplifying South Carolina’s tax code, reducing income and property tax rates and providing a $1 billion tax rebate to provide immediate financial relief when people need it most.”

McMaster-Evette Campaign Statement on Cunningham Lt.
Governor Pick

August 1, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC — The McMaster-Evette Campaign released the following
statement on Joe Cunningham’s pick for Lt. Governor:

“While we appreciate Ms. Casey’s service to our nation and welcome her to the
race, Joe Cunningham’s choice of running mate will have far less of an impact
on the campaign than his record as a left-wing, Joe-Biden Democrat who has
spent more time chasing Tik-Tok followers than working to improve the lives of
South Carolinians.

In contrast, Governor McMaster and Lt. Governor Evette have stood up to Joe
Biden’s policies that have caused exploding inflation and record gas prices,
implemented the largest tax-cut in South Carolina history, and kept our state
moving through a generational pandemic so that more South Carolinians are
working today than were in February of 2020.”

McMaster Campaign Launches New Ad “Strong” Ahead of the Republican Primary

June 3, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC — The McMaster Campaign is launching its first TV ad, titled “Strong”, ahead of the upcoming June 14 Republican Primary. The ad will be placed statewide on cable and network TV. 

As Americans face record gas prices, soaring costs for food and massive supply chain shortages under the Biden Administration, the McMaster-Evette ’22 campaign is offering a different direction.

In the ad, Governor McMaster said the following:

“Washington has gone wild. Covid lockdowns, spending like there’s no tomorrow is driving the cost of gas, food, everything else through the roof.  Joe Biden and the woke crowd have lost their minds. In South Carolina we do things different.  When Covid hit, we kept our businesses and churches open to keep our economy and our people strong. I’m Governor Henry McMaster. Washington may be a mess but here in South Carolina, we’re doing it right.“

Watch the new ad here: https://youtu.be/ZuOAzaOcoog

McMaster-Evette Campaign Makes Statement on Joe Cunningham’s New Ad

May 23, 2022

COLUMBIA, SC — McMaster-Evette Campaign Manager Mark Knoop today made the following statement about Joe Cunningham’s new campaign ad:

“Flanked by both South Carolina Democrat and Republican Party chairmen and a bipartisan group of lawmakers last week, Governor Henry McMaster signed into law one of the most secure election measures in the nation. Meanwhile, Joe Cunningham championed in a new ad a federal takeover of elections that would have removed voter ID laws and made elections less secure.

What’s more, Joe Cunningham wasn’t even in Congress to vote on the John Lewis Voting Rights Act in 2021. The hyper-partisan bill he did vote on was HR.1 in 2019, which would have been an unconstitutional overreach and federal takeover of elections. Once again, while Joe Cunningham has no idea what he’s talking about, South Carolina’s real leaders on both sides of the aisle just made it easier to vote and harder to cheat.”