We hate to say – and quite honestly surprised – that we have to say so soon, but “We to told so.”
Smh…another Republican finds himself at the center of a major ethics controversy, with serious ethical misconduct.
Less than a week after casually compiling a list of GOPers with past and pending charges, questionable ethics, and less than graceful exits (see 3/12 post) we told you there was likely more to come, and unfortunately for the people of this great state, we were right.
Sen. John Courson now joins the growing list of South Carolina Republicans whose ethics (or lack thereof) have resulted in serious legal trouble. We have always admired Courson as a statesman and typically correct on major issues facing our state, unlike others listed previously, but if the charges brought against him are validated, we may have to change our opinion of the longtime lawmaker. (Say it ain’t so, John!)
Courson has served SC’s 20th Senate District (Richland County) since 1985. He now faces serious time and fines if convicted on the charges of ethical misconduct, and using campaign funds for personal expenses. Courson was suspended from the Senate on Friday. Courson denied any wrongdoing and stating, “These allegations are completely false. I have done nothing wrong. I value my integrity and have spent all of my years as a public servant embracing the highest standards of ethical conduct. I believe the most important things one leaves behind in this life are one’s children and one’s reputation. While it is unfortunate to be charged by a partisan Democrat under questionable motives and authority, I have no doubt that I will be cleared and exonerated of these accusations.”
We aren’t happy about the current addition to this infamous list; in fact, we are saddened by these events and the fact that Republican leaders in this state have forgotten what it truly means to be a “public servant.”
It is unfortunate that Courson will probably not be the last name added to this infamous list of Republicans behaving badly.
Stay tuned…