A South Carolina legislator has come forward with allegations of favoritism against Attorney General Alan Wilson. According to the legislator, Wilson personally called dozens of legislators to support James Smith, a Democrat and the 2018 nominee for governor, for a judicial position. This move has sparked controversy, particularly among conservative House members who oppose the idea of a Planned Parenthood-endorsed Democrat being appointed to the bench.
Judicial Favoritism
The legislator, who wishes to remain anonymous, claims that Wilson’s actions were a clear example of favoritism and a breach of the public’s trust. The legislator also points out that Wilson’s campaign has confirmed that he lobbied for Smith, citing that Smith was the lesser of two evils. However, the legislator argues that this explanation is insufficient and that Wilson’s actions demonstrate a lack of commitment to conservative values.
Furthermore, the legislator highlights that Wilson’s campaign has admitted to paying Smith $28,000 in legal fees, despite Wilson’s previous claims that Smith represented him for free. This discrepancy has raised questions about Wilson’s integrity and the potential for corruption in the judicial selection process.
Call for Reform
The legislator, who is also the lead House sponsor of South Carolina’s judicial selection reform legislation, argues that Wilson’s actions demonstrate the need for reform in the state’s judicial selection process. The legislator believes that judges should be appointed based on merit, fidelity to the Constitution, and respect for the rule of law, rather than through a system of favors and political connections.
The legislator has announced support for Pamela Evette, a candidate for governor who has pledged to reform the judicial selection process and increase transparency and accountability in government. The legislator believes that Evette’s commitment to reform and her outsider status make her a better choice for the people of South Carolina.
Original reporting: FITSNews — read the source article.
