COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Republicans in the South Carolina General Assembly on Wednesday took the rare move of rejecting the only remaining candidate in a race to be a circuit judge — the 2018 Democratic nominee for governor.
James Smith’s nomination became an issue in recent days. When his unopposed nomination came up, Republican House Majority Leader Davey Hiott asked to send the race back to the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, which screens candidates.
Several Democrats said the move was unprecedented. But they could not stop it with parliamentary requests and overwhelmingly lost a vote on mostly party lines.
Smith and Columbia lawyer Justin Williams were both found qualified by the screening panel, but Williams dropped out of the race in January. Candidates often drop out when they determine their opponent has the support and likely votes of a majority of the 170-member General Assembly.
Katy Perry and Rihanna didn't attend the Met Gala. But AI
FAU hires Isaiah Austin, whose NBA playing plans were derailed, as an assistant coach
John Tortorella says he failed to get Flyers to 'close the deal' in wake of late
'Bluey' hits the mark with children and adults alike
Disney's streaming business turns a profit in first financial report since challenge to Iger
Closing prices for crude oil, gold and other commodities
Priest resigns from Michigan church after protests over his criticism of a gay author
Boy Scouts of America is rebranding. Here's why they're now named Scouting America
Olympic torch makes Acropolis overnight stop a week before handover to Paris organizers
Hollywood nepo babies Willow and Jaden Smith play it cool in edgy outfits at 2024 Met Gala
Kings hoping goaltender Cam Talbot can return to early form as Stanley Cup playoffs begin