Well, it's official. Bill Collins will be on the ballot in November as an independent candidate. Considering the foundation of our republic is based on the voters choosing the person they feel is best for an elected position, this should be a cause to celebrate. Until the Democratic Party in Dorchester County can get their ducks realigned, independent candidates are the only option. Mr. Collins accumulated over 4,000 signatures. That indicates the people of District 38 have spoken. They want more than one name on that ballot. Does it mean they will all vote for Mr. Collins? Not necessarily. Many may very well have simply supported the electoral process as a whole. Even if they do all vote for Collins, that's what elections are for.

In light of this avenue very clearly being outlined in the electoral laws, those expressing "outrage" over Mr. Collins and his supporters audacity really should take a Civics lesson. Had our forefathers not had the audacity to buck the system, the Confederate Flag at the State House wouldn't even be an arguable point. The Republican Party, first and foremost, should support democracy and the democratic process. That means legitimate races in November. It does not mean everyone being forced to vote in June, even if they are staunch democrats, because that is the only time there is a choice. While the Dorchester County Republican Party should give their rightfully chosen candidate full support, they should in no way seek to inhibit constituents' choices. Strong arm tactics, such as threatened boycotts of stores housing a petition and throwing out party members who sign, is counterproductive. The fact that this was supported by the state Republican Party Chair is ludicrous.

Mr. Rose has been quoted as saying he spent the majority of his monies on the primary. Considering the elections of the recent past, that wasn't an illogical gamble. But it was a gamble. However, instead of running around hysterically about there being another interested in the senate seat, the Dorchester County Republican Party should focus on fundraising and battle plans for the fall. If they really support their chosen candidate, money won't be an issue. If they really support Mike Rose, they will fall in line, shoulder to shoulder and give him the most unified support seen in recent times. They will provide a Civics lesson of their own in the basic fundamentals of a political party's purpose.

If anyone is interested in the actual laws, they are readily available online. Candidates are all required to file the same information and submit to background checks. Convicted felons are not allowed to run. The State Election Commission has a set procedure in validating all information as it concerns elections, independent candidates, petitions, signatures, etc. The information concerning all of this is available at www.scvotes.com.

With Kind Regards,
Kelly W. Lax
Managing Editor
The Summerville Sun