SC Primary ‘Unprecedented’ for Several Reasons

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) –Low turnout across the state Tuesday for the 2012 primary wasn’t the only factor which made this election day less than desirable, and very unique, according to election officials. South Carolina State Election Commission spokesman Chris Whitmire says he’s gotten reports from across the state of light to very light turnouts. He added that hundreds of candidates have been de-certified for the primary. The state Supreme Court ruled last month that the law requires candidates to file their economic interest forms at the time they file their intention to run. Many had not. A third factor in making this election unique, Whitmire said, is rainy weather more than likely hindered an already historically low turnout for state primaries. Runoff primaries will be held later this month, with the general election to take place in November.