Haley on Accuser: “Racist, Sexist Bigot”

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — Before issuing a written statement on her reaction to the SC House Ethics Committee’s ruling that she did not break the law while a member of the House of Representatives, Gov. Nikki Haley lashes out at the person she blames for the entire investigation. In a surprise testimony at the ethics hearing Thursday, the governor lashed out at republican activist, John Rainey, who filed the original complaint alleging wrongdoing on the part of Haley while she was a state representative. “Mr. Rainey is a racist, sexist bigot who has done everything he can to hurt me and my family,” she said while being questioned by attorneys. In a statement released to ABC Columbia News Friday after the six-member committee cleared her of all claims, the governor said, “The Ethics Committee did its job thoroughly, professionally, and well. It’s just a shame that our judicial and legislative bodies have had to waste so much of their time on phony political charges that never had any evidence behind them or any basis in fact. Despite these attempts at political distraction, I’m pleased that our administration continues to stay focused on what matters, bringing in record new job announcements, cutting taxes for small businesses and reforming state government.” Committee members say this finally puts to rest months of speculation as to whether the governor violated state ethics laws during her time as a state legislator with the House of Representatives.