Sen. John Courson Explains Abrupt Resignation

Columbia, S.C. (WOLO) — Republican state senator John Courson says he feels he was forced to resign his position as president pro tempore. This, after hearing that personal friend and current Lt. Governor Glen McConnell, is expected to step down later this week. “I decided this would be best for South Carolina, my family and more importantly, my constituents that kept my word to them and that’s exactly what I’m doing,” said Courson while addressing reporters shortly after his abrupt announcement. Courson’s decision o step down he claims, is a direct result of Lt. Governor Glen McConnell having indicated he will resign later this week, as the legislative session comes to a close. He still has more than five months remaining in his term. “I’m very disappointed in what has transpired, and I will leave it at that,” said Courson. Courson claims the McConnell could remain in office to fulfill the last half of his term, even though he has already accepted a position as president of the College of Charleston. However, because the second in command reportedly plans to resign, that puts Courson in a position to assume the role. He says that’s not a good fit, and that’s not what he promised his constituents he would do. “I’m not denigrating the office. It would be an honor. it’s a nice salary, comes with SLED protection, a car, nice suites, but it’s not something I had committed to do, and I’m going to stick to my commitment. This shake-up will soon leave the Office of Lt. Governor vacant until and unless lawmakers move quickly to fill it. No word on when that could happen. The governor is sounding off about it. “The idea of the State of South Carolina possibly being with out a sitting lieutenant governor for any amount of time is ridiculous to me,” said Haley. We should know by the end of the week if McConnell, in fact, resigns and any possible legal ramifications as a result.