With low numbers, Ervin still has effect on SC gov

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Tom Ervin knows that he is an extreme longshot to win the South Carolina governor’s seat.

A recent survey of likely voters showed him polling in single digits. But the independent from Greenville also knows his presence has forced Republican Gov. Nikki Haley and Democratic state Sen. Vincent Sheheen to pay attention to him and the issues he’s showcased.

The former judge and legislator initially challenged Haley in the GOP primary but ultimately got on the ballot as a petition candidate.

He has spent millions of his own money to stay relevant, crisscrossing the state and running ads showcasing his brand of conservatism. Political experts say while he won’t win, he could carve support from Haley if voters see him as the “independent Republican” he’s claimed to be.

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Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP