NEWBERRY — Newberry County Democrats filled the Opera House lobby to near capacity on Oct. 20 to boost support for local Democratic candidates.

Each candidate was given an opportunity to make his or her case for election on Nov. 8, and explain why they were the best choice for the office in contention.

Newberry County Democrats Chair Dave Waldrop kicked off the event stating that “Democrats have provided long and faithful service to Newberry County, and we can and will continue that service. And frankly, given our record, and seeing what the opposition has to offer, we see no reason to change.”

Democrats running for office in this election are Beth Folk (Clerk of Court), Karen Lindler Smith (Treasurer), Donna Lominack (Auditor), Harriet Rucker (County Council), Kirksey Koon (County Council), Lewis Lee (Coroner), Lee Foster (Sheriff), and Carlton Kinard (State Representative for South Carolina District 40.) Also speaking was David Schumpert, Campaign Manager for Hosea Cleveland, Candidate for Congress from the 3rd Congressional District.

Democrats currently hold half the elected county offices. The election is being hotly contested in several races, but Chairman Waldrop remains optimistic. “The people of Newberry County know when they’ve got a good thing,” he said. “They’re not likely to want to change.”

Carlton Kinard speaking during the rally.
https://www.newberryobserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/web1__C7A6968a1.jpgCarlton Kinard speaking during the rally. Courtesy photo

Staff Report