Boeing deal could be special session surprise
By Tom Baxter
Southern Political Report
October 27, 2009 — The South Carolina General Assembly begins a two-day special session today with hints that a major economic deal could be part of the mix, along with the restoration of jobless benefits and action on Gov. Mark Sanford's impeachment. At the center of the speculation is Boeing, which said last week it is between Everett, Wash., and North Charleston as the possible locations for an assembly plant to build its 787 Dreamliner jet. The session was made necessary by an error which cost some 7,000 South Carolinians extended job benefits. The Senate and House may also take steps to clarify state law regarding impeachment, potentially paving the way for Sanford's removal. -- Longtime friend and support McQueen Campbell testified Monday that he provided political and personal plane trips for former North Carolina Gov. Mike Easley. A state elections board hearing also reviewed evidence and testimony that Easley used campaign funds to pay for repairs at his personal residence in Raleigh. -- The new Arkansas lottery has been a rousing financial success. But a poll commissioned by Talk Business Quarterly magazine shows the public in the state is still cool to new venture. Fewer than half say they favor the lottery, and 57 percent said they were not likely to buy a lottery ticket over the next year. -- Last week, Florida House Speaker Larry Cretul told federal regulators the state had reached an impasse in its negotiations with the Seminole Tribe and asked the National Indian Gaming Commission to shut down the tribes gaming operations throughout the state. But Gov. Charlie Crist said Monday he his still hopeful the state can reach an agreeement with the tribe to share revenues from its casinos. |
