South Carolina Democrats are no strangers to race-baiting, either. The 2001 special election for state Senate District 43 illustrates the point well. “Republicans are working right now to turn back the clock on our community,” begins a radio ad funded by the Senate Democratic Caucus.
“They are sitting in their country clubs laughing at us, saying we'll stay at home and not vote on December 4th. These are the same good ol' boy Republicans who want to take us back to their good ol' days. The days of Confederate Flags, segregated communities and poor schools in black neighborhoods,” the ad continued.
“These are the same Republicans who put the Confederate Flag in our face and wanted the symbol of hate to stay atop our State House Dome. These are the same Republicans who fought against First Steps and full day kindergarten, programs that help our kids. They are the same narrow-minded people who want Republican John Kuhn in the Senate. Fortunately, we have Democrat Leon Stavrinakis. Stavrinakis is no stranger to our community and will work for us in the Senate.
“On Tuesday, December 4th, don't let the Republicans stop our progress. Grab a neighbor and cast a vote for positive change.”
Republicans supporting candidate John Kuhn obtained a copy of the ad and paid to have it broadcast on other stations, rather than just the black stations, manufacturing a voter backlash against the Democrats.
It’s an article of faith that Democratic consultant Kevin Geddings was heavily involved in Stavrinakis’ campaign, though who gets the blame for the”scare-the-black-voters” ad isn’t quite clear.
According to one news site, Geddings downplayed his involvement, saying, “I have never met Mr. Leon Stavranakis... I have never spoken to him on the phone or in person. I think you have to at least talk to someone to ‘consult’ with them.”
Six years later, Stavrinakis later waged a successful campaign for the S.C. House – sans the low-road, racially divisive tactics.
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