The Clarendon County Republican Party (CCGOP) celebrated the grand opening of its new headquarters on Saturday, with a crowd of party leaders, candidates, and supporters gathering at the corner of Boyce Street and Brooks Street in Manning. The new facility is set to serve as a hub for campaign efforts, volunteer recruitment, and community outreach as the GOP prepares for the 2024 election season.
CCGOP Chairman Moye Graham opened the event, welcoming attendees and expressing excitement about the party’s new space. “The grand opening went well,” Graham said. “This headquarters gives us a better chance to recruit volunteers and members to fight for more transparency in our county government and elect folks that want the right change and not the same old way business is done here.”
The day’s program began with a prayer led by First Vice Chair Cindy Risher, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, which was led by Jose Calvo. Attendees were then reminded of the core values of the Republican Party as Roger Jowers recited the Republican Creed. Graham recognized key party officers, guests, and volunteers, acknowledging their contributions to the CCGOP’s success in organizing the grand opening and helping the party grow.
Among the speakers was Fawn Pedalino, House Representative District 64, who highlighted the GOP’s accomplishments and encouraged supporters to remain active and engaged. “We’ve been able to accomplish so much over the last two years,” Pedalino said, referring to efforts in education and local governance. She underscored the importance of continuing these efforts, especially with elections on the horizon. “We’re going to keep doing the hard work, and we’re here to serve you,” she added.
Judge Margaret Sorrell, who is also running for re-election as probate judge, delivered a strong message about the qualifications required for the position and contrasted her experience with that of her opponent. “It is so critical for the citizens of Clarendon County that you have a probate judge who knows what they’re doing, who has the education, who has the experience,” Sorrell said. She emphasized the importance of her legal background and her dedication to serving the community with integrity.
Videos from high-profile state officials added to the celebration, with messages from Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Secretary of State
Mark Hammond, Attorney General Alan Wilson, U.S. Senator Tim Scott, and Speaker of the House Murrell Smith congratulating the CCGOP on the opening of the new headquarters. These
messages reinforced the optimism and momentum building
within the county’s Republican community.
SCGOP Chairman Drew McKissick closed the speaker’s remarks by encouraging attendees to get involved in the upcoming elections. “We need to get out of our comfort zones and help all our candidates,” McKissick said.
“Politics isn’t a spectator sport. We need everyone to be in-
volved, whether it’s knocking on doors, making phone calls, or simply spreading the word about our message.”
Graham, who has been a driving force behind the CCGOP’s local efforts, emphasized the importance of electing Republicans to Clarendon County Council. “My hope is to re-elect Representative Pedalino and Judge Sorrell, and also to add Republicans to Clarendon County Council where we can get control over excessive spending of our tax dollars and give county council back to the people of Clarendon County,” he said. “All the people, not just the same families for decades.”
He also pointed out that the new headquarters will
play a crucial role in this mission, saying, “Having our new headquarters will give us a better chance to recruit volun-
teers and members to fight for more transparency in our county government.”
The grand opening was videotaped and shared on social media, including the Clarendon Republican Facebook page, offering supporters who could not attend a chance to experience the event.
Looking ahead to the 2024 election season, Graham expressed optimism, stating, “We have another opportunity to make a historic moment in how our county moves forward and stop the bleeding of our citizens who feel left out of their feelings and say.”
With the new headquarters established, the Clarendon County GOP is focused on building a stronger presence in the community, ensuring that like-minded residents have a voice in their government and local politics.
