Tells Chamber “the wrong conversation” is happening in Washington
Gov. Nikki Haley spoke to about 200 attendees Monday at a Spartanburg Chamber of Commerce luncheon at the Piedmont Club. She discussed the state’s general economic picture and vented frustration at the ongoing shutdown of the federal government and the continuing resolution that has funded the government in lieu of a complete appropriations bill.
Haley said national leaders are “having the wrong conversation” in Washington, D.C. Rather than talking about raising debt limits, the government should look at operating within its means, she said.
The governor emphasized the need for more infrastructure improvements in South Carolina and praised as “positive signs” a recently passed $1 billion transportation bill that she said aids the state’s recruitment efforts and the addition of 38,500 jobs during her tenure.
Jim Thomas, head of government relations at the Spartanburg Chamber and organizer of the visit, said Haley’s remarks showed that she understands the business community. He said her comments underscored the importance of having someone at the helm who understands what it takes for the state to be globally competitive.
“I think she demonstrated that she is concerned with business needs,” Thomas said. “She certainly has a good track record when it comes to bringing jobs and interest to the state. … I think the business community would give her a pretty good grade on how she has performed on that aspect of her duties.”
Education was another key theme of Haley’s talk, and she discussed a need for education incentives. She said she will present a plan for primary and secondary education next year.
Thomas said the chamber has made education a priority area for Spartanburg and he has been pleased with the progress made in connection with Spartanburg’s business and education communities.
