COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - Democratic state Sen. Vincent Sheheen has released his first TV ad in his rematch against Gov. Nikki Haley.
Sheheen’s ad that began airing Wednesday highlights the embattled Department of Social Services. It features Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott criticizing Haley’s administration as not protecting vulnerable children. Lott is also a Democrat.
While Lott says in the ad Sheheen won’t play politics with children’s lives, Haley spokesman Rob Godfrey says that’s exactly what he’s doing with the ad.
A Senate panel is studying potential problems at the agency. Sheheen is among several senators calling for the ousting of DSS Director Lillian Koller. Haley has repeatedly backed her.
Haley’s campaign has released two ads touting her administration’s jobs record.
The Republican Governors Association has released five ads so far attacking Sheheen.
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