Former South Carolina State Senator Jake Knotts is to receive the Order of the Palmetto from Governor Henry McMaster.
According to official guidelines (emphasis added)
Order of the Palmetto
Established by Governor John C. West in 1971, the Order of the Palmetto is the State of South Carolina’s highest civilian honor. It is presented in recognition of a lifetime of extraordinary achievement, service, and contributions on a national or statewide scale. The Order of the Palmetto recognizes individuals who have selflessly given of their time, resources and goodwill through a variety of different causes and pursuits to the benefit of their neighbors, fellow citizens and the fabric and prosperity of South Carolina. Business, political or personal accomplishment may be important factors, but noble works for others mark the true purpose.
Jake Knotts:
• Received national attention when he called then gubernatorial candidate Nikki Haley and President Barack Obama “ragheads.”
• Lexington County Republican Party demanded he resign
• Stated Haley only pretended to be a Christian so she could get elected.
• It’s long been rumored the former police officer carried in his pocket the bullet with which he shot a black man.
• Was involved in the video poker scandal that sent Lexington Sheriff James Metts to prison.
• Reprimanded by SC Senate Ethics Committee for campaign finance violations
• Was (allegedly) the prime mover in having more than 250 candidates statewide tossed off the 2012 Republican primary ballot for “failing to properly complete paperwork” when they filed for the election. “Critics said Knotts was behind the lawsuit that led to the candidates’ ouster, since a former campaign worker was among the plaintiffs.”
To be continued…
WHILE I BREATHE 