Making the Secretary of State Appointed

S.70 proposes an amendment to make the Secretary of State appointed by the Governor and not elected by the general population. As an executive office (and a largely administrative one at that) the Secretary of State should be selected by the Governor. As with other proposed amendments making constitutional officers appointed rather than elected this amendment would retain some power in the legislature by allowing the Senate advice and consent to the Governor’s appointment, and by allowing the General Assembly to set the qualifications of the office.

By South Carolina Policy Council

Since 1986 the South Carolina Policy Council Education Foundation has advocated innovative policy ideas that advance the principles of limited government and free enterprise. The Policy Council is the state’s meeting place for business leaders, policymakers, and academics – as well as engaged citizens – who want to see South Carolina become the most free state in the nation. For questions or comments on the articles on this website, please email Research Director Jamie Murguia.