Governor Henry McMaster issued Executive Order 2019-09 on February 14, removing every member of the Richland County Board of Voter Registration and Elections. The decision comes as a result of continued misconduct and neglect of duty by board members through a series of elections and fiascos.

“South Carolinians’ confidence in the lawful and professional oversight of elections must never be jeopardized,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “The repeated actions and behavior of these officials are wholly unacceptable and cannot be tolerated. To regain and maintain Richland County voters' confidence at the ballot box, the entire board must replaced with new leadership.”

The governor’s executive order is effective immediately. By law, the Board members' replacements will be nominated by the county's legislative delegation and appointed by the governor.