Methadone Clinic

COMMENT ON JUDGES TAKEN OUT OF CONTEXT

I am deeply concerned about a statement attributed to me (The Sun News,
Nov. 8) regarding my role as a legislator in appointing judges. The comment
was made as part of my reaction to the proposed methadone clinic's attempt
to block a public hearing of the Board of Adjustments and Zoning Appeals.

I had just learned that I had been named in a lawsuit seeking possible
monetary damages against me and Horry County, along with an injunction
against a public hearing that my constituents have rightly demanded. I will
not deny making the statement, but I am absolutely certain that it was
taken out of context.

In the discourse of conversation, I recall answering many questions about
the clinic and my strong opposition to it. The statement was made as a
matter of fact and was not intended to leave the impression that judges
answer to me or any other legislator.

Like me, our judges take a solemn oath to uphold our constitution, and I
know they will do so.

While the backers of this clinic may be within their rights to sue, I am
angered that they would even consider using our courts to prevent the
public from speaking out on this critical issue. Ultimately, they must
answer to the court of public opinion, and it is clear to me that they have
made every attempt to build and open this clinic under cover of darkness.