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Article published Jul 12, 2005
Karen Floyd is off to a flying start in her bid to unseat Inez Tenenbaum as state superintendent of education.
Floyd, a Republican who announced her candidacy in April, raised $248,090 for her war chest in the quarter that ended June 30.
"In just a few short weeks, business people, community leaders and fellow Republicans across the state have come together to invest in my campaign to bring some common-sense changes to our education system," Floyd said. "I am honored and gratified with the quick outpouring of support my candidacy is receiving from every corner of South Carolina."
Tenenbaum, a Democrat seeking a third term, raised $176,174 for the quarter. For the election cycle, which began in January and culminates with the general election in November 2006, she has raised $387,075.
"We feel good about the total we have raised so far for a race that is still more than a year away," said Tenenbaum campaign spokesman Zeke Stokes. "Finances will not be a factor in this race. Inez has demonstrated in past races the ability to raise significant resources, including $7 million for the Senate race last year."
Last November, Tenenbaum ran for the Senate seat vacated by Fritz Hollings but was soundly beaten by Republican Jim DeMint of Greenville.
Stokes shrugged off Floyd's big first quarter. He said the first money is the easiest to get because it's coming from friends and hard-core Republicans.
He said Floyd would need to raise big money because she faces primary opposition next June. Dan Hallman of Anderson also is seeking the Republican nomination.
Spartanburg County Republican Party Chairman Rick Beltram said Floyd's strong quarter was a testimony to her hard work. He said the former County Council chairwoman announced her candidacy and went around the state spreading her message.
"I would say that she came out of the chute stronger and faster than most campaigns," Beltram said.
Robert W. Dalton can be reached
at 562-7274 or bob.dalton@shj.com.