FLORENCE, S.C. - Nearly $700,000 went into the Democratic primary race for Sen. Maggie Glover's seat - and that doesn't include all the money now going to lawyers as the results were challenged and ultimately landed before the state Supreme Court and expectations that more will have to be spent on a new bout of campaigning.

State Senate Ethics Committee reports show Glover spent the least - $41,041 - to hold on to her seat. She came out with the most votes.

Florence businessman Tim Norwood spent the most, $605,490, including loans of $549,500. On primary night, Norwood appeared to be in a runoff with Glover. But a recount a few days later placed Marion County Deputy Administrator Kent Williams in the runoff with seven more votes than Norwood.

Williams spent $50,506 on the contest - including $30,000 in loans.

Norwood's report shows he paid a $5,000 retainer to a Columbia law firm to represent him in the primary challenge. That challenge paid off, with the state Democratic Party ordering a new election.

But Williams and Glover challenged that decision, asking the Supreme Court to order that a primary runoff proceed without Norwood on the ballot.

If Williams and Glover lose, it could touch off a whole new round of campaign spending that could push this contest to a new record for spending for a state Senate race.

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Information from: Morning News, http://www.morningnewsonline.com/