“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires…” Practice this especially in the next online conversation … where you don’t face the person you’re speaking to. Listen first. Hold the reply. Let the anger cool. Unchecked words online rarely build strength; they just deepen division.

Apply James 1:19–20 in the next meeting, the next online exchange, and the next disagreement. Quick ears, measured words, and restrained anger serve both your stated goals and the standard the text sets.

Happy Sunday!

“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.“

James 1:19–20

To repeat from last Sunday (HERE), on this All Saints’ Day, we remember with gratitude those who have gone before us in faith …

Coffee & Politics – November 6th, 2026 – YouTube (HERE), RUMBLE (HERE) & X (HERE)


Friends, we have been running a weekly Coffee & Politics Meeting out of our Greenville Headquarters for nearly 5 years now … and it has been a huge hit. It is how we communicate our vision and #Mission to or local Volunteers and Community … and it one way we RECRUIT more people to the MAGA America First movement.


THIS WEEK’S HIGHLIGHTS:

Coffee & Politics Greenville

Your weekly roundup of Greenville County and South Carolina politics

Good Saturday morning!

The votes are in, and this week’s Coffee & Politics Greenville takes a closer look at the results of Tuesday’s election and what comes next for Greenville County Republicans.

The biggest local headline: Greenville County voters rejected the proposed $1.1 billion Penny Tax! We discuss the grassroots effort behind the result, the thousands of phone calls made to voters, the public forums, and why the fight to keep this tax from returning may not be over.

We also celebrate Becky McLaughlin’s election to Greenville County School Board District 18. Becky joins us to share the story of her campaign, her decades of experience in education, and the old-fashioned door-to-door work that helped get her elected.

We take a candid look at the South Carolina Senate race, the challenges facing the Republican Party, pro-life legislative priorities, and the importance of rebuilding relationships and focusing on the grassroots.

Featured Segments

00:00 – Election Results Edition: No New County Penny Tax!
The show opens with prayer and the headline news: Greenville County voters rejected the proposed $1.1 billion Penny Tax, while several city tax measures passed. The hosts discuss the difference between the county proposal and the city initiatives.

01:15 – The $1.1 Billion Penny Tax: What Voters Rejected
A review of the proposed allocations for Greenbelt and Greenlink, the cost to taxpayers, and the hosts’ concerns about the amount of spending included in the county proposal.

03:00 – The Real Cost: $20 Per Person Per Month
The hosts revisit competing estimates of the Penny Tax’s cost, including the $308-per-family-of-four figure and the public exchange in which County Councilman Curt McGahee acknowledged a $15–$20 monthly cost per person.

04:30 – The Penny Tax Forums & Public Debate
A recap of the public forums moderated by Bill Frady and Tara Savasius, including the discussion between Joe Farmer and Curt McGahee that brought the cost question directly to voters.

06:00 – Thousands of Phone Calls: The Grassroots Effort That Made a Difference
A thank-you to volunteers who made thousands of calls and texts. The hosts recognize Americans for Prosperity for providing a call-banking platform with access to approximately 120,000 Greenville County voter contacts.

08:00 – What’s Next for the Penny Tax?
The hosts discuss why they believe the proposal could return and the importance of developing an alternative plan, including potential county budget reductions and cooperation with County Council members.

10:00 – Becky McLaughlin Wins Greenville County School Board District 18!
A celebration of Becky’s election and the significance of the victory. The discussion also explains how her district crosses county lines into Spartanburg County.

12:00 – Becky McLaughlin: The Unusual Story of Filing for Office
Becky tells the entertaining story of trying to determine whether she needed to file her candidacy in Greenville or Spartanburg County—and the confusion between the two election offices.

15:00 – How Becky Ran Her Campaign: Experience, Preparation & Persistence
Becky explains why she focused on her professional experience and qualifications rather than party labels in a nonpartisan school board race.

18:00 – Grassroots Campaigning: Door Knocking, Family & Volunteers
Becky shares how she organized her campaign, involved her family, and made personal connections with voters throughout the district.

21:00 – Door Knocking: Technology or Index Cards?
A practical discussion of campaign methods, including Becky’s decision to use printed address cards and subdivision maps rather than relying entirely on a phone app.

24:00 – The Power of Candidate Outreach & GCRP Newspaper Distribution
How the GCRP helped candidates by including their information in newspaper distribution and door-to-door outreach.

26:00 – From the Classroom to the School Board: Becky’s Education Background
Becky discusses her decades in education, including public school teaching, Christian school administration, private business, and her experience teaching middle school mathematics.

30:00 – What Makes a Great Teacher?
A conversation about teaching middle school students, academic expectations, and the importance of engaging students and making them want to learn.

35:00 – Homeschooling in Greenville County: A Growing Education Community
Becky shares what she learned from visiting local homeschool programs, including a homeschool organization serving approximately 1,500 students.

40:00 – School District Leadership: Finding Solutions Instead of Saying No
A discussion about the challenges facing school district administration, the role of legal counsel, and the importance of finding lawful, practical ways to improve education for students and taxpayers.

45:00 – A Voter’s Story: Why Personal Conversations Matter
Becky shares a memorable story about meeting a homeschooling family while campaigning and how that personal connection translated into a vote.

50:00 – Celebrating Becky’s Victory & Pro-Life Committee Update
Becky receives congratulations, followed by an update from Cody Smolik and the GCRP Pro-Life Committee.

52:00 – Pro-Life Education: Bioethics, Legislation & Community Involvement
The committee discusses its educational programs, including the November 9 presentation on the bioethics of human reproduction and previous sessions explaining the legislative process.

55:00 – Bringing Pro-Life Organizations Together
A discussion of cooperation among pro-life groups, the importance of leadership, and why organizations must be willing to communicate and work together.

60:00 – The Republican Party’s Internal Divisions: What Went Wrong?
The hosts examine the divisions within the Republican Party following the election and discuss the tension between grassroots conservatives and the party establishment.

65:00 – The South Carolina Senate Race: What the Results Tell Us
A discussion of Darline Graham’s loss to Annie Andrews, voter behavior, and the need to examine the results and understand what happened.

68:00 – Pro-Life Committee: Legislative Advocacy & Accountability
An update on efforts to engage elected officials, advance pro-life legislation, and encourage cooperation among organizations with different approaches.

70:00 – Congressman William Timmons & South Carolina’s Pro-Life Priorities
The hosts discuss a recent meeting with Congressman Timmons and an update from South Carolina Citizens for Life regarding future legislative efforts.

75:00 – Moment of Hope: The Impact of Losing Ultrasound Funding
The discussion highlights a reported $150,000 funding shortfall at Moment of Hope and the importance of ultrasound services in its work with expectant mothers.

78:00 – Staying Focused: Strategy, Discipline & the Pro-Life Mission
A broader discussion about thinking through the consequences of advocacy decisions, staying focused on the mission, and avoiding distractions.

80:00 – The Darline Graham Campaign: A Missed Opportunity for Republican Unity?
The hosts discuss outreach efforts to the Senate campaign, including Tara Savasius’s offer to interview the candidate and potentially provide an endorsement, and the campaign’s response.

85:00 – The Post-Election Debate: Grassroots Republicans & Party Leadership
A look at media coverage of the election results, the campaign’s relationship with the Greenville County Republican Party, and disagreements over the role of grassroots organizations.

90:00 – What Greenville County Republicans Accomplished
The hosts reflect on the Penny Tax defeat, Becky’s school board victory, the work of volunteers, and the importance of focusing on achievable local objectives.

95:00 – Precinct-Level Outreach: Phone Calls, Lit Drops & Voter Relationships
A discussion of volunteer efforts in Fountain Inn and other precincts, including the value of building personal relationships with voters in local neighborhoods.

100:00 – Election Results & Checking Your Ballot
The hosts discuss straight-ticket voting, reviewing selections carefully, and the importance of checking the printed ballot before submitting it.

105:00 – South Carolina’s Next Governor: Alan Wilson & the Road Ahead
A discussion of Attorney General Alan Wilson’s willingness to engage with conservative media and the policy opportunities and expectations facing the next administration.

110:00 – Taxes, County Council & Accountability After Election Day
The hosts revisit the Penny Tax debate, examine claims about how elected officials represented their districts, and discuss the need for a clear alternative to additional taxation.

115:00 – Closing Prayer: Faith, Citizenship & the Responsibility to Vote
The episode closes with a prayer emphasizing that faith and civic responsibility go together, followed by a discussion of the responsibility to remain engaged in public life.

Top 5 Takeaways

1. Greenville County voters rejected the $1.1 billion Penny Tax.
The hosts credit grassroots volunteers, public education, phone banking, text messages, and community outreach for helping make the case against the proposal. They also caution that the issue may return and that a practical road-funding alternative is still needed.

2. Becky McLaughlin’s school board victory demonstrates the value of grassroots campaigning.
Becky shares how preparation, personal conversations, door knocking, family involvement, and a clear explanation of her education experience helped her campaign.

3. The Republican Party needs to address its internal divisions.
The discussion of the Senate race and the relationship between the campaign and local Republican organizations raises questions about communication, cooperation, and the role of grassroots volunteers.

4. Pro-life advocacy requires organization and cooperation.
The committee continues working on education, legislative engagement, and bringing organizations together around shared objectives.

5. The work continues after Election Day.
From school board oversight and county budget accountability to precinct organization and legislative priorities, the hosts emphasize that local involvement cannot stop when the ballots are counted.

Quotes & Themes of the Week

• On the Penny Tax: “We thank you that there are no new taxes.” The opening prayer captured the week’s biggest local headline.
• On campaigning: “If I don’t do it and I lose, then I’m going to be sorry.” Becky McLaughlin explains her approach to preparing for and running her school board campaign.
• On grassroots politics: Personal conversations and door-to-door outreach remain important ways to build trust and reach voters.
• On Republican unity: The hosts argue that political organizations must be willing to communicate and work together rather than allow internal disagreements to undermine shared objectives.
• On faith and civic responsibility: “Getting Christians to vote like Christians.” The closing prayer and discussion emphasize the connection between faith, citizenship, and public participation.
  

Looking Ahead: The Work Continues

The Penny Tax may have been defeated, but the county’s road-funding questions remain. We will continue examining the numbers, working toward practical alternatives, and holding local government accountable.

Congratulations again to Becky McLaughlin on her election to Greenville County School Board District 18.

And thank you to every volunteer who made calls, delivered newspapers, knocked on doors, and encouraged neighbors to participate in Tuesday’s election.

Have a great weekend!

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Join us again next Friday morning for another edition of Coffee & Politics Greenville.

Enjoy … and get ready for #ReOrg2027!!!

HAPPY 250th America!!!

Countdowns (as of 10/31/2026):
Monday, March 1, 2027 – 114 days (ReOrg 2027)
Saturday, Feb. 26, 2028 – 476 days (est. ’28 Republican PPP)
Tuesday, June 13, 2028 – 584 days (’28 PRIMARIES)

WHEN: Every Friday from 11am – 1pm

JOIN US!!!

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ON X!!! (HERE)

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SUSTAINING & INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS:

Make a Charitable Donation TODAY: HERE

On this All Saints’ Day, we remember with gratitude those who have gone before us in faith … those who stood firm, lived with conviction, endured hardship, and remained faithful to Christ. Their lives remind us that faith is not simply something we profess; it is something we live.

There will come a day when every earthly title, every political position, every worldly power, and every human accomplishment will fade away. But one truth will remain: Our salvation belongs to God, and our victory is in Jesus Christ..

Happy Sunday!

“Whoever sacrifices to And they cried out in a loud voice: ‘Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.’“

Revelation 7:10

To repeat from last Sunday (HERE), as we stand alongside our dedicated leaders, candidates, and advocates preparing for the discussions and debates of the week ahead, let’s keep our hearts firmly anchored in the Lord.

Coffee & Politics – October 30th, 2026 – YouTube (HERE), RUMBLE (HERE) & X (HERE)


Friends, we have been running a weekly Coffee & Politics Meeting out of our Greenville Headquarters for nearly 5 years now … and it has been a huge hit. It is how we communicate our vision and #Mission to or local Volunteers and Community … and it one way we RECRUIT more people to the MAGA America First movement.


THIS WEEK’S HIGHLIGHTS:

Coffee & Politics Greenville

Your weekly roundup of Greenville County and South Carolina politics

Good Saturday morning, Patriots!

We are just days away from Election Day, and this week’s Coffee & Politics Greenville covers several important developments affecting Greenville County Republicans.

We take another look at the proposed $1.1 billion Penny Tax, including the actual cost to taxpayers, questions about Greenlink spending, and the claims being made by supporters of the tax. We also discuss President Trump’s recent visit to Rock Hill, the political controversy surrounding the rally, and the importance of getting voters to the polls.

Plus, we demonstrate a new technology platform being developed to help precinct volunteers organize door-to-door canvassing, map voter addresses, and coordinate grassroots outreach. The episode also includes updates on pro-life legislative priorities, school choice, and the party’s plans for the 2027 precinct reorganization.

Featured Segments

00:00 – Opening Prayer & This Week’s Political Update
The show opens with prayer and a discussion of the busy week, including the Penny Tax debate, President Trump’s Upstate visit, and the approaching November 3 election.

01:15 – Greenlink: What Does It Really Cost Taxpayers?
The hosts discuss reported Greenlink operating expenses, fare revenue, insurance costs, and landscaping expenditures. They question whether the system’s operating costs and services justify continued public subsidies.

03:00 – Who Is Funding the Vote YES Penny Tax Campaign?
A look at mailers supporting the Penny Tax and questions about the identity and financial backing of the organization identified as “Investing in Greenville’s Future.”

05:00 – The Penny Tax: A Temporary Tax That May Never Go Away
The discussion examines the history of transportation taxes in other South Carolina communities and the concern that supposedly temporary taxes can become permanent fixtures.

07:30 – The Real Cost: $1,800 to $2,000 Per Person Over Eight Years
The hosts revisit the cost calculation for Greenville County residents and discuss what an additional sales tax could mean for individuals and families over the life of the proposal.

10:00 – The $15–$20 Per Month Admission
The hosts replay a public exchange in which a Penny Tax supporter estimates the cost at $15–$20 per person per month. They contrast that estimate with the campaign’s “just a penny” messaging.

12:30 – How Much of the Tax Would Actually Be Paid by Visitors?
The discussion challenges claims about how much of the proposed tax would be paid by tourists and nonresidents, including questions about the assumptions behind cited studies.

15:00 – The Clemson Study: Where Did the Numbers Come From?
The hosts question the methodology and underlying assumptions of research cited in support of the Penny Tax and discuss the importance of examining the actual study rather than relying on campaign talking points.

17:30 – Voters Deserve Answers, Not Just Slogans
A discussion of the need for transparency, public debate, and reliable financial information before voters approve a major tax increase.

20:00 – Penny Tax Spending: Will Existing Road Funds Be Replaced?
The hosts question whether new Penny Tax revenue would actually add to road spending or whether existing county funds could simply be redirected to other priorities.

22:30 – Affordable Housing, Green Space & Other Spending Priorities
The conversation examines proposed affordable housing expenditures, Greenbelt funding, and questions about whether the county’s priorities align with what taxpayers expect.

25:00 – President Trump’s Upstate Visit: What Happened?
The hosts revisit the announcement and location changes surrounding the President’s visit, including the earlier discussion about bringing the event to Greenville County.

27:30 – Trust, Transparency & Political Accountability
A broader discussion about verifying information, checking claims, and why voters should not accept a candidate’s or elected official’s word without supporting facts.

30:00 – Is the Penny Tax a Success in Other Counties?
The hosts respond to claims about Spartanburg County’s transportation tax and question how success should be measured, including who benefits and what taxpayers actually receive.

32:00 – President Trump’s Rally: VIP Seating & Political Controversy
The hosts describe their experience at the recent rally, including questions about seating arrangements, access, and the treatment of Greenville County Republican representatives.

37:00 – South Carolina Republican Party Leadership & Grassroots Representation
A discussion of party leadership, political relationships, and whether grassroots Republican organizations are receiving the support and access they need.

40:00 – Greenville County Government: Leadership & Accountability
The conversation turns to county administration, government spending, and questions about the selection and compensation of county leadership.

45:00 – The Penny Tax Debate & School Board Politics
The hosts discuss a recent public forum and subsequent conversations involving the Penny Tax debate and local school board issues.

50:00 – Political Accountability: Let the Voters Decide
A discussion of the political disagreements surrounding the Penny Tax and the importance of allowing voters to make their own decision.

55:00 – Early Voting: Check Your Polling Location!
With Election Day approaching, the hosts remind voters that precinct locations may have changed and explain how to verify where to vote. Visit GreenvilleGOP.com/vote for voter information.

60:00 – GCRP Newspaper Distribution & Grassroots Outreach
An update on the distribution of the GCRP newspaper and voter guide, including the effort to reach thousands of Republican voters across Greenville County.

65:00 – Election Data, Voter Outreach & Party Cooperation
The hosts discuss access to voter information, coordination among Republican organizations, and the importance of making voter data available to those working to elect Republican candidates.

70:00 – Introducing the New GCRP Field Canvassing Platform
A first look at a new technology tool designed to help precinct volunteers organize voter outreach, generate canvassing lists, and coordinate door-to-door efforts.

75:00 – Door-to-Door Canvassing: Making Every Contact Count
A demonstration of how volunteers can use voter information and mapped addresses to plan more efficient canvassing routes.

80:00 – Local Issues: Traffic, Neighborhoods & City Government
The hosts discuss a local traffic and street-design controversy in Simpsonville, including questions about road access, traffic patterns, and municipal decisions.

85:00 – Building Our Own Tools for Grassroots Republicans
The discussion continues with the potential to make the new canvassing platform available to other precincts and Republican organizations, with opportunities for beta testers to help improve it.

90:00 – Pro-Life Committee Update: Legislative Priorities & Advocacy
An update on efforts to advance pro-life legislation, engage elected officials, and bring together organizations with differing approaches to the issue.

93:00 – Upcoming Educational Outreach: The Bioethics of Human Reproduction
A preview of an upcoming presentation by Jim Camden examining developments in reproductive technology and the ethical questions they raise.

95:00 – Election Prayer, Pro-Life Events & Upcoming Meetings
Announcements about prayer opportunities, the upcoming pro-life prayer vigil, and the GCRP Legislative Committee meeting scheduled for November 5th.

100:00 – Looking Ahead to 2027: Precinct Reorganization & Legislative Priorities
The hosts discuss the importance of preparing for precinct reorganization and developing a legislative agenda for the next session.

105:00 – Federal School Choice Tax Credit: Getting the Word Out
The hosts highlight Olga Lisinska’s recent FitsNews op-ed about the federal scholarship tax credit program and the opportunity to expand educational options for South Carolina families.

110:00 – Political Protests, Candidate Events & Public Safety
The conversation returns to the recent Trump rally, including reported disruptions, security concerns, and the importance of maintaining safe and orderly political events.

115:00 – Faith, Civic Responsibility & Election Day
A discussion of Christian responsibility, resolving disagreements, and the importance of participating in the political process.

120:00 – GCRP Christmas Celebration & Silent Auction
Final announcements about the December 12 Christmas Celebration at the Greer Cannon Centre, including tickets, table sponsorships, and silent auction donations.

122:00 – Closing Prayer: Faith, Freedom & the Responsibility to Vote
The episode concludes with a prayer recognizing the responsibility of citizens to participate in government and encourage others to vote.

Top 5 Takeaways

1. The Penny Tax is about much more than one cent.
The discussion focuses on the estimated cost to taxpayers over eight years, the monthly household impact, and the difference between the campaign’s simple slogan and the actual financial commitment.

2. Follow the money—and examine the assumptions.
From Greenlink operating costs to the studies cited by Penny Tax supporters, the hosts emphasize the importance of reviewing the underlying numbers and asking who benefits from public spending.

3. Election Day is November 3—verify your polling location.
Precinct locations can change. Voters should check their assigned polling place before heading out. Visit GreenvilleGOP.com/vote.

4. Technology can make grassroots organizing more effective.
The new GCRP Field Canvassing platform is designed to help volunteers map voter addresses, organize routes, and coordinate precinct-level outreach. The party is also looking for beta testers to help improve the system.

5. The work continues after Election Day.
Precinct reorganization, legislative priorities, pro-life advocacy, and education freedom will all be important parts of the GCRP’s work heading into 2027.

Quotes & Themes of the Week

• On temporary taxes: “There’s nothing more permanent than a temporary tax.” The hosts return to this familiar warning while discussing the history of transportation taxes.
• On the Penny Tax: “That’s not a penny.” The hosts highlight the exchange in which a supporter estimated the cost at $15–$20 per person per month.
• On voter outreach: The message is that personal conversations, direct contact, and door-to-door canvassing remain essential to grassroots politics.
• On building our own tools: Rather than waiting for others to provide the resources, the GCRP is developing technology to support its own precinct volunteers.
• On civic responsibility: The closing prayer emphasizes that participating in government and voting are important responsibilities of citizenship.
  

Election Day Is Tuesday, November 3!

There is still time to make a difference. Check your polling location, encourage your friends and neighbors to vote, and make sure your voice is heard.

After Election Day, we will turn our attention to precinct reorganization, legislative priorities, and building an even stronger grassroots organization for 2027.

Have a great weekend!

---

Join us again next Friday morning for another edition of Coffee & Politics Greenville.

Enjoy … and get ready for #ReOrg2027!!!

HAPPY 250th America!!!

Countdowns (as of 10/31/2026):
Tuesday, November 3, 2026 – 3 days (Election Day)
Monday, March 1, 2027 – 121 days (ReOrg 2027)
Saturday, Feb. 26, 2028 – 483 days (est. ’28 Republican PPP)
Tuesday, June 13, 2028 – 591 days (’28 PRIMARIES)

WHEN: Every Friday from 11am – 1pm

JOIN US!!!

ON YouTube!!! (HERE)

ON RUMBLE!!! (HERE)

ON X!!! (HERE)

Subscribe to our YouTube Page:

Subscribe: HERE

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mySCGOP.shop

ONLINE SHOPPING: mySCGOP.shop

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SUSTAINING & INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS:

Make a Charitable Donation TODAY: HERE

“Almost 1.4 million South Carolina taxpayers are eligible to contribute, and we hope you will be one of them!”


On January 1, 2027, a new federal Scholarship Tax Credit program created as part of President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB) will open new opportunities for South Carolina families, donors, and schools. Literally hundreds of millions of dollars in potential funding will be available. Established under Section 25F of the Internal Revenue Code and overseen by the U.S. Treasury, the program encourages contributions to Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs) that provide scholarships for eligible K-12 students.

At Palmetto Kids FIRST, we have been fighting for exactly this kind of real school choice in South Carolina since 2013: (1) giving families more control over their children’s education, regardless of income, ZIP code, or financial need and (2) ensuring that the program is implemented by free-market independent 501(c)(3) nonprofits, not the same government entities and monied special interest whose regulations have overburdened our public schools and helped create the need for real universal school choice. In other words, no strings attached.

Importantly, this opportunity is not limited to private-school students. Eligible students attending public schools, private schools, charter schools and, subject to applicable state laws, even children learning at home can benefit. This is the dream we have advocated for, and we have president Trump to thank for finally bringing it to us here in South Carolina.

#1 – PARENTS: MORE CHOICES AND POTENTIALLY FULL SCHOLARSHIPS

We all know that every child learns differently. Some thrive in public schools; others benefit from private or religious schools, charter schools, homeschooling, tutoring or specialized academic support.

Today, families must often choose between these options based not on what is best for their children, but on what they can afford. Money should not limit a child’s educational opportunities – and money won’t be a limiting factor for the more than 92% of all families that qualify. This is real Universal School Choice.

These new federal tax credit scholarships can also complement assistance already available through South Carolina’s limited state school choice programs, including the Education Scholarship Trust Fund (ESTF) and the Educational Credit for Exceptional Needs Children (ECENC). Combining eligible sources of assistance could help students receive scholarships covering 100% of their qualifying educational costs. These federal scholarships through Palmetto Kids FIRST can layer on top of eligible state assistance – or potentially for some schools provide a completely new alternative without the SC state government regulations.

Parents, you do not have to wait until January to get involved. Sign up here today with Palmetto Kids FIRST to receive information about the coming program and scholarship opportunities.

#2 – DONORS: MAKE A DIFFERENCE THROUGH GIVING – COST FREE!

Beginning on January 1, 2027, eligible individual taxpayers nationwide may claim a federal income tax credit of up to $1,700 for cash contributions to eligible SGOs in participating states like South Carolina. Married couples filing jointly can qualify for a combined credit of up to $3,400. Almost 1.4 million South Carolina taxpayers are eligible to contribute, and we hope you will be one of them!

Unlike a deduction, a tax credit directly reduces federal income tax liability dollar-for-dollar. Give $1,700 and take $1,700 off your federal income taxes. Easy! This program gives donors a new way to support K-12 children’s education at essentially no cost whatsoever – just a little upfront paperwork.

Want to help make real universal school choice possible? Make a nonbinding pledge today to let Palmetto Kids FIRST know you are interested in supporting scholarships on January 1 when the program launches. The sooner you donate, the sooner we can issue scholarship grants to K-12 children statewide.

Visit: PalmettoKidsFIRST.com/pledge

#3 – SCHOOLS: PARTNER WITH PALMETTO KIDS FIRST

South Carolina schools – public, private, charter and homeschool communities – have an opportunity to help more families access educational resources. Private and religious schools will be able to make tuition more affordable and potentially cost-free, while public schools, charter schools and homeschooling families can benefit from assistance for qualifying educational expenses and services.

We invite all South Carolina schools to partner with Palmetto Kids FIRST as we prepare for the January 1 launch. Together, we can help families understand the program, connect eligible students with scholarship opportunities and expand access to educational resources for all kids.

REAL UNIVERSAL SCHOOL CHOICE IS FINALLY HERE

For more than a decade, Palmetto Kids FIRST has worked toward a future in which educational opportunities are not dictated solely by a family’s financial circumstances. The new federal program offers the perfect path toward fulfilling that goal.

Not every student or expense will automatically qualify, and scholarships will depend on available funding from donors. But the potential is significant – literally hundreds of millions of dollars here in South Carolina alone. More donor support, more educational choices and more opportunities for all of our K-12 children.

January 1, 2027, marks the beginning of a new chapter in South Carolina. Parents, donors, schools – and you – can help make it a success.

Let’s work together to put our Palmetto Kids FIRST. Join us today!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR …

Olga Lisinska is Board Chairman of Palmetto Kids FIRST Federal Tax Credit Scholarship Program. Palmetto Kids FIRST, the local DBA of America Kids FIRST Scholarship Program, Inc., a South Carolina-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit operating as a qualified multi-state federal Scholarship Granting Organization. Since 2008, Olga has supported and served with organizations that have raised more than $300 million in tax-credit funds and awarded scholarships to tens of thousands of K–12 students. In addition, since 2021, Olga serves as Chief of Staff for the Greenville County Republican Party, where she advances grassroots initiatives and drives community engagement. Connect with her on Facebook at facebook.com/olgalisinska

As our dedicated leaders and advocates prepare for the battles, discussions, and debates of the week ahead, let’s encourage them to keep their hearts firmly anchored in the Lord.

Protect yourself from the subtle temptations to sacrifice truth for strategy, character for short-term success, or deep-held convictions for popular approval.

Remind yourself daily that political power is fleeting, but our Father’s righteousness endures forever. May our leaders find the courage to act with genuine humility, speak with unshakeable truth, and serve the common good with wisdom … never losing their souls in the pursuit of influence.

Let’s align our efforts with His justice and peace, praying for strength and protection on the journey ahead.

Happy Sunday!

“Whoever sacrifices to any god other than the Lord must be destroyed.“

Exodus 22:20

To repeat from last Sunday (HERE), when earthly politics leave you feeling outside the fold, remember that your ultimate identity and hope were never meant to rest in a party line.