Education
Who Is Fixing FIRST STEPS?
Why would a member of the SC Freedom Caucus sponsor a leftist bill?
Back on June 20th, 2023, the day after the Governor signed the new FIRST STEPS “Fiscal Accountability” bill (H4023) into law we wrote about this bill. We noticed it because it was pushed through outside of session (during the summer) and was passed UNANIMOUSLY by both the SC Senate & the SC House.
Read the article HERE.
Read the 2023 H4023 Bill: HERE & HERE
FIRST STEPS is also a darling program of the left. We knew this because it was a negotiating tool in our school choice fight over the past decade. In order to get any advancements for “school choice” … the left (in this case Democrat former Senator Vincent Sheheen) would ask for more “stuff” for FIRST STEPS. Guess what, he always got it, and we got nothing for school choice. This is why we are involved!!!
Those are all HUGE “red flags” when it comes to legislation as the SC State House … and that is before we even get into the details of the bill …
(#1) Allowable overhead expenses were increased from 8% to 13% … that is a massive increase for the leftist Pre-K reading program.
(#2) Public Library Employees are now required to be on each of the 46+ FIRST STEP partnership boards.
(#3) More child “data sharing” with the government.
Who would agree to any of that???
Freedom Caucus Sponsored?
Stewart Jones (R – Laurens) – Lead Sponsor of H4023
Grassroots Missed It!
We were further surprised when we discovered that the lead sponsor of this bill was no other than Rep. STEWART JONES of the SC House Freedom Caucus … and now a candidate for US Congress to replace the retiring U.S. Rep. Jeff Duncan (HERE).
Why would a member of the SC Freedom Caucus sponsor a leftist bill? Then we noticed a whole lot of the SC Freedom Caucus members sponsored the bill.
Strange right???
Not really. There is A LOT of money in education … and it is good to have the leftist (which you just gave a 62.5% raise to) on your side when you are running for higher office … like Congress.
THE GRASSROOTS MISSED IT!: Where was the “CALL TO ACTION” from the SC Freedom Caucus to help get this bill passed? There was none because if we had been asked to call in support of this bill, someone would have read the bill … and asked the question … WHY???
This needs to be fixed … by the SC Freedom Caucus.
Who is FIXING This Mess?
We have reached out to the SC FREEDOM CAUCUS several times to ask about this mess … with no response. We have searched the newly filed bills since passage … and there is nothing that we can find that will fix this mess.
So we are asking publicly … what is the status??? Who is going to fix the obvious errors of H4023 as championed by the SC Freedom Caucus???
WHO???
It is a REAL PROBLEM!
Send us your opinion on this great debate … and how you would like to see it solved … by hitting REPLY or emailing us at team@mySCGOP.com.
HAVE AN OPINION?
Have an opinion? Different or in agreement? About the above or something else? If so, speak up as we want to hear from you! Send your letters to team@mySCGOP.com and we will be happy to share it with our readers. #SaveSouthCarolina!
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Coffee & Politics – August 28th, 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 Edition (August 28, 2026) Highlights
Watch the full episode: Thank you for joining us for another week of Coffee & Politics Greenville. This week’s discussion focused on the aftermath of South Carolina’s recent election, the future of the conservative movement, school choice, immigration, tax policy, and grassroots activism.
Key Topics & Timestamps
0:00 – Opening Prayer & Election Reflections
The program opens with a prayer for South Carolina and a discussion of the week’s election results. Panelists discuss the importance of faith, perseverance, and keeping perspective following victories and disappointments at the ballot box.
7:30 – Senate Race Aftermath & Conservative Unity
Discussion of the Republican Senate primary results, reactions from supporters of various candidates, and the challenges of bringing conservatives together after a hard-fought campaign. The panel examines the political landscape heading into the general election.
9:45 – Why the Senate Seat Matters
The group discusses the national implications of South Carolina’s Senate race and why maintaining a Republican majority remains a top priority.
21:45 – General Election Outlook
Analysis of likely November matchups, Democratic challenger Annie Andrews, and the prospects for Republican success in the general election.
22:45 – School Choice & Education Freedom
An extensive discussion on school choice, education policy, parental rights, and the role of government in education. The panel debates competing approaches to expanding educational opportunities for families.
43:10 – Immigration & Border Security
Conversation on illegal immigration, border enforcement, national security concerns, and the impact of immigration policy on communities across the country.
1:03:00 – Grassroots Education & Candidate Accountability
Discussion of voter education efforts, candidate questionnaires, and the importance of helping voters understand where elected officials stand on key conservative issues.
1:22:00 – Tax Reform & State Budget Issues
The panel reviews proposals affecting South Carolina taxes and government spending, discussing how tax policy impacts families, businesses, and economic growth.
Key Takeaways:
(1) Conservatives must remain engaged and unified following primary elections.
(2) School choice and education reform continue to be major policy priorities.
(3) Immigration and border security remain top concerns for many voters.
(4) Voter education and grassroots involvement are essential to long-term political success.
(5) Tax and spending debates will continue to shape South Carolina politics in the coming year.
Quote of the Week
“If we’re supposed to have faith, then it works out the way it’s supposed to be.”
Watch the full episode, share it with friends, and join us next week for another edition of Coffee & Politics Greenville.
Enjoy … and get ready for #ReOrg2027!!!
HAPPY 250th America!!!
Countdowns (as of 08/29/2026):
Tuesday, November 3, 2026 – 66 days (Election Day)
Monday, March 1, 2027 – 184 days (ReOrg 2027)
Saturday, Feb. 26, 2028 – 546 days (est. ’28 Republican PPP)
Tuesday, June 13, 2028 – 654 days (’28 PRIMARIES)
WHEN: Every Friday from 11am – 1pm
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No, we don’t encourage “betting” … but we do encourage following the BETTING ODDS (aka “Predication Markets”). Polls can be easily manipulated … and these prediction markets can be as well … but when people have to put their money where their mouth is, it is a lot harder to fake.
We love studying these elections … the data, the momentum, the candidate’s personal pros/cons, the donors and the dark money really controlling candidates … the CONSULTANTS … it’s all fascinating.
As we teach, NOTHING is what it seems in politics.
Betting Odds as of August 25th, 2026 at 7:05am:
Darline Graham: 66%
Ralph Norman: 35%
Kalshi: HERE
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SUSTAINING & INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS:
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Coffee & Politics – August 21st, 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 Edition (August 21, 2026) Highlights
Watch the full episode: Thank you for joining us for another edition of Coffee & Politics Greenville. This week’s program featured special guest Dr. Paul Brintley of the North Carolina Faith & Freedom Coalition, along with discussions on voter engagement, South Carolina politics, school choice, emerging technology, public safety, and the pro-life movement..
Key Topics & Timestamps
1:30 – Faith, Freedom & Civic Engagement
Dr. Paul Brintley discusses the mission of the NC Faith & Freedom Coalition (HERE), the importance of voter education, and efforts to encourage greater participation by people of faith in the political process.
13:00 – School Choice & Education Reform
A discussion on education policy, parental rights, school choice initiatives, and the future of educational freedom in South Carolina and across the nation.
13:45 – Election Integrity & Voter Participation
The panel examines voter engagement, election issues, and the role grassroots organizations can play in informing voters before Election Day.
26:45 – South Carolina Senate Race Analysis
A review of the U.S. Senate race, including discussion of candidates, campaign strategy, polling, and the political landscape heading into the next phase of the contest.
28:00 – Lindsey Graham, Conservatism & Republican Politics
Conversation on the future direction of the Republican Party, grassroots activism, and the challenges facing conservative voters and elected officials.
1:15:00 – National Security, Immigration & Public Policy
The panel discusses border security, international developments, and how federal policies impact communities here in South Carolina.
1:28:00 – Artificial Intelligence, Surveillance & Privacy
An eye-opening discussion about AI-powered technology, automated license plate readers, privacy concerns, and how rapidly advancing technology is changing law enforcement and daily life.
1:49:00 – Pro-Life Issues & Legislative Strategy
Updates from the pro-life movement, including educational initiatives, legislative priorities, and strategies for advancing life-related policies in South Carolina.
Featured Guest
Dr. Paul Brintley
North Carolina Faith & Freedom Coalition
Dr. Brintley shared insights on:
2026 Salt & Light Conference (HERE)
Mobilizing faith-based voters
Building grassroots organizations
Biblical worldview and public policy
Expanding Faith & Freedom Coalition efforts in South Carolina
Quote of the Week:
“Our goal is to get Christians out of the pew and to the polls through voter education.” – Dr. Paul Brintley
Watch the full episode and share it with friends, family, and fellow conservatives. Your support helps grow the conversation and strengthen grassroots engagement throughout South Carolina.
Enjoy … and get ready for #ReOrg2027!!!
HAPPY 250th America!!!
Countdowns (as of 08/22/2026):
Tuesday, August 25, 2026 – 3 days (US Senate Primary Run-Off)
Tuesday, November 3, 2026 – 73 days (Election Day)
Monday, March 1, 2027 – 191 days (ReOrg 2027)
Saturday, Feb. 26, 2028 – 553 days (est. ’28 Republican PPP)
Tuesday, June 13, 2028 – 661 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
mySCGOP.shop
ONLINE SHOPPING: mySCGOP.shop
SUSTAINING & INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS:
Make a Charitable Donation TODAY: HERE
Coffee & Politics – August 14th, 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 Edition (August 14, 2026) Highlights
Watch the full episode: 2 hours of discussion on South Carolina politics, grassroots activism, election analysis, education freedom, and a moving conversation with a Gold Star family.
Key Topics & Timestamps
2:00 – Gold Star Family of Richard Halladay
Rob and Pat Halladay introduce themselves and share the story of their son, Richard Halladay, a soldier they believe was murdered at Fort Hood after whistleblowing. They discuss their six-year pursuit of justice and emphasize the importance of faith, persistence, and never giving up.
14:30 – South Carolina Senate Runoff Analysis
Discussion of the recent U.S. Senate primary results, campaign tactics, endorsements, and the upcoming runoff. The panel examines the political dynamics surrounding Ralph Norman, Mark Lynch, and the broader conservative movement in South Carolina.
32:30 – Pursuing Justice in America
A deeper conversation with the Halladay family about government accountability, the challenges of obtaining justice, and why citizen involvement remains critical.
50:30 – President Trump’s Letter to the Halladay Family
An emotional segment featuring a letter from President Donald Trump recognizing Richard Halladay’s service and sacrifice. The discussion turns to Trump’s personal interactions with families and supporters and his reputation for engaging directly with everyday Americans.
1:01:00 – School Choice and the Future of Education
Discussion of federal and state school choice efforts, free-market education reforms, and concerns about government-controlled education programs. The panel examines recent legislative developments and what they mean for families seeking educational freedom.
1:06:00 – Border Security, Cartels, and Trafficking
Conversation on cartel operations, trafficking networks, energy theft, and the financial power behind organized criminal enterprises. The discussion explores how these issues impact national security and public policy.
1:31:00 – Young Americans for Liberty
A representative from Young Americans for Liberty discusses grassroots organizing efforts across South Carolina, student activism at Clemson and other campuses, and strategies for influencing elected officials through citizen engagement and accountability.
Quote of the Week
“Never surrender. Winners never quit and quitters never win.”
Thank you for joining us each week for Coffee & Politics. Be sure to like, share, and subscribe, and invite a friend to join us next Friday morning.
Enjoy … and get ready for #ReOrg2027!!!
HAPPY 250th America!!!
Countdowns (as of 08/15/2026):
Tuesday, August 25, 2026 – 10 days (US Senate Primary Run-Off)
Tuesday, November 3, 2026 – 80 days (Election Day)
Monday, March 1, 2027 – 198 days (ReOrg 2027)
Saturday, Feb. 26, 2028 – 560 days (est. ’28 Republican PPP)
Tuesday, June 13, 2028 – 668 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
mySCGOP.shop
ONLINE SHOPPING: mySCGOP.shop
SUSTAINING & INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS:
Make a Charitable Donation TODAY: HERE
No, we don’t encourage “betting” … but we do encourage following the BETTING ODDS (aka “Predication Markets”). Polls can be easily manipulated … and these prediction markets can be as well (IS THAT WHY RUSSELL FRY DROPPED 10 POINTS LAST NIGHT?) … but when people have to put their money where their mouth is, it is a lot harder to fake.
We love studying these elections … the data, the momentum, the candidate’s personal pros/cons, the donors and the dark money really controlling candidates … the CONSULTANTS … it’s all fascinating.
As we teach, NOTHING is what it seems in politics.
Betting Odds as of August 11th, 2026 at 7:41am:
Darline Graham: 42%
Ralph Norman: 26%
Russell Fry: 21% (down 10 overnight – Why? Manipulation by __?)
Mark Sanford: 4%
Mark Lynch: <1%
Kalshi: HERE
mySCGOP.shop
ONLINE SHOPPING: mySCGOP.shop
SUSTAINING & INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS:
Make a Charitable Donation TODAY: HERE
Coffee & Politics – August 7th, 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 UPDATE: The TEAM was on assignment this Friday with EXIT POLLING going on for the US Senate Special GOP Primary … and others at a MEDIA CONFERENCE … so 1st Vice Chair Emerson Cooke was filling in, Chief of Staff Olga Lisinska was remote, and our TECH TEAM was doing what they do leading the way.
Enjoy … and get ready for #ReOrg2027!!!
HAPPY 250th America!!!
Countdowns (as of 08/08/2026):
Tuesday, August 11, 2026 – 3 days (US Senate Primary)
Tuesday, November 3, 2026 – 87 days (Election Day)
Monday, March 1, 2027 – 205 days (ReOrg 2027)
Saturday, Feb. 26, 2028 – 567 days (est. ’28 Republican PPP)
Tuesday, June 13, 2028 – 675 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
mySCGOP.shop
ONLINE SHOPPING: mySCGOP.shop
SUSTAINING & INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS:
Make a Charitable Donation TODAY: HERE
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