Education
Bob Jones University Purge … & Ellen Weaver?
If we had predicted six months ago that the BJU Chairman of the Board, President & Chief of Staff would all be gone today … you would have said we were crazy.
If we had predicted six months ago that the Bob Jones University (BJU) Chairman of the Board (John Lewis), President (Steve Pettit) & Chief of Staff (Randy Page) would all be gone today … you would have said we were crazy.
Well guess what … they are all gone today … but is the reckoning over?
Story Background:
We all recall the great debate about Ellen Weaver’s “master’s degree”. It all started with an obscure requirement passed into law and approved by voters in 2018 that requires the SC Superintendent of Education to possess a master’s degree.
“Per the South Carolina State House, a superintendent of education must hold a master’s degree and have experience in public education. In turn, Weaver enrolled in Bob Jones University (BJU) and is said to have completed 33 hours of coursework in six months’ time.” – WIS News (10/17/2022) [Continue Reading]
Filing for the statewide SC Superintendent of Education office was in March 2022. Weaver was the hands down leading candidate with the most (special interest) money backing her … as well as virtually the entire Republican “establishment” and SCGOP leadership, namely SCGOP Chairman Drew McKissick, which raised questions as to his personal and the SCGOP’s impartiality in the race.
However in April of 2022, it was discovered that several candidates did not have the necessary educational requirements … Ellen Weaver being chief among them. It was then disclosed that Chairman McKissick had certified Weaver as a candidate even though she was not qualified to hold the office at the time.
After discover Weaver did not qualify, Weaver first enrolled in an online master’s degree program at Western Governor’s University. That apparently was not going to work out in time … or the WGU administration was not willing to risk their school’s accreditation for Weaver’s timeline … so she quickly enrolled in a master’s degree program at her alma mater, the very politically active Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC.
The only problem … the degree was (and still is) advertised as a 2-year program. Weaver did not have two years, so “special” treatment was needed, and somehow she obtained the 33 credit hour degree in less than six months.
All along the way there were calls of outrage, but Weaver and the establishment party leaders were not budging. They needed Weaver to win and nothing, including risking the accreditation of BJU, the potential for Weaver being disqualified and a Democrat being installed to that office, nor the risk of BJU leadership losing their jobs was going to stop them.
Ultimately on November 8th, 2022, Weaver defeated her Democrat opponent Lisa Ellis, 55% to 43% in the statewide election.
Post Election Timeline:
However, the election win is not the end of the story.
In December 2022 it was reported that the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) had asked BJU to submit a monitoring report after they received complaints about new state superintendent Ellen Weaver’s six-month master’s degree. (The Greenville News – December 12, 2022)
“Both letters, sent [to] the State and Federal Attorney General’s Office, cite a conspiracy to commit fraud [by] Ellen Weaver, Bob Jones University and the State’s Republican Party.” – WIS News (01/14/2023) [CONTINUE READING]
On January 11th, 2023, the SC Democratic Party Chairman Trav Roberston, Jr. sent letters to US Attorney General Merrick Garland and South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson asking them to investigate the circumstances surrounding the candidate certification of Ellen Weaver. The letters accused Ellen Weaver, the SCGOP, Bob Jones University & the SACSCOC of conspiracy to commit fraud and circumvent SC Election Law. It is a pretty powerful statement. (HERE.)
“… these organizations conspired to commit fraud and circumvent South Carolina law.” 1/11/2023 Letter to US Attorney General Merrick Garland
On January 19th, BJU President Steve Pettit signed a 3-year extension on his contract. It appeared to most that there were going to be no ramifications for the Ellen Weaver “master’s degree” debacle. (The Post & Courier Greenville – January 19, 2023)
Despite the 3-year contract extension, on March 30th Pettit submitted a letter to the BJU Board of Trustees citing grievances with the leadership of then-board Chairman John Lewis. In the letter, Pettit said he would resign if Lewis remained chair. (The Post & Courier Greenville – April 21, 2023)
On April 6th, Lewis resigned, leaving an open question of whether that move changed Pettit’s status. The resignation (strangely enough) did not change the embattled President’s status, raising questions as to whether the professed grievances were the real reason for both resignations. Pettit left the school effective May 5th.
Later in April, BJU Chief of Staff and SCGOP “Republican” political operative Randy Page left the University for a position as the state director of the pro-Ron DeSantis Never Back Down PAC. (The Post & Courier – April 25, 2023)
Ask yourself, who leaves a job as a university Chief of Staff for a temporary and often revolving door PAC position. … even as a state director? The SC Republican Presidential Preference Primary will be held on February 24, 2024 … so what will Randy do after this job is over? This move raised further questions as to the real reason for Page’s resignation given he is widely believed to be the mastermind behind the Weaver BJU “master’s degree” arrangement.
“Page … told the Greenville News that one could apply for a fast-track course in consultation with the faculty program coordinator.”
“Page … University President Steve Pettit and professors in leadership positions donated to Weaver’s campaign.”
The Greenville News (12/12/2022) [CONTINUE READING]
Connecting the Dots:
Although the mainstream media is not reporting it yet … the rumor mill in Greenville is that the BJU departures are more related to the Ellen Weaver’s BJU “master’s degree” issue than any personnel differences or temporary political opportunities.
Time will tell … but if you were BJU leadership would you want to announce publicly that these leadership departures were part of a potential crime or an agreed to punishment for the political favoritism shown Weaver? We wouldn’t.
Stay tuned for more developments …
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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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 08/15/2026):
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)
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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
Coffee & Politics – July 31st, 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: Today we had some hard discussions. Do you / want to WIN? Or do you just want to COMPLAIN? It is a serious question as one thing we have observed over the years is that grassroots conservatives often ONLY WANT TO COMPLAIN!!! Why? Because WINNING is hard work. WINNING takes dicipline. Winning is all about ACTION, ACTION, ACTION … and WINNERS never quit (while quitters never win). Folks, this us America’s 250th. Our founding fathers riskeds and often sacraficed it all – lives, fortunes and sacred honor!!! Sure, they complained, they fought with each other, they were scared, tired, and beat down … but they never quit. They ORGANIZED, ORGANIZED, ORGANIZED … and they WON. The American Revolutionary War lasted for 8 years, 4 months, and 15 days. It began on April 19, 1775, and ended on September 3, 1783. Rome was not created in a day, and some have been fighting this fight for more than 8 years, 4 months, and 15 days … but WE DON’T QUIT.
Sometimes “tough love” among family and friends is necessary to make us stronger. Now lets get on and win this thing NOW. #ReOrg2027!!!
And congrats on the WEDDING announcement. We love you too!!!
HAPPY 250th America!!!
Countdowns (as of 08/01/2026):
Tuesday, August 11, 2026 – 10 days (US Senate Primary)
Tuesday, November 3, 2026 – 94 days (Election Day)
Monday, March 1, 2027 – 212 days (ReOrg 2027)
Saturday, Feb. 26, 2028 – 574 days (est. ’28 Republican PPP)
Tuesday, June 13, 2028 – 682 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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