Columbia’s House of Representatives Engages in Seating Selection Tradition with a Touch of Fun

Columbia Welcomes New Beginnings with Seat Selection Frenzy

On December 3rd, Columbia’s South Carolina House of Representatives witnessed a delightful blend of excitement and strategy as House lawmakers gathered for an annual tradition of seating arrangements. If you ever wanted to see a group of elected officials behaving like kids trying to pick their favorite spots in a classroom, this was the day to watch! But the fun had a surprising twist: the real star of the show was ten-year-old Kaleb Carter, the son of a House staffer.

A Role to Remember

Kaleb held the influential role of choosing county names from a basket, which ultimately determined where the lawmakers would sit for the next two years. His picks were crucial, as they gave selecting lawmakers the chance to choose seating next to friends, colleagues, or even allies from their delegations. Who would have thought that a child could wield such power in the state Legislature?

Mixing It Up

Unlike Congress, where Democrats sit on the left and Republicans on the right, the atmosphere in the South Carolina House is far more like a game of musical chairs. Members were shuffled based on when their county names were called. This biennial reorganization is part of a unique tradition that gives members a chance to mix up seating. No county delegation is required to sit together, allowing for some interesting combinations and interactions.

Strategy and Selection

As the members took to their seats, the tension in the air was palpable. Veterans often gravitated towards the back left side of the chamber, snagging prime spots near exits, restrooms, and the infamous “cookie room,” also known as the legislative law library. Meanwhile, newcomers huddled with each other, trying to figure out the best spots as they shouted out their chosen desk numbers to the Speaker. It was a joyous cacophony of camaraderie and strategy unfolding in real-time!

Pleasant Surprises and Harris Decisions

The seating selection process also came with its set of surprises. As owners of varying preferences called out their county names, it was fascinating to observe how friendships formed across party lines. State Rep. Justin Bamberg, a Democrat from Bamberg County, and State Rep. Neal Collins, a Republican from Pickens County, have sat together for years. They first became friends during their orientation and have navigated their political differences to come together in pursuit of common ground.

But the stakes were high; if their counties were chosen late in the selection process, they might find their seats going to another member, putting their years of good-natured strategic camaraderie in jeopardy. Not to mention the ever-present rule that only one member from a county delegation could sit in the center aisle!

Senate Influences and Adjustments

The fun didn’t stop in the House. Fast forward to December 4th, and the Senate took their turn at selecting desks for their four-year term. Unlike the House, senators selected their desk order based primarily on seniority. However, just as in the House, surprises awaited. State Sen. Margie Bright Matthews opted to break tradition by choosing a seat traditionally reserved for Republicans, nudging GOP members to adjust their planned seat assignments.

The Experience of Seated Politics

Seating arrangements in the Senate also offered a peek into camaraderie, with many veterans willing to lend a helping hand to newcomers. Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey expressed his commitment to ensuring communication among members. This friendly wave of interaction helps bridge gaps between different perspectives, encouraging conversations that extend beyond politics.

In Conclusion

In a nutshell, the biennial reorganization of Columbia’s South Carolina House of Representatives was not just about picking seats; it was about building relationships and fostering a community among lawmakers. As the representatives settle into their spaces for the next two years, the memories crafted during this lighthearted event will surely echo through their legislative efforts. Thanks to Kaleb Carter and the lawmakers, we got a charming peek into the human side of politics, reminding us that underneath the suits and titles, it’s all about connecting, communicating, and collaborating!