Residents in Columbia, S.C. React to Political Mailers Spark Controversy
In the heart of Columbia, South Carolina, tension is brewing among the school district community. Earlier this week, residents within the Lexington Richland Five School District received an unexpected surprise in their mailboxes—a political flyer featuring several candidates alongside a rather provocative headline: “It’s time to put parents back in the driver’s seat.”
However, it’s what was on the flip side of the flyer that has people talking. A prominent focus was a photograph of Mary Wood, a local teacher who found herself in hot water last year due to her teaching methods. This flyer has stirred quite a bit of controversy, showcasing not only Wood but also current board member Catherine Huddle and two candidates, Ken Loveless and Jason Baynham.
The Drama Unfolds
This mailer was financed by a political action committee (PAC) called Defeating Communism, which is based out of Ohio. Records from the Federal Election Commission show that Baynham contributed a hefty $1,000 to the PAC, while Loveless’s wife donated a staggering $14,000. Interestingly, there was no evidence that Huddle made any contributions to the PAC.
Baynham commented on the situation, saying he had “contributed to an organization” meant to support his campaign, but had no idea how the funds would be utilized. “I do not condone attacks, printed or verbal against anyone. I have run a positive campaign since the beginning of the year,” he stated, indicating surprise at the flyer’s content.
Mary Wood in the Spotlight
Mary Wood’s involvement in this mailer is particularly alarming for her and her family. She became controversial last year after attempting to use a book to teach a lesson about race, which school officials blocked due to concerns over critical race theory discussions. Wood’s situation had seemingly quieted down until this flyer reintroduced her into a contentious spotlight.
“By doing this mailer, it puts a lot of people potentially in harm’s ways,” expressed Sherry East, president of the South Carolina Education Association, who represents Wood. The teacher raised concerns about her personal safety after receiving threats, claiming, “That all kind of died that year, and now you’re the face of communism in South Carolina?”
Security and Responsibility
Even though the school district has stated there have been no documented threats against Wood, they are taking precautions by collaborating with the district’s security team and the School Resource Officer from Chapin High School to ensure the safety of staff and students.
As the political climate heats up, candidates are scrambling to clarify their positions. Huddle and Baynham released statements addressing the mailer, both condemning the negativity and reaffirming their commitment to focus on the issues that matter to the community. Huddle stated, “There is a mailer going out in the community. It was sent by a 3rd party PAC… I find it curious the media thinks this is a story when conservative candidates are involved.”
Responses from Candidates
Loveless, who has not provided much personal comment to media inquiries, did post a statement on Facebook indicating he also had no control over the PAC’s actions. “As they are a Political Action Committee, I have no say in the mail that has been received… I have never issued a single attack during this campaign, and I focus on the issues,” he stated, emphasizing the need to continue discussions about improving teacher compensation and support.
A Community on Edge
With only a week left until the election, the community in Columbia is taking note of the unfolding drama. It’s a complicated picture involving parental rights, educator challenges, and the broader implications of political campaigning in schools. As discussions continue and candidates work hard to regain focus, many residents are left wondering how this turmoil will affect not just the elections, but the educational environment within the district.
In these last days leading up to the election, community members are encouraged to remain informed and engaged, as their voices will be critical in shaping the future of their schools.
