McMaster Celebrates Collaborative Budget Success in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster held a news conference Wednesday to discuss his vetoes in the state budget, but it turned into a celebration of collaboration between the Republican governor and the Republican-dominated General Assembly. McMaster highlighted the legislature’s retention of his priorities in the $14.5 billion spending plan for the 2025-26 fiscal year, rather than focusing on his 11 vetoes worth $10,000.

This event underscored McMaster’s distinct approach compared to his predecessors, who often clashed with the General Assembly over budget decisions. McMaster emphasized his philosophy of “communication, collaboration, and cooperation.”

McMaster’s vetoes included removing a reservation requirement for Pine Island State Park and prohibiting school districts from using private companies for security. Unlike previous governors, who issued numerous vetoes, McMaster’s approach has been more measured. For instance, Gov. Nikki Haley vetoed 87 items totaling over $18 million in 2015, and Gov. Mark Sanford vetoed 163 items worth $96 million in 2005.

The budget includes an effective $18,000 annual raise for General Assembly members, increasing their “in-district compensation” from $1,000 to $2,500 monthly. This stipend, which has not been raised in 30 years, will now total $30,000 annually. The budget also features pay raises for teachers, a reduction in the state’s highest income tax rate from 6.2% to 6%, $200 million for bridge repairs, $35 million for Hurricane Helene cleanup, and $50 million for a private school tuition program facing court scrutiny.

Approximately 80% of the budget aligns with McMaster’s January proposal, reflecting his cultivated relationship with lawmakers since 2017. McMaster described the dynamic as familial, emphasizing mutual understanding and respect for differing viewpoints.