¶ Tim Scott: Corporate Ally
Sen. Scott was the “key” Republican sponsor of the Opportunity Zone tax break included in Trump’s 2017 tax overhaul, working closely with Trump’s family to advance the policy. This tax break was widely criticized for giving “massive tax benefits to wealthy investors” while failing to help struggling communities. Sen. Scott would go on to take hundreds of thousands of dollars from wealthy donors who stood to benefit from the Opportunity Zone break, including multiple NFL franchise owners and the chairman of the New Balance shoe company.
Sen. Scott has also taken tens of thousands of dollars from Boeing after pushing a major tax break for the company while Charleston County Council chairman and later introducing legislation to protect the company from labor regulators while in Congress. Scott, a real estate investor with a 50% interest in a residential real estate company in South Carolina, has received over $90,000 from major residential real estate industry PACs.
¶ Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC), The “Key GOP Sponsor” Of The Opportunity Zone Tax Break, Discussed The Program With Ivanka Trump “Nearly A Dozen Times” Weeks Before Then-President Donald Trump “Promised His Support” For The Program—Ivanka’s Role Possibly Created “A Direct Conflict Of Interest” With Her Husband Jared Kushner’s $25-To-$50 Million Stake In Cadre, A Real-Estate Firm He Co-Founded.
¶ Jared Kushner And His Wife Ivanka Trump, Who Held Substantial Stakes In Real Estate Investments, “Pushed” To Include Opportunity Zone Tax Breaks In Donald Trump’s 2017 “Tax Overhaul.”
Jared Kushner And His Wife Ivanka Trump “Pushed For The Opportunity Zone Tax Breaks To Be Included In Trump’s 2017 Tax Overhaul.” “Kushner and his wife, Ivanka Trump, pushed for the Opportunity Zone tax breaks to be included in Trump’s 2017 tax overhaul.” [Associated Press, 03/03/20]
“Ivanka Trump Played An Important Role In Promoting The Legislation” And Jared Kushner “Was Also Quietly Supportive Behind The Scenes.” “Political sponsors and lobbyists told the AP that Ivanka Trump played an important role in promoting the legislation, while Kushner was also quietly supportive behind the scenes.” [Associated Press, 12/12/18]
¶ Ivanka Trump Was Discussing The Opportunity Zone Program With Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) “Weeks” Before Donald Trump “Promised Scott His Support” For The Initiative—She Spoke With Sen. Scott “Nearly A Dozen Times” With The Senator Also Speaking To Jared Kushner About The Program.
Ivanka Trump Had Conversations About Opportunity Zones With Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC), A “Key GOP Sponsor” For The Program, “Weeks” Before Donald Trump “Promised Scott His Support For Opportunity Zones.” “A significant moment came when the law’s key GOP sponsor, South Carolina U.S. Sen. Tim Scott, met President Trump after the violence-plagued white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, in August of 2017. Trump promised Scott his support for Opportunity Zones as a way to show his administration’s outreach to minority communities. But Scott had already found a supporter weeks earlier in Trump’s daughter, in conversations that grew out of previous meetings about passing a child care tax credit.” [Associated Press, 12/12/18]
Ivanka Trump And Sen. Scott “Talked By Phone And In Person Nearly A Dozen Times” After Their First Conversation. “‘Ivanka was on board with it,’ said Sean Smith, Scott’s communications director. After their first conversation, Smith said Scott and Ivanka Trump talked by phone and in person nearly a dozen times.” [Associated Press, 12/12/18]
Sen. Scott “Also Spoke To [Jared] Kushner About The Program.” “He added that Scott also spoke to Kushner about the program, but noted, ‘It was much more Ivanka than Jared.’” [Associated Press, 12/12/18]
¶ One Ethics Expert Said Ivanka Trump’s Efforts To Push The Opportunity Zone Tax Break Created A “‘A Direct Conflict Of Interest’” With Jared Kushner’s Investment In Cadre, Valued At Between $25 Million And $50 Million As Of Late 2018.
An Ethics Expert Described Ivanka Trump’s Advocacy For The Opportunity Zone Program As A “‘Direct Conflict Of Interest With Her Spouse’s Investment In Cadre.’” “Ivanka Trump’s advocacy for the Opportunity Zone program ‘creates a direct conflict of interest with her spouse’s investment in Cadre,’ said Virginia Canter, chief ethics counsel for the nonprofit Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington. ‘Jared Kushner’s interests are Ivanka Trump’s interests and vice versa.’” [Associated Press, 12/12/18]
“Much” Of Jared Kushner’s And Ivanka Trump’s $200 To $800 Million “Financial Empire” Was In Real Estate Investments—Including Jared Kushner’s “Stake Of Between $25 Million And $50 Million In A Holding Company With An Ownership Stake In Cadre.” “The couple’s financial disclosures show their jointly held financial empire is worth between $200 million and $800 million, with much of it in real estate, including Kushner’s stake of between $25 million and $50 million in a holding company with an ownership stake in Cadre.” [Associated Press, 12/12/18]
- Cadre Is A “Real Estate Investment Firm.” [Associated Press, 12/12/18]
Jared Kushner “Co-Founded Cadre With His Brother,” Joshua Kushner, And Current CEO Ryan Williams. “Kushner co-founded Cadre with his brother, Joshua, and current CEO, Ryan Williams.” [Associated Press, 03/03/20]
Jared Kushner “Previously Had Cadre-Related Management Positions.” “Kushner previously had Cadre-related management positions, but he terminated those roles when he joined the Trump administration, holding onto his passive stake.” [Associated Press, 12/12/18]
¶ Other Government Watchdogs Said The Kushners’ Potential Conflicts Of Interests In Opportunity Zones “Underscores The Ethical Minefield They Created” When They Became Some Of Donald Trump’s “Closest Advisors.”
“Government Watchdogs” Raised Concerns That Jared Kushner’s And Ivanka Trump’s Potential Conflicts Of Interests In Opportunity Zones “Underscores The Ethical Minefield They Created [...] When They Became Two Of The Closest Advisors” To Donald Trump. “The Opportunity Zone program promoted by Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner — both senior White House advisers — could also benefit them financially, an Associated Press investigation found. Government watchdogs say the case underscores the ethical minefield they created two years ago when they became two of the closest advisers to the president without divesting from their extensive real estate investments.” [Associated Press, 12/12/18]
¶ While Sen. Tim Scott’s Opportunity Zones Initiative Meant To “Spur Economic Growth And Job Creation In Low-Income Communities” They Were Criticized Providing “Massive Tax Benefits To Wealthy Investors” While Failing To Deliver Investments To The Communities They Are Meant To Help.
¶ Tim Scott’s Opportunity Agenda Included His “Opportunity Zones” Initiative, Which Was Meant To “Spur Economic Growth And Job Creation In Low-Income Communities While Providing Tax Benefits To Investors” And Was Successfully Enacted Through The Tax Cuts And Jobs Act.
Tim Scott, A Self-Described “Unbridled Optimist,” Launched His Opportunity Agenda, A Legislative Agenda Aimed At “Creating More Opportunities For Families Living Paycheck-To-Paycheck And Helping Children Who Are Mired In Poverty.” “An unbridled optimist, Tim believes that despite our current challenges, our nation’s brightest days are ahead of us. During his time in office, he has been a tireless advocate for creating more opportunities for families living paycheck-to-paycheck and helping children who are mired in poverty have access to quality education. He launched his Opportunity Agenda, a legislative package aimed at achieving these goals, as well as the Senate Opportunity Coalition, a group of Senators committed to helping those in need.” [Office of Senator Tim Scott, accessed 11/17/22]
As A Senator, Tim Scott Successfully Enacted His “Opportunity Zones” Initiative Through The Tax Cuts And Jobs Act. “Opportunity Zones, a bipartisan initiative authored by Senator Tim Scott and enacted through the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, empowered the governors of each state to designate economically-distressed communities that were ripe for investment and tie them to a brand new federal tax incentive to drive private investment into our nation’s most distressed zip codes.” [Office of Senator Tim Scott, accessed 11/17/22]
Opportunity Zones Are Meant To “Spur Economic Growth And Job Creation In Low-Income Communities While Providing Tax Benefits To Investors” That “Invest In Distressed Areas In The United States.” “Opportunity Zones are an economic development tool that allows people to invest in distressed areas in the United States. Their purpose is to spur economic growth and job creation in low-income communities while providing tax benefits to investors. Opportunity Zones were created under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (Public Law No. 115-97). Thousands of low-income communities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories are designated as Qualified Opportunity Zones.” [Internal Revenue Service, accessed 11/22/22]
¶ Opportunity Zones Allow For A Number Of Tax Avoidance Strategies For Those Invested In An Associated Opportunity Fund, Including The Elimination Of Capital Gains Taxes For An Investment Held For At Least 10 Years.
Opportunity Zone Investors Are Allowed To Place “Assets With Accumulated Capital Gains Into Opportunity Funds,” Allowing These Investments To Avoid Capital Gains Until “The End Of 2026 Or When The Asset Is Disposed Of.” “The program provides three tax benefits for investing unrealized capital gains in Opportunity Zones: [...] Temporary deferral of taxes on previously earned capital gains. Investors can place existing assets with accumulated capital gains into Opportunity Funds. Those existing capital gains are not taxed until the end of 2026 or when the asset is disposed of.” [The Tax Policy Center, accessed 11/22/22]
Opportunity Zones Also Allow For A Basis Step-Up In “Capital Gains Placed In Opportunity Funds For At Least 5 Years,” Potentially Decreasing Owed Capital Gains By 15 Percent. “The program provides three tax benefits for investing unrealized capital gains in Opportunity Zones: [...] Basis step-up of previously earned capital gains invested. For capital gains placed in Opportunity Funds for at least 5 years, investors’ basis on the original investment increases by 10 percent. If invested for at least 7 years, investors’ basis on the original investment increases by 15 percent.” [The Tax Policy Center, accessed 11/22/22]
- Step-Up Basis Reduces Capital Gains Owed By Adjusting The “Fair Market Value, Or The Price At Which The Good Would Be Sold Or Purchased In A Fair Market,” Allowing For The Elimination Of The Capital Gain During The Time Invested In An Opportunity Fund. “The step-up in basis provision adjusts the value, or ‘cost basis,’ of an inherited asset (stocks, bonds, real estate, etc.) when it is passed on, after death. This often reduces the capital gains tax owed by the recipient. The cost basis receives a “step-up” to its fair market value, or the price at which the good would be sold or purchased in a fair market. This eliminates the capital gain that occurred between the original purchase of the asset and the heir’s acquisition, reducing the heir’s tax liability.” [Tax Foundation, accessed 11/22/22]
Lastly, If An Investment In An Opportunity Fund, “The Investment Vehicle That Invests In Opportunity Zones,” Is Held For At Least 10 Years There Will Be No Taxes On Capital Gains Produced Through The Investment. “The program provides three tax benefits for investing unrealized capital gains in Opportunity Zones: [...] Permanent exclusion of taxable income on new gains. For investments held for at least 10 years, investors pay no taxes on any capital gains produced through their investment in Opportunity Funds (the investment vehicle that invests in Opportunity Zones).” [The Tax Policy Center, accessed 11/22/22]
¶ Opportunity Zones Have Been Criticized For “Provid[ing] Massive Tax Benefits To Wealthy Investors,” While Failing To Deliver Investments To The Communities They Are Meant To Help.
Berkeley Economists Patrick Kennedy And Harrison Wheeler Have Released Research Criticizing Opportunity Zones As “Provid[ing] Massive Tax Benefits To Wealthy Investors” While Failing To Subsidize Investments In Communities They Were Intended To Help. “Important new research by economists Patrick Kennedy and Harrison Wheeler adds to a growing volume of evidence that opportunity zone tax breaks, created as part of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), are costly and poorly targeted and do little to create jobs or improve conditions in poor communities. Instead, opportunity zones provide massive tax benefits to wealthy investors while subsidizing investment in few communities with relatively higher incomes, home values, and educational attainment as well as stronger income and population growth.” [Center For American Progress, 06/16/22]
Opportunity Zones Were Originally Expected To Cost $1.6 Billion A Year But “Subsequent Estimates Suggest The Cost Could Nearly Double.” “Opportunity zones are the nation’s largest placed-based policy intervention since the early 1990s. When originally enacted, the opportunity zone provisions were expected to cost $1.6 billion per year; however subsequent estimates suggest the cost could nearly double.” [Center For American Progress, 06/16/22]
Approximately Half Of The 74,000 Census Tracts In The United States Are Eligible To Be Named Opportunity Zones, While Governors Are Further Allowed To “Nominate Up To 25 Percent Of The Census Tracts Within Their State For Designation By The Treasury Department.” “Under the program, more than half of the approximately 74,000 census tracts in the United States are eligible for opportunity zone designation based on income and poverty criteria, and governors are allowed to nominate up to 25 percent of the census tracts within their state for designation by the Treasury Department.” [Center For American Progress, 06/16/22]
The Large Amount Of Opportunity Zones In The U.S., Combined With The “Ability To Classify Higher-Income Areas Adjacent To Poor Neighborhoods” As Opportunity Zones, Undermined The Program’s Efforts. “While the tax breaks were ostensibly intended to direct capital to neighborhoods most in need, the large number of zones—8,764 census tracts designated in 2018, home to about 10 percent of the U.S. population—along with the ability to classify higher-income areas adjacent to poor neighborhoods ultimately undermined the program’s focus.” [Center For American Progress, 06/16/22]
Lenient Regulations From The Trump Administration “Created Opportunities For Abuse,” Including Investors Being Able To “Claim A Full Tax Break Even If Only 63 Percent Of The Capital In An Opportunity Fund Is Actually Invested In An Opportunity Zone.” “What’s more, regulations issued by the Trump administration broadened the intent of the original law and created opportunities for abuse. As a result of lenient regulations, for example, investors can claim a full tax break even if only 63 percent of the capital in an opportunity fund is actually invested in an opportunity zone. Moreover, the original law includes no requirements that opportunity zone residents actually benefit from investments.” [Center For American Progress, 06/16/22]
Opportunity Zones Incentivize Projects “That Generate High Returns” As Opposed To Those With The “Greatest Social Impact,” As A “Luxury Apartment Building Could Be A More Lucrative Investment Generating Larger Tax Benefits Than Low-Income Housing That Fulfills A Community’s Greater Need.” “Opportunity zones’ singular focus on reducing taxes owed on capital gains structurally favors projects that generate high returns, rather than the greatest social impact. For example, a luxury apartment building could be a more lucrative investment generating larger tax benefits than low-income housing that fulfills a community’s greater need. Similarly, zone investors—who receive the tax breaks—are typically passive investors who use the opportunity fund structure to shelter gains earned both within and outside zones.” [Center For American Progress, 06/16/22]
Despite Opportunity Zones Having “Higher Poverty Rates, Lower Incomes, And Lower Educational Attainment Than The U.S. Population As A Whole,” Zones Receiving Investments Had Relatively Higher Education Levels, Incomes, Home Values, And Population Density Than Those That Did Not Receive Investments. “Opportunity zone residents have higher poverty rates, lower incomes, and lower educational attainment than the U.S. population as a whole. However, the zones that received investment had relatively higher educational attainment, incomes, home values, population density, and concentrations of professional and amenity services and lower percentages of elderly and nonwhite residents compared with the zone areas that did not.” [Center For American Progress, 06/16/22]
¶ Members Of The Haslam Family—Owners Of The Flying Pilot J Chain Of Truck Stops And The Cleveland Browns NFL Team, Located Within An Opportunity Zone—Have Donated Over $116,000 To Senator Scott’s Campaigns And Affiliated PACs.
¶ The Owners Of FirstEnergy Stadium, Home Of The Cleveland Browns, Conducted A 2022 Feasibility Study Focused On A “Significant Stadium Renovation At Our Current Site,” And Its Location In An Opportunity Zone Would Allow The Teams’ Owners To Be “Eligible For Tax Breaks”
FirstEnergy Stadium, Home Of The Cleveland Browns, Is Located Within An Opportunity Zone:
[Marquette Sports Law Review, Fall 2021]
FirstEnergy Stadium Is One Of 15 NFL Stadiums Located In An Opportunity Zone, Allowing The Teams’ Owners To Be “Eligible For Tax Breaks.” “There are 15 NFL stadiums (out of 30 total) that are located in such Opportunity Zone communities, plus an additional 3 stadiums that are located adjacent to opportunity zones. NFL teams and stadium owners who invest in these communities could be eligible for tax breaks.” [OpportunityBD, 02/03/19]
[OpportunityBD, 02/03/19]
In June 2022, Haslam Sports Group’s Senior Vice President Of Communications Stated That The Group Conducted A Recent Feasibility Study Focused On A “Significant Stadium Renovation At Our Current Site.’” “In a statement obtained by the Akron Beacon Journal, Peter John-Baptiste, the senior vice president of communications for Haslam Sports Group, confirmed the Browns are weighing their options for a possible renovation but denied the club is looking into building a new facility. [...] ‘Contrary to recent speculation, a recent feasibility study we launched does not contemplate a new stadium or showcase new stadium sites. A significant stadium renovation at our current site is the premise of the study as well as a focus on how to provide accessibility to the lakefront, drive density and create 365-destination major development opportunities that would include new public parks, retail, office, experiential and residential spaces.’” [Sports Illustrated, 06/20/22]
¶ Sen. Scott Has Received Over $23,300 in Campaign Contributions From James A. Haslam II, Chairman Emeritus And Founder of Pilot Company, And Haslam’s Wife, Natalie Haslam.
James A. Haslam II is The Chairman Emeritus And Founder of Pilot Company. “James A. Haslam II, chairman emeritus and founder of Pilot Company, is a 1952 graduate of the University of Tennessee.” [Pilot Flying J, accessed 12/23/22]
- Pilot Flying J Is “The Largest Network Of Travel Centers In North America.”. “Pilot Flying J is committed to connecting people and places with comfort, care, and a smile at every stop. As the largest network of travel centers in North America, Pilot Flying J has over 750 locations in 44 states and six Canadian provinces. Pilot Flying J is part of Pilot Company’s family of brands. Founded in 1958 by Jim A. Haslam II and currently led by CEO Shameek Konar, Pilot Company is headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee and employs more than 30,000 team members.” [Pilot Flying J, accessed 03/09/23]
Over His Congressional Career, Tim Scott Has Received Over $16,000 In Campaign Contributions From James A. Haslam II:
|
Donor |
Recipient |
Date |
Amount |
| Haslam, James A. II | Tim Scott For Senate |
09/10/2021 |
$54.94 |
| Haslam, James A. II | Tim Scott For Senate |
09/10/2021 |
$714.29 |
| Haslam, James A. II | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/17/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
| Haslam, James A. II | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/17/2021 |
$100.00 |
| Haslam, James A. II | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/10/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
| Haslam, James A. II | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/10/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
| Haslam, James II | Tim Scott For Senate |
03/31/2015 |
$2,500.00 |
| Haslam, James II | Tim Scott For Senate |
03/31/2015 |
$2,500.00 |
| Haslam, James II | Tim Scott For Senate |
03/31/2014 |
$1,500.00 |
|
Total: |
$16,069.23 |
[FEC Search, accessed 01/04/23]
Over His Congressional Career, Tim Scott Has Received $7,300 In Campaign Contributions From Natalie Haslam:
|
Donor |
Recipient |
Date |
Amount |
| Haslam, Natalie | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/10/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
| Haslam, Natalie | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/10/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
| Haslam, Natalie | Tim Scott For Senate |
03/31/2014 |
$1,500.00 |
|
Total: |
$7,300 |
[FEC Search, accessed 01/04/23]
- Natalie Haslam Is Married To James Haslam II. “Haslam is married to Natalie Leach Haslam. They have six adult children, 18 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.” [Pilot Company, accessed 12/23/22]
¶ Tim Scott Has Received $20,400 in Campaign Contributions From Jimmy Haslam, Chairman Of The Pilot Company And Co-Owner Of The Cleveland Browns, Along With His Wife, Susan “Dee” Haslam.
James “Jimmy” Haslam III Is The Chairman Of The Pilot Company, “The 10th Largest Privately Held Company In The United States.” “James A. ‘Jimmy’ Haslam III serves as Pilot Company's chairman of the board. Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee and founded in 1958, Pilot Company is the 10th largest privately held company in the United States.” [Pilot Flying J, accessed 12/23/22]
- Jimmy And His Wife, Susan “Dee” Haslam, Are Majority Owners Of The Cleveland Browns NFL Team. “Jimmy became a part owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2008, marking the first time ownership of the franchise expanded beyond the Rooney and McGinley families. In October 2012, Jimmy sold his interest in the Steelers and acquired primary ownership of the Cleveland Browns. Jimmy is married to Susan ‘Dee’ Bagwell Haslam, Co-Owner of Cleveland Browns, Investor-Operator of Columbus Crew and Partner of RIVR Media. They have three adult children, J.B. Haslam, Whitney Haslam Johnson and Cynthia Arnholt, and six grandchildren.” [Pilot Flying J, accessed 12/23/22]
Over His Congressional Career, Tim Scott Has Received $11,700 In Campaign Contributions From Jimmy Haslam:
|
Donor |
Recipient |
Date |
Amount |
| Haslam, James III | Tim Scott For Senate |
03/25/2021 |
$2,800.00 |
| Haslam, James A III | Tomorrow Is Meaningful Pac |
07/29/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
| Haslam, James III | Tim Scott For Senate |
03/31/2015 |
$2,500.00 |
| Haslam, James III | Tim Scott For Senate |
03/31/2015 |
$2,500.00 |
| Haslam, James III | Tim Scott For Senate |
03/31/2014 |
$1,000.00 |
|
Total: |
$11,700 |
[FEC Search, accessed 01/04/23]
Over His Congressional Career, Tim Scott Has Received $8,700 In Campaign Contributions From Susan “Dee” Haslam:
|
Donor |
Recipient |
Date |
Amount |
| Haslam, Susan | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/17/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
| Haslam, Susan | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/17/2021 |
$100.00 |
| Haslam, Susan B | Tomorrow Is Meaningful PAC |
07/29/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
| Haslam, Susan B | Tim Scott For Senate |
03/25/2021 |
$2,800.00 |
|
Total: |
$8,700 |
[FEC Search, accessed 01/04/23]
¶ Tim Scott Has Received $72,400 From Bill Haslam, Who Previously Served As Governor Of Tennessee And President Of Pilot Flying J, And His Wife, Cristen “Chrissy” Haslam.
William “Bill” Haslam Served As Tennessee Governor From 2011 To 2019 And President Of Pilot Flying J For “Four Years Until 1999.” “Former Tennessee governor Bill Haslam was the president of his family's chain of truck stops, Pilot Flying J, for four years until 1999.” [Forbes, accessed 12/23/22]
- Bill Haslam Was The Governor Of Tennessee From January 2011 To January 2019. [National Governors Association, accessed 12/23/22]
Over His Congressional Career, Tim Scott Has Received $60,800 In Campaign Contributions From William “Bill” Haslam:
|
Donor |
Recipient |
Date |
Amount |
| Haslam, William | Tim Scott For Senate |
06/10/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
| Haslam, William | Tim Scott For Senate |
06/10/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
| Haslam, William E | Opportunity Matters Fund, Inc. |
07/12/2021 |
$50,000.00 |
| Haslam, William Hon | Tim Scott For Senate |
03/31/2015 |
$2,500.00 |
| Haslam, William Hon | Tim Scott For Senate |
03/31/2015 |
$2,500.00 |
|
Total: |
$60,800 |
[FEC Search, accessed 01/04/23]
- Opportunity Matters Fund Has Been Identified As Being Associated With Senator Tim Scott By NBC News As Recently As September 2022. “A super PAC tied to Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., is donating $5 million to Senate Republicans’ main outside group as the party works to take control of the chamber in November. The Scott group, known as the Opportunity Matters Fund, is contributing to the Senate Leadership Fund, a super PAC aligned with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell that has spent millions on Senate races across the country. A spokesman for SLF confirmed the contribution to NBC News.” [NBC News, 09/26/22]
Over His Congressional Career, Tim Scott Has Received $11,600 In Campaign Contributions From Cristen “Crissy” Haslam:
|
Donor |
Recipient |
Date |
Amount |
| Haslam, Cristen | Tim Scott For Senate |
06/10/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
| Haslam, Cristen | Tim Scott For Senate |
06/10/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
| Haslam, Cristen | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/10/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
| Haslam, Cristen | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/10/2021 |
$2,900.00 |
|
Total: |
$11,600 |
[FEC Search, accessed 01/04/23]
- Cristen “Crissy” Haslam Is Married To Bill Haslam [Office of the First Lady of Tennessee, accessed 12/23/22]
¶ Members Of The McNair Family—Founders And Owners Of The Houston Texans NFL Team, Located Within An Opportunity Zone—Have Donated Over $21,000 To Senator Scott’s Campaigns And Affiliated PACs.
¶ NRG Stadium, Home Of The Houston Texans, Is One Of 15 NFL Stadiums Located In Opportunity Zones Which Allows The Teams’ Owners To Be “Eligible For Tax Breaks.”
NRG Stadium Home Of The Houston Texans, Is Located Within An Opportunity Zone:
[...]
[Marquette Sports Law Review, Fall 2021]
NRG Stadium Is One Of 15 NFL Stadiums That Are Located In Opportunity Zones, Allowing The Teams’ Owners To Be “Eligible For Tax Breaks.” “There are 15 NFL stadiums (out of 30 total) that are located in such Opportunity Zone communities, plus an additional 3 stadiums that are located adjacent to opportunity zones. NFL teams and stadium owners who invest in these communities could be eligible for tax breaks.” [OpportunityBD, 02/03/19]
[OpportunityBD, 02/03/19]
¶ Tim Scott Received $10,600 From The Late Founder, Senior Chairman, And CEO Of The Houston Texans Robert McNair, Who Sold His Cogeneration Company To Enron For $1.5 Billion In 1999.
Robert McNair, Was The Founder, Senior Chairman, And CEO Of The Houston Texans NFL Team Up Until His Death In November 2018. “Robert C. McNair (Jan. 1, 1937 – Nov. 23, 2018), a leading businessman, sportsman and philanthropist in Houston, Texas for more than 50 years, was the founder, senior chairman and chief executive officer of the Houston Texans National Football League team.” [Houston Texans, accessed 01/03/23]
McNair Founded Cogen Technologies, Which “Became The Largest Privately Owned Cogeneration Company In The World.” “McNair was perhaps best known in the business community as the founder of Cogen Technologies, which became the largest privately owned cogeneration company in the world with an aggregate capacity of 1,400 megawatts.” [Houston Texans, accessed 01/03/23]
- 1999: McNair Sold Cogen To Enron For $1.5 Billion. “As the co-founder of the Houston Texans, Janice McNair retained sole ownership of the team upon the 2018 death of her husband Bob McNair, who made his fortune selling power generator company Cogen Technologies to Enron for $1.5 billion in 1999, following that up with a payment of $600 million to start a new NFL franchise.” [CT Insider, 10/10/21]
In Addition, McNair Served As Senior Chairman Of McNair Interests, Where He Owned Palmetto Partners, Ltd. And RCM Financial Services, L.P., “ Private Investment Entities That Managed The McNairs' Private And Public Equity Investments.” “McNair served as senior chairman of McNair Interests, headquartered in Houston, Texas where he oversaw an investment portfolio. McNair owned Palmetto Partners, Ltd. and RCM Financial Services, L.P., private investment entities that managed the McNairs' private and public equity investments.” [Houston Texans, accessed 01/03/23]
Over His Congressional Career, Tim Scott Received $10,600 In Campaign Contributions From Robert McNair:
| Donor | Recipient | Date | Amount |
| McNair, Robert | Tim Scott For Senate |
12/31/2013 |
$2,700 |
| McNair, Robert | Tim Scott For Senate |
03/31/2015 |
$2,500 |
| McNair, Robert | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/16/2018 |
$2,700 |
| McNair, Robert | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/16/2018 |
$2,700 |
|
Total: |
$10,600 |
[FEC Search, accessed 01/04/23]
¶ Tim Scott Has Received $10,400 From Janice McNair, Co-Founder And Senior Chair Of The Houston Texans And Now Sole Owner Of The Team After The Death Of Her Husband, Robert McNair.
Janice McNair Is Co-Founder And Senior Chair Of The Houston Texans. “Janice Suber McNair is co-founder and senior chair of the Houston Texans.” [Houston Texans, accessed 01/03/23]
Upon The Death Of Her Husband, Janice McNair Retained Sole Ownership Of The Houston Texans. “As the co-founder of the Houston Texans, Janice McNair retained sole ownership of the team upon the 2018 death of her husband Bob McNair, who made his fortune selling power generator company Cogen Technologies to Enron for $1.5 billion in 1999, following that up with a payment of $600 million to start a new NFL franchise.” [CT Insider, 10/10/21]
Over His Congressional Career, Tim Scott Has Received $10,400 In Campaign Contributions From Janice McNair:
|
Donor |
Recipient |
Date |
Amount |
| McNair, Janice | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/16/2018 |
$2,700 |
| McNair, Janice | Tim Scott For Senate |
05/16/2018 |
$2,700 |
| McNair, Janice | Opportunity Matters Fund, Inc. |
08/28/2020 |
$5,000 |
|
Total: |
$10,400 |
[FEC Search, accessed 01/04/23]
¶ Jim Davis—The New Balance Chairman Who Financed A $50 Million “Luxury” Hotel Development Project Located In An Opportunity Zone In Gloucester, MA—Has Given Sen. Scott $155,600 In Contributions.
¶ New Balance Co-Founder And Chairman Jim Davis Financed A $50 Million “Luxury” Hotel Development Project Located In An Opportunity Zone In Gloucester, MA.
Jim Davis, New Balance Founder And Chairman, Financed The Beauport Hotel Project, Which Was Subject To “An Acrimonious Debate Between Residents.” “A development group including athletic shoe tycoon Jim Davis has broken ground on a waterfront hotel in Gloucester, Mass. The project has been the focus of an acrimonious debate between residents who want to expand the city’s tourism sector and others who want to preserve its fishing and seafood industry.” [The Wall Street Journal, 12/09/14]
- Jim Davis Is The Chairman And Co-Founder Of New Balance. [Bloomberg, accessed 01/04/23]
- The Project, Including Land Acquisition Costs, Cost Over $50 Million. “The total project cost, including land acquisition costs, is more than $50 million, Dellicker said.” [Boston Business Journal, 06/20/16]
June 20, 2016: A Former Birds Eye Frozen-Food Warehouse Was Turned Into The “Luxury” Beauport Hotel Gloucester, Which Contains 94 Rooms, A Rooftop Pool, 2 Bars, A 325-Person Ballroom, Two Function Rooms, And A 175-Person Deck. “After a years-long development process full of contentious zoning and permitting appeals, a former Birds Eye frozen-food warehouse is now home to the luxury Beauport Hotel Gloucester. [...] The 94-room hotel rises four stories, with a second-story lobby, bar and restaurant and then two stories of rooms. The hotel also features a rooftop pool, jacuzzi and bar; a 325-person ballroom; two function rooms that can seat 150 each; and a 175-person first-floor deck.” [Boston Business Journal, 06/20/16]
The Beauport Hotel Gloucester is located at 55 Commercial Street, Gloucester, MA:
[Google Map, accessed 01/04/23]
The Beauport Hotel Gloucester Is Located In An Opportunity Zone:
[Opportunity DB, Accessed 01/04/23]
¶ Tim Scott Has Taken $155,600 From New Balance Chairman Jim Davis Since Just 2020.
Since 2020, Jim Davis Has Given Sen. Scott $155,600, Including $150,000 To The Opportunity Matters Fund, A Super-Pac Associated With Senator Tim Scott.
|
Donor |
Recipient |
Date |
Amount |
| Davis, James | Tim Scott For Senate |
10/02/2020 |
$2,800 |
| Davis, James | Tim Scott For Senate |
10/02/2020 |
$2,800 |
| Davis, James | Opportunity Matters Fund, Inc. |
10/04/2021 |
$150,000 |
|
Total: |
$155,600 |
[FEC Search, accessed 01/04/23]
- Opportunity Matters Fund Has Been Identified As Being Associated With Senator Tim Scott By NBC News As Recently As September 2022. “A super PAC tied to Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., is donating $5 million to Senate Republicans’ main outside group as the party works to take control of the chamber in November. The Scott group, known as the Opportunity Matters Fund, is contributing to the Senate Leadership Fund, a super PAC aligned with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell that has spent millions on Senate races across the country. A spokesman for SLF confirmed the contribution to NBC News.” [NBC News, 09/26/22]
¶ While Charleston County Council Chairman, Scott Pushed A 20-Year Tax Break To Entice Boeing Into Opening A New Plant In The County—Scott’s Close Relationship To Boeing Would Continue Later In His Federal Career, With Him Introducing Legislation To Protect The Company From Labor Regulators And Taking At Least $40,000 In Campaign Contributions.
¶ 2009: While Charleston County Council Chairman, Scott “Helped Push Through Incentives,” Including A 20-Year Tax Break, To Entice Boeing Into Opening A New Plant In The Area.
2009: South Carolina Won A “Huge” Bid For A New Boeing Assembly Facility For Its 787 Dreamliner Aircraft. “South Carolina won Boeing’s new assembly line for the 787 Dreamliner despite the company’s last-minute request for $37 million, losing out on Boeing’s first 787 assembly line six years ago, doubts about the state's workforce and South Carolina’s history of political friction. The impact of the Boeing deal is huge for South Carolina, a state staggering under the nation's fifth highest unemployment rate: [...]” [The State, 11/02/09]
Ahead Of The Deal, Boeing Began To Seriously Consider Building Its Plant In The Charleston Area And Began Talks With Then-County Council Chairman Tim Scott, Who Later “Helped Push Through Incentives” For The Company, Including Not Raising Its County Taxes For 20 Years. “Boeing said no thanks to Myrtle Beach but took Charleston into serious consideration. The company began talks with Faith, Harrell and then-Charleston County Council Chairman Tim Scott. [...] On County Council, Scott helped push through incentives, including a freeze on the company’s millage rate for 20 years, ensuring its county taxes would not increase.” [The State, 11/02/09]
After The Deal, Then-State Representative Tim Scott Reportedly Called The Deal “One Of Those Big Dreams” And Called It “Landing A Whale.” “It was one of those big dreams, said Scott, now a state representative. We had had some unsuccessful bids in bringing some other big industry to the area so we were cautiously optimistic. We started looking at what we considered landing a whale.” [The State, 11/02/09]
2009: Then-State Rep. Tim Scott Planned To Introduce A Resolution To Encourage State And Local Government To Advertise South Carolina’s “Low Union Presence” To Attract Business, Reportedly To Attract Boeing’s Suppliers. “State Rep. Tim Scott wants South Carolina to do more to protect what he sees as the state's biggest job recruitment tool, its right-to-work laws, from any possible federal encroachment. Scott, a North Charleston Republican who wants to be lieutenant governor, plans to introduce a resolution as early as this week intended to encourage local and state government to emphasize the state's low union presence as a selling point in economic development efforts. South Carolina's labor practices have been credited as a top recruitment tool in landing Boeing Co.'s second Dreamliner jet production line. Scott wants to promote that so Boeing's suppliers follow the aeronautics giant to North Charleston.” [The Post and Courier, 11/27/09]
¶ Later In Congress, Scott Introduced A Bill To Protect Boeing From Federal Labor Regulators And Would Go On To Take Over $40,000 From The Company During His Federal Career.
In His Freshman Term In The U.S. House, Rep. Tim Scott Introduced A Bill To Prevent The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) From Ordering Any Employer To “‘Close, Relocate, Or Transfer Employment’” After The NLRB Ruled That Boeing Unlawfully Retaliated Against Striking Washington State Employees By Transferring A Production Facility To South Carolina. “The House on Thursday approved a bill that would limit the authority of the National Labor Relations Board, the latest salvo in a partisan battle over the agency’s ruling against Boeing earlier this year. The bill, H.R. 2587, introduced by freshman Rep. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) passed Thursday on a near-party-line 238-to-186 vote. It would prevent the NLRB from ‘ordering any employer to close, relocate, or transfer employment under any circumstance.’” [The Washington Post, 09/15/11]
- Behind Rep. Scott’s Bill Was “A Months-Long Dispute Over Whether Boeing Unlawfully Retaliated Against Its Union Employees In Washington State By Transferring A Production Facility To South Carolina After A Series Of Strikes.” “At the heart of the House measure is a months-long dispute over whether Boeing unlawfully retaliated against its union employees in Washington state by transferring a production facility to South Carolina after a series of strikes. The NLRB in April ruled that by moving the facility to a right-to-work state, Boeing was in violation of federal labor laws.” [The Washington Post, 09/15/11]
As Of January 2023, Tim Scott Has Taken $40,500 In Federal Contributions From The Boeing Company Political Action Committee. [Federal Election Commission, accessed 01/05/23]
¶ Scott, Who Used To Be A Partner At Pathway Real Estate Group, Owns A 50% Investment In A Residential Real Estate Company While Also Receiving At Least $94,240 From Major Residential Real Estate Industry PACs.
¶ Prior To Joining The Senate, Sen. Scott Was A Partner Of Pathway Real Estate Group And According To His 2021 Financial Disclosures, He Owns A 50% Interest In Rivertown Investments, A Residential Real Estate Company.
According To His Official Senate Biography In August 2013, Sen. Scott Was A Partner Of Pathway Real Estate Group:
[U.S. Senator Tim Scott via Internet Archive, captured 08/03/13, accessed 03/10/23]
According To His 2021 Financial Disclosures, Sen. Scott Owns A 50% Interest In Rivertown Investments, A Residential Real Estate Company With Properties In Summerville And Hanahan, South Carolina:
[Sen. Tim Scott 2021 Annual Report for CY 2021, The United States Senate Financial Disclosures, 05/16/22]
Since Beginning His Run For Senator In 2013, Scott Has Received At Least $94,240 From The Residential Real Estate Industry:
| Year of Earliest Donation |
Contributor |
Recipient |
Total Amount |
| 2013 | National Association Of Realtors Political Action Committee | Tim Scott For Senate | |
| 2013 | National Apartment Association Political Action Committee | Tim Scott For Senate | |
| 2013 | Real Estate Roundtable Political Action Committee (REALPAC) | Tim Scott For Senate | |
| 2014 | National Association Of Real Estate Investment Trusts, Inc. PAC | Tim Scott For Senate | |
| 2016 | Real Estate Services Providers Council | Tim Scott For Senate | |
| 2020 | Zillow Group, Inc. Pac (ZG PAC) | Tim Scott For Senate | |
| 2022 | National Association Of Residential Property Managers, Inc. Pac (NARPM PAC) | Tim Scott For Senate | |
|
TOTAL: |
$94,240 |
*Contribution Data As Of March 10, 2023
May 13, 2020: Senator Scott Attended The National Association Of Realtors’ 2020 Realtors Virtual Legislative Meetings. “The National Association of Realtors® today welcomed House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn (S.C.-6) and U.S. Senator Tim Scott (S.C.) to discuss the Congressional response to the COVID-19 pandemic during the 2020 REALTORS® Virtual Legislative Meetings. This year marks the first virtual iteration of NAR’s legislative meetings, which bring around 10,000 Realtors® to Washington, D.C., every May. More than 25,000 people had registered as of Wednesday morning.” [National Association of Realtors, 05/13/20]
¶ Tim Scott, Who Owned An Insurance Company Prior To Becoming Senator, Has Been Awarded By The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers Of America (IIABA) And Teamed Up With The Insurance Industry In Opposing Proposals Aiming To Expand Insurance Coverage, All While Taking At Least Over $1.9 Million From The Insurance Industry.
¶ Sen. Scott Has Identified Himself As The One-Time Owner Of Tim Scott Allstate.
According To His Official Bio From August 2013, Sen. Scott Was The Owner Of Tim Scott Allstate:
[U.S. Senator Tim Scott via Internet Archive, captured 08/03/13]
Tim Scott Allstate Reportedly Grew To 3,000 Customers. “After graduating from Charleston Southern University in 1988, he went into the insurance business and shortly thereafter hung out his own shingle as Tim Scott Allstate, which grew to 3,000 customers.” [The Wall Street Journal, 12/21/12]
¶ After Giving A Keynote Address To The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers Of America (IIABA), Inc.’s Members In April 2014, Sen. Scott Was Awarded The Big “I” Legislator Of The Year In 2019, Which The IIABA Gives To Members Of Congress Who “Provide Outstanding Leadership On Insurance Issues.”
March 14, 2016: The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers Of America (IIABA Or The Big “I”) Announced That Senator Tim Scott Would Address The Association’s Membership As Keynote Speaker At The Legislative Conference Breakfast Prior To The Association’s Annual Big “I” Day On Capitol Hill In April. “The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big ‘I’) today announced that United States Senator Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) will address the association’s membership on Thursday, April 14, 2016. Sen. Scott will be a keynote speaker at the legislative conference breakfast which occurs just prior to the association’s annual Big ‘I’ Day on Capitol Hill. Every year, agents and brokers visit Capitol Hill offices to educate members of the Senate, House and their staff on issues that directly impact independent insurance agents, brokers and the consumers they serve.” [Big I, 03/14/16]
IIABA’s President And CEO Commented On How “‘Honored’” The Association Is To Have Sen. Scott Speak, Adding That As A Former Insurance Agent He “‘Truly Understands Our Industry.’” “‘The Big ‘I’ is honored that Sen. Scott, a former insurance agent who truly understands our industry and now serves on both the influential Senate Finance Committee and important Senate Banking Committee, will be addressing our members the morning of our annual pilgrimage to Capitol Hill,’ says Robert A. Rusbuldt, Big ‘I’ president and CEO. ‘We look forward to hearing his outlook on key issues as our agents prepare to meet with their federal representatives.’” [Big I, 03/14/16]
In 2019, Sen. Scott Was Named The Big “I” Legislator Of The Year For 2018, Awarded To Members Of Congress Who “Provide Outstanding Leadership On Insurance Issues.” “Sen. Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) is the Gerald Solomon – Big ‘I’ Legislator of the Year for 2018. [...] The Big ‘I’ presents the Legislator of the Year Award annually to a member of Congress who provides outstanding leadership on insurance issues.” [Big I Magazine, 05/09/19]
- The Award Is Backed By The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers Of America, Inc., Also Known As The Big “I" Or IIABA, A National Trade Association For Independent Insurance Agents And Brokers. “The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, Inc., also known as the Big “I"® or IIABA® is a national trade association that strives to provide independent insurance agents and brokers with a sustainable competitive advantage in the insurance marketplace by equipping members with tools and resources, and advocacy and support, to maintain excellence in business and customer service.” [Big I Magazine, accessed 12/20/22]
¶ Senator Scott Has Received Over $1.9 Million From The Insurance Industry Since Entering Congress.
As Of March 10, 2023, Sen. Tim Scott Has Taken $1,915,868 From The Insurance Industry Throughout His Congressional Career. [OpenSecrets, accessed 03/10/23]
¶ While Serving In The House Of Representatives From 2011 To 2013, Scott Launched A “Stealth Attack Against Union Workers” and Introduced Legislation That Would “Strip The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) Of Some Of Its Power.”
¶ In March 2011, Then-Rep. Scott Launched A “Stealth Attack Against Union Workers,” By Introducing A Bill That Would Add Requirements And Limits On Means-Tested Welfare Programs While Including A Provision That Would Exclude Families From Eligibility While A Member Of The Household Is On Strike.
Tim Scott Served In The U.S. House Of Representatives From January 3, 2011, To January 2, 2013. “[E]lected as a Republican to the One Hundred Twelfth Congress, and served from January 3, 2011, to January 2, 2013, when he resigned to become a U.S. Senator;” [United States House of Representatives History, Art, & Archives, accessed 01/06/23]
March 2011: Tim Scott, Along With A Group Of House Republicans, Launched A “Stealth Attack Against Union Workers,” By Introducing A Bill That Would “‘Provide Additional Work Requirements’” And A “‘Spending Limit’” On Means-Tested Welfare Programs. “Now, a group of House Republicans is launching a new stealth attack against union workers. GOP Reps. Jim Jordan (OH), Tim Scott (SC), Scott Garrett (NJ), Dan Burton (IN), and Louie Gohmert (TX) have introduced H.R. 1135, which states that it is designed to ‘provide information on total spending on means-tested welfare programs, to provide additional work requirements, and to provide an overall spending limit on means-tested welfare programs.’” [Think Progress via Web Archive, 03/23/11]
The Bill Included A Provision That Would Remove “Entire Families From Eligibility” While A Member Of The Household Is Striking, Which Think Progress Argued Would Have “A Chilling Effect On Workers.” “The bill also includes a provision that would exempt households from losing eligibility, ‘if the household was eligible immediately prior to such strike, however, such family unit shall not receive an increased allotment as the result of a decrease in the income of the striking member or members of the household.’ Yet removing entire families from eligibility while a single adult family member is striking would have a chilling effect on workers who are considering going on strike for better wages, benefits, or working conditions — something that is especially alarming in light of the fact that unions are one of the fundamental building blocks of the middle class that allow people to earn wages that keep them off food stamps.” [Think Progress via Web Archive, 03/23/11]
¶ In July 2011, Scott Introduced Legislation That Would “Strip The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) Of Some Of Its Power,” With A Top Democrat On The House Education Committee Criticizing The Legislation As The “'Eviscerate Workers’ Rights And Ship Jobs Overseas’ Bill.'"
July 2011: Scott Introduced Legislation That Would “Strip The National Labor Relations Board [(NLRB)] Of Some Of Its Power,” By Prohibiting The NLRB From “‘Ordering Any Employer To Relocate, Shut Down, Or Transfer Employment Under Any Circumstance.’” “South Carolina Republican freshman Rep. Tim Scott has introduced legislation that would strip the National Labor Relations Board of some of its power, and would specifically ‘prohibit the NLRB from ordering any employer to relocate, shut down, or transfer employment under any circumstance.’” [The Post and Courier via Web Archive, 07/20/11]
The Bill Was In Response To A NLRB Complaint Against Boeing, Accusing The Company Of “Retaliating Against Union Workers.” “The bill comes in response to a complaint the NLRB filed in April against Boeing Corp., accusing the aerospace giant of retaliating against union workers in Washington state by building a nonunion production facility in North Charleston.” [The Post and Courier via Web Archive, 07/20/11][The Post and Courier via Web Archive, 07/20/11]
While Some Republican Lawmakers And Business Groups Have Attacked The NLRB For Intruding Into Private Business Decisions, The Top Democrat On The House Education Committee Called The Legislation The “'Eviscerate Workers’ Rights And Ship Jobs Overseas’ Bill.'" “The top Democrat on the House committee calls the legislation the ‘Eviscerate Workers’ Rights and Ship Jobs Overseas’ bill. Some Republican lawmakers and business groups have attacked the NLRB complaint against Boeing as an intrusion into private decisions about where to locate production facilities, and an attack on right-to-work states.” [The Post and Courier via Web Archive, 07/20/11]
¶ While A State Representative, Tim Scott Sought To Promote South Carolina’s Anti-Labor “Right-To-Work” Status To Attract Business And Was Interested In Blocking New Federal Labor Protections.
¶ 2009: Then-State Rep. Tim Scott Planned On A Resolution To Promote South Carolina’s Status As A “Right-To-Work” State—Calling It “‘Part Of Our DNA’”—To Attract Business And Was Researching Ways To Block New Federal Labor Standards.
November 2009: Then-State Representative Tim Scott Planned To Introduce A Resolution To Encourage The State Government And Localities To Promote South Carolina’s Status As A “Right-To-Work” State To Attract Businesses. “State Rep. Tim Scott wants South Carolina to do more to protect what he sees as the state's biggest job recruitment tool, its right-to-work laws, from any possible federal encroachment. Scott, a North Charleston Republican who wants to be lieutenant governor, plans to introduce a resolution as early as this week intended to encourage local and state government to emphasize the state's low union presence as a selling point in economic development efforts. South Carolina's labor practices have been credited as a top recruitment tool in landing Boeing Co.'s second Dreamliner jet production line. Scott wants to promote that so Boeing's suppliers follow the aeronautics giant to North Charleston.” [The Post and Courier, 11/26/09]
- At The Time, South Carolina Had Right-To-Work Laws And Weak Labor Protections Allowing For Employees To Be Fired Without Cause. “Labor laws in South Carolina allow employees to be fired with or without cause. The right-to-work status also prevents unions from denying individuals the ability to work for a company if he or she is not a member of the union.” [The Post and Courier, 11/26/09]
Scott Said, "’Our Strategic Advantage Is Our Right-To-Work Status,’” Calling It “‘Part Of Our DNA.’” "’Our strategic advantage is our right-to-work status,’ he said. ‘It is part of our DNA.’” [The Post and Courier, 11/26/09]
Scott Was Also “Researching Legislative Ways To Bolster States' Rights As A Way To Stop The Federal Government From Imposing Any New Employment Standards.” “Scott also is researching legislative ways to bolster states' rights as a way to stop the federal government from imposing any new employment standards.” [The Post and Courier, 11/26/09]
According To The AFL-CIO, “‘Right To Work’” Laws Are “Designed To Take Away Rights From Working People” And “Tilt The Balance Toward Big Corporations And Further Rig The System At The Expense Of Working Families.” “‘Right to work’ is the name for a policy designed to take away rights from working people. Backers of right to work laws claim that these laws protect workers against being forced to join a union. The reality is that federal law already makes it illegal to force someone to join a union. The real purpose of right to work laws is to tilt the balance toward big corporations and further rig the system at the expense of working families. These laws make it harder for working people to form unions and collectively bargain for better wages, benefits and working conditions.” [AFL-CIO, accessed 01/05/23]