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COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- South Carolina Republicans are questioning a 1991 reckless driving ticket for Democratic gubernatorial nominee Vincent Sheheen.

Sheheen campaign spokesman Trav Robertson said Friday the ticket stemmed from Sheheen tailgating while driving home from Clemson University as a student.

State Republican Party executive director Joel Sawyer noted Sheheen was represented in the case by his uncle and then-House Speaker Bob Sheheen and the case was handled by Dick Harpootlian. Years later Harpootlian became the Democratic Party's chairman.

Robertson said there was no influence wielding.

The former House speaker said Friday he didn't recall the ticket. Harpootlian said traffic tickets are handled by local police or state troopers, not circuit solicitors.

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