The Lt. Governor is making his way around the state to make his candidacy known.
WEST COLUMBIA -- Airline delays didn't stop Lt. Governor Andre Bauer from making an appearance in the Midlands this week. Bauer stopped in at the Gira Steel Plant in West Columbia Monday afternoon.
It's just one stop on a tour to announce his candidacy for governor.
With the filing date to run finally here, the Lt. Governor had to apply, but when asked why he waited as long as he did, Bauer said he didn't want to divide himself between his current job and the time spent running for office.
In comparing his decision to ones of those already in the race, Bauer said, "They were paid to do a job, yet they were campaigning all the time, and I think that sends a bad message to the people of South Carolina."
Chief among his topics were small business growth and the dangers of too much government.
Bauer emphasized a view that the worst was yet to come in regards to state budget and that spending had to be reduced.
"Next year is going to be a very difficult year in the state budget, and anyone running for office who tries to paint you this wonderful picture is not being forthright," he added.
Some of his ideas to cut the budget included leasing state parks and rest areas to private businesses.
Bauer called Sunday's health care bill "frightening," voicing concerns over the future of American entrepreneurs.
"You wonder why more and more people are going for government jobs and looking for the government to take care of them. It's because we're giving small businesses less and less chances to prosper."
Bauer faces Attorney General Henry McMaster, U.S. Rep. Gresham Barrett and state Rep. Nikki Haley in the June 8 primary.
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