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COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- The South Carolina Republican Party's official presidential primary task force includes a slew of former office holders.

The state GOP announced Thursday the task force will raise money and oversee the 2012 presidential primary. Spokesman Matt Moore says the party needs to raise more than $1 million and is well on its way to that goal.

Members also will need to use their influence to ensure South Carolina remains the first-in-the-South primary. The announcement came the same day GOP Chairman Chad Connellyvowed to maintain that distinction.

Members include former Govs. Mark Sanford and Jim Edwards, former GOP chairmen Katon Dawson and Barry Wynn, former House Speaker David Wilkins, former congressman Gresham Barrett and former Attorney General Henry McMaster. Gov. Nikki Haley and current office holders are honorary members.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)