Harpootlian cited Governor Nikki Haley's Chief of Staff Tim Pearson's $125,000 annual salary and Pearson's assistant Rebecca Schimsa's $60,000 salary as a few examples.

"This may be a qualification to work for Nikki Haley, because this state has become a Banana Republic under her administration," said Harpootlian, referring to Schimsa's prior experience working for the clothing retailer.

South Caolina GOP Chairman Chad Connelly said if Mr. Harpootlian is concerned about high government salries there are other places to look.

"Mr Obama's staff has 141 people that work in the White House that make more than 100,000 dollars a year," said Connelly. "If Mr. Harpootlian would look into that stuff, as much as he would look into this, I think we would get somewhere as far as the economy goes."

Governor Nikki Haley responded Tuesday that she doesn't have time to acknowledge the ranting of Democratic Party Chairman Dick Harpootlian. She says Democrats complain while she works and her staff's accomplishments can be seen through job announcements and budget savings.

Haley spokesman Rob Godfrey called Harpootlian's news conference tone deaf on a day the state is preparing for Hurricane Irene.

Do you agree with Harpootlian's comments?

(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)