In 2003, I served as the SCGOP Deputy Political Director. A year earlier, as an intern and staff member, I helped elect a slate of… — In 2003, I served as the SCGOP Deputy Political Director. A year earlier, as an intern and staff member, I helped elect a slate of Republican candidates. We ran the table that year, ousting Democratic Governor Jim Hodges. Only two Democrats won statewide. And Lindsey Graham succeeded Strom Thurmond.