The South Carolina Senate has taken the unprecedented step of voting to remove State Treasurer Curtis Loftis from office after a $1.8 billion accounting error was discovered.
Loftis, who has served since 2010, faced a lengthy hearing where he defended his actions and denied misleading lawmakers about his role in the error, which has triggered a federal investigation into the state's finances. The Senate's 33-8 vote in favor of removal now sends the matter to the House for further consideration. If both chambers approve, Loftis would become the first statewide elected official in South Carolina's history to be removed from office.
The controversy has sparked intense debate about accountability and transparency in state government.
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The State House Gavel: Senators start removal process of SC treasurer over $1.8B error
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Statehouse reporters Gavin Jackson, Russ McKinney and Maayan Schechter are back at the Capitol reporting what you need to know when lawmakers are in Columbia. They'll post news, important schedules, photos/videos and behind-the-scenes interviews with policymakers.
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SC Senate debates state Treasurer Curtis Loftis' fate late into the night amid push to oust him
COLUMBIA — South Carolina Treasurer Curtis Loftis is set to defend himself on the Senate floor today against claims he misled lawmakers about his role in a multi-billion dollar accounting error that landed the state's finances under federal investigation.
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Live: Senate holding hearing now on whether to remove SC treasurer from office
Loftis can be removed if two-thirds of the Senate and House vote against him. Senators will present their case and Loftis or his attorney will have three hours to respond. If the Senate votes for removal, the House would then follow suit with their own hearing.
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