WASHINGTON – Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairman Reince Priebus released the following statement today regarding the state chairman election in South Carolina:

“I congratulate Chad Connelly on his election to serve as Chairman of the South Carolina Republican Party. I look forward to having a stalwart conservative like Chad leading our Party in the Palmetto State during such a critical election cycle for our country. Chad is a seasoned grassroots leader who has what it takes to maintain a strong state party while continuing to bring the Republican message to new voters. With rising food and gas prices, record debt, and national unemployment at 9%, Chad understands that South Carolinians cannot afford four more years with Barack Obama in the White House. I look forward to working closely with Chad as we build upon our 2010 victories and to make Barack Obama a one-term president.”