Haley on 2012: Jobs, Administation Reforms

Gov. Nikki Haley came to town Saturday to give her grades of local legislators, but the state's top executive seemed more focused on looking ahead to 2012.

Haley's first year in office was focused on campaign promises on transparency and accountability in the Statehouse. It seems the former legislator has settled to the role of chief administrator and is less focused on the battles over the past year.

Speaking to a town hall crowd of more than 75 at the College of Charleston, Haley let residents know how the General Assembly fared in accomplishing her priorities this year, including her budget vetoes and a record of every vote in the General Assembly.

It was — good grades for her supporters, but tough marks for opponents, even some conservative Republicans like Bonneau Sen. Larry Grooms.

"This is not about slapping hands," Haley said, suggesting residents should use these report cards as a "conversation starter" with their elected officials.

Haley also gave the crowd a preview for her second year in office. The governor said she'll focus on job training, particularly for those entering the workforce.

Resident Ralph Holiday asked the governor to focus her attention on building vocational training opportunities. "You need to teach the guy how to use the wrench and the hammer," he said. "That's where you get your real blue-collar workers."

She'll also press for tax reform, starting with eliminating the state's corporate income tax and reducing the income tax tiers. And Haley will continue to call for an Administration Department and a reward system for funding colleges and universities. The governor also expects to press for concessions from retirees and current state employees regarding benefits.