COLUMBIA – Both candidates running for agriculture commissioner have deep roots in the land, but differ on whether new types of farming or experience with agribusiness are best to promote the Palmetto State’s farmers and their products.
The challenger, Democrat Emile DeFelice, has earned a national reputation producing rare-breed gourmet pork on a 40-acre organic farm in Calhoun County. He says the Agriculture Department can do more to support farmers and promote South Carolina farm products.
“We’re missing opportunities everywhere,” DeFelice said. “I’m fed up with the attitude that we can’t do better in this state.”
Incumbent Republican Hugh Weathers, was appointed by Gov. Mark Sanford in September 2004 to fill the unexpired term of Charles Sharpe, who pleaded guilty to extortion after admitting he took a $10,000 bribe to protect a cockfighting organization
Weathers, a third generation dairy farmer from Bowman, said he has worked to streamline the office and focus on economic development by cooperating with other agencies. “I’ve been a good manager and am an effective leader,” Weathers said.
DeFelice’s slogan is “Put Your State On Your Plate.” He said it sums up his passion for South Carolina foods.
DeFelice pledges to use the office to promote products grown and produced in the state by doing things like encouraging school lunches to use products from local farms.
Weathers said he has worked to meld agriculture into South Carolina’s overall economic development. He pointed to his background as a dairy farmer, peanut farmer and trucking executive as helping him understand the varied aspects of the state’s agriculture industry and its work force.
“This election is about who can provide effective leadership ... for the state’s second largest industry,” Weathers said.