April 3, 2003

Dear Fellow Democrat:

The South Carolina Democratic Party will hold its 2003 State Convention on Saturday, May 3, in Columbia. As you know, 2003 is a non-election year, so the normal delegate selection process leading up to the state convention will not take place. Since you were selected as a delegate to the 2002 Convention, you will serve as a delegate to this year's convention. Your participation at the 2003 State Convention is crucial, and we urge you to make every effort to attend.

The most important task delegates to the State Convention will undertake is to elect a new Chairman to lead our party. With the February 3, 2004 Presidential Primary just around the corner and the 2004 General Election on the horizon, it is imperative that we select an energetic, focused and seasoned leader to direct and build our Party's future. We believe strongly that Joe Erwin of Greenville is that leader.

It's no secret that the South Carolina Democratic Party is in desperate need of retooling. It also goes without saying that our Party was badly beaten by our Republican counterparts in the last election. They outspent us, out-maneuvered us, and out-worked us. We gave it our best effort, but in the long run, it wasn't enough. In defeat we often find opportunity. We believe that opportunity presents itself now - the opportunity to re-build and re-energize our party and restore it to majority status in South Carolina. But, we must act immediately and decisively. We cannot afford to wait, nor can we afford to squander this opportunity. We must start our climb back by electing a new Chairman; a Chairman who knows success and understands what it takes to win.

As you may have heard, Joe Erwin is on the campaign trail and he's talking sense. He has crisscrossed South Carolina in recent weeks meeting with local party leaders, activists and just plain folks. He's got a message and he's getting people fired up. He's got a plan for the rebirth of the South Carolina Democratic Party and he is willing to put in whatever time and effort is required to see it through. Joe understands what makes up the heart and soul of our Party. Simply put, it's you and your family. He understands grassroots organizing, fundraising and party building. We enthusiastically endorse his candidacy for Chairman and we encourage you to join us in supporting Joe on May 3. For more information on Joe Erwin, we invite you to visit his website at www.erwinforscdemocrats.com.

Finally, we thank you for your commitment to the South Carolina Democratic Party and for always being there when we needed you. We are most grateful for your support over the years. We look forward to seeing you at the State Convention on May 3 and hope you will join us in voting for Joe Erwin for Chairman.

Sincerely,

Fritz Hollings
U.S. Senator

John Spratt
U.S. Congressman

Jim Clyburn
U.S. Congressman

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