Scotland County Republicans Discuss Candidates, Jail Project

The Scotland County Republican Central Committee met Thursday, May 21, with Chairman Jeff Davis calling the meeting to order.

Minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved. Members discussed several topics, including recent contacts with statewide and national candidates.

Davis reported he had spoken with Ed Lewis, a candidate for the 18th District state Senate seat now held by Cindy O’Laughlin. Duane Ebeling said he planned to meet Friday morning with Chris Stigall, a candidate for the 6th District seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Stigall has been endorsed by U.S. Rep. Sam Graves. Sandra Ebeling reported she has been in contact with Nathan Willett and others.

The committee also discussed working at area fairs this year.

Scotland County Sheriff Bryan Whitney spoke to the group about planned reconstruction of jail cells in the basement of the courthouse following the relocation of the assessor’s office to the administration building. Whitney said the project would add cells to house female prisoners when needed and provide additional jail space overall. Scotland County currently is unable to house female prisoners because of limited space and must house them elsewhere.

The group also discussed T-shirts, with Julie Monroe designated to check on shirts, prices and related details.

The next meeting is scheduled for July 16, 2026, in the conference room at the hospital.