Statement From SC House 40 Representative Joe White
Following is a statement released from SC House District 40 Representative Joe White regarding recent incidences:
On the evening of April 16, following the monthly meeting of the Newberry County Republican Party, my opponent in the State House District 40 race approached me and passionately accused me of being responsible for signs placed in the town of Whitmire.
As he turned to walk away, I briefly held his arm in order to make clear to him that I had not placed any signs in Whitmire and did not know who had done so.
At no time did I attempt to strike, injure, threaten, or physically harm him in any way.
After making my statement, I released his arm and he walked away.
There were multiple witnesses present during this interaction.
I understand that the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is conducting an investigation, and I have fully cooperated with that investigation.
I respect the process and look forward to its conclusion.
It is also important to note that, on April 27, 2026, my opponent filed a separate civil lawsuit in Newberry County against another individual, alleging that she was responsible for manufacturing, distributing, and posting the signs in question and seeking $2.5 million in damages related to those signs.
Because both the investigation and related litigation are ongoing, I do not intend to engage in personal attacks or extensive public commentary.
I simply want the public to understand clearly that there was never any attempt by me to physically hurt my opponent.
My only purpose in that moment was to firmly deny accusations that were false.
Representative Joe White
South Carolina House
District 40
Following is a statement released from SC House District 40 Representative Joe White regarding recent incidences:
On the evening of April 16, following the monthly meeting of the Newberry County Republican Party, my opponent in the State House District 40 race approached me and passionately accused me of being responsible for signs placed in the town of Whitmire.
As he turned to walk away, I briefly held his arm in order to make clear to him that I had not placed any signs in Whitmire and did not know who had done so.
At no time did I attempt to strike, injure, threaten, or physically harm him in any way.
After making my statement, I released his arm and he walked away.
There were multiple witnesses present during this interaction.
I understand that the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is conducting an investigation, and I have fully cooperated with that investigation.
I respect the process and look forward to its conclusion.
It is also important to note that, on April 27, 2026, my opponent filed a separate civil lawsuit in Newberry County against another individual, alleging that she was responsible for manufacturing, distributing, and posting the signs in question and seeking $2.5 million in damages related to those signs.
Because both the investigation and related litigation are ongoing, I do not intend to engage in personal attacks or extensive public commentary.
I simply want the public to understand clearly that there was never any attempt by me to physically hurt my opponent.
My only purpose in that moment was to firmly deny accusations that were false.
Representative Joe White
South Carolina House
District 40
