News Summary
The Spartanburg County Republican Party has made attendance to its upcoming sheriff candidate forum free to the public, following backlash over initial ticket fees. Originally priced at $12.50, the decision to eliminate costs comes after criticism from community members. Scheduled for July 11 at Twichell Auditorium, the forum will provide candidates a platform to engage with voters amidst a significant election for sheriff, prompted by the previous sheriff’s resignation under allegations of misconduct. Refunds will be issued for those who purchased tickets.
Spartanburg, SC – The Spartanburg County Republican Party’s upcoming sheriff candidate forum is now free to the public after initial plans required ticket purchases, leading to controversy and backlash. The event is scheduled for July 11 at Twichell Auditorium on Converse College, starting at 6:15 p.m., with doors opening for attendees at 5:15 p.m.
Originally, tickets were priced at $12.50, or $10 if bought through a candidate. The decision to make attendance free came after criticism from several community members, including a threatened boycott by candidate Adam Crisp. Following this public discontent, the Republican Party announced that donations would cover the event’s expenses, ensuring no admission fees would be necessary.
Frank Tiller, the Party Chairman, revealed that the initial ticket fee was intended to help offset costs for event logistics such as projection, recording, security, and event insurance. However, Tiller faced backlash after derogatory comments about potential attendees emerged from a private message he sent, where he described some as “hot, sweaty people, too cheap to purchase a ticket.” The fallout from these comments played a significant role in the shift to free admission.
In the wake of these events, Crisp declared he would not attend the forum, emphasizing the importance of respect for voters and the negative impact of Tiller’s remarks. Meanwhile, other candidates confirmed their participation, recognizing the forum as a crucial opportunity to engage with the community and present their platforms. All individuals who previously purchased tickets will receive a full refund but must still present their tickets to gain entry to the forum.
The context for the forum is set against the backdrop of the upcoming election for the Spartanburg County Sheriff position, scheduled for August 5. This election follows the resignation of former Sheriff Chuck Wright, who stepped down amid allegations of misconduct and an ongoing state investigation into his actions. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is currently looking into possible charges related to misconduct in office and financial improprieties connected to Wright’s tenure.
The forum is designed to give the candidates an opportunity to connect with the electorate and communicate their visions for the future of the sheriff’s office. With the recent changes to the event, the intention is to foster an inclusive environment for all members of the community who wish to learn more about the candidates and their proposed leadership styles.
This development indicates a responsiveness from the Republican Party to community concerns and highlights the importance of public feedback in political events. As the forum approaches, local residents now have the chance to participate without the barrier of an entry fee, ensuring wider access to vital electoral information.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Spartanburg County GOP Shifts Sheriff Debate to Free Event
Nine Candidates Enter Race for Spartanburg County Sheriff
Charleston Congressional Race Heats Up as Election Day Approaches
Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Changes Announced for Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Forum
- Google Search: Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Forum
- Post and Courier: Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright Investigation
- Google Scholar: Spartanburg County Sheriff
- Go Upstate: Spartanburg GOP Backpedals on Entry Charge
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Spartanburg County
- Fox Carolina: Update from Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office
- Google News: Spartanburg County Sheriff 2025
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
