Wilson plans to restructure South Carolina government before January

Alan Wilson is preparing to take control of the South Carolina executive branch with a mandate to rebuild the state's administrative structure. In an interview with FOX Carolina on Thursday, Wilson outlined a plan that prioritizes modernization over continuity. He described his victory as a turning point that demands a 21st-century approach to public administration. The new governor wants a government that is transparent, accountable, and restructured to reflect current needs.

Wilson stated his goal is to leave the state in better condition than he found it. To achieve this, he plans to overhaul the cabinet selection process immediately after taking office. He will invite every current cabinet agency director and secretary who wishes to continue serving to reapply for their positions. These incumbents will not be automatically retained. They must apply and interview for their jobs, just as any other candidate would.

“I’m going to invite every single cabinet agency director and secretary who wants to remain in service to the state of South Carolina to reapply for their office. Does not mean they will be hired. It just means they will have the opportunity to reapply and to interview for it,” Wilson said. This process is designed to ensure that leadership is actively chosen rather than inherited.

Efficiency and affordability are central to Wilson’s initial agenda. He wants to eliminate confusion regarding how state funds are allocated. Wilson proposed a digital dashboard that would allow residents to track government spending and regulatory implementation in real time. “You shouldn’t have to wonder how your government is spending you money. You should be able to click on a button on your computer, go to a website, see a dashboard and easily understand how government money is being spent, how regulations are being implemented,” he explained.

The transition period begins before the official start date. Wilson has offered David Stumbo, the attorney general-elect, a workspace in the current office. This arrangement is meant to prevent January 13 from feeling like Stumbo's first day in the role. Wilson also addressed his working relationship with Senator-elect Dr. Annie Andrews. He acknowledged that disagreements are inevitable between the two offices.

Wilson emphasized that political power is not permanent. “Republicans cannot take for granted that they are just going to be able to inherit the seat of power in government every election cycle. You know, if this past week taught us anything, is that power is fleeting.. The office of Senate does not belong to Annie Andrews, just like the office of governor does not belong to Alan Wilson,” he said. He stated that he will listen to Andrews when she presents proposals that benefit the state.