COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina House Republican leadership issued the following statements after state GOP Chairwoman Karen Floyd announced she would not seek another term.

House Majority Leader Kenny Bingham, R-Cayce, said:

“Karen Floyd’s tenure as party chairwoman will be remembered for the extraordinary election we just witnessed. She helped orchestrate a complete sweep of our state’s Constitutional Offices, wrested the Department of Education back from the Democrats, replaced a key Nancy Pelosi lieutenant with a conservative Republican, and built the biggest state House majority the party has ever seen.

“That wasn’t by accident. Karen matched a vision for a strong, united Republican Party with a tireless work ethic. She reached out across the state and reminded everyone that conservative values are as important as ever. That energized our base and made more South Carolinians than ever Republican activists. We will reap the benefits of her work for years to come.

“Karen’s tenure was remarkable, and her successor next year will have giant shoes to fill.”

Assistant Majority Leader Bruce Bannister, R-Greenville, said:

“A common saying in sports is that everybody wants to ‘go out on top.’ Karen Floyd is doing that. People across the country left the Republican Party for dead following the 2008 election, but Karen’s enthusiasm and drive ensured our party came back stronger than ever just two short years later. Her successor will inherit the foundation for an incredibly powerful conservative brand and an energized Republican base. She set up our party for even more success as we move forward. Thank you, Karen.”