South Carolinians should be proud of Gov. McMaster’s performance during COVID-19

While history will be the final judge on Gov. Henry McMaster’s performance in leading South Carolina during the coronavirus pandemic, there’s growing evidence that the ultimate verdict will be a favorable one.

The reality is that after some initial stumbles in coming to grips with the enormity of COVID-19 — which has struck more than 9,000 South Carolinians and killed hundreds of residents — McMaster has ably passed test after test as our state seeks a “new normal” amid this modern-day plague.

Let’s just go down the checklist of traits you’d want a leader to show during a crisis.

▪ Drama-free statesmanship.

McMaster has shown it by promptly signing an emergency bill to keep the state running amid the economic wreckage caused by COVID-19, while also devoting more funds to fighting the virus.

Compare that to the approach in Alabama, where Gov. Kay Ivey fought with members of the state Legislature before finally reaching agreement on a spending bill — all while Alabamans continue to contract and die from COVID-19 in far greater numbers than South Carolinians.

▪ A steady sense of judgment.

McMaster has shown it by working in methodical fashion on challenges ranging from relaxing restrictions to reopening South Carolina’s businesses and schools.

Compare that to the approach in neighboring Georgia, where Gov. Brian Kemp has drawn justified scorn for recklessly rushing to reopen his entire state even as COVID-19 cases kept rising.

▪ A genuine desire for openness and transparency.

McMaster has shown it by pushing, prodding and even ordering the state Department of Health and Environmental Control to provide more detailed information about COVID-19’s impact on the state.

Compare that to the approach in Nebraska, where Gov. Pete Ricketts has effectively created a scandal by dragging his feet on providing data on COVID-19 contagion rates in his state’s meatpacking plants.

▪ A willingness to acknowledge and welcome advice from experts.

McMaster has shown it by quickly supporting State Epidemiologist Linda Bell after Bell publicly chastised South Carolinians for not wearing face masks or practicing social distancing — two key elements to stopping the spread of COVID-19.

Compare that to the approach in Hawaii, where Gov. David Ige squandered precious time by feuding with health officials — including his own lieutenant governor, an emergency room physician — who were begging Ige to impose tighter restrictions.

No, McMaster hasn’t commanded attention the way that New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has during the coronavirus pandemic.

And no, McMaster hasn’t drawn the glowing media praise that’s been lavished on Govs. Mike DeWine (Ohio) and Andy Beshear (Kentucky) during the coronavirus pandemic.

But it’s worth noting the simple yet powerful assessment offered by Sen. Lindsey Graham when he was asked about McMaster’s leadership during a recent interview with The State Editorial Board.

“Henry,” Graham said, “has a done a darn good job.”

The senator is right.

All in all McMaster has done South Carolina proud with his leadership during our COVID-19 ordeal.

And it’s not too early at all for South Carolinians to acknowledge as much.

This story was originally published May 19, 2020 at 10:00 AM.