Republicans vying for Congressman Henry Brown’s first congressional seat have one less threat to face as a once possible Democratic contender says she will not run. In 2008, Charleston businesswoman and philanthropist Linda Ketner gave First District Congressman Henry Brown a run for his money. Although she came close to winning the seat, now that Brown has announced his retirement, Ketner says she will not run again.

Ketner told The Post and Courier “Personally and professionally, 2010 is not the time for me to mount a campaign.” Ketner has not endorsed a candidate at this point, but has respect for Democrat Col. Robert Burton, who she worked with on affordable housing initiatives. Besides Burton, Robert Dobbs of Georgetown and Dick Withington of Horry are the other Democrats running. Three Republicans have their eyes on the race as well.

Third District Congressman Gresham Barrett has introduced the “Stop Terrorists Entry Program” or STEP Act. It would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to bar admission of aliens into the U.S. from countries that have strong ties to terrorist regimes. It would also bar admission by detainees who were housed in the Guantanamo Bay facility.

The U.S. State Department has identified Cuba, Iran, the Sudan and Syria as sponsors of terrorism. In addition, Barrett has added Yemen to the list due to reports of increased levels of terrorist activities there.

Barrett says the idea is just the safety of American citizens.  “All we’re saying is, if the State Department says these are bad players, and we’re adding Yemen, then you can’t come into the country,” he says.  “Now you can work your way off the list if you do the right thing and police your action up.” [Read more...]