Despite Governor's Snub, Moore Pledges More To USC

The largest donor in University of South Carolina history today told students she will not "take her checkbook and go home," even though she's been ousted from the school's board. Long-time USC trustee Darla Moore was abruptly removed by Governor Nikki Haley and replaced with Lexington attorney who donated $4,500 to Haley's campaign. The move sparked surprise and outrage in the education community. Moore has pledged $70 million to USC and announced today she will give $5 million more to create an aerospace center. "Neither you nor I need to be on the board of trustees to make this happen," Moore told USC students at a press conference Thursday. "We need simply to hold our leaders accountable - tell them we understand they may not help us - but we demand they not hurt us." Moore challenged the state of South Carolina to match her $5 million gift. A spokesman for Governor Haley says Moore's gift is generous, but matching it with state funds is premature in the face of a significant budget shortfall. Moore is the most high profile of several dozen state board and commission appointees the governor has ousted in recent weeks. Many of the replacements are Haley campaign donors and political allies. Moore was appointed to the USC board by a Democratic governor, but reappointed by Republican Mark Sanford.