Gov Haley Promises Independent, Solid Financial Affairs For SC

South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley today tried to distance her state from the debt-ceiling standoff in Washington. She spoke at a financial summit organized to convince influential analysts from Moody's not to downgrade South Carolina's debt rating. "There is an absolute stark contrast between our financial condition in South Carolina and where the federal government's going," said Haley. "While they continue to go into somewhat of chaos, we are going to continue to become more independent and solid in the way we conduct our affairs." South Carolina is one of four states that Moody's has warned could have its credit rating cut if the U.S. defaults on its debt. Haley told Moody's analysts at today's summit in Columbia her goal in 2012 is to have the most stable state finances ever. Comptroller General Richard Eckstrom said South Carolina finished the current fiscal year with a surplus, but there are continuing worries about covering the state's growing commitment to Medicaid and state employee retirement.