Join Host Bill Macchio for an engaging conversation with former South Carolina Senator Ernie Passailaigue as they delve into his impactful tenure in the SC Senate and his deep connection to the Palmetto State. Senator Passailaigue offers firsthand insights into the inner workings of South Carolina's legislative landscape, sharing stories and perspectives gained during his time in office.

The discussion then turns to the fascinating history of the South Carolina Education Lottery. Senator Passailaigue recounts his pivotal involvement in its formation, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the process. He shares the compelling story of how he came to serve as the Executive Director, shedding light on the lottery's early days and its evolution. Crucially, he clarifies exactly how the funds generated by the South Carolina Education Lottery are allocated and utilized to benefit education across the state.

Beyond his statewide contributions, Senator Passailaigue also reflects on the remarkable growth and transformation of the Isle of Palms into the beloved destination it is today. Having witnessed this evolution firsthand, he shares personal anecdotes and observations about the factors that shaped the island's unique character.

Throughout the conversation, the value of family and the cherished lifestyle of the Isle of Palms naturally weave into the narrative, offering a glimpse into the personal connections that underpin Senator Passailaigue's life and work. Tune in for a rich and insightful discussion that spans South Carolina's legislative history, the intricacies of its education lottery, the story behind the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, and the captivating story of a coastal community's development.

Retired U.S. Congressman Thomas 'Tommy' Hartnett sits down with Bill Macchio to discuss his remarkable political career, from South Carolina to the U.S. Congress. Beyond the stories, Hartnett leaves viewers with a compelling personal message at the end, a direct appeal to our community.

In the 1960s in South Carolina, as well as other Southern states, more conservative Democrats were known as Blue Dog Democrats. The Blue Dogs could not remain part of the Democratic Party, which at that time had shifted far left.

George McGovern was seeking to run for the Democratic Party nomination with a proposal to establish a national minimum income that would not require people to work. Hartnett says that at that time the idea was very liberal, and McGovern's platform wasn't one that Hartnett felt he could support. Since he didn't feel he could stay true to himself and his values as a Democrat, he left the party with no plans for what would come next.

After Hartnett left the Democratic Party, Republicans asked to meet with him and suggested he run for the South Carolina State Senate as a Republican. He agreed and was elected to South Carolina's State Senate in 1972, serving until 1981 for two terms.

Later, in 1981, Hartnett became a Republican Congressman in the U.S. House of Representatives, serving until 1987.

Hartnett also shares personal stories during this captivating episode, including controversial, interesting, and humorous ones.

Hear fascinating stories from the life of former Congressman Tommy Hartnett on the latest episode of the Isle of Palms Podcast. Bill Macchio chats with Tommy, discussing his love for the Isle of Palms, his first job with J.C. Long, his first date with his wife Bonnie, and their first island home.