SC Democrats Block Colbert Ballot Bid

Presidential candidate and right-wing fun-dit Stephen Colbert barely (bert-ly?) met today's noon deadline to file his ballot application for the South Carolina Democratic Primary, according to this AP story. Party officials have now decided not to place Colbert on the ballot, stating that he does not meet the standard of national viability, according to a report on CNN.com.

Colbert announced on his show last night that he would not seek the Republican nomination in South Carolina, citing the GOP's $35,000.00 filing fee, citing Federal Election Commission regulations and a fee that exceeeded the cost "...of my own black market liver." . With South Carolina's devastating announcement, Colbert's candidacy appears to be over.

Colbert was weathering serious criticism, the L.A. Times points out, as political consultants and media insiders wondered if Colbert would draw votes from "real candidates", a sort of "Nader Effect," only with meaningful numbers. The world may never know now. While Colbert's campaign had come under close legal scrutiny, the now-former candidate provided sound legal rationale on his show every step of the way. Even though Colbert's candidacy seems to have flamed out, it's exposure of serious flaws in our election laws will continue to shape next year's presidential contest.

In another LA Times story, Colbert's possible impact was downplayed by Democratic political consultant Bill Carrick, who questioned the poll's methodology:

"That [kind of polling] is a perfect way for someone to lodge a small protest against conventional politics, and so it's not surprising it would register a higher than normal number for Colbert," said Carrick. "It's just punching a number and saying you'll vote for somebody."

This just in, according to ABC News, Colbert will, I repeat, will be refunded his $2500.00 application fee. Cold comfort, but it will allow Colbert to seek solace in as many bags of delicious nacho cheese snacks as he desires.

Update: This story from MTV.com has comment on the decision from Democratic Committee member Gilda Cobb-Hunter, who supported Colbert's bid for ballot inclusion:

"I was looking forward to seeing if [Colbert's participation] would increase participation by young people," Cobb-Hunter added. "We'll never know now." She described Thursday's debate by the Executive Council of the Democratic Party Executive Committee as "vigorous," spearheaded by a "well-organized" group of 13 that she said seemed determined to keep Colbert off the ballot. "I would love to see that kind of energy put toward party building - they were ginned up," she said, adding jokingly, "[Like,] 'We have to save the state from Stephen Colbert!' Which I think is hilarious."

Go to Colbert Nation to see reaction from Stephen's supporters.

In the days to come, there are sure to be aftershocks from this stunning turn of events, but for now, a wounded Colbert Nation can only mourn. Stephen Junior and Stephanie Colbertle the Turtle have not released any statements, but this is a private time, so I would urge media restraint in this area Just know that they, and Stephen, would want you all to stay WristStrong in this time of crisis.

You can check out The Political Machine's own thorough coverage of Colbert's ill-fated candidacy here.

Update: The AP stole my headline! Stay tuned for updates when The Colbert Report airs tonight.