While a spokesperson for the governor told local news outlet WCIV that McMaster “has been making this joke at GOP conventions for years, and everyday South Carolinians understand that it’s a joke," Democratic officials in the state are demanding an apology and denunciation of political violence.

In Anderson and Charleston counties, the DNC chapters have started a petition demanding an apology from McMaster, and calling for an investigation into his conduct if he refuses.

"If the Governor is not willing to apologize and retract this racially-tinged dog whistle, Anderson County Democrats join the Charleston County Democratic Party in asking the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) to open an investigation into this threat and incitement of political violence," it reads. "The Democratic Party stands for a SC where no one is above the law and expects the same of SLED and our Governor."

In his condemnation of McMaster, chairman Harrison focused in on the racially charged implications of the comment, noting: "Given the sordid history of people being hunted down in the South, you would think a Governor in ‘23 would know better.. right?"

"This is today’s GOP folks. This ain’t shocking. It simply illustrates who we are dealing with as we fight to protect our Democracy," he continued. "Bottomline... Don’t agonize. Educate, register, mobilize, protect, and then vote them out!"