Colbert Denied Ballot Access

Sad news for my friends and readers in South Carolina:

Reuters is reporting that Steven Colbert has lost his bid to appear on the Democratic Party presidential primary ballot in the Palmetto State. The state party's executive committee voted 13-3 to reject his application and refund his $2,500 application fee.

As for his appearance on the Republican ticket.... It's a no-go as well. During last night's broadcast of the Colbert Report, he informed viewers that he had decided against filing the necessary paperwork for the GOP ballot because of the excessive fee, saying, "There's no way I'm giving $35,000 to the Republicans!"

Well, it was fun while it lasted Mr. Colbert!

My question? Why does the Republican Party of South Carolina require a $35,000 fee to run for office, while the Dems only charge $2,500?

UPDATE (10:55pm): Colbert just confirmed the Dems decision on tonight's show. So, one more question.... Can anybody say write-in candidacy?

Tags: 2008; comedy; Stephen Colbert; president; South Carolina