Who knew Sen. Jim DeMint had a background in education?

Actually, he doesn't. Senator DeMint's background is in market research, and its applications in politics. In fact, he entered politics as an early campaign consultant to former U.S. Rep. Bob Inglis of Greenville, when moderate conservatism was still considered mainstream politics.

But things change; the moderate Inglis was pushed aside in a contentious primary last year with a little aid from his old friend, and the Cato Institute now declares DeMint an expert on education issues.

To wit, DeMint is to thank for South Carolina's latest initiative to establish private school vouchers -- or, to use the vernacular of those who would mesmerize voters: "choice" and "education tax credits."

But the pea is still under the far-right shell: Any attempt to divert public dollars from public education and use them to pay for private schooling is a voucher, AND it's illegal under Article XI, Section 4 of South Carolina's current Constitution.

SECTION 4. Direct aid to religious or other private educational institutions prohibited.

No money shall be paid from public funds nor shall the credit of the State or any of its political subdivisions be used for the direct benefit of any religious or other private educational institution. (1972 (57) 3193; 1973 (58) 44.)

Check it out for yourself.