Haley: 'Hundreds' Interested in Senate Seate

CHARLESTON — Gov. Nikki Haley has heard from a throng of individuals who think they'd be right to fill the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Jim DeMint.

"There are hundreds of people that have shown us that they want that position," said Haley while speaking at a jobs announcement in Charleston on Tuesday. "There are qualified people out there in South Carolina."

Haley said the names floated in the media this week represent qualified candidates, and that she's been presented "lists and lists" of people who want the job. Read more about potential replacements.

Though U.S. Rep. Tim Scott, R-Charleston, is on the top of most lists, Haley said she did not meet with the congressman while in his hometown on Tuesday. And she says the seat has not been promised to anyone, including Scott.

"I think Congressman Scott will make a great candidate," Haley said. "I know there were some names mentioned today. All of those people would make great Senate candidates, but this is a process ... and this process takes time."

Haley wasn't specific on a timeline, but she said she'd name someone "sooner rather than later." And that any replacement would need background checks to ensure their ability to serve.