The Charleston City Paper’s Greg Hambrick: “Barrett is right at home discussing his vision for growing business in South Carolina, including Charleston and its port. And it appears he’s got the energy to get GOP voters excited about it, too.” (Greg Hambrick, “GOP Debate First Look: Winners, Losers,” The Charleston City Paper, 1/29/2010)

Voting Under the Influence’s R. Brian McCarty: “Congressman Gresham Barrett improved his performance greatly since the Newberry debate last year. …Barrett talked about job creation and about cooperating with the legislature the way the late Carroll Campbell did… Barrett’s performance was refreshing… VUI thinks Barrett won the debate and his line, “it’s your question, but my answer,” to an interrupting Scarborough was the most memorable line of the night.” (R. Brian McCarty, “Is SCGOP gubernatorial debate a preview of the primary,” Voting Under the Influence Blog, 1/29/2010)

College of Charleston Political Science Professor Dr. Jeri Cabot: “I thought they all performed well… But I think Gresham Barrett really talked about cooperating and collaborating with the Legislature which is the difference that I think Republicans are looking for now.” (WCBD’s “Nightly News,” 1/29/2010)

Barry Wynn, Barrett for Governor Campaign Finance Chairman: “Lots of candidates theorize about how we can create jobs but, after tonight’s debate it is clear that Gresham Barrett is the only one with a detailed plan to actually make it happen. He continues to set himself apart from the pack by offering real solutions – not just rhetoric – to the challenges facing South Carolina’s hard-working families.” (Barry Wynn, “Statement from Barrett Campaign Finance Chair,” 1/28/2010)