McLeod was arrested in May for disorderly conduct and is seen on video ranting in the back of a patrol car, claiming to be 'Superman' and 'God'.
The South Carolina Democratic Party has urged McLeod to reconsider his candidacy following the release of the footage.
McLeod is an injury attorney and founder of the McLeod Law Group in Charleston.
McLeod says the arrest was unlawful and that portions of the dashcam video were released to damage his campaign.
McLeod has made it clear he is not backing out of the race, scheduling a press conference to address the incident.
Why this matters: The emergence of this video just as McLeod launched his campaign raises questions about his fitness for office and has already created a significant distraction. It highlights the intense scrutiny that candidates face in the digital age, where past incidents can quickly resurface and impact their political aspirations.
The bodycam footage shows McLeod, semi-naked and sweating, engaging in a 35-minute tirade after being charged with disorderly conduct. He refuses to provide his name, instead declaring himself 'Superman' and later 'God.' During the rant, McLeod threatens Republican Attorney General Alan Wilson and makes bizarre references to Rep. Nancy Mace and former President Donald Trump.
McLeod's behavior was described by police as consistent with someone under the influence of a stimulant narcotic. He also refused to exit the patrol car upon arriving at the jail and reportedly kicked another prisoner during intake.
At a bond hearing, McLeod’s lawyer attributed his behavior to a mental health episode and exhaustion. Despite the controversy, McLeod insists that the arrest was unlawful and that the video was released to sabotage his campaign.
Q: Why is William McLeod in the news?
Bodycam footage of his arrest in May, where he makes bizarre claims and threats, has surfaced shortly after he announced his candidacy for South Carolina governor.
Q: What charges does McLeod face?
He was charged with disorderly conduct following an incident in Charleston.
Q: What has been the response to the video?
The South Carolina Democratic Party has called on McLeod to drop out of the race.
McLeod's campaign is facing a significant challenge due to the release of the bodycam footage.
The incident raises questions about McLeod's mental and emotional well-being.
The South Carolina Democratic Party is distancing itself from McLeod's campaign.
McLeod insists the arrest was unlawful and is continuing his campaign.
Do you think this incident will impact McLeod's chances of winning the election? Let us know in the comments!
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