Ralph Norman, after losing a poorly-run Congressional challenge to Fifth District Democrat John Spratt, is looking to return to the State House in an upcoming special election in York County.

During his one-term stint in the House, Norman earned his RINO status with self-serving stunts like using his position to have state tax dollars spent for personal gain:

The state Transportation Department and Rock Hill planned to spend $1.5 million landscaping an interchange at Interstate 77 and Dave Lyle Boulevard.

But state Representative Ralph Norman of Rock Hill says he wants the money redirected to other interchanges in his House district. Norman said last week he would lobby to have the work abandoned unless Rock Hill leaders change how they plan to spend the money.

Norman has said he opposes the city's landscaping plan because it would leave about a quarter of the trees there standing. He says more trees should be cut so drivers and potential shoppers can get a clearer view of businesses as they drive by. That includes property his developed and 15 acres of prime property near the intersection.

Norman says there is no conflict of interest and he is standing up for taxpayers.

But his involvement has Rock Hill leaders questioning if Norman is using his political influence in a way that would affect a decision involving his development company.