July 1, 2009
Posted: July 1st, 2009 12:02 PM ET

From
 A total of 14 GOP South Carolina state senators have called for Mark Sanford’s resignation.
A total of 14 GOP South Carolina state senators have called for Mark Sanford’s resignation.

COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA (CNN) - The resignation drumbeat continued in South Carolina on Wednesday, where GOP state senators continued to call for Gov. Mark Sanford to step down.

CNN has learned GOP Senators Daniel Verdin, Shane Martin and Wes Hayes joined the anti-Sanford chorus on Wednesday morning, bringing the total number of Republican senators calling for the governor's resignation to 12. (Update: GOP state senator Ronnie Cromer and Senate President Pro Tempore Glenn McConnell also called for Sanford's resignation Wednesday afternoon, bringing the total to 14.) There are 27 Republicans in the state senate.

Sanford's support among legislators and grassroots leaders in the state eroded considerably on Tuesday after Sanford told the Associated Press he had met with his mistress more times than he had previously disclosed. He also admitted to dalliances with other women.

At least four county GOP chairman have also called for Sanford to go.

Glenn McCall, the York County Republican party chair who has been leading a grassroots effort against the governor, said Wednesday that he and other conservative activists are now postponing a planned rally at the State House next week because legislators are starting to come out strongly against Sanford.

The rally had been scheduled to pressure Senate and House leaders to call for Sanford's resignation and start an investigation into his activities. But now that officials are publicly coming out against the governor and Attorney General Henry McMaster has begun a probe into Sanford's travel records, McCall said the rally may not be necessary.

"We are hoping that legislators can quietly, in private talks with the governor, ask him if he would please step down," McCall said.

Late Tuesday, seven senators, including Majority Leader Harvey Peeler, jointly issued a letter demanding that the governor step down because he has lost the trust of South Carolinians.

"The bottom line is that the Governor's private matters should remain private, but his deception and negligence make it impossible for us to trust him, and for him to govern in the future," they wrote.

Peeler told CNN that Sanford "has lost his ability to lead and I'm afraid he has lost his ability to function as a man."

"He is sitting all alone in that big governor's mansion, totally alone," Peeler said. "It's about leadership and moving forward and it's time for him to resign."

Peeler issued the statement along with Leatherman, Paul Campbell, Thomas Alexander, Jake Knotts, Larry Martin and William O'Dell.

Earlier Tuesday, two of Sanford's top conservative allies in the senate - Larry Grooms and Kevin Bryant - also said Sanford must go.

The Greenville News, one of the largest papers in South Carolina, also issued a sharply-worded editorial Wednesday telling Sanford to go. They wrote that Sanford has "acted like a heart-sick school boy, and he's revealed facts that clearly demonstrate he is capable of exceptional deception, arrogance and narcissism."

UPDATE: South Carolina’s Democrats also called for Sanford’s resignation Wednesday. "While I believe an investigation should still be done to determine the full extent of Mark Sanford's abuse of power, (through) his long stream of confessions he has already revealed enough immoral and reprehensible behavior to justify asking him to step (down),” state Democratic Party chair Carol Fowler said in a statement. “State officials seem unable to do anything except worry and talk about Governor Sanford's extramarital affair, which we learn more about every few hours.

“... South Carolina can't afford to be at a standstill for the next 18 months with a governor who ignores his job responsibilities while pursuing personal interests. Any other worker in South Carolina would be fired for not showing up at work with no notice."

Filed under: Mark Sanford • South Carolina


Nsikan Jacob   July 1st, 2009 3:00 pm ET

Mr Sanford, you are closer to Sampson than David. You are not smart cheating on your wife! Resign, leave town now.

John KM   July 1st, 2009 2:56 pm ET

"I think what he did in this matter was reprehensible... I feel very comfortable with my vote." - Mark Sanford on his vote for impeaching Clinton

Obama 2.0   July 1st, 2009 2:56 pm ET

You are sooooo Fired!

Nsikan Jacob   July 1st, 2009 2:53 pm ET

Hey! Are you guys still questioning why Mr Sanford is comparing his actions to that of king David? He even went a step further than David – he was escorted by his spiritual adviser to commit adultery with his sold mate, a dear dear friend. This is what happens when you follow someone to church from birth and not find God for yourself. He cannot breakup with Maria. His wife and family lost him long time ago. He is bold and can find passages in the bible to support his actions. He is dead in sin. He will only repent when sin cost him all that he now has.

Christie, MN   July 1st, 2009 2:50 pm ET

If I had a dime for all the men who feel a "spark" and act on it, I would be rich.

The same men go back to their grown children in 15 or 20 years and beg for their forgiveness. Someday Sanford is going to want to be there for his sons and grandchildren and hopefully his kids will know that the honorable parent was their mom, and not the father who abandoned them on Father's Day.

John M in NoHo CA   July 1st, 2009 2:47 pm ET

People want blood for a personal sex life but not for outing an active covert CIA agent for partisan vengeance. Which one was abuse of the elected office? Let's keep our eyes on the ball, people.

Bubba   July 1st, 2009 2:47 pm ET

Callahan, pretty obviously he's "right with God." Look at him grinning away; he's found his "soul mate." What we'd all like to know is the identity of the "religious advisor" who went to NYC with him on his next-to-last date with Soul Woman. Will that person please step up and bear witness before God?

Yeah, didn't think so.

Janice in Mississippi   July 1st, 2009 2:46 pm ET

Politicians are elected by the people; therefore, they work for the people. What they do in private affects what they do in their jobs as politicians. Any form of deception leads to other forms of deceptions.

First, Sanford proved his deception by calling a press conference and "confessing" the truth about why he abandoned his family and his governorship leading up to and after the last Father's Day weekend.

Second, he speaks at another press conference stating he has had several other indiscretions with women. More deception.

Sanford needs to resign.

Peter E   July 1st, 2009 2:44 pm ET

If Sanford just admitted to the affair honestly from the beginning, this whole news would have gone away in days. It is, afterall, an issue for him and his family to resolve. It isn't anybody else's business. But he just keeps changing his story every day. Doesn't he remember Clinton, when the GOP, Sanford included, was calling on Clinton's resignation using the excuse of the president having lied about his personal life. Did Sanford think he'd be treated different? People will also use the excuse of the lies to crucify him! Aren't politicians supposed to know history? Especially history they lived through?

Blow Hard wanting attention.   July 1st, 2009 2:44 pm ET

Gov. Sanford.
Give up and go back to your South American love. It is over for you and your S.C. family. You may try to regain your old affection you and your wife once had but, it will never work. She has hardened her self to you and who can blame her. So just do yourself a favor and IF your latin lady will have you, say goodbye to all of us who are tired of hearing you blabber about all this, and just go enjoy the rest of your life in where ever land...

Limbaugh is a liberal   July 1st, 2009 2:40 pm ET

Such is the republican party, looking for scapegoats even amongst themselves as an excuse to cover up their own failings. The GOP is full of moral hypocrites, which would be less important if at least they could govern or have any ideas of their own. But all they ever do is hypocritically grandstand, whine, repeat Rush Limbaugh's talking points, and at th end of the day slap together a 16 page outline with NO NUMBERS and call it an 'alternative' budget plan. Or a 3 page outline with no cost estimates, and 80% copied from the democrats, and call it a 'health care plan.' Do they still wonder why nobody listens to them? If they want to make a difference they'd better take their jobs more seriously than they are doing now!

Reality Check   July 1st, 2009 2:39 pm ET

I am a Dem – but come on people, look at how many people cheat, do you think they should resign because they did? School teachers, Principles, Preachers, CEOs, Doctors..come on – you all need to grow up – he is HUMAN and will make mistakes. I dont think him having a fling has anything to do with the state of SC – almost every state is having financial difficulty brought on by Wall Street.

P-51 Driver   July 1st, 2009 2:38 pm ET

Sanford / Palin 2012.....What a team...

johnnie   July 1st, 2009 2:38 pm ET

he should crow with the rosters,and cluck with ducks, and moo with the cows,and yell like the republican party does all day long, he must go back to argentina and cry for himself. for real he should resign 2 day.

Peter E   July 1st, 2009 2:36 pm ET

If I were the media, I'd start looking into all these critics' own lives now. In the recent past the loudest critic always turned out to be the biggest moral hypocrite, with the next juicy scandal!

Luke Brown   July 1st, 2009 2:31 pm ET

King David Sanford has made South Carolina a laughing stock. Why does he he stay on? To work on economic problems of the state? That is a joke as well.

He has no plan for health care, even though his state has the highest rates of death due to preventable diseases.

He has no plan for education, even though the schools in his state are among the worst in the country.

He has no economic recovery plan, even though unemployment in his state is the second highest in the country.

Oh, yeah, I forgot. The Luv Gov does have a plan... refuse to take $700 million in stimulus money because it will make South Carolina worse off.

Ignore it all   July 1st, 2009 2:31 pm ET

The Governor is in his last 18 months of his last term and he should ride it out and just close his ears to the drumbeat of political hacks. What are they going to do – impeach him for boinking a foreigner? Have the US Congress would have to resign in shame, along with 1 out of very 4 Presidents since Washington.

Alfred E. Neumann   July 1st, 2009 2:22 pm ET

Mark, you tell them that your personal mess is none of their business.

As far as I know your a dirtbag but that's not against the law in South Carolina.

sam   July 1st, 2009 2:19 pm ET

Adultry is illegal in SC......press charges

Matt   July 1st, 2009 2:18 pm ET

I would like to thank Sanford and Ensign; not to mention, in no particular order, Gingrich, Craig, Foley, Haggart, Swaggart, and many more..With our wonderful Republican leaders advocating morals and family values, I can lead the most destructive, irresponsible, and hypocritical life without feeling the least bit remorseful.

Indiana-Independent   July 1st, 2009 2:16 pm ET

July 1st, 2009 12:12 pm ET

Put the drum down….the Lord is not calling for him to leave.
He must put his house in order with his family, and then bring Glory to God in this healing. You need to get one of your polls going… because frankly..it's not his time to go.

Wow... Seriously?

Tony from Michigan   July 1st, 2009 2:15 pm ET

Please .....Please stay!!!! Gov. Sanford along with Sen Ensign and Sen Vitter to name just a few are great examples of the GOP that will remind everyone everyday of their high moral standing.

carlos   July 1st, 2009 2:11 pm ET

didn't the repugnants shout DRILL BABY DRILL BABY....well, as a good reptile he did but he went to the wrong place to do it.....pathetic to say the least

Independent Voter   July 1st, 2009 2:05 pm ET

When you resign, would you please take John King with you over to Fox News where he belongs. We need unbiased reporting on CNN.

And another thing, Governor, you are one of the biggest hypocrits around. Do as you say and not as you do; is that right?

KJL   July 1st, 2009 2:04 pm ET

He should quit. Everybody wins. South Carolina will no longer have to search ladies' bedrooms in foreign counties when they need their governor, and Sanford can work on his book, which is no doubt yet another revision of the bible.

Don   July 1st, 2009 2:01 pm ET

To bad they didn't demand the resignation of Bill Clinton and Ted Kennedy. Oh I forgot the liberals think its ok to cheat and murder and get away with it. I think maybe they could possibly call it just another day at the office?

SHIRLEY SDL   July 1st, 2009 2:00 pm ET

I feel that there is something deeply disturbing about Sandord and his wife. I felt the same way about Blagoveich and his wife.

vs   July 1st, 2009 1:59 pm ET

Can Sanford & Son reverse the Bloomberg / MTA fare increase ?!

Jefe   July 1st, 2009 1:55 pm ET

Coming from Illinois, I feel for the people of South Carolina. Its no fun having a complete and total dirt-bag as governor.

I think people downplay the role of local government too much. While the reach may not be as far and the decisions not as grand as government becomes more local, it is counterbalanced by the fact of their decisions impacting the people of their jurisdiction more directly than at higher levels of government.

We should all be putting much more thought and effort into choosing our state and local elected officials.

franco   July 1st, 2009 1:53 pm ET

Any of you liberals c lled for Clinton resignation when he was having sex with the fat intern? Perhaps not so egregious as to go AWOL in Argentina, but surely to have sex int he peoples house, the White House. I mean, how inconsiderate to have sex in a House where I, as an American tax payer and citizen, have a vested interest in? And how about hypocracy? Granted, I agree with you that Sanford reeks with hypocracy, but so did Clinton. Not many folks would walk out of a church with thick Bible under their arms, then escape to the WH for some afternoon delight!

Educate yourselves before you open your mouth and just let the words fall out   July 1st, 2009 1:51 pm ET

I can tell you what I'd do if my husband (assuming I had one) said to the whole country, "Maria's my soul-mate, but I'm going to try to fall back in love with my wife". I'd kick his behind to the curb . . . . HARD!

The lack of decency this man displays in humiliating his family in front of the whole country over and over is simple beyond belief!

DW in California   July 1st, 2009 1:44 pm ET

The world is in chaos, Iran, Iraq, hunger in the third world, threats of nuclear attacks from North Korea. I thank Mark Sanford for providing comic relief. Truly I enjoyed a hearty laugh. Mr. Sanford should step down, because he is not performing his job as his state's top leader. His personal life is disgraceful, if his soulmate will have him, he should head for Argentina, and leave the rest of us alone. I have always supported Democratic candidates, but will never understand why the American people, democrats in particular and Hillary Clinton so readily gave Bill Clinton a pass. Hillary needed to hang in there to get where she is today, but I have no respect for her or her "soul mate."

Ted   July 1st, 2009 1:42 pm ET

Will Sanford just resign and then get a one way ticket to Argentina to be with sparky? This guy is a disaster.

Maybe he needs a call from Rush Limbaugh or Michael STeele, the leaders of the GOP. Can someone have them tell this clown to step down and go away?

I continue to feel bad for his wife and kids. Of course Sanford doesn't.

Randi L.   July 1st, 2009 1:41 pm ET

The people of South Carolina should not deny Sanford the ability to be with his Argentinian soulmate. They should release him from his gubernatorial obligations, and his wife should release him from his marital obligations – while taking him for every penny he's worth, and then Sanford can just disappear in Argentina until he meets his next soulmate.

Fair is Fair   July 1st, 2009 1:38 pm ET

It's the people of South Carolina who need to take this up.

If they want him out, they should make it known to their state legislators. They're the ones who will need to take up articles of impeachment.

FORMER SC RESIDENT   July 1st, 2009 1:36 pm ET

R. in Maine.... wrote
What does he have to do to be thrown out? What part of the South Carolina population does he represent. Has South Carolina no sense of
shame or honor? It is disgusting.

Well – remember SC was the first state to declare succession and is 49th in education and almost first place in unemployment. Thus validating why that state needed the stimulus money to get some books, computers and better qualified teachers to educate the kids.

FORMER SC RESIDENT   July 1st, 2009 1:31 pm ET

Here is the problem of comparing yourself to a bibical character – David.....you should have looked further back in the book of Genesis and choosen Joseph before you engaged in this crazy affair.... Joseph clearly stated to Pottifer's wife... I will not lay with you for fear of offending God. So many times people want to compare themselves to bible characters after the fact instead of using the examples before the fact.

Just leave office and save the rest of the country your poor excuses, tears, and shameful display that truly is anembarrassment to your Sons!!!!

Claudia in Houson   July 1st, 2009 1:26 pm ET

After hearing Sanford drolling about his love affair and dalliances with others I believe he wants out. It's like he's saying since you haven't fired me yet maybe if I tell you everything then you'll fire me and hopefully in the process my wife will divorce me and I can now move on with my mistress. What is it going to take for S.C. to recognize they need to "free" Sanford he makes a total fool out of the GOP.

Lowell   July 1st, 2009 1:26 pm ET

Drumbeat?

No need to beat the drum slowly or play the fife lowly. He left work without calling in, he went out of town without letting his bosses know, he was having an affair on 'company' time - Forget resigning. Fire him. There are more than enough justifiable grounds to do so.

SC resident   July 1st, 2009 1:26 pm ET

Another GOP hypocrite. He doesn't have money to help the poor or education, but has enough to spend for personal pleasure.

I am embarrassed to be represented by this governor....please leave.

Nelson Colorado Springs Co.   July 1st, 2009 1:25 pm ET

Don't do it , don't do it, as long as Gov. Mark Sanford didn't charge his trip to the state of South Carolina what is the problem. This is a private matter. Who is without sin cast the first stone.

Scott in Atlanta   July 1st, 2009 1:24 pm ET

In the words of little Ray, on Jerry Mcguire, "Just go. Go ahead and go..." Senator!

Hugo   July 1st, 2009 1:18 pm ET

Wait a minute, how soon we forget. I recall president Clinton being caught in not one but a multitude of misadventurous acts of infidelity and questionable fraudulent acts. He remained our commander in thief throughout his term, why would this be any different and actually why would it even come near to anything of what we saw. I am more concerned about the other corrupt behavior in our government. You know, giving our tax dollars away for fraudulent pork projects, aka stimulus. Or how about 8 billion taxpayers dollars open for ACORN and its affiliate non-profit organizations to bilk. Or the fraud under which healthcare reform and cap and trade are being pushed down our throats. Governor Sanford has to look at himself and his four boys everyday, he knows what he is inside and if he has a soul left after being a politician then that is the real punishment for his bad behavior.

RUTY   July 1st, 2009 1:16 pm ET

Throw the Bum out. NOW.

LacrosseMom   July 1st, 2009 1:14 pm ET

WHY hasn't the S.C. legislature started impeachment? IF Sanford had walked off his job for 5 days in the corporate or 'regular' world he would have already been fired!

Give the people what they want   July 1st, 2009 1:13 pm ET

As usual, the GOP and republicans are too late and always try to wait and see what the others are gonna do. They are quick to throw you under the bus, if you are making their party appear low class. Rush Limbaugh hasn't said a thing because he knew he might have egg on his face if commented.

Honest Independent   July 1st, 2009 1:12 pm ET

Sanford should resign for using state funds for a fling. Why is this sight focusing so much on Sanford while Obama is trying to pass cap and trade and the health bill? Cap and trade will lose 2.2 jobs for every job created and increase utility bills up to 25%.

wendy   July 1st, 2009 1:11 pm ET

That's sooooo predictable!!!!! It was O.K. when the Republicans thought he only had a one year affair with one woman. But now that he has admitted to other indiscretions going back years ago we suddenly learn that there are 12 Republicans on board asking for his resignation. This is an important lesson for the rest of the country to know how much hypocrisy the Republican party of South Carolina will accept and how much is too much. End Don't Ask, Don't Tell immediatley. The law abiding and monogamous citizens of this country are tired of this institutionalized discrimination at the blessing of our so called leaders on both sides of the very sticky isles.

IKE in Atlanta   July 1st, 2009 1:09 pm ET

Mr Sanford should not only resign, he should also be divorced. This is saying it without sentiment. How dare him go away from duty without delegation of duties? and use public money for infidelity. That is enough to get him fired/impeached.
Then he has the nerve to described the person as a 'soul mate'? And he is in love with this person? what happened to his marital vows?
I sympathise with his poor wife who has to endure hearing on the national news that her husband is in love with another woman and is 'trying to get back in love' with her. Ridiculous! How dare him! Is she just an object without feelings? Jusy waiting for the 'mighty Sanford' to come back to her. And he had done this before with other women?
This case has nothing to do with democrat or republican.
the issues are
1. Negligence of duty.
2.Improper use of tax payers money.
3. Abuse of office.
4. Infidelity.
5. Arogance.; hypocrisy.
6. Abuse of oath of office and oath of marriage.
AND MUCH MORE.

Phil   July 1st, 2009 1:09 pm ET

Oh but remember – he's just like David from the Scriptures!!

What a load of bull. And once again the hypocrisy of the Republican party continues to shine through. No party is void of moral leaders, but as this situation (and plenty others) has shown, neither party has the market cornered on morality either.

So, again, I stand here as a devout Christian who has difficulty with those who suggest the only way to vote Christian is Republican. To those folks I ask, 'Really? So voting for those like Mark Sanford is the only MORAL choice?' Don't kid yourselves.

This hypocrite was on the front lines calling for Clinton to step down. Jerk

Repuglicans are Holier than Thou   July 1st, 2009 1:08 pm ET

Sanford is deserving of our compassion and forgiveness. His mistress was not that important because he cheated on his mistress with other women. Can't we all get along by forgiving and forgetting? He just made the mistake of falling in love.

Michael   July 1st, 2009 1:02 pm ET

Yeah, he's lost support of too much of the legislature to be effective. He was a lame duck to begin with, since he's term-limited. He's now a lame duck with two smashed feet. The writing is on the wall. It's time for the Governor to don his reading glasses.

Independent   July 1st, 2009 1:01 pm ET

Difference is, John Edwards was not holding any type of office when he did it...he was wrong to start on a President campaign when he knew this had happen....It has nothing to do with if your are Republican or Democrat...

You do it, you get caught, you pay.....no longer in politics.....

Steve/Boston   July 1st, 2009 1:00 pm ET

I'm no fan of Gov. Sanford, or the Republicans, but it's sad to see a person self-destruct. It's no ones business, nor should the Gov., or anyone else be, or feel compelled to spew about their private lives. Whatever went on is between Sanford and his wife. He has humiliated her, and damaged his children by making his sex life, and "soul mate" so public....not to mention his mistress, her family, and himself.

He ought to have simply said the details are no one's business.

The big issue is his apparent mental instability, his questionable ethics, and his ability to lead himself, or anyone else out of a paper bag.

Aunt Bea and Opie   July 1st, 2009 12:57 pm ET

We want all the bag money hes getting from foreign owned car companies in his state.They love slave labor here,always have, always will.

sms29s   July 1st, 2009 12:55 pm ET

Note to SC legislature: Take a lesson from the Illinois legislature. They figured out how to dump their bad boy pronto.

The Real Slim Shady   July 1st, 2009 12:55 pm ET

The problem with Gov. Sanford is that he does not seem the least bit remorseful about his infidelity. Thus, he is alienating everyone including once ardent supporters, against him. The more Sanford talks about his infidelity, the more his judgement is called into question. Gov. Sanford, clearly, does not seem to be in touch with this side of reality.

Moreover, I am disgusted by the way he romanticizes the affair as if it were possibly the greatest love story ever told. Perhaps he should leave politics alone and dabble in writing Hallmark cards and Harlequin romance novels as he no longer seems suitable for public service.

The one glimmering element in all of this is Jenny Sanford. She is handling a humiliating matter with such dignity and grace that she is actually inspiring.

Wanderer   July 1st, 2009 12:54 pm ET

Forgiveness or punishment is meaningless if sin has not been gotten rid off. Stop committing a particular sin does not guarantee the same person will not commit the same sin. Forgiveness or punishment cannot change the heart and mind. Talking like Jesus or using his words to cover up the sin or get away from punishment is another sin. It is the worst of the worst hypocrisy. Jesus is Jesus, Republican is Republican, GOP is GOP, Democrat is Democrat , and sinner is sinner. Nothing or nobody even God can change a person but himself. Whatever we want to do with Mr. Stanford, he will remain who he is. He is the only one can correct himself. Of course, some people don’t want Mr. Stanford to resign because they don’t want to admit that they are also hypocrites.

Sam   July 1st, 2009 12:51 pm ET

Try to leave your job for 5 days without telling anyone. Then say you had been with your lover. And see what happens.

old white male democrat in WV   July 1st, 2009 12:49 pm ET

Sanford is toast. I hope he reads the writing on the wall and spares SC more anguish. His extramarital "activities" are deplorable but in and of themselves are not sufficient cause for his (unwilling) removal from office. Dereliction of duty and misuse of public funds, if proven, would certainly be. But the practical political question must be whether or not he can still function effectively as SC's governor. I must wonder if that is possible any longer . . . .

Dems: No gloating, please. You'll have your turn to be let down far too soon. No question of if, just when . . . And it's not as if you have any corner on the "virtue" market!
Repubs: The payback for hypocrisy is repudiation. One heckuva payday you're having!

Kenneth Williams   July 1st, 2009 12:48 pm ET

It's unfortunate for my governor to experience such a tragedy as this. However, South Carolina is full of "under the rug" surprises and there's more to come! Stay tuned...

Ken   July 1st, 2009 12:48 pm ET

R in Maine says: " Has South Carolina no sense of shame or honor?"

I think that boat left the dock a very long time ago.

Mary Schilhavy   July 1st, 2009 12:46 pm ET

How can Jenny Sanford reconcile with this man when he is telling the press that he is trying to fall in love with his wife again? He admits that he is in love with his mistress who is his soul mate. He may be honest about this affair but it is terribly hurtful for his wife. I have sympathy for him, but I am much more sympathetic for his wife and children. Mark Sanford is self-destructing his personal and political lives which are his decisions. He seems to have a tin ear about the pain that he has caused his wife and continues to cause her. This is a terribly sad situation for all.

Respect   July 1st, 2009 12:42 pm ET

sarah – I think Sanford should resign but the difference that you are pointing out does not exist. The impeachment trial was for perjury. Clinton lied under oath. This is why the Republican led witch hunt existed.

Operation Crush Rush   July 1st, 2009 12:41 pm ET

Sanford broke state law,period.They have it on the books but they refuse to use it on a republican.

Pragmatic   July 1st, 2009 12:38 pm ET

The problem is that the republicans nominated & elected a Lt. Governor that they don't really like: young, inexperienced behaves oddly at times .... so now they are between a rock and a hard place ...

Thought there was a law on the books against adultery in SC: what happens when you break both SC law and God's Law ... you get a book deal?

Richard L   July 1st, 2009 12:37 pm ET

Sanford should stay in office. He is a shining example of the massive hypocrisy of the family values/moral majority Republican Party.

dj   July 1st, 2009 12:37 pm ET

Please, Governor, stop talking about this. Your blatant attempt for sympathy because you lost the "love of your life" is nauseating to hear. TMI about the whole affair. I wouldn't blame the wife and kids if they never spoke to you again. BTW don't you get that this Maria is just part of your mid-life fantasy? Try getting her to pick up your underwear and do your laundry. I bet she won't be your soulmate for long.

Melissa   July 1st, 2009 12:35 pm ET

Ann...

the issue is NOT the cheating

How many times does that have to be said before it will sink into Republican brains?

This is NOT about him falling in love, either.

This is about him going AWOL and using his destitute state funds to do it.

Independent   July 1st, 2009 12:34 pm ET

Well, if he was my husband and he said, his mistress was his soul mate and he would try to fall in love with me.....it would be SOOOOOOOOO LONG BABY!!!!!!!

I sure wouldn't buy his book either....

The Lord has nothing to do with his actions...

Miriam   July 1st, 2009 12:34 pm ET

Sanford represents the people and at this time he is NOT...therefore, he needs to step down. He is a distraction, with values that does NOT represent the people who voted for him.

sarah   July 1st, 2009 12:31 pm ET

It is so strange how the obvious conservatives on this post are completely and conveniently overlooking his 5 day abandonment of the state and are only focusing on the sexual affair as justification for him to stay in office. They keep asking why Bill Clinton didn't resign. It wasn't because the Republicans didn't try to make him resign. The Republican led house of representatives did impeach him at the time. He never abandoned the state. If you can't clearly see the difference between the two equally reprehensible, but different acts of magnanimous hypocrisy then you need a few more brain cells.

Jon Krieger   July 1st, 2009 12:31 pm ET

Whether you're republican or democrat,we can all agree that this guy needs to go!He should step down and take care of his family!

coach   July 1st, 2009 12:31 pm ET

No state should tolerate a Senator that abandons his/her post.

Jamie from Riverside   July 1st, 2009 12:30 pm ET

Bye, Bye!

WhoCares?   July 1st, 2009 12:28 pm ET

God just must hate humanity....and this clown's statements are a reason why.

I can't imagine he enjoys being used as a political tool.

bob f   July 1st, 2009 12:26 pm ET

Wow. I'm shocked. Normally they just cry into the camera and say they're sorry, ask for forgiveness, and get a book deal. Oh, I forgot, that's happening now. Sorry.

Steve (the real one)   July 1st, 2009 12:24 pm ET

Sanford cannot properly lead and the distractions are too great. Time to do the right thing! Time to put the people first! I said before, we have politicians and few, if any statesmen (including National leadership)!

Diana Potter   July 1st, 2009 12:24 pm ET

Gov. Sanford is first, and very likely entirely, in love with himself. The crying, the excessive details about this affair and other women, the sobstory "tragedy "of it all are just sickening. And let's not forget the apologies–he's SO sorry, so sorry, so sorry. He's sorry, all right, a sorry excuse for a man and husband. Imagine telling the world that his Argentine amour is his soul mate, but he's trying to fall in love again with his wife! There are too many offenses to list in that statement alone. Then there's God. How can a man make so many self-serving references to his religious beliefs in connection with so many violations of those beliefs? Finally, leaving the state unattended for nearly a week is completely irresponsible. Go, Gov. Sanford, and take your bodice-ripper rhetoric with you.

DawnL,CA   July 1st, 2009 12:24 pm ET

This nut-case is going to write a book according to his wife. Resign already -for the love of God. Give the state of SC & the USA a break.

Melissa   July 1st, 2009 12:21 pm ET

Its time for him to be removed. By force if neccesary. We are tired of the the corruption of the Republicans. No more.

Interesting how we never heard of any scandals involving Republicans or Democrats before Obama's election. Now that Obama was elected, we've heard from a few corrupt Democrats and from lots and lots of corrupt Republicans.

Democrats may be corrupt but corruption seems to be rife in every member of the Republican party.

No more Republicans.

GOP = 21st century dodo   July 1st, 2009 12:19 pm ET

"Put the drum down….the Lord is not calling for him to leave.
He must put his house in order with his family, and then bring Glory to God in this healing. You need to get one of your polls going… because frankly..it's not his time to go."

Thanks for the mysticism. Practically speaking though, this guy has shown himself to be a serial liar, adulterer, and hypocrite. I do not trust this man.

AnnMM   July 1st, 2009 12:18 pm ET

It's a personal issue between the Governor and his wife. I don't think he should have to or even be asked to resign. If the voters choose to not re-elect him, that's one thing but he shouldn't be called on to resign.

jt   July 1st, 2009 12:18 pm ET

Resign – Sanford. ALL of South Carolina wants you gone!

Susan   July 1st, 2009 12:17 pm ET

Well, so much for this being a Democratic outcry for his ouster. Sounds to me like Republicans are more vocal about his resignation.

The Real "No Incumbents 2010"   July 1st, 2009 12:16 pm ET

Sanford just made the mistake of falling in love. The criticism of him for political purposes just shows more hypocrisy. He needs a little time to finish the romance novel he was working on while simultaneously hiking the Appalachian Trial. I guess it is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.

Marsha   July 1st, 2009 12:13 pm ET

Give it up Governor and let everyone move on.

Sound The Alarm For Sanford To Leave   July 1st, 2009 12:13 pm ET

The drum beat should be even louder. This man is a menace to South Carolina. He has money, why doesn't he just fly off to Tahiti with the "sparkling" mistress, and leave the state of South Carolina for someone who would be serious about the job. It's clear that he doesn't want it any more.

The Sanford Saga is getting old. No one cares about this man and his mistress. The country cares about the Sanford boys and the sleazy way they were left during Father’s Day Weekend. The Governor has a lot of explaining to do, but not to us, to his maker.

The country is bored and the citizens of South Carolina deserve better. They should put everyone out of their misery now, starting with the Governor's letter of resignation.

Dutch/Bad Newz, VA   July 1st, 2009 12:13 pm ET

It is GOP senators asing for his resignation. That says alot. 7 senators are asking for his resignation. As I've said previously, the affair is no one's concern, but the derelection of duty is. Misuse of government funds is a cause for concern especially when the funds were being used for his extramarital affair. He should resign immediately and save some face. He's making this story into a soap opera and is disclosing information that public frankly doesn't need to know.

S Callahan   July 1st, 2009 12:12 pm ET

Put the drum down....the Lord is not calling for him to leave.
He must put his house in order with his family, and then bring Glory to God in this healing. You need to get one of your polls going... because frankly..it's not his time to go.

Dave   July 1st, 2009 12:12 pm ET

Come on, GOP gets forgiveness and the DNC gives resignation or lifetime persecution. You know the rules. Sanford stays.

Susan, Macedon New York   July 1st, 2009 12:12 pm ET

Fair's fair. If we couldn't keep Spitzer, South Carolina shouldn't get to keep Sanford; even if we are left to deal with less-than-idea Lt.s. as governors. LOL!

girlymen love the GOP   July 1st, 2009 12:10 pm ET

Lets face it,His wife paid for his job and she runs the show from behind the curtain.Hes just a clod in the way for her now.Just let her take over for now,shes owned by foreign car companies and the rest of big business that is out to break the backs of American labor.

david, CA   July 1st, 2009 12:09 pm ET

First Sanford is in trouble because of too little truth. Now he's in trouble with his party for disclosing too much truth – confessions of a serial adulterer is a risky play in the Bible Belt – unless you doctor each sentence with some good 'ol God references. Then you'll have the GOP true believers eating out of your hand.

R in Maine   July 1st, 2009 12:06 pm ET

What does he have to do to be thrown out? What part of the South Carolina population does he represent. Has South Carolina no sense of
shame or honor? It is disgusting.

Comments have been closed for this article

subscribe RSS Icon
About The Ticker

The latest political news from CNN's Best Political Team, with campaign coverage, 24-7. Sign up for our twice daily Ticker emails. Got a news tip or feedback? For complete political coverage, bookmark CNNPolitics.com.

CNN=Politics Screensaver

CNN=Politics ScreensaverTap into the power of The Situation Room. Download this powerful new tool that keeps you posted on the latest political news from the campaign trail.
Download (4.1 MB, PC only)

twitter
@psteinhauserCNN: New CNN Poll: 8 in 10 say economy's in poor shape, but that's actually an improvement. Also: Racial divide on jobs - http://bit.ly/7vZKHS
Updated: Tue, 22 Dec 2009 11:50:56 -0800
@KuhnCNN: Rick’s List: A New, Twitter-Happy CNN Show Anchored By Rick Sanchez? http://www.mediaite.com/ozjwx
Updated: Tue, 22 Dec 2009 09:18:37 -0800
@psteinhauserCNN: Freshman House Democrat from Alabama to switch to Republican Party, sources telll CNN - http://bit.ly/4pXIzB
Updated: Tue, 22 Dec 2009 08:43:21 -0800
@KuhnCNN: RT @RickSanchezCNN: Hey guys, new CNN show beginning Jan 18th, weekdays 3-5pm ET. "Rick’s List"- Who will make the list?
Updated: Tue, 22 Dec 2009 08:10:12 -0800
@wolfblitzercnn: New SitRoom start time. Beg. mid-Jan, we're on 5-7p ET. Our excellent team can focus on 2 solid hrs. Less becomes more.
Updated: Tue, 22 Dec 2009 06:45:58 -0800
Categories
Powered by WordPress.com VIP