South Carolina Governor Out of Running for 2012 Nomination

Mark Sanford the governor of South Carolina was frequently mentioned as a potential 2012 Republican candidate for president. Well, it was reported yesterday that he was missing or out of touch with his office. The first story was with the legislature out of session he was secluded writing. Then we were told he was hiking. Either of those explanations were fine. Most of us could understand a politician getting burned out and needed to get away for a few days to recharge his batteries. However, it turns out the first few explanations were lies to cover up an affair. He just held a news conference to admit he has been in Argentina spending time with a woman with whom he's having an affair.

There is more to how this story came out. State Sen. Jake Knotts (R-West Columbia), a political rival, pushed the question of Sanford's whereabouts the last couple days. Knotts would not have raised the issue if he didn't have reason to believe there was more to the story than a simple hiking trip. Someone benefits from Sanford's fall. Whether it is someone aspiring to be the next governor or someone clearing the field for 2012 Republican nomination is unknown.

Personally, Sanford was dishonest and unfaithful to his wife and family in having an affair. Politically, Sanford was an idiot to believe he could have an affair and keep it quiet. He isn't exactly an unknown traveling salesman. Add it all up and you have a picture of someone who is dishonest, unfaithful and stupid - not exactly traits I look for in a candidate.

As a Republican, I'm just glad this came out now instead of in the summer of 2012.