Can someone make a case for how he survives this?

(CNN) – A second South Carolina newspaper is calling for Gov. Mark Sanford to resign.

The editorial Friday morning in the Orangeburg Times and Democrat comes two days after Sanford admitted to an extramarital affair with a woman from Argentina. The governor also acknowledged Wednesday that he did not tell his staff that he was in Argentina during a five-day period over the past week.

“Sanford should exit not because of his personal problems but because in dealing with those problems, he has shown clearly that he cannot be an effective leader. The entire episode vividly illustrates irresponsibility and poor judgment. He could not have handled the situation worse,” the paper says in an editorial.

Comments

  • http://helicopterbarbie.blogspot.com/ Kiko

    “Can someone make a case for how he survives this?”

    Move to Utah and build two houses–Big Love style.

  • Sartho

    I came across an article earlier discussing the possibility of him resigning or not (sounds like he doesn’t plan to). And Lt. Governor Bauer doesn’t sound like he’s all that popular.

  • http://conservativetruthseeker.blogspot.com/ Neil Braithwaite

    Yesterday I was called “stunningly naïve” for stating my “opinion” that was interpreted as making this incident into “some strange religious thing.” As a loyal PD patron and contributor, I have to point out that Gov. Sanford’s press conference yesterday was replete with “religious” sentiment. I also felt he was not only reaching out to fellow believers, but was being very sincere and contrite to anyone who would call him a hypocrite for his transgressions.

    I do not condone his actions, but believe that what he did was the dumbest thing I could imagine for someone in his position. However, I don’t see him as a hypocrite any more than a devout Christian who happens to sin on occasion – it’s called being human.

    I would also point to Mrs. Sanford’s “religious” overtones in her statements, one of which is posted on PD today. Careful with those “religious” posts.

    I also referenced King David yesterday as an example for everyone of what could possibly happen to Gov. Sanford. Much to my surprise, Gov. Sanford, in his statement before a cabinet meeting today, referenced King David as well.

    I believe that because Gov. Sanford has always been an outspoken Christian, “religious” opinions about this incident are relevant – especially because he has always stood on his faith openly and honestly both during his campaigns and as a sitting governor.

    Jason, you ask if anyone can make a case for his survival? His chances as a potential Presidential candidate or reelection as governor – almost zero. (50% if he were a Democrat) His chances to be a great husband, father and private citizen in the future – very good.

    Conservatives need to stop piling on; the left will only use it to validate their positions and continue their socialist movement.

    • Rusty Shackleford

      Neil,

      I am completely missing the point of your post. What are you trying to say? Are you condemning him or condoning him? It appears to me you are doing both. Help me understand.

  • PD Administrator

    Snap poll from Survey USA of South Carolinians:

    63% say he did not have the right to take a vacation without informing the public of his absence.

    77% say he did not have the right to take a vacation without informing his staff of his whereabouts.

    37% say the episode will end Sanford’s political career, while another 45% say it will only “hurt” his career, and a brain dead 15% say it will have no effect at all.

    Of those who saw Sanford’s press conference, 22% believe Sanford said “too much,” 36% feel he “needs to say more,” and another 36% responded that he said “just the right amount.”

  • East of Eden

    I just want to go and hug Jenny Sanford!

    • Mrs Rusty Shackleford

      I agree East! We need more examples of strong stable women like her. She doesn’t have her head in the sand and isn’t in denial she’s just sure of her faith and what is important to her. She has her values in order! I love that she isn’t crying about herself, that she is concernced about her family. Shows how unselfish one needs to be! I hope I would be that strong and commited! I hope I never have to find out, but hope I would be strong enough!!

  • http://www.politicalderby.com/ Jason Wright, Editor

    Three quotes from Jenny Sanford:

    “His career is not a concern of mine. He’s going to have to worry about that. I’m worried about my family and the character of my children.”

    “I have great faith and great friends and great family. We have a good Lord in this world and I know that I’m going to be fine and not only will I survive, I’ll thrive.”

    “I don’t know if he’ll be with me, but I’m going to do my best to work on my marriage because I believe in marriage. I believe in raising good kids is the most important thing in the world.”

    • Alaina

      I think it’s really great that’s she’s so strong and is focused on her kids, but does it bother anyone else that she’s willing to work on her marriage? What am I missing? Is it wrong to forgive, but not forget?