Sanford remains defiant
Bauer calls on governor to leave office now
By Yvonne Wenger
COLUMBIA -- In the glare of intense media scrutiny, a call by the lieutentant governor to resign and pending impeachment talks by House Republicans, Gov. Mark Sanford delivered a message Wednesday to reporters and his political enemies: back off.
While everyday South Carolinians have moved on since he admitted to an extramarital affair about two months ago, the governor said, the media are trying to rewrite history and his political enemies are scavenging for payback ammunition.
The State
Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer, in a Wednesday news conference, called on embattled Gov. Mark Sanford to step down.
Sanford said that if his record is stacked against the records of past governors and other politicians, he'll come out looking "incredibly good."
He said he found evidence of state politicians and past governors flying the supersonic Concord to Europe and back, in the business class on commercial flights and state aircraft to golf outings, weddings and other questionable destinations, all on the taxpayers' dime.
"I am not going to be railroaded out of this office by political opponents or folks who were never fans of mine in the first place," Sanford said. "A lot of what's going on now is pure politics, plain and simple.
"Me hanging up the spurs 16 months out, as comfortable as that would be, as much as I might like to do that on a personal basis, it is wrong; one, because as much as you might dislike somebody, it is not right to go and rewrite history."
Sanford is a two-term Republican who cannot seek a third term.
The governor, in an uncharacteristic move, did not take questions from the media.
His comments came in the wake of several investigations by The Associated Press that revealed Sanford flew business class on several commercial flights, despite a state law that requires the cheapest accommodations possible. Sanford has said that those tickets were not purchased by his office, but the state Department of Commerce and that buying business-class seats for governors is the agency's long- standing practice.
Related documents
• Letter from Gov. Sanford to Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer
•Statement from State Democratic Party Chair Carol Fowler
•Statement from Dwight Drake, Democratic candidate for Governor
•Statement from U.S. Congressman Gresham Barrett, Republican candidate for Governor
•Statement from House Speaker Bobby Harrell
•Statement from South Carolinians for Responsible Government
The AP also found that Sanford used state planes for personal and political purposes, which is against state law, and that he did not follow ethics rules and report flights on private planes. The governor has continued to defend his record.
The State Ethics Commission has been called on to investigate the governor, but any probe would remain veiled in secrecy until its conclusion unless Sanford waives his confidentiality. The governor has not answered questions about whether he will open up an investigation to public review.
The House Republican Caucus will hold a closed-door meeting in Myrtle Beach this weekend to discuss priorities for the upcoming session. The lawmakers also are expected to discuss the possibility of beginning impeachment hearings.
House Speaker Bobby Harrell, R-Charleston, stressed that the caucus meeting is not organized for the purpose of discussing Sanford. He said it is the caucus' 15th annual planning session, and education and the economy are expected to be the top issues.
"Any actions taken by the General Assembly regarding Governor Sanford must be based on the facts, free of any political motives," Harrell said in a statement. "That is why I have supported the call for a full investigation into these charges against Governor Sanford by the State Ethics Commission."
Likewise, Senate leader Glenn McConnell, also a Charleston Republican, has been mostly silent since Sanford admitted his affair. McConnell cautioned senators from speaking publicly about the scandal in case the Senate is called on to serve as jury in an impeachment.
Earlier Wednesday, Republican Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer said he will drop his plans to announce his gubernatorial bid this fall if the governor steps down immediately.
"It is my opinion that the best interests of the people can no longer be served with the current administration" Bauer said in prepared remarks. "The serious misconduct that has already been revealed, along with lingering questions and continuing distractions, make it virtually impossible for our state to solve the critical problems we are facing without a change in leadership."
Bauer said the state can't afford to have the Legislature spend time next session on an impeachment while unemployment, balancing the budget and economic development get pushed aside. If Sanford does not resign now, Bauer urged the Legislature to take immediate action, rather than waiting for the normal session to reconvene in January.
If a resignation or impeachment doesn't come until the fall, Bauer said, he plans to move forward with his gubernatorial bid.
Bauer said his decision to stay out of the race if he is called on to fill Sanford's job immediately is based on the politics at play. He said legislators who might otherwise want Sanford gone might not push for it because having Bauer in office as an incumbent could hurt the chances of the person they are supporting for governor.
Sanford said he appreciated the offer but he won't take Bauer up on it because he believes there is work left for him to do.
"My faith is all about the larger notion that none of us are perfect, but that God can still use us, imperfections and all," Sanford wrote to Bauer. "I am committed to finishing this term that the people of South Carolina charged me with, and it is my hope that working with you and others in the General Assembly we can make it one of our most fruitful.
"As a consequence, I will most humbly decline your offer, but thank you for it nonetheless."
Gubernatorial candidates weigh in
What gubernatorial candidates are saying:
'We need everyone in South Carolina working together to create jobs and fix our economy. And unfortunately, that's just not happening right now. I'm sure the lieutenant governor is trying to do what he thinks is right. That's what people elect us to do, and in the end they get to judge for themselves. But my position remains the same. Regardless of what the lieutenant governor or Legislature does or doesn't do, I believe the governor is the one person who can step up and put an end to this before it becomes a three ring circus.'
-- U.S. Rep. Gresham Barrett, a Republican candidate for governor
'I have said for some time that it is indefensible for Governor Sanford to stay in office when his incapacity to lead is costing us the jobs and economic development our state so desperately needs. However, I am concerned that the lieutenant governor's announcement seems to come with strings attached to some deal connected to the infighting among Republican candidates for governor. We need to worry about what is best for South Carolina, not what is best for politicians maneuvering for advantage.'
-- Dwight Drake, Columbia lawyer and Democratic candidate for governor
'I've been persecuted and I know what he's been going through. Mind you, he's a human being now. Human beings make mistakes, and all religions teach that. If this was a real crime, it would be a misdemeanor. He fell in love and the mistakes he made are between him and God. This is nothing to impeach nobody about.'
-- State Sen. Robert Ford, Charleston Democrat and gubernatorial candidate
Also competing for the GOP nomination are S.C. Attorney General Henry McMaster, state Sen. Larry Grooms of Bonneau, and state Rep. Nikki Haley of Columbia. Democrats interested in the top job are the Rev. Amos A. Elliott and attorney Mullins McLeod, both of Charleston, Education Superintendent Jim Rex and state Sen. Vincent Sheheen of Camden.
Robert Behre contributed to this report. Reach Yvonne Wenger at 803-799-9051 or ywenger@postandcourier.com.
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Comments
debmorrow (anonymous) says...
Gov Sanford said today that ppl all across the state support him, think the only issue is that he had affair & they've forgiven him for that. I suggest ppl from all thru SC send him mail so he gets a clear picture of what SCarolinians think ... Type & print "I'm from _____ and..." ...by all means say so if you support him but if you don't you might wish to say "I think you should resign now" or "I forgive you, now leave office for good of SC" or "...want you to get out and take C-Street Cult with you" or something to that effect. Sign and mail to
P.O. Box 12267
Columbia, SC 29211
and/or Fax: 803-734-5167
August 27, 2009 at 12:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sardis12 (anonymous) says...
Maybe if Andre said he would decline replacing Sanford to allow the governorship to go to the next-in-line successor (who would that be?), a Sanford resignation would be more palatable. As much as I would love to see Marky resign or impeached, the thought of Governor Bauer is scary.
He's sucked up to old folks for one reason: he knows they turn out in high numbers on election day. He couldn't care less if grandma has a blanket, he just wants her vote.
Bauer has shown over and over that he is an arrogant self-serving jerk in his public actions. Buying a parcel of land he knew the state would soon need, then selling it to them at a price well over market value. Speeding like a maniac and at least twice trying to use his position as "SC2" to get out of tickets, once even in a manner that caused the police officer to draw his gun.
In his private life, his friends are questionable and his lifestyle (not that there's anything wrong with it, as Seinfeld would say) is probably not one South Carolina is ready to have in the Governor's Mansion.
August 27, 2009 at 1:07 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
AMAZING (anonymous) says...
RAW: Gov. Mark Sanford’s response to Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer
VIDEO:
http://www.wistv.com/global/video/fla...
August 27, 2009 at 3:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lloyd007 (anonymous) says...
"'You want to continue the job that the people elected you to do'"..Sir, you ABANDONED that job when you went trodding off to pursue your lusty desires. Anyone else would have been fired for "ABANDONMENT". the fact that you GOT CAUGHT by a reporter upon your return is the ONLY REASON THE TRUTH REALLY CAME OUT. you are so out of touch with reality that you can't see the forest for the trees. THE PEOPLE WANT YOU GONE . Truth be told, it's no longer about you. the people and the state would like to move forward without you,can't you get it ?. To ALL you politicians sitting in Columbia and around this State,enough is enough. Harrell, McConnell, Ford, never have I seen such weak-kneed, spineless saps in all my born days.If this man's wish is to go out in total shame, then by God let him..This self serving idiot should be impeached...Thank you debmorrow for posting the address for letters to be sent to these spineless men. You all ought to be ashamed of yourselves....
August 27, 2009 at 3:48 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
AMAZING (anonymous) says...
Sanfraud said:
“To escape the glare of television cameras and reporters in the midst of a media frenzy would not be far from some form of heaven on earth, but my Dad taught me a long time ago that two wrongs don’t make a right,” Sanford wrote in his letter to Bauer. “As a consequence, I will most humbly decline your offer, but thank you for it nonetheless.”
VIDEO:
http://www.palmettoscoop.com/2009/08/...
August 27, 2009 at 4:01 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
patlabb (anonymous) says...
Not defiant...AROGANT! Sanford is an arogant,self righteous bum! Resign, be kicked out or maybe it's time for a little Southern style justice. Sanford has screwed the people of this state for too long!
August 27, 2009 at 4:58 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Lois_Lane (anonymous) says...
...He said he found evidence of state politicians and past governors flying the supersonic Concord to Europe and back, in the business class on commercial flights and state aircraft to golf outings, weddings and other questionable destinations, all on the taxpayers' dime.
OK - so does that mean that he can continue to steal from the taxpayers of South Carolina like "everybody" else has? NOT. Apparently the blood still hasn't returned to his brain.
Arrogant. IMPEACHMENT is coming.
August 27, 2009 at 5:12 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
whalernut (anonymous) says...
Like I said yesterday this man is a disgrace to this state. We look like a bunch of hicks.
What kind of message are we sending our kids.
Dont worry i just lied cheated and stole from you voters that put me in office. Trust me.
And when a cat 5 storm hits the coast our faithful leader will handle it.. Handle it like he is hadling his governship.
August 27, 2009 at 5:35 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jrs (anonymous) says...
Our Governor has his head completely in the sand. He will smother if he does not come up for clean air and resign. This does not seem possible as he is blaming others for his problems...the state is trying to move on but we want it without him...Take off the blinders and see the truth of the damage you are causing everyone including yourself. Please resign immediately.
August 27, 2009 at 6:10 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
moonpie (anonymous) says...
It is my opinion that the best interests of the people can no longer be served with the current administration" Bauer said
MINE TOO! MR BAUER DOESN'T LOOK SO STUPID AFTER ALL? HE WAITED UNTIL HE HEARD WHAT THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE SAID AND THEN HE CHIMED IN WITH THEIR SENTIMENTS. HE IS EXTREMELY POPULAR NOW.
Defiant in this case = arrogance! Please leave now. If you were interested at all in what the people wanted governor you would have resigned weeks ago.
Oh yeah yesterday gov "two lane" Hodges piped in? We don't need to hear from you at all. I still want to punch you in the face after you left us on I-26 for days! You can just shut up.
August 27, 2009 at 6:15 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lillycollette (anonymous) says...
That 'forgivness' thing is not part of my job title. For that I have to refer Sanfraud to a higher authority -- GOD.
August 27, 2009 at 6:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
tallblonde (anonymous) says...
If "the people of South Carolina have forgiven" Governor Sanford - would he be willing to put it to a vote? Hmmmmmm - thought not!
August 27, 2009 at 6:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
beentook2 (anonymous) says...
If Little Cisco wants to sit in the Governor's Office then run for it, get elected and walk in through the front door.
The process he is engaging in is clearly a back door attempt to seize the Governor's Office.
August 27, 2009 at 6:48 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bobielfield (anonymous) says...
By most indicators...letters, comments, etc. it does not appear Sanford has much public support... I suggest the PC do a survey of low country's opinion of him, stay in office, impeach him or whatever it takes to get him to resign ... We do not know how the majority of people feel about him without a scientific poll ... However, his humungous ego and arrogance probably precludes ANY survey results ... We are probably stuck wtih him ...
August 27, 2009 at 6:49 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cwmcpa (anonymous) says...
A lot of political posturing to divert attention from Clyburn's 28K worth of bribes to pass cap and trade. Money donated to his campaign by the sweat of the people of South Carolina. Mr Clyburn would rather tote Ms Pelosi's luggage than represent the people of South Carolina. It would be helpful if someone would identify a statute that Sanford has broken/violated. I did not think so. We know the statutes broken by NASCAR wanna be Bauer. No double standard from him.
August 27, 2009 at 7:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
taggert (anonymous) says...
The man has been censored and condemned long enough. Don't you people realize that the longer we make an issue of his infidelity, we are hurting our state's future even more. There are real issues in our state that we need to address right now. If you want to criticize him, that is your right, but let's criticize something that matters. Our society has relegated "ADULTERY" to nothing when they stood by while our President thumbed his nose at all of his fellow americans, not only lieing to us, but defying us to do anything about it. His wife, the first lady, didn't move out of the White House, nor did she leave or divorce him. Look at what happened as the whole nation fixated on his imorality; The terrorists planned and carried out an attack on our soil, not once, but twice and on the same targets. We really need to concentrate on what is important. We have the third highest employment in the US, we have the highest high school dropout rate in the nation, we are out of money to pay unemployment claims, our roads are in such disrepair that they are unsafe to drive on, our bridges are in need of improvement and getting worse as we breath. I'm sure his wife will exact a "pound of flesh". Let's leave the vengence to her; we need to pressure the Governor and the rest of our state politicians to stop the partisan politics and "Good ole Boy" policies that continue to cripple our state and have for decades.
August 27, 2009 at 7:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mb300sl (anonymous) says...
Hang in there Mark...tell them to put their threats of impeachment where the sun doesn't shine.
August 27, 2009 at 7:25 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jkwas (anonymous) says...
Way to go Taggert! I agree with you 100%.
We need to get back to business.
Remember the phrase in the Bible? "He who is without sin may cast the first stone" (I know I didn't get the phrase exact). To making the most noise, can you do a better job?
As for Andre Bauer, we know what his motives are.
August 27, 2009 at 7:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
joldham (anonymous) says...
THIS WITCH HUNT NEEDS TO STOP NOW!!! OUR POLITICIANS ARE WASTING MORE TIME AND MONEY THAN USUAL... IF THEY WANT TO GO AFTER SANFORD FOR MIS-USE OF TAXPAYER DOLLARS THEN LET'S GO BACK AND GO AFTER THE PRVIOUS GOVERNORS FOR THIER INDECRETIONS... WE NEED TO STOP THIS AND MOVE ON!!!!!!
August 27, 2009 at 7:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lillycollette (anonymous) says...
Anybody got a stone they could lend me. We need to knock this clown out of the park and move forward.
August 27, 2009 at 7:41 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
THISISWHATIMTHINKIN (anonymous) says...
Go get em' taggert!!!
August 27, 2009 at 7:51 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MarkMcKinney (anonymous) says...
The guy went missing for a week! I could care less about the affair. For him not to vacate office would set a horrible precedent.
August 27, 2009 at 8:03 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
JDHawg (anonymous) says...
How in the hell can anybody forget or put this behind them when it's either on tv or in the newspaper daily? who really gives a big rats butt about this. I for one am tired of hearing about it. The little weesel bauer is just trying to make himself look good.
August 27, 2009 at 8:09 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
oldglory (anonymous) says...
Gov, you've -almost- convinced me to return to organized religion. Your examples show me that I can sin to my heart's delight, confess and ask forgiveness; then, return to my sinning ways. And I suppose this is your example of 'god using a sinner'. Where do we line up to have your god deal with our shortcomings? If you think for one minute that the people of SC believe in YOU and YOUR WORDS that you have all this time forsaken your mistress, put your wife and sons first, AND are worried about your state, the unemployed, etc., you are flat out wrong.
What I'd like to know is how these P&C readers' published comments that have been made every time you open your mouth--how do our comments stack up against all those you've been yammering about--you know, the ones who love you, forgive you and think you are perfectly capable as a leader. I wonder what your political rating is now (minus your sin, of course)?
August 27, 2009 at 8:15 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
charlestonnative1963 (anonymous) says...
I don't care who the gov. is, or would be as long as it is not Mark Sanford. I am done with him...Andre, Glenn, I dont care, just get Sanfford OUT now. Mind you I don't care about the affair, its ALL the rest of it. He can sleep with whomever he feels like, but he is NOT working, has not worked, and apparently is clueless. Only your cery close friends support you, I bet your kids dont even support you. SO LEAVE
August 27, 2009 at 8:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
blacman (anonymous) says...
What has Sanfdord done for the poor and minorities of our state, we know what he has done for the wealthy. His arrogance is exceeded only by his ignorance.
August 27, 2009 at 8:19 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
theronce (anonymous) says...
The man is a liar and a thief. He is deluded and arrogant. He should resign. The AG should charge him with his thefts. He should be impeached and convicted. There are a lot of demlites not doing the right thing. I would like to start calling for all voters in SC to vote against all incumbants in their priparies, dem and demlite. We won't change the good old boys at the election. The time to knock them out is in the primaries.
August 27, 2009 at 8:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
heavydinsc (anonymous) says...
The governor is trying to be noble, but he's still clueless. Here's proof: he (and his wife as quoted in Vanity Fair) have both said "none of us are perfect." None is a singular word, (a contraction of no one) so it should carry the singular form of the verb to be (is). A small touch of irony there, eh?
August 27, 2009 at 8:24 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SummerGirl (anonymous) says...
The governor is a servant of the people; we the citizens of South Carolina are his employer. For this man to thumb his nose at the overwhelming negative sentiments and calls to step down is indeed defiant and arrogant, and we should demand impeachment from our other elected officials. Should they refuse, then next go-round they all need to get in the back of the unemployment lines.
August 27, 2009 at 8:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Keyesforpres (anonymous) says...
Sanford, just switch to the democrat party. No one will care then. The press would have barely mentioned it.
August 27, 2009 at 8:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Winker (anonymous) says...
Sanford is a joke, our state is broke and is 49th out of 50 in education. We have double digit unemployeement and a million people without healthcare. Now, we are back on the national news dealing with the soap opera he calls a life. The only thing SC has going for us might be A. Bauer.
SC is so screwed!!
August 27, 2009 at 8:33 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
WSM (anonymous) says...
"While everyday South Carolinians have moved on since he admitted to an extramarital affair about two months ago, the governor said"
BECAUSE WE DON'T HAVE A CHOICE, JACKASS!!!!!!!
This smacks of the most incredible level of officiousness I have ever seen outside of royalty. I thought we had a revolution against one king? Its time we have a lawful revolution against this clown in Columbia immediately!
August 27, 2009 at 8:36 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SummerGirl (anonymous) says...
I just read the headline under latest news entitled "Filmmaker Plans To Shoot "State of Denial"...thought to myself, now look what more negative attention he's brought upon S.C...lol. Would it surprise any of us?
August 27, 2009 at 8:37 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
glevans (anonymous) says...
Aw come on man you are a disgrace to everyone...get out of office now! Everyone in Texas is talking about you to and that should be a sign that you need to move on and pay back all the money that you used for personal trips. Give it up and move on dummy!
August 27, 2009 at 8:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jnot (anonymous) says...
http://thediscust.com/?p=993
ignore bauer at our own peril
August 27, 2009 at 8:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
willwantstoknow (anonymous) says...
Who's playing politics? Sanford just thinks he can't be impeached and wants to fight over it. It was said best that "Sanford, you're like a white piece of paper on a beige wall" You are worthless. You think staying in office and praying for a miracle to happen so you can change the people's perspective of you? We won't let go of this one. Get out, stay out. You are the reason people hate politicians...
August 27, 2009 at 8:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SummerGirl (anonymous) says...
You're right glevans--people everywhere are taking notice of the situation and commenting unfavorably about S.C. citizens letting their governor make the state look even worse. I have had friends in Florida, Missouri, and Texas tell me that...apropos of nothing, I might add. It's embarrassing.
August 27, 2009 at 9:01 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ehmurr (anonymous) says...
After reading all the comments slamming Governor Sanford, I can't help but wonder how many of you will again cast your vote for someone running as a God fearing family man. I would hope that Sanfords actions (and other politicinas - Republican and Democrat) have taught us to base our decision on something more substantial than a slick political tactic. Their religion or relationship with God is their private business and no concern of mine and the same goes for their personal lives. Letting religion become a part of politics was a big mistake and it is a good thing indiscretion was not given so much importance in past elelctions or we would have missed out on having some very good leaders.
August 27, 2009 at 9:24 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
vmirat90 (anonymous) says...
I don't believe in a fairy tale like organized religion, so I am loading up on stones to throw at this buffoon. Anyone need any stones?
August 27, 2009 at 9:32 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
localboy (anonymous) says...
Probably stated here somewhere but if you are attempting to judge what the people of SC think about Gov. Sanford by the posts on the PC site or The State or The Greenville News or even FITS News you are delusional!
And who really cares what Andre thinks? Did we ask for HIS resignation when he broke the law (on several occasions) by severely exceeding the speed limit on the Interstate? No we don't because the Lt. Gov. position is a waste of taxpayers dollars in an of itself as the position currently stands. Andre is as goofy as he looks and I'd be more embarrassed to call him Governor than leaving Sanford in for 16 months.
The political baiting happening now is funny. How any single Senator or Representative can, with good conscious blame Sanford for the state of the state, is laughable. It is precisely the drive to maintain their own power that has caused our problems. If you want to fix the State vote for someone other than McConnell, Harrell, Cooper, Leatherman. That is the "Gang of 4" that run South Carolina and are to blame for her problems.
August 27, 2009 at 9:35 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Reader (anonymous) says...
Good grief. On the one hand, he points out that other governors have used public funds inappropriately too. On the other hand, he tells Bauer that two wrongs don't make a right, so he is staying in office.
Whether you liked Sanford in Congress or not, at least he was a true believer who stuck to his guns even when the results weren't popular. It is too bad he doesn't seem to have any sense of consistency any more.
August 27, 2009 at 9:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mienliebte (anonymous) says...
A few things come to mind....
First, if your going to throw stones, make sure your own house isn't made of glass. Though I must also add that people in certain positions should set an example for all.
Second, the idea of writing a letter is a great one. It would prove much more useful in this situation than this forum if you really feel that strongly about Sanford staying OR leaving office.
August 27, 2009 at 9:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
crankyyankee (anonymous) says...
This is just about the best thing that ever happened to our State! Every politican is focused on piling on Sanford. Sanford himself has been rendered ineffective by the masses and the media and absolutely nothing is getting done. These may be the golden years for taxpayersas as the legislators haven't had time to spend any tax money with all the ranting and fuming going on! It will only last until Booby, Glen and Roberto run out of wind and realize there's money to be spent. Yes sir we're a class act!
August 27, 2009 at 9:48 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
charleston1960 (anonymous) says...
As one of 'the people', I say Gov. Sanford stand your ground.
August 27, 2009 at 9:57 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Keyesforpres (anonymous) says...
http://www.bostonherald.com/news/regi...
things like this are what we should be concerned about.
Did you know Congress did not write the stim-u-less bill? They think Soros helped to write the "deny you medical care" bill. Think of that. People who are unelected are writing our bills and Congress is then passing them without reading them.
Sounds unconstitutional to me.
August 27, 2009 at 9:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
vmirat90 (anonymous) says...
my house is made of plexiglass, so I will throw all the stones I want, thank you very much.
About his time in Congress- it has been proven that he had a condo paid by a third party- which is against the ethics law. He tried to pass off that he slept in his office. My arse! I am one of the persons that bought into his charade, but now it's time to pay the fiddler...
Loading up on stones.
August 27, 2009 at 10:08 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
desspec (anonymous) says...
You're right Keyes, why, I'll bet he could even get away with driving Ms.X into a river ....
August 27, 2009 at 10:12 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
schrutebeetfarms (anonymous) says...
good point sanford - all governors have abused their position and wasted tax dollars. all's forgiven. just keep right on with your impeccable record of doing nothing as governor while banging the self-righteous drum of "fiscal responsibility".
August 27, 2009 at 10:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
yird (anonymous) says...
Oh I am so glad that there are so many morally superior, civic minded people commenting today.
Truth be known, many of you pukes foaming at the mouth over the governor displaying one small facet of the behavior generally approved of when acted out by the likes of Bill Clinton, Barney Fruit, or the finally gone for good Ted Kennedy, are the same folks that will slip off to another county drinking and screwing around on Saturday night but will be in the pews Sunday singing and praying.
It must kill you progressives that all students are not provided with a PC and three hot meals a day by the taxpayer from kindergarten through college, or that everyone is not given free housing, health care, food, and someone to cook it for them.
Maybe wjh3 will organize a demonstration and march on Columbia.
"That" will certainly make a difference when all fifteen protesters show up to let their voices be heard.
If nothing else the participants will feel as though they are really doing something.
And what's more important than feelings?
I hope the governor will ignore the uneducated, emotionally driven clamor from the peanut gallery and just keep working to keep this state from ending up like California, with a debt load impossible to manage.
August 27, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
annemarie (anonymous) says...
Taggert, I get the impression you have something to gain if Sanford stays in office? Because this is beyond belief. Sanford is the most stubborn man on the face of the earth! Is he not a narcissist? And I am so tired of so-called Christians twisting belief to suit themselves. It is the definition of evil to use God as so anthropomoristically, IMO. Sure forgiveness is a wonderful thing, but have these pseudo-Christians not simplified it in meaning to excuse themselves from any responsibility for what they do? I am sick of both the Sanfords preaching through the media. Get them off the stage! They are not good for S.C.
August 27, 2009 at 10:32 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
AMAZING (anonymous) says...
SCRG Calls On Sanford To Step Down
Hit the Road Mark, Start Packing
One of the Palmetto State’s most influential political organizations has called on S.C. Gov. Mark Sanford to resign.
South Carolinians for Responsible Government, which has led the fight for more parental choices in the Palmetto State, said that Sanford should resign in the wake of the multiple scandals confronting his administration.
“On behalf of the SCRG Board of Directors, and our supporters across the Palmetto State, I am asking the Governor to step down immediately,” SCRG Chairman Randy Page said Wednesday. “The real policy challenges of staggering unemployment, tightening budgets, and faltering public schools can no longer be overshadowed by personal and political distractions that erode the reputation of our state and the integrity of the governor’s office.”
http://www.fitsnews.com/2009/08/27/sc...
August 27, 2009 at 10:40 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
vmirat90 (anonymous) says...
yird, I can't believe that I'm agreeing with you about something else- now I agree with you 89.21% of the time- not about alot of the post, but about the hypocrisy (yes, on both sides of the aisles) of the "moral, christian" candidate.
I'm not Mother Teresa, but then again, I don't waste my time in church on sunday patting myself on the back telling others how good of a christian I am- like most do.
August 27, 2009 at 10:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mkris (anonymous) says...
NEXT ON JERRY SPRINGER:
McConnel and Harold mud wrestle wit Jenny while she sues Sanfraud for child support.
JERRY! JERRY!! JERRY!!!
August 27, 2009 at 10:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
annemarie (anonymous) says...
Oh, and P.S. after listening to his speech: It's everybody else's fault - the media, Columbia, politics, past administration's $$$ mistakes. And HE cares about the financial state of SC? He was flying off to Argentina to get laid. Was HE thinking about the economy?
August 27, 2009 at 10:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
vmirat90 (anonymous) says...
I guess the "personal responsibility" applies to everyone...except for him, eh annemarie?
August 27, 2009 at 10:51 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Takebackurcountry (anonymous) says...
Very brave stance taken by Bauer. A man who has no responsibilities, takes a paycheck from the taxpayers, insisted on police detail for protection, and stands to get the job if/when Sanford leaves.
Dude, you are as disgusting as what the governor did. Do us a favor and leave with him.
August 27, 2009 at 11:07 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
yird (anonymous) says...
vmirat90 (anonymous) says...
yird, I can't believe that I'm agreeing with you about something else- now I agree with you 89.21% of the time
===============================
I'm glad to see that you are finally coming around.
Now even though I am not much for compromise I will gladly agree with you for the remaining 10.79% of the time which means that we finally have reached a consensus.
Now what can we do to improve the world? After all, two people agreeing on anything in this day and age is momentous.
Maybe there really is a God!
I'll wait for another sign before I render a final decision.
Got to go for a spell, work to do.
August 27, 2009 at 11:08 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
annemarie (anonymous) says...
Yes,vmirat90! No soul-searching whatsoever. God's forgiven him so we should let him finish his term. The man's about evolved as a worm.
August 27, 2009 at 11:13 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
vmirat90 (anonymous) says...
Now, yird...let's not go crazy. There is no way that I will be convinced that there is a god as long as good things happen to horrible people, and bad things happen to good people.
I don't want to hear "it's all in God's plan" or "it's not our place to question" nonsense.
Yes, it is my place to question.
August 27, 2009 at 11:20 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bluefin695 (anonymous) says...
Takeback:
Quick note... Bauer, (regardless of yours or my opinion of him.) DOES NOT receive a "paycheck from the taxpayers". He chose not to receive one. Not defending Bauer just the facts. Don't take my word for it. I understand your frustration but do the responsible thing and LOOK IT UP yourself. As for Sanford...well... not so much.
August 27, 2009 at 11:25 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
AMAZING (anonymous) says...
This IS Freakin' AMAZING!
Sanford questions motives for Sen. David Thomas’ investigation of Governor’s travel
NEW VIDEO:
http://www2.counton2.com/cbd/news/loc...
August 27, 2009 at 12:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
AMAZING (anonymous) says...
SANFRAUD ON THE WARPATH
A day after bashing the media and his political opponents and refusing to answer questions about the multiple scandals enveloping him, S.C. Gov. Whiny McWhinerson … err, Mark Sanford … is ditching his “Forgiveness Tour” to go on the warpath against his enemies.
Sanford will hold a “media availability” in Greenville, S.C. Thursday morning outside the law office of S.C. Sen. David Thomas, who had been leading the initial investigations into Sanford’s various travel abuses.
Our buds up at WSPA-TV in Spartanburg will be streaming the governor’s press conference live on their website. To watch it, click here …
Frankly, Sanford could not have picked a bigger boob to pick on first … Sen. Thomas is a complete and total idiot (and hypocrite) whose anti-business RINO credentials have long been established.
In other words, Thomas is the very definition of “low-hanging” fruit for a governor who is obviously spoiling for a fight …
Here’s our only problem with all this … whether Sanford is touring for “Forgiveness” or touring to drop bombs on his political enemies (as he threatened to do during yesterday’s tirade), this is NOT what our governor should be spending his time doing. Period.
http://www.fitsnews.com/2009/08/27/ba...
August 27, 2009 at 12:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Lois_Lane (anonymous) says...
annemarie says "the man's about as evolved as a worm."
Wow.
Sanworm...
Betlejeuce...Betlejeuce...Betlejeuce...!
I do declare!
August 27, 2009 at 2:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Takebackurcountry (anonymous) says...
Bluefin - I DID look it up. Please don't take someone's pledge as fact. The state budget for 2009-2010 shows the LT Gov salary as $46,545 (just low enough not to come up on salary queries). The Lt Gov's expenditure report for last February shows he was paid twice during the month for a total of $3580.50. Multiply that by 12: $42,966. Guess someone got a raise...
http://www.aging.sc.gov/NR/rdonlyres/...
August 27, 2009 at 2:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bluefin695 (anonymous) says...
Takeback,
I stand corrected. As I assumed the Lt. Gov would make more than 46k and as such would be listed in the +50k salary page. Thanks for the update.
August 27, 2009 at 2:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Lumpy (anonymous) says...
I don't see what the big deal is. You guys should give "Sparky" Sanford a raise. He sure as hell is giving "raises" all over the place....
August 27, 2009 at 4:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lowcountrydawg (anonymous) says...
I never though I would say this but Mr. Ford's and Mr. Drake's comments make a lot of horse sense.
As for Mr. Barrett's comments...too late...it's already a 3-ring media circus, the state is the Big-Top, and the clowns in Columbia can't seem to all fit into the VW Bug!
August 27, 2009 at 6:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
NakedYoga (anonymous) says...
^^ You should probably turn yourself in to the proper authorities for being a complete idiot.
August 27, 2009 at 6:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
AMAZING (anonymous) says...
EXCLUSIVE: Move to impeach Sanford under way
South Carolina Republican lawmakers are on the verge of calling a special legislative session that could impeach and remove embattled GOP Gov. Mark Sanford by the end of the year...
House Republicans in the state will discuss how and when to initiate impeachment proceedings against Mr. Sanford.
The Republican legislators will consider whether to call for a special impeachment session of the legislature before its scheduled date for reconvening in January 2010...
Two bills of impeachment are being prepared now — one by a Republican lawmaker and the other by a Democrat...
http://washingtontimes.com/news/2009/...
August 27, 2009 at 8:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Takebackurcountry (anonymous) says...
Bluefin - since the Lt Gov position is classified as "part-time" $46K isn't too shabby...
August 27, 2009 at 9:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
AMAZING (anonymous) says...
Sanford to continue ‘I’m Not Guilty’ tour
GOVERNOR ABANDONS ‘I’M SORRY’ TOUR TO GO ON OFFENSIVE
Embattled Gov. Mark Sanford will be in Conway Friday for the third leg of his impromptu, idiosyncratic “I’m Not Guilty” tour.
The governor will hold a press conference in front of the Conway City Hall at 12 p.m. to address charges that he committed ethical and legal violations in office.
Sanford’s Conway media availability is his third in as many days to desperately plead his case against multiple allegations of illegally and unethically using taxpayer funds while traveling.
On Thursday, Sanfraud spoke to press on the side of a road in Greenville in response to a study conducted by State Sen. David Thomas allegations.
On Wednesday, Sanfraud publicly declined a deal from Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer to step down.
Sanfraud went on the offensive at both press conferences — attacking the media and critics while refusing to answer questions.
The bizarre, spur-of-the-moment, “I’m Not Guilty” tour marked the end of the governor’s “I’m Sorry” tour, during which he traveled the state apologizing “I’m Sorry” ...“I’m Sorry” ...“I’m Sorry”
Now, it's ‘I’m Not Guilty’ ...‘I’m Not Guilty’ ...‘I’m Not Guilty’
http://www.palmettoscoop.com/2009/08/...
August 27, 2009 at 11:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
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