'I believe Mark has earned a chance to resurrect our marriage'
First Lady Jenny Sanford's statement
South Carolina first lady Jenny Sanford issued the following statement Wednesday:
I would like to start by saying I love my husband and I believe I have put forth every effort possible to be the best wife I can be during our almost twenty years of marriage. As well, for the last fifteen years my husband has been fully engaged in public service to the citizens and taxpayers of this state and I have faithfully supported him in those efforts to the best of my ability. I have been and remain proud of his accomplishments and his service to this state.
Jenny Sanford
I personally believe that the greatest legacy I will leave behind in this world is not the job I held on Wall Street, or the campaigns I managed for Mark, or the work I have done as First Lady or even the philanthropic activities in which I have been routinely engaged. Instead, the greatest legacy I will leave in this world is the character of the children I, or we, leave behind. It is for that reason that I deeply regret the recent actions of my husband Mark, and their potential damage to our children.
I believe wholeheartedly in the sanctity, dignity and importance of the institution of marriage. I believe that has been consistently reflected in my actions. When I found out about my husbands infidelity I worked immediately to first seek reconciliation through forgiveness, and then to work diligently to repair our marriage. We reached a point where I felt it was important to look my sons in the eyes and maintain my dignity, self-respect, and my basic sense of right and wrong. I therefore asked my husband to leave two weeks ago.
This trial separation was agreed to with the goal of ultimately strengthening our marriage. During this short separation it was agreed that Mark would not contact us. I kept this separation quiet out of respect of his public office and reputation, and in hopes of keeping our children from just this type of public exposure. Because of this separation, I did not know where he was in the past week.
I believe enduring love is primarily a commitment and an act of will, and for a marriage to be successful, that commitment must be reciprocal. I believe Mark has earned a chance to resurrect our marriage.
Psalm 127 states that sons are a gift from the Lord and children a reward from Him. I will continue to pour my energy into raising our sons to be honorable young men. I remain willing to forgive Mark completely for his indiscretions and to welcome him back, in time, if he continues to work toward reconciliation with a true spirit of humility and repentance.
This is a very painful time for us and I would humbly request now that members of the media respect the privacy of my boys and me as we struggle together to continue on with our lives and as I seek the wisdom of Solomon, the strength and patience of Job and the grace of God in helping to heal my family.
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sardis12 (anonymous) says...
Unlike her pig of a husband, Jenny Sanford is showing strength and class. I hope she gets rid of Mark and goes on with her life, she deserves much better...
June 25, 2009 at 2:16 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jammer (anonymous) says...
she's definitely a woman of character, too bad her husband isn't...
what'd he go down there for one last vacation of exotic sexual relations before he made up his mind what to do?? how lame... he just wanted to see her "hold" herself one last time... what a selfish dips*it
June 25, 2009 at 5:14 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Grinder (anonymous) says...
May God bless Jenny and the boys, and Mark, and may He lead the Sanford family on the path He's laid out before them.
Idle chatter cannot be contained, but I'd suggest holding back on the more extreme opinions until more is known. Who knows what was going on behind closed doors? Granted, there is no excuse for Mark's actions, but there may be reasons, and there IS a difference.
June 25, 2009 at 5:58 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
realamerican (anonymous) says...
The only one who has shown some class is Sanfords wife.
Take Sanford for all he has and move on with your life. Once a cheater always a cheater. To put his family through this public spectacle just shows he is not redeemable but a despicable selfish little man.
He was more worried about being with his mistress than taking care of his responsibilities to his state or family.
June 25, 2009 at 6:09 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
TLG87 (anonymous) says...
She has shown class in this situation.
For someone who was taking a break from the marriage to strengthen it, obviously he did not want to work on it very much considering he was continuing his affair instead of working on it.
Time to leave that mess behind.
June 25, 2009 at 6:40 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
shoelaces (anonymous) says...
What a classy lady!! To be willing to continue in the marriage is a difficult decision. That speaks to what she must feel and to what these two must still mean to one another.
We don't know why he went to Argentina...maybe he went there to end it. One does not know what one has until it is gone. Maybe it took Mrs. Sanford's decision to tell him to leave for him to realize just what is important to him.
I am just sorry to hear such petty comments on some media outlets.
June 25, 2009 at 6:47 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lillycollette (anonymous) says...
* (bookmark)
June 25, 2009 at 6:47 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
stevechas (anonymous) says...
What a class act
June 25, 2009 at 7:01 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ln1959 (anonymous) says...
shoelaces...You just can't give it up can you. Hey if I go into war, I would truly like to have you on my side. Like Chucky. Friends to the End!!
June 25, 2009 at 7:10 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
wonderdog (anonymous) says...
Jenny is one strong, classy woman. She is a good role model for her children and conducts herself with dignity, which must be very difficult right now. I wish her and the boys the best, and I hope everything works out ok for the whole family.
June 25, 2009 at 7:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
theronce (anonymous) says...
I have no doubt that the saints will pray for them.
June 25, 2009 at 7:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Nonsense (anonymous) says...
Nobody knows what went on between Jenny and Mark, but those little boys are innocent - I have a problem with the fact that this was all done around Father's Day - wonder what they thought? I'm sure they wondered where their daddy was on Sunday......
June 25, 2009 at 7:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
prosperous_hb (anonymous) says...
This was a well written article. Mrs. Sanford must have written and posted this article herself.
June 25, 2009 at 7:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Lazy2009 (anonymous) says...
I guess a multi-million beach house out on Sullivans Island soothes all wounds.
June 25, 2009 at 7:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
captivated (anonymous) says...
Mark is in love with Maria. That fact is evident in the language of his e-mails to her. Jenny should initiate divorce procedings and we all need to pray for them, us and for our state.
June 25, 2009 at 7:55 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
KathyM (anonymous) says...
Mrs. Sandford is a classy lady. She is showing dignity and grace. I'm reading some of these comments and thinking, who are you to judge Mr. Sandford? Are ANY of you completely pure and free of sin? No, your not. The Bible says, 'Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.' None of us are without sin. We don't know what's gone on behind the scenes. Only God can judge him, not you, not me. If Any of you are completely pure of heart and have no sin, then you be his judge & jury. May God bless the Sandford family and all of you that are already convicting him. May you all find peace.
June 25, 2009 at 8:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ms_lady2u (anonymous) says...
Look at those beautiful sons. This unpredictable, selfish man chose to leave this beautiful family on Father's Day, like a dog in heat. How pathetic! What a narcissist! This is what Republicans call a leader?
June 25, 2009 at 8:08 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lizzyme (anonymous) says...
Why didn't Governor Sanford take care of this many months ago behind closed doors in private with his wife and family. Do these human beings truly think that the entire public wants to read about his unfaithfulness to his wife. And then for his wife to make a public plea for the public to respect their privacy, they opened the door for he public to say and do whatever they want at this time and the media is definitely going to have a hay day with this one. Not to mention, that the taxpayers are having to pay for all of this horrible publicity. I for one feel that the governor owes the public by stepping down from office, loosing his salary and having to pay back every dime he spent while taking off to who knows where to meet up with the other woman. I can only begin to imagine the money that was spent for him to enjoy his excursions into the tropics, and lets not forget it was at the taxpayers expense.
June 25, 2009 at 8:08 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCGirl0901 (anonymous) says...
captivated - you hit it.. Jenny needs to move on with her life and for the sake of the boys. That was not a physical fling. This is something that has been building slowly for eight years. They have created a foundation for this relationship and in doing that, I'm sure he's made Jenny out to be the bad guy - in his mind. There's no way he could've had a very productive marriage and fostered this 'friendship' with the home wrecker at the same time.
It's a shame that people have to look outside of their relationship for a friend - when you have someone by your side that has been there for you, kept the home going while you bolstered your career.
I don't see how they can recover from eight years of him going to another woman for support.
June 25, 2009 at 8:18 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bc5805 (anonymous) says...
Yes...Pure Class. What's more interesting here is to read the comments being made. You can certainly tell which Commentors have class and those that don't. Moreover, you can pick out the TRUE followers of Christ (the Christians)...those that throw the rocks of "Revenge" and those that speak the words of "Forgiveness and Reconciliation".
June 25, 2009 at 8:20 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
candygirl (anonymous) says...
Sorry Jenny , "Get Over It ",but Mark is still in love with Maria .
"Blind person can see that "
June 25, 2009 at 8:22 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lillycollette (anonymous) says...
http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2009/06/24...
Lilly Collette, June 25th, 2009 8:04 am ET
When Mark Sanford was first running for governor he was duly informed and warned about criminal acts of misconduct by officers of the family court. The family court was indeed no more than a criminal industry. Sanford had people believing that he would look into the matter upon election.
Perhaps Jenny Sanford will give Mark cause to remember some empty promises there.
June 25, 2009 at 8:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCGirl0901 (anonymous) says...
You only have so many cheeks to turn before you run out of things to get slapped..
Actually, I've seen very few revenge posts. I've seen more of maintain your dignity and self respect and move on with her children. She's above that kind of thing anyway..
Although, if I was her, I would've scrubbed the toilet with his toothbrush a few times by this point!
June 25, 2009 at 8:28 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
metallic (anonymous) says...
From the comments, and Mrs. Sanford's press release, I conclude there are a LOT of people in this world who would find it helpful to read Nathaniel Branden's "The Psychology of Romantic Love":
http://www.amazon.com/Psychology-Roma...
****
"To look for something for which the young and poets
Alone retain their keenness. Something, comment
Or revelation, on the edge of that great light
Where joy and knowledge meet, ignite
And blaze so high that such tears start
As blur the vision of the heart.
Hunt through those tears into yet clearer sight:
Art in a crystal air, and essence of
(Let's not be too complicated) -- love."
(From Robert Conquest's Poem, "Address to An undergraduate Society")
June 25, 2009 at 8:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ashleyatwork (anonymous) says...
I feel for you Jenny. You deserve better than living with a man in love with someone else. Don't do that to yourself its a terrible way to live. I've been there.
There are great men out there, find one that loves you.You can make it through this and become stronger than you thought possible. You can find happiness again. Keep your self respect and take care of your business. A good divorce lawyer is crucial. I wish you all the best.
June 25, 2009 at 8:55 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goirish777 (anonymous) says...
Are you friggin' kidding me? Another chance? He didn't say he was breaking off the affair.
Oh yeah "theronce" what the heck does "I have no doubt that the saints will pray for them."
Ri-dang-diculous
June 25, 2009 at 9:16 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ColdBud (anonymous) says...
This is not news. This is a personal matter that affects only the family and should be dealt with by only the family. I don't know why the woman even released a statement.
Sanford messed up in a way that negates his ability to lead our state. He made severe mistakes. The affair is NOT one of the mistakes that affects the rest of us. Had he lied to us about the affair, THEN the affair would be news.
His neglect of duty and responsibility are news, the affair is not. The affair is also not a valid excuse for his neglect of duty.
June 25, 2009 at 9:23 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
nimuetre (anonymous) says...
Dear Jenny... Run do not walk to the attorney. Get out now. Cheaters have already compromised their ethic. Funny how this little affair seems to already have been known in political circles, yet the secret was kept from you. Move on. Your life isn't over. You surely can do better.
June 25, 2009 at 9:40 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
BetsBabe (anonymous) says...
"This is not news. This is a personal matter that affects only the family and should be dealt with by only the family. I don't know why the woman even released a statement."
If only it could have been simply a personal issue, but the scandal has come to the press, which reaches many readers. If I were that woman I would have released a statement as well, considering the scandal not only reflects on Mark but on her as well.
Reading these statements regarding the scandal changes people's opinions about Mark Sanford, and his family. Some may think she didn't complete her duties as a wife, that Mark had to go out of marriage to fulfill his desire or that she was uncaring. To avoid and deter any feelings such as that, and to assure those that know better that she remains strong, she released this statement. And, a very classy one at that.
June 25, 2009 at 9:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Booniechic (anonymous) says...
Right on ColdBud! Enough said...next please!!
June 25, 2009 at 9:48 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
theronce (anonymous) says...
Goir, research it. It already sounds like you wouldn't listen to me, if you took the time to listen. At least you're interested. Good.
June 25, 2009 at 9:48 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
slr456 (anonymous) says...
Very classy woman...maybe she should finish out Mark's term?
June 25, 2009 at 9:49 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
onawhim (anonymous) says...
Jenny, welcome to the ranks of many other women (and men) who have gone through what you are going through right now. Some more than once, in hopes of reconciliation and change. Your marriage will never be the same. Never. The trust is completely gone and it takes years to gain it back. Here's a bit of unsolicited advice ... once a cheater, always a cheater. Get out while you can, before the hurt and pain multiply. And, on the bright side, YOU 'BOUT TO GET PAID!!
June 25, 2009 at 9:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goirish777 (anonymous) says...
yawn................. what a bunch of maroons -- B. Bunny
June 25, 2009 at 10:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
charleston1960 (anonymous) says...
I am curious as to how many posters that condemn Sanford have a family member or a friend that went through a divorce. Did you alienate the person to the gutters of hell like you are doing to Sanford? I will say that with the average marriages these days, 1/3 to 1/2 ending in divorce many because of infidelity or finances. You probably do know someone. I do. Sure it is wrong, but the issue is theirs not yours. Now because he is a Republican Governor like several keep bringing up, he should resign; let me ask you, did you cast the stones when Clinton was into the interns? The major difference between Clinton and Sanford is that Clinton had an affair as Governor and lied about it, paid off Ms. Jones, and went on to become President. While in office, he was getting intern Lewinski to perform exotic secretarial skills such as oral dictation. He got caught and he lied to America. "I did not have sexual relations with that woman, Miss Lewinsky." He then went on to finish his term after finally confessing he lied to the people with a few tears. Sanford did not get caught, though he was close to, but chose to let the public find out from him. He did not lie to anyone about the affair, because no one asked him. He told his wife months ago. They separated two weeks ago. You do not know if he went down there to end it or to have another liaison encounter. Perhaps he will let you know that after he discusses issues with his wife.
June 25, 2009 at 10:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
grainofsalt (anonymous) says...
All of this speculation and hen-cackling that you same bunch of folks do in these forums, particularly on stories like this, is exactly why I was glad when I heard rumor that the P&C is going to do away with the comments after stories. I hope it's true because rarely is there any feedback or input that has any value other than a cheap laugh or cheap sniping.
I've generally stopped looking at the online comments, but just had to see what kind of responses would follow the Jenny's statement. I should have known better. Now I remember why I stopped reading and posting here.
June 25, 2009 at 10:10 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
wjhamilton3 (anonymous) says...
If this woman had chosen to run her own campaign, instead of her husband's, I believe she would be a much happier woman today. She could have been elected to Congress, the Governorship and perhaps the US Senate by now. Mark could have spent more time with the children. The Governor's letters show a side of him imperfectly suited for political life. All reports are that his wife is a master of politics and campaigning, with perfect conservative credentials.
As a Democrat, I would be more afraid of Mom than Dad. She was rock solid on message yesterday and set everything up perfectly. The Governor was clearly lost.
Mike should have raised the kids and done investment banking from a home office, he could have made more money and been happier. He could have played the guitar, wrote poetry or whatever else he wanted on the side. He had the skills to make ten thousand dollars trading before breakfast, then he could have taken the boys to beach. His wife should have run for Congress and Governor. She made the tactical and political decisions that advanced Sanford's career anyway.
The Republicans should learn to empower their women, instead of insisting on the "family values" model where capable women have to devote their energies to supporting men in office. Just run the best people you've got.
June 25, 2009 at 10:22 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goirish777 (anonymous) says...
AWESOME! http://jezebel.com/5302250/south-caro...
My wife and I noticed the same thing and laughed.
June 25, 2009 at 10:29 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jeg111 (anonymous) says...
Glad she is a women of faith and I know that will be of great consolation to her, but...if he has done this once..he will do it again. Hope she gets it together and dumps him...she can do MUCH better.
June 25, 2009 at 10:34 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dhalfen (anonymous) says...
Seriously, as a male, I can only advise her to get out of the marriage as quickly as possible. Governor Sanford's actions are inexcusable, and she has no need to suffer because of them. Life is too short to be punished for other people's idiotic mistakes.
June 25, 2009 at 2:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
membermike (anonymous) says...
thank u cp&c 4 the Mark & Jenny update & the current conditions......
June 25, 2009 at 3:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
smp (anonymous) says...
ditto dhalten...except i am not a male. Don't let your spouse pull you under. If they can't tell you the truth, and be by your side, and hold you in esteem. What good are they?
June 25, 2009 at 3:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ashleyatwork (anonymous) says...
UPDATE
Her photos can be seen at www.newsbizarre.com
Shes not that great or young looking.
June 25, 2009 at 4:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Bunny2 (anonymous) says...
While I don't condone what the Guv did whatsoever, I'm really suspicious of Mrs. Sanford's statement.To me, it sounds almost as if she's reveling, even wallowing, in a slightly sanctimonious way,over the news of 'the other woman', because it's a given that no one in their right mind would ok this kind of behaviour. And she knows it. Classy she may well be, but to me, she's always looked like a dried prune.
June 25, 2009 at 7:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
walleyedwoman1215 (anonymous) says...
To be willing to forgive and move forward in the spirit of reconciliation after such a crushing blow is amazing. I wish her all the best. (I, personally, would fly to Mexico and divorce him immediately.)
Just remember, Mrs. Sanford, your sons are learning from YOU what a woman is worth. Don't be a martyr.
June 26, 2009 at 10:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
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