Back on the job

Gov. Mark Sanford's Cabinet meeting on Friday was the occasion for yet more apologies about his extramarital affair and related irresponsible behavior. It also was a welcome signal that the governor has recommitted himself to his job as chief executive, despite the insistence of his critics that he should resign.

The calls for his resignation have been accompanied by demands for an investigation of potential misuse of public money during a trade mission to Argentina and Brazil last year. Mr. Sanford acknowledges having seen his then-paramour during that trip, but insists that the trade mission was legitimate. A Commerce Department spokesperson confirms that the governor had meetings with officials and businessmen in Buenos Aires.

Since the governor evidently was on a legitimate trade mission, what would be the point of an investigation? Why suffer the further distraction of a fishing expedition?

Attorney General Henry McMaster's cautionary words should be heeded: "At this point, none of the facts appear to be in dispute. The governor has freely admitted everything he has been accused of. Clearly, his actions were personally and professionally unwise and inappropriate.

"However, criminal investigations should never be politically inspired. I hope all sides will resist attempting to use the investigative and prosecutorial powers of law enforcement for political purposes. Mixing politics and law enforcement is never a good idea."

Gov. Sanford has attempted to settle the issue by agreeing to pay for the Argentine portion of the trip. Meanwhile, he appears resolved to ride out the storm and stay on the job.

Following his Cabinet meeting Friday, he said: "More than anything, today was about letting my team in the Cabinet know how sorry I am for letting them down. But more importantly, today is a reminder that our work goes on."

Lindsey Graham, the state's senior senator, also urged restraint and compassion: "Mark's ability to govern will not only require him to reconcile with his family, but also with the people of South Carolina and their elected officials in the General Assembly." He urged the governor and Legislature to find a common reform agenda. That would have been good advice before Gov. Sanford's public exposure, and it's good advice for the future.

The governor already has admitted to a broad range of mistakes related to his extramarital affair. He has put an end to it, and the state should be willing to move on, too, even though the unpleasant memories will linger.