South Carolina, kept in the dark about the whereabouts of its governor in recent days, now knows where he’s been on many different levels. Mr. Sanford’s revelations at his Wednesday press conference were stunning in their content and by the sudden public presentation of his personal lapses. It’s a scandal for sure, but not necessarily crippling to the remainder of his term.<\/p>\n
The governor admitted an extramarital affair with a woman in Argentina and having taken a five-day trip there without telling his staff of the destination. Long viewed as a devoted family man, the governor acknowledged being estranged from his wife, who is living with their four sons on Sullivan’s Island.<\/p>\n
Mr. Sanford, normally resolute and self-contained, was clearly embarrassed and shaken by his public confession of the long-term relationship. Nevertheless, the governor managed to make a full explanation of his lapses and convey his commitment to make amends.<\/p>\n