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House Censures Governor Sanford


COLUMBIA, S.C. – The House of Representatives censured Governor Mark Sanford today for actions that have brought great shame upon himself, his office, our state government and our citizens.  

“As far as the House is concerned, this issue is now behind us,” said Majority Leader Kenny Bingham, R-Cayce. “Tomorrow, the House Republican Caucus will turn the page and unveil a legislative agenda focused on improving the economy and creating jobs for our constituents.”

The censure resolution passed the House Judiciary Committee by a unanimous vote before Christmas, and was set for special order this week.

“The past year’s fallout surrounding Governor Sanford has marked a dark chapter in our state’s history,” said House Speaker Bobby Harrell. “Despite calls from many – including myself and a majority of lawmakers – to put this issue behind us by acting in the best interest of our state and resigning, Governor Sanford insisted on remaining in office.  This unprecedented decision to keep himself, and his distractions, in office left the General Assembly with no other option but to fully investigate the numerous allegations of wrongdoings made against Governor Sanford.  Our investigation into these actions has now culminated in the House’s passage of a censure resolution.”

“I would like to thank the members of the Judiciary Committee for all their time and hard work spent investigating this matter fully.  And I would also like to thank the members of the House for acting quickly on the Committee’s recommendation to censure the Governor,” Speaker Harrell added.

Any further action against the Governor could stem from the 37 charges still facing him from the State Ethics Commission.

“My constituents in Greenville are telling me that they want us to focus on improving the economy and moving our state in a positive direction,” said Rep. Bruce Bannister, the Assistant Majority Leader.  “I’m proud my colleagues dealt with this unfortunate issue in a thoughtful, deliberate, but quick fashion.  Now we are all anxious to move on.”

The censure now goes to the state Senate for its consideration.