Whether it’s a philandering governor or a loud-mouthed Congressman, South Carolina seems to be known for its more flamboyant, scandal-prone politicians. From Governor Mark Sanford’s Appalachian Trail/Argentina affair to Joe Wilson’s outburst at President Obama during a speech to a joint session of Congress, the Palmetto State has been supplying national political fodder for awhile.
Now, comes revelations of another scandal – allegations of an adulterous affair between a Republican gubernatorial candidate and one of Sanford’s old aides. Today, Will Folks, former communications director for Gov. Sanford, claimed on his blog to “an inappropriate physical relationship” with Rep. Nikki Haley, who is running for Sanford’s job.
Haley is a pro-life, ardent gun rights supporter, and Tea Party darling who makes is abundantly clear that she is a Christian. Her campaign Web site even includes the frequently asked question: “Is Nikki a Christian?” The answer is an emphatic yes:
In Nikki’s words: “My faith in Christ has a profound impact on my daily life and I look to Him for guidance with every decision I make. God has blessed my family in so many ways and my faith in the Lord gives me great strength on a daily basis. Being a Christian is not about words, but about living for Christ every day.”
Haley’s conservative credibility was also given a boost earlier this month when she won the endorsement, including a public appearance at the State House in Columbia, from former Vice Presidential hopeful Sarah Palin, who called Haley “our kinda gal.”
That endorsement sent Haley’s poll numbers skyrocketing in this ultra-conservative state, putting her ahead of her nearest Republican challenger, State Attorney General Henry McMaster, by some 11 points.
Ironically, perhaps, Haley has also been endorsed by the state’s former first lady Jenny Sanford, who recently divorced husband Mark over his affair.
Haley released a statement flatly denying Folks’ confession:
”I have been 100% faithful to my husband throughout our 13 years of marriage. This claim against me is categorically and totally false.
It is sad, but not surprising, that this disgraceful smear has taken form less than a week removed from the release of a poll showing our campaign with a significant lead. It is quite simply South Carolina politics at its worst.”
Maybe, or for South Carolina, perhaps it’s just business as usual.
