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Pressure Mounts for Sanford to Resign

Republicans weighing whether to impeach Mark Sanford now, or wait for ethics probe

By Mat Probasco, Newser Staff

Posted Aug 30, 2009 5:03 AM CDT

(Newser) – South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford is running out of allies in his own political party, reports The State. Republicans at the state House Majority Caucus meeting yesterday bashed the scandal-plagued Sanford. Furious legislators called for his immediate resignation, though South Carolina House Speaker Bobby Harrell urged holding off on any action until a state ethics panel announces its finding. Even Sanford's supporters want him to resign.

“It’s almost unanimous for resignation,” said Rep. Mike Pitts. “At this point, I don’t see a rational man who’s thinking clearly and is capable of leading this state.” Sanford has been accused of using a state airplane and money for political and personal travel—including an extramarital affair.

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FILE - In this file photo taken Aug. 13, 2009, South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford listens to remarks during the Budget and Control Board meeting in Columbia,S.C. South Carolina's Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer will... (AP Photo/Mary Ann Chastain/FILE)

South Carolina Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer says embattled Gov. Mark Sanford needs to resign rather than risking impeachment. (AP Photo/Virginia Postic)

S.C. Gov.Mark Sanford announces that he will not resign at a news conference in Columbia, S.C. Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2009. (AP Photo/Virginia Postic)

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Is there anybody in this room that feels the governor should not resign? I don’t hear anybody defending him. - Rep. Harry Cato, House speaker pro tem.

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Pressure Mounts for Sanford to Resign