Sunday, Nov. 08, 2009

The Buzz: Sanford watches GOP win from afar

Sanford watches GOP win from afar

Democrats weren't the only losers last week when Republicans took governor's races in New Jersey and Virginia. The biggest loser might have been right here in South Carolina, our own Gov. Mark Sanford.

Sanford chaired the Republican Governor's Association until resigning that post this summer after admitting to an extramarital affair.

His replacement, Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour, is basking in the glow of the two wins. Some political analysts think Barbour's election plan could translate into more election victories in 2010 when 38 governors are up for election.

Leading the GOP to more wins in 2010 could have served as a launching pad for a presidential bid in 2012 for someone with such ambitions.

Sanford may or may not have been serious about national office. If he was, he must feel like he missed out on a resume builder last week.

YEP, OBAMA IS DITHERING, WILSON SAYS

U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson, R-Lexington, said he agrees with former Vice President Dick Cheney's assertion that President Barack Obama is "dithering" on Afghanistan.

Wilson decided he agreed with Cheney after looking up the word "dithering."

Wilson told The Hill newspaper: "I actually have to agree with Vice President Cheney, that the president is dithering. And I actually had to look up 'dithering,' and it means 'indecisive,' and that's exactly what he's being."

Cheney said Obama is dithering over a decision whether to send more troops to Afghanistan.

AN ODE TO ARGENTINE LOVE IN COLUMBIA

The S.C. Progressive Network, a liberal group, is taking advantage of Gov. Mark Sanford's now infamous extramarital affair.

In an invitation it released last week, the group is asking friends and donors to "join us for 'An Argentine Affair' without leaving the state or wrecking your marriage."

For $25 a head - $40 for couples - those who pine for all things Argentina can enjoy the wines, food and music of Argentina, a tango exhibit and a silent auction.

Local artist Alejandro Garcia's original oil painting will be included in a silent auction. The Spanish caption on the painting reads, "I want to drown my heart with wine, to extinguish a crazy love, that more than love, is pain," words taken from Nostalgias, a famous tango.

"An Argentine Affair" is at 7 p.m. Saturday at The Big Apple in downtown Columbia. For tickets, call (803) 808-3384 or visit scpronet.com.

Get The State newspaper delivered to your home. Click here to subscribe.