Jenny Sanford Sets a Standard

There will be no privacy for Jenny Sanford in the immediate future. As the wife of the embattled and apologetic Governor of South Carolina, the media will follow her for even the briefest of comment and read multiple nuances into her every behaviour.

Nevertheless, Jenny Sanford stands apart.

When Governor Mark Sanford appeared before the press to offer his admission of an adulterous relationship and to apologize to a long list of people, his wife was not by his side. There was not the horrendous ‘stand-by-your-man‘ scene for the national and international press. Jenny Sanford did not allow herself to be put in that situation. And for that, she has the unwavering admiration of legions of women.

Jenny Sanford issued her own press release and had her own private interview with Associated Press. And for that, there are some that criticize her for not following a well worn, humiliating script. If the roles were reversed, would a husband stand at his wife’s side as she discussed her infidelity and offered apologies? It is highly unlikely.

The press will follow this story for the salacious elements. There is the fall from power, an international affair, political manoeuvring, subterfuge, betrayal and even perhaps love. What is a highly personal matter of a public figure is played out before a national and international audience. And through this avalanche of media attention, Jenny Sanford has maintained her grace and her dignity. She has not allowed herself to be victimized a second time. And that is no small feat.

Catherine Forsythe