Rep. Mark Sanford — the Republican politico from South Carolina who used taxpayer dollars to made adulterous visits to his girlfriend — is now blaming his ex-wife for ending his marriage plans to the Argentine named Maria Belen Chapur.
Mr. Sanford and Ms. Chapur first announced their affair in 2009, after the then-governor disappeared for several days. His aide told the world that Mr. Sanford was hiking the Appalachian Trail. He was actually visiting Ms. Chapur in Argentina. Mr. Sanford later admitted the affair in a lengthy, rambling and tearful press conference.
He also said Ms. Chapur was his soul mate and soon after, announced their plans to marry.
Now, those plans have fallen through — and it’s due largely to the custody battle that’s ensued with his ex-wife, Jenny, Mr. Sanford said, Politico reported.
Mr. Sanford said in a 2,400-word Facebook post: “No relationship can stand forever this tension of being forced to pick between the one you love and your own son or daughter, and for this reason Belen and I have decided to call off the engagement,” Politico reported.
“Belen is a remarkably wonderful woman who I have always loved, and I will be forever grateful for not only the many years we have known and loved each other, but the last six very tough ones wherein she has encouraged me and silently borne its tribulations with her ever warm and kind spirit,” he wrote, Politico reported.
Ms. Sanford did not comment, Politico reported.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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