SC First Lady Jenny Sanford, Files for Divorce for Gov. Mark Sanford

Jenny Sanford, the estranged wife of South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford, has filed for divorce. This is a sad and painful end to one chapter in her life and she will go on. The Sanfords have lived in separate homes since June, when Sanford revealed an extramarital affair with an Argentine woman. What stood out in my mind that that drama was that he called his jump-off his "soulmate." That was an insult to his wife and the mother of his children.

Here's the statement from First Lady Jenny Sanford:

Columbia, S.C. – December 11, 2009 – As so many of us know, the dissolution of any marriage is a sad and painful process. It is also a very personal and private one. Because Mark and I are public figures, we have naturally had less privacy with which to deal with our difficulties than do other couples. Indeed, I know it will soon become known so I choose to release this brief notice that I am now filing for divorce. This came after many unsuccessful efforts at reconciliation, yet I am still dedicated to keeping the process that lies ahead peaceful for our family.

I remain thankful to so many across this state and nation for their words of encouragement and prayers during this difficult time. Please know the boys and I are doing well and are blessed with the incredible support of friends and family and bolstered by our faith and the unfailing love of our God above.
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Mark Sanford told the Associated Press on Thursday that he still wanted to reconcile with his wife.