South Carolina Attorney General Henry McMaster (R), a potential candidate for governor in 2010, has released a statement alternately criticizing Gov. Mark Sanford (R) and expressing sympathy for him and his family.

"I think we all know that leaving the state without a governor for any period of time is not acceptable. I suspect Governor Sanford now understands that better than anyone else. My hope is that this sad experience will make Mark a better governor and a better public servant during the final months of his administration.

My heart goes out to Mark, Jenny, and the boys. I know this is a difficult time for them. They're in Peggy's and my prayers."