Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

While Governor Mark Sanford continues to apologize for his recent actions some critics say that's not enough to get the state "back on track." Political advisors say the scandal is hurting the republican party's already tarnished image. Some fear the Sanford saga will affect more than just the governor's career.

South Carolina under the microscope after the Sanford stunner. The governor admitting last week to having an affair and going "out of pocket" for days. Something Columbia's Chamber of Commerce President Mike McLeese says could not happen in the military or business world.

"This would be the end of a military officers career, " says McLeese.

He says South Carolina needs to move forward and get out of the national spotlight.

"Does it damage our image or perception of the state, it certainly does nothing to help it," says McLeese.

"I think its given us a terrible image. Late night talk shows and Comedy Central have had a field day for over a week now," says Columbia resident Dave Ward.

He is one of several people who are afraid this controversy will keep businesses here from expanding or keep them from coming to the state at all. Some fear the hit to South Carolina's image will affect a state already saddled with a 12.1% unemployment rate. That's not the case according to some commerce experts..

"The governor's personal situation will have limited impact on our ability to recruit companies to come here; because they will be looking at a long range," says McLeese.

If businesses aren't coming to South Carolina, McLeese says it's because of other problems like tax policies; not because of Sanford's actions. Now McLeese is focused on moving on.