Ostensibly, the high court could find that Sanford's status in the Reserves nullifies his standing as governor, which could void all his official actions since taking office in January. We doubt it will come to that but would not be surprised if Sanford is forced to choose between being governor and being a a first lieutenant in the 315th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron.

That is a choice Sanford should have made before assuming the governorship. He should not be in a position where he could be called to active duty and forced to abandon his duties as governor.

In an unusual break with court routine, Sanford asked to personally address the justices during Wednesday's hearing. Chief Justice Jean Toal said that because he was the governor, she would permit it.

Sanford spent about five minutes explaining his personal reasons for wanting to join the Air Force Reserve and defending his decision to stay. Primarily, he said, he wanted his four sons to follow his example and serve in the military. That service, he added, "makes me a better father."

Fine, but what's wrong with setting a good paternal example by fulfilling the duties of governor, as the people of this state elected him to do. At a time when the state is facing its worst budget crisis in memory, the state could use his full attention.

Sanford is South Carolina's only sitting governor. He is one of many lieutenants in the Air Force Reserve, all of whom presumably could assume his Air Force chores if he stays in Columbia.

Even if Sanford is not called up to serve in Iraq or some other trouble spot, he is required to abandon his duties as governor while he trains two or three weeks out of the year. That is a significant chunk of time away from his principal job.

If he gets out of the Reserves now, he can resume his service after he leaves the Statehouse. But if his unit is activated, he would have no option but to leave the governorship, in which case, Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer would replace him.

Sanford's intentions are unclear. He told justices that "whatever you all decide, I will abide by. Period." But later he said he would consider an appeal if he loses the case.

He clearly hopes to stay in the Reserves. We hope, for the sake of the state, the court forces him to choose one job or the other.

South Carolina deserves a governor who will devote his full energies to the state's business.