While his talking points are clearly aimed at countering Chavez's influence in Latin America, his aides are trying to downplay this.

NPR: Bush Set to Begin Latin American Tour

He is also known for holding politicians and public officials accountable in his "No Talking Points" segment.

CNN: About

Gibbs Knotts, chairman of the political science department at the College of Charleston, said it's not an insurmountable problem if Sanford can stick to his small-government talking points and appeal to the GOP base.

NPR: Trespassing Accusation Leaves Sanford On His Own