Fred Sanford and Mark Sanford: Compare/Contrast

1. Fred Sanford, star of the 70’s sitcom, “Sanford and Son,” was played by the black actor-comedian, Redd Foxx. Mark Sanford’s SLED code name is Phil Anderer.

2. Fred would feign heart attacks, calling out to his deceased wife, “I’m coming to join you, Elizabeth.” Mark actually gave several of his staffers heart attacks, when they discovered an email to his mistress proclaiming, “Fathers’ Day, Schmathers’ day, I’m coming to join you, Maria.”

3. Fred kept his junk in his yard. Mark kept his junk in his pants except during visits to Argentina.

4. Redd Foxx was known for his x-rated joke albums in the 50’s. Mark (“El Grande Marco”) became infamous for airing his ribald e. mails in the 21st century’s first decade.

5. Fred’s nemesis, “the evil and ugly” Aunt Esther, often made his life a living Hell, trying to keep him in line. Mark has Jennie.

6. Fred’s business could have benefitted from a stimulus package. Mark’s obviously overactive package didn’t need stimulating, it was later revealed.

7. Fred stayed at home. Mark discovered a new route from the Appalachian Trail to Argentina.

8. Fred was the show’s biggest alcohol drinker. Mark’s devoted followers were heavy imbibers of his homemade cool-ade.

9. Fred could often be a first class jerk. Mark is a jerk who always goes first class.

10. Fred had “soul,” but no mate. Mark has a soul mate, but no soul.