State's 'first family' grows, Palin delivers baby boy

MAT-SU — The Palin family has grown, as Gov. Sarah Palin gave birth this morning to a baby boy.

Alaska’s first parents have named their fifth child Trig Paxson Van Palin, who weighs in at 6 pounds, 2 ounces, the governor’s office reports.

The newest Palin arrived at 6:30 a.m. after the governor returned from Texas, her office reports in a prepared statement. She was visiting Texas to attend the Governor’s Energy Conference, where she was a keynote speaker. Palin’s labor began while in Texas, but she was able to board an Alaska Airlines flight and return to her home state before giving birth.

Trig and the governor are both doing well, her office reports.

The Palin family released the following statement about the birth:

“Trig is beautiful and already adored by us. We knew through early testing he would face special challenges, and we feel privileged a God would entrust us with this gift and allow us unspeakable joy as he entered our lives. We have faith that every baby is created for a good purpose and has potential to make this world a better place. We are truly blessed.”

Trig is the fifth child of the governor and her husband, Todd Palin, which includes Piper, 7, Willow, 13, Bristol, 17 and Track, 18.

Contact Chris Gillow at chris.gillow@frontiersman.com or 352-2284.