Report says Palin abused her power

By Michael Rovito
Frontiersman
Published on Saturday, October 11, 2008 8:33 PM AKDT

By Michael Rovito

Frontiersman

ANCHORAGE — Gov. Sarah Palin’s firing of former state Public Safety Commissioner Walt Monegan was proper, but she abused her power in attempting to have her former brother-in-law Alaska State Trooper Michael Wooten fired.

(Use arrows above to view more photos)

That according to the report of findings from the Legislature’s investigation into what has become known as Troopergate. The report was made public Friday after a nearly eight-hour executive session in which a bipartisan panel of legislators pored over the report’s findings.

“The Legislature reaffirms that each public officer holds office as a public trust, and any effort to benefit a personal or financial interest through official action is a violation of that trust,” says the report, compiled by Stephen E. Branchflower, special counsel to the Alaska Legislative Council. Branchflower was tasked by lawmakers to investigate whether Palin and her administration used her office to satisfy a family grudge against Wooten, who went through a nasty divorce with Palin’s sister.

Governor Palin knowingly permitted a situation to continue where impermissible pressure was placed on several subordinates in order to advance a personal agenda, to wit: To get trooper Michael Wooten fired,” the report says.

Branchflower says in the report he believes Monegan’s refusal to fire Wooten was not the sole reason Palin fired him, but likely was a contributing factor.

His report also outlines a high level of access to the governor’s office and its resources by Todd Palin, the governor’s husband.

Branchflower says Governor Palin had the authority to fire Monegan, which he said she did lawfully. But Branchflower also reports that the level of pressure put on Monegan to fire Wooten was not lawful.

The Legislative Council made no mention of a criminal investigation Friday, and the body doesn’t have the authority to sanction Palin. What effect the investigation will have will likely be seen during the Nov. 4 election, or after Palin returns to Alaska should Republican presidential candidate John McCain not win the presidency.

The report

The report released Friday is only what’s being made available to the public. State Sen. Kim Elton said some parts of the report are confidential because they deal with personnel matters.

In the portion of the released report, Chuck Kopp, the man Palin hired to replace Monegan, testified he received a call from Palin aide Frank Bailey telling him the governor’s office wanted to make a change in the leadership of the Public Safety Office.

“Todd [Palin] is really upset with Monegan,” Bailey said, according to Kopp’s testimony.

Kopp went on to testify that Bailey told him Palin lost confidence in the Alaska State Troopers and the Department of Public Safety’s ability to protect her family from Wooten. The report also says Sarah Palin never personally spoke to Kopp before he was appointed to fill the Public Safety commissioner’s seat. Kopp resigned 15 days later after a prior sexual harassment claim filed against him in Kenai resurfaced.

Following Kopp’s testimony in the report, Gary Wheeler, who worked on Palin’s security detail, testified he feels Todd Palin had “a significant influence” over employees in the governor’s office. He also states in the report that the governor reduced her security staff from six people to three — two full-time and one part-time positions.

As the Troopergate probe progressed, some critics of Governor Palin have said it didn’t make sense for her to reduce her security staff if she felt she and her family were threatened by Wooten.

Rep. Carl Gatto, R-Palmer, was one of six Republican legislators, along with Wasilla Rep. Wes Keller, who sued to stop the investigation. He said he also agrees it doesn’t make sense for Palin to thin out her security detail if she felt her family was in danger.

Gatto said he thinks the Troopergate report is “not good, but it’s not devastating” for Governor Palin. He also believes Sen. Hollis French, a Democrat, saw the investigation as a chance to discredit the governor.

In the report, Wheeler went on to detail Todd Palin’s level of involvement in the governor’s office.

“Anytime I needed to get information to the governor, I would always go through Todd, because he was the only one I could — could talk with, either via the cell phone or in person,” Wheeler testified. “I know that he got e-mails and stuff that he was in the loop on — on activities.”

Throughout the report, Todd Palin is portrayed as the aggressor in trying to get Wooten fired. The report says the governor knowingly allowed Todd Palin to use her office and its resources, including access to state employees, in an effort to find a way to terminate Wooten.

“Todd Palin probably went way over his boundaries and wasn’t stopped,” Gatto said.

The argument the Palins felt their safety was threatened by Wooten doesn’t hold water, the report concludes.

Branchflower writes that Todd Palin’s contact with staff and state trooper officials “is inconsistent with a desire to avoid harm from trooper Wooten or others.” He also says Todd Palin’s complaints to state employees had nothing to do with a fear of Wooten; instead, they centered around Todd Palin calling Wooten a bad trooper, poor recruiting image and expressing his frustration over Wooten’s punishment after an administrative investigation.

“I conclude that such claims of fear were not bona fide and were offered to provide cover for the Palins’ real motivation: to get trooper Wooten fired for personal family related reasons,” Branchflower says in the report.

The subject of Todd Palin’s level of involvement in state government is also dealt with. In sworn testimony, Attorney General Talis Colberg says Todd Palin was copied on e-mails dealing with state business, but can’t explain the purpose for it.

Colberg acknowledges Todd Palin is not a state employee, but says he never asked why he was being included on official state business.

Response from

McCain-Palin camp

Following Friday’s release of Branchflower’s report, spokespersons for Palin and the McCain-Palin campaign were quick to play down the impact of its findings.

In a statement, McCain-Palin spokeswoman Meg Stapleton said the report vindicates Palin.

“Today’s report shows that the governor acted within her proper and lawful authority in the reassignment of Walt Monegan,” Stapleton said. “The report also illustrates what we’ve known all along: this was a partisan-led inquiry run by Obama supporters.”

The bipartisan panel of state legislators — eight Republicans and four Democrats — voted unanimously to investigate Palin before anyone knew McCain would select her as his running mate. The investigation was not about Monegan’s termination, but allegations Palin pressured him to fire Wooten.

In July, Palin told the Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman she had nothing to hide and an official investigation would prove that. After she joined the Republican ticket, Palin resisted the investigation and the McCain campaign sent spokespeople to Alaska attempting to reveal the investigation was a partisan attack.

David Cheezem, a Democrat running for Gatto’s House seat, said the McCain campaign must feel silly for fighting the investigation so hard if it is going to contend that same report exonerates her.

Cheezem said the controversy surrounding the Troopergate investigation shows two different Sarah Palins.

“As governor, I think Sarah Palin has been different than the Sarah Palin as vice presidential candidate,” Cheezem said. “I think Governor Palin will come back to her roots [if McCain does not win the election], and those roots were bipartisanship and openness and transparency.”

What about Wooten?

Gatto said he’d like to know more about how “we’re going to deal with Wooten.”

Some have said Wooten got off easy after he was found to have Tased his 11-year old son, killed a moose illegally out of season and allegedly drank alcohol in his patrol car. Wooten was disciplined by the department and remains a trooper.

Rep. Bill Stoltze, R-Chugiak, who said he considers Monegan to be a friend, said the political implications for Palin will all depend on how the press covers the story.

“Out of four findings, three exonerate her in many ways,” Stoltze said.

The press has been a frequent target of Palin and the McCain campaign, which says biased media have stopped at nothing to smear the Alaska governor.

In his own statement, Bill McAllister, Palin’s spokesman in Alaska, says Branchflower’s findings required “speculation and assumptions” to reach.

“We agree with the comments made that Alaskans should consider the report in total rather than relying on the findings,” McAllister said, echoing a comment from Elton.

The Troopergate report also has some recommendations.

Branchflower said the Legislature should consider amending an Alaska statute to make certain a government agency seeking medical or rehabilitation records of an employee establishes a solid reason and purpose for obtaining those records. The report also says the Legislature should consider amending another statute to allow people who file complaints against peace officers to get feedback about the results of their complaints.

Show of support

A group of Sarah Palin supporters greeted legislators as they filed into the office Friday morning. David Boyle, who admitted working for the McCain-Palin campaign, called the Troopergate investigation a “kangaroo circus” run by French.

“I’m here to support a wonderful governor,” Boyle said, adding he wouldn’t lie about his connection to the McCain-Palin campaign.

The pro-Palin group moved outside during executive session. The crowd soon left and was replaced by a smaller group calling themselves Students for Palin.

The McCain campaign on Thursday released its own report, a day before the Legislature’s report was scheduled to come out, clearing Palin of any wrongdoing.

“The Palins make no apologies for wanting to protect their family and wanting to bring attention to the injustice of a violent trooper keeping his badge and abusing the workers’ compensation system,” the campaign report’s conclusion says.

A separate investigation run by the state’s Personnel Board is also underway. Palin has said she will cooperate with that investigation because it’s the proper channel to handle the Troopergate controversy. The Personnel Board is comprised of three appointed members.

Contact Michael Rovito at michael.rovito@frontiersman.com or 352-2252.

Report questions Todd Palin’s access to state resources

ANCHORAGE — The Troopergate report released Friday paints a picture of Gov. Sarah Palin’s husband, Todd, and some members of her staff in their efforts to get Alaska State Trooper Mike Wooten fired.

While the report found Palin had the right to fire Monegan, it also says she abused her power by applying pressure to get Wooten fired and allowing circumstances to exist in the governor’s office that constitute an abuse of power. Following are some excerpts from the report. The full public report can be viewed online at www.legis.state.ak.us.

• “The evidence supports the conclusion that Governor Palin, at the least, engaged in ‘official action’ by her inaction, if not her active participation or assistance to her husband, in attempting to get Trooper Wooten fired.

• “She knowingly... permitted Todd Palin to use the governor’s office and the resources of the governor’s office, including access to state employees, to continue to subordinate state employees in an effort to find some way to get trooper Wooten fired.”

• “Such impermissible and repeated contacts create conflicts of interest for subordinate employees who must choose to either please a superior or run the risk of facing that superior’s displeasure and the possible consequences of such displeasure.”

• “In this case, Gov. Palin has declined to provide an interview. An interview would have assisted everyone to better understand her motives and perhaps explain why she was so apparently intent upon getting trooper Wooten fired in spite of the fact she knew he had been disciplined following the administrative investigation.”

• “While it is true that in the absence of an interview with either Gov. Palin or Todd Palin, the specific answers to questions such as these are left unanswered, it is likewise true that their apparent motives can be inferred from the circumstances, their actions and their comments.”

• Stephen E. Branchflower, special counsel to the Alaska Legislative Council who authored the report, went on to say since Todd Palin is not a state employee, his actions cannot violate any state executive branch ethics rules.

Copyright © 2009 Frontiersman

Comments

160 comment(s)

    anotherREALAmerican wrote on Oct 27, 2008 8:32 AM:

    " I will be soooo happy when Alaska gets Silly Palin back. There is too much corruption in D.C. now. Adding her brand of cronyism to the mix would finally destroy this country.

    Alaskans please call your pitbull home. We in the lower 48 don't want her. Oh yeah, if you'll take her back we promise to chip in for a year's supply of lipstick for her. "

    MAXKATT from NY wrote on Oct 27, 2008 6:42 AM:

    " To- Former ADN reader- Newspapers can both report in an unbiased fashion, and share their thought on the election with readers. Most do it later in the game, to lesson impact. One wonders if you would complain so vociferously if McCain were getting some (er any) newspaper endorsements. ...Let's stop with the "Liberal/Dem controlled media thing too. The right has outlets as well; Fox, Hannity, O'Reilly, Almost all stalk radio like Rush, Hannity, Savage, Levin, Laura Ingram. "

    Former ADN reader wrote on Oct 26, 2008 6:12 PM:

    " Newspapers should not be biased in their reporting of news. They should not endorse candidates. There are opinion pages and comment sections for the readers and writers. This media abuse of power should not be tolerated. Democrats love to control the media with their liberal views. My subscription and reading of their biased views ends Nov. 5 after their last headline of the McCain/Palin victory. Then they can dry up and blow away like Obama. "

    beth wrote on Oct 26, 2008 6:13 AM:

    " Alaska's biggest newspaper endorses Senator Obama! I knew there were tons of educated, well-informed people up there! Hope those that still are stuck on Fox News as their resource (ugh), will begin to read more, look into issues and seek the truth about them, and move in a Postive way toward real change for the betterment of everyone... we're all in this together so instead of division, hatred, exclusion etc ... let's do the right thing for the elders, the next generation, and everyone inbetween -- vote for a postive change -- "

    wrkgmom.mn wrote on Oct 26, 2008 4:54 AM:

    " If you would truly read the news, stay "up" on the in's and out's of items such as Senator Obama's birth certificate, you would know that this issue has already been raked over the coals numerous times and has been found to be yet another false accusation by the witch-hunt-club. This was settled quite some time ago. Senator Obama was born in America, his birth certif is authentic. You must be watching way way to much of "Fox" news. Get more sleep, watch Public TV for a non-slanted
    untainted view etc. "

    Palin haters.... wrote on Oct 25, 2008 1:29 PM:

    " Gee, I wonder what all the Palin Haters will do when Bammy can't prove that he is a United States Citizen. The DNC is trying to block a lawsuit by one of their own, a democrat, that seeks to require Obama produce his official birth certificate. Bammy might be a KENYAN! We may get Hillary yet. Hillary might be able to shut up Biden, which would be a good thing. Then you people could talk about her $6000.00 pantsuits that she had given to her, which must be a violation of ethics and fashion laws. "

    wrkgmom.mn wrote on Oct 24, 2008 4:41 PM:

    " Sarah Palin, still getting it wrong. Laughs off fruit fly research as she talks about special needs children. Apparently she didn't study or get her notes wrote by (??!) right. Fruit flies are KEY and have been for some time in research regarding autism. Oh my...that and flying her children around and staying at costly hotels Not For Official Alaskan Business...does she have any morals ... sorry, but I wish her batteries would just run out and she'd go home. To bad for Alaska, they deserve so much better....beautiful state, great people. "

    Ben wrote on Oct 24, 2008 12:00 PM:

    " The Palin's got thier house for FREE! (Cackle cackle cackle!) And it was a conspiracy! And she has a stuffed Bigfoot in her living room! And I wear tinfoil hats so the government can't spy on my brainwaves! Sheesh...how comical! That line of crap about her house has already been proven wrong. Try again! "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 24, 2008 6:10 AM:

    " From Afar:

    Let me make one thing clear before you snuggle up to me here: I never speculated how the Palins got their house and I don't care and, unless you have proof, you should not make accusations lke that.

    That is a matter for the tax payers of Wasilla to decide, they are the ones that owe the 22 Mio debt. "

    From Afar wrote on Oct 23, 2008 3:12 PM:

    " Karen Byars, I am onboard with all you say...I just wish the people of Wasilla and all of Alaska could realize the impression all the lower 48 are getting! I just would like to know how the people of Wasilla feel about the Palin's receiving a house for FREE, yes FREE. The house was from the same company that got the contract for the Wasilla Sports Complex! Sounds like a "under the table deal". We also want to know where the Palin's lived before their 3000 sq ft home on the water???? Possible Investigation?? Hope So! "

    MAXKATT from NY wrote on Oct 23, 2008 6:02 AM:

    " RE " Democrats are scared of Sarah" I'm not scared of her. Actually, I'm surprisingly thankful. She the reason John is going down now, & she will do the same 2 the Republican party if they try 2 use her as a model. There simply aren't enough people in the country buying that type of small minded message. Yes, it excites the base, but can't convert independents. You have 2 be able to have a wider appeal. She's too polarizing. Telling everyone outside small towns they're not "real America" isn't smart. "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 23, 2008 1:05 AM:

    " Dear Nameless,

    In 12 days we will all know how much change Sarah Palin is good for. Since Obama is enjoying a doble digit lead across the nation, I would say not much.

    Her loss will empower Alaskans in her own party (who dragged her through troopergate, not Obama operatives as her supporters claim) to go after her for everything else they can uncover and you will have to elect someone else. You should run, you can read and write and your friends in the AIP will support you, that is all it takes, right? "

    Nameless -former democrat wrote on Oct 22, 2008 7:54 PM:

    " Karin Byars: Why use a name if the message like yours is pointless? It is the subject matter that is relevant. Sarah Palin has no impeachable offense unlike your cigar smokin Clinton and lake water cruising Teddy Kennedy. Did you carry on about them in the NY Times and other Liberal medias like you do now? Probally not! Is it ok for demoncrats to do anything and not be accountable? Is this the type of behavior that you find acceptable? Democrats are scared of Sarah because it MEANS Change. "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 22, 2008 10:35 AM:

    " Valley boy,

    I am sure not all Alaskans are of the ilk you find contributing here.The nastiest contributors here are all nameless, I am fairly certain a few of the pseudonyms belong to one person, the venom smells the same. Alaska is leading in rape and incest in the nation, that is a fact, Wasilla has a severe Meth problem, that is a fact. You are a proud Alaskan, it is in your power to change those facts. Why don't you do that,.And do something about Palin, try impeachment. "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 22, 2008 10:18 AM:

    " 30 year Alaskan

    I live in Georgia and we have had our share of noteworthy governors, Lester Maddox and Zell Miller come to mind. They never tried to be YOUR VP though, Palin is trying to be mine and you will just have to put up with us sticking our noses in your business.

    The first red flag was that 80 percent approval rating she had. That indicated that she is either a major con artist or you have half a million of really dense Alaskans. You tell me which it was. "

    MAXKATT from NY wrote on Oct 20, 2008 3:29 PM:

    " 30 yr Alaskan- Regarding "How would you like it if we posted in a Texas paper about local Texas politics" It stopped being local when yer gal stepped on the national stage. At that instant, who she is, what she's done, where she's been (or not been in her case) became every American citizen's concern. If she wasn't ready for that level of scrutiny, she should turned down McCain's ill advised offer. I'm here until 11/5. "

    MAXKATT from NY wrote on Oct 20, 2008 3:05 PM:

    " 30 Yr Alaskan...Yes, proud times 4 the Republicans w/ Nancy providing key consultation on important matters straight from her astrologist. Good company for you 2 suggest Todd is in. "

    30 year Alaskan and PROUD Palin supporter wrote on Oct 20, 2008 3:22 AM:

    " And as for Todd Palin, the only reason such a stink was made of his involvement in this is because he is a MAN. Nancy Reagan RAN THE WHITE HOUSE when Reagan's alzheimer's got so bad. AND she checked with her astrologers FIRST!! Eleanor Roosevelt was no wallflower at the WHITE HOUSE, either.
    Todd Palin did what any other MAN would do if he percieved his family was in danger from a rogue cop who made death threats. He tried to protect his family and OTHER FAMILIES from a dysfunctional cop. Monegan also made death threats to his ex wife. "

    30 year Alaskan and PROUD Palin supporter wrote on Oct 20, 2008 3:12 AM:

    " Would Karin Byars kindly tell us what state she is from so we can return the favor and sound ignorant in her local paper? She knows nothing of the DECADES of corruption, or the players involved,in this state that Sarah fought to reform. These very same corrupt forces are the ones spearheading this sham of an investigation. They want their corrupt playground back. The only way they can get their playground back is to discredit her. And since the VP selection, the Obama forces have been VERY active in this state, too. GO HOME, ALL OF YOU!!! "

    30 year Alaskan and proud Palin supporter wrote on Oct 20, 2008 3:01 AM:

    " TO ALL YOU NASTY RUDE LOWER 48'ers POSTING HERE: GO HOME. Go post ur nasty comments in ur own state. How would you like it if we posted in a Texas paper about local Texas politics that we knew nothing about and sounded as ignorant as you sound? You know NOTHING of local politics. Sarah FORCED sweeping ethics legislation past the likes of Lyda and Charlie Huggins. She got a gas pipeline contract with TransCanada (which the prior governors couldn't), she upped oil taxes for BIG OIL, she got us $1200 for a cold winter which the legislature fought. "

    Valley boy wrote on Oct 20, 2008 1:00 AM:

    " Karin Byars writes about the crime in Wasilla. Yet, she fails to look at the crime in her own neighborhood. Rome, Georgia has higher than national average crime rates than Wasilla by far. Looks like there is a lot of cover up also.
    Karin does your hate for Sarah Palin call for you to degrade anyone, and everyone from Alaska? Read some good books, it will help your soul. This is not WWII anymore. "

    j wrote on Oct 19, 2008 7:14 PM:

    " Branchflower is laughing all the way to the bank!
    $45,000.00 for three months. That's $15,000.00 a month. WHAT A WASTE!

    THAT WORKS OUT TO BE 180,000.00 A YEAR, GOOD THING THAT THE "INVESTIGATION" DIDN'T TAKE THAT LONG.

    There has been reports that Branchflower complained that he didn't get all the information he requested.

    What about the information that he did not include in his determination? "

    jr wrote on Oct 19, 2008 7:10 PM:

    " On the issues of Wooten, if you or I "placed the ends of a taser on an individual and then activated it, just to show what it was like", we WOULD be charged with assault 2nd at the least, and taken to jail,then have to deal with bail, etc.
    Then the issue of an "open container"(this was in a State Trooper car, by the way), DUI chargedefinitely!
    I don't think an average person would get away with open containers in their employer provided vehicle. Then there is the issue of terroristic threats. How soon people forget. "

    Jay wrote on Oct 19, 2008 6:59 PM:

    " "Troopergate", what a waste of up to $100,000.00 If I paid someone $45,000.00 and gave his "office help" $30,000.00 (per Branchflower and French's admission) I WOULD EXPECT the report to be favorable to MY AGENDA! If people really think that this was about an abuse of power, Branchflower would NOT have stated that Gov. Palin was within her authority to do so. French and his co-horts, (Halcro, Green, etc) are just vindictive, jealous wannabes. And the comment by Nina above from Oct. 10, I'm sure you made your decision on the ALL the facts, and not newspaper articles. "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 19, 2008 9:27 AM:

    " Valley Girl:

    Your ranting brings to mind all the things Wasilla is famous for: Meth, poverty, ignorance, extreme religion, incest, rape, Walmart, trailers, trash, debt, corruption and Palin. You cast an evil glow on Alaska. Are you even registerd to vote or are you afraid of letting the government know where you live. "

    jomama wrote on Oct 19, 2008 7:53 AM:

    " so what do you think will come from palin being accused of abusing her power? no wonder mccain wanted to help put this off until after the election. now we have colon powell endorsing obama, i remember first hearing about him during the first gulf war. if there was anyone with a good insight into whats been happening and who has been causing it he would be the guy. mccains desparation isnt going to help him. obama is so far ahead he could go home now and still win. "

    Hey KATTDOG and dems wrote on Oct 18, 2008 12:10 PM:

    " Abuse of power is the topic. You dismiss the fraud of voter registration as nothing much. But if a unqualifed or illegal voter cast a vote for your candidate, what does that say about the parties ethics? Obama democrats surround themselves with an "anything to win approach".
    A pretty face on Obama with a mere "present" attitude is powerless. A governor who takes action and, has a pretty face, says something. Her changes in the oil industry effect the country. I see good changes. Hope your bicycle is tuned up if you get your Obama. "

    Smells like partisan garbage wrote on Oct 18, 2008 10:53 AM:

    " Branchflower did not include thousands of pages of evidence and testimony submitted by the deputy chief of staff. Other staff members offered hundreds of pages of testimony and documents.

    Pure partisan crap. Obama obedient lap dogs are doing as told. "

    jomama wrote on Oct 18, 2008 10:30 AM:

    " first they tried todd the steelworker but the steelworkers support obama and now its about unlicensed joe the plummer who owes back taxes and dont have a business plan... "

    Valley Girl wrote on Oct 18, 2008 8:41 AM:

    " 130 COMMENTS!!!! omg!! to all you LEFTY LOWER 48er HATERS>>>WE ALASKANS ARE SICK OF YOU WRITING TO OUR NEWSPAPER, YOU ARE THE ONES SPREADING THE HATE! in any of the comments about the PALINS... you SAME LOWER 48ers are writing the CRAP!! You all must be paid bloggers, be on WELFARE, or have nothing better to do with your time than to spread HATE! We ALASKANS do NOT care if you like the PALINS or not!!! GEEZ..Get a LIFE!! WE LOVE OUR SARAH! GOOD ALWAYS PREVAILS OVER EVIL!!! "

    MAXKATT from NY wrote on Oct 17, 2008 10:53 AM:

    " More curious.... Thanks for launching my weekend with a laugh by saying all it takes for the democrats is "just a pretty face." Too much! Right, cause Palin's just chock full o' substance. You betcha!

    But assuming you're not talking about Joe Biden, I guess thanks for suggesting Barack is a handsome man. "

    More curious wrote on Oct 16, 2008 11:08 PM:

    " If Obama is so pro education, is this the type of fraudulent behavior he wants Americans to learn? After all he contributed quite a bit of money to this NUTTY program. If it is so meaningless, why is the FBI looking into it on a national scale. I believe typical democratic deception is going to be exposed in a much larger format.
    What democrats need to do for an honest win is to have a real objective other than an "Anything goes as long as we win" mentality. Or just a pretty face. "

    LOL wrote on Oct 16, 2008 12:34 PM:

    " Joe The Plumber doesn't have a plumbers license and makes a modest living... LOL ... nice try McCain! "

    Cliff wrote on Oct 16, 2008 10:55 AM:

    " Move over ""joesixpack" "joe the plumber" has arrived. "

    Curious wrote on Oct 16, 2008 7:02 AM:

    " ACORN let's see, you write your fake name on paper, not a legal document, has nothing to do with voter registration AND you are not voting!!

    This is a no brainer, no different then the EXIT Polls with the exception that it wasn't oral. ACORN is nothing more than campaign poll. NONE of these people will cast a vote without being asked for ID and registered in their district.

    ACORN is just a group out promoting there candidate and making someone feel important. McCain accepted less from ACORN then Obama, BIG DEAL "

    Poor censorship wrote on Oct 16, 2008 6:42 AM:

    " Hey Frontiersman: How come you ALLOW Outside posts to make false accusations, cries for impeachment, make derogatory comments about our Governors education and capability? But when I ASK a poster about their position on the Holocaust you censure.
    Talk about a abuse of power-you show it. "

    Retired 42 wrote on Oct 15, 2008 2:13 PM:

    " Wow whata love fest for Sarah. I'm not sure who is the guilty one her or Todd. But it amazes me that he is sitting in the chambers when she conducts business for the State of Alaska. Is he her personal advisor or is she that dumb that she can not conduct business by herself? No wonder they had businesses that failed. Perhaps she should have stayed at home and been a mother and taught her children right from wrong. Opps I didn't say that=LMAO "

    MAXKATT from NY wrote on Oct 15, 2008 11:41 AM:

    " Paul from America...Regarding "Any comments on democratic voter fraud or ACORN today?" I'll give you some. Out of the 1.3 million registrations they were part of only a tiny, tiny, portion were fraudulent. The fraud was not orchestrated by Obama, Acorn, or Democrats, but rather by a handful of unscrupulous individuals working in the field. Acorn themselves brought this issue to light. It's not voter fraud either, but registration fraud. Big difference between bogus registration & someone actually presenting fake ID & casting a vote. "

    jomama wrote on Oct 15, 2008 8:10 AM:

    " she has pretty much sealed her fate, what ever good she has to say about herself im sure has allready been done so unless there is anymore mud its pretty much pointless to talk about her anymore. mccain would probably gain in the polls if she just went home and stayed there. "

    AKvoter wrote on Oct 15, 2008 7:03 AM:

    " To "man" leave Karin alone, how dare you say she's sitting on her fat butt blogging - you're sitting on your fat butt reading all the blogs and adding your opinion. Stop eating gassy foods you're stinkin up the sites. Now do you see how immature all this is?

    Just the facts - just the facts "

    Bear wrote on Oct 15, 2008 6:40 AM:

    " Alaska will not forget all that has happened a price will be paid job's to be lost Palin will go down and come back to and empty office to match her empty head she can always sell jerky to pay the bill's or enter the overweight beauty contest next year? "

    Paul from America wrote on Oct 15, 2008 12:13 AM:

    " Walt from Indy you say:

    "There is only one answer,we know that Obama looks to the future,now we know he can actually SEE the future".

    Do you really believe this? Everyone looks to the future, but only a select few can SEE the future. Could this be the 'Messiah'! Or the other anti-guy. Who do you say he is? You make much ado about nothing but a rogue trooper. Any comments on democratic voter fraud or ACORN today? America should think that is more important because it has a more serious impact. "

    Tell us wrote on Oct 14, 2008 11:36 PM:

    " Karin Byars, do you not have any crime on the planet you come from? Is there no domestic violence, theft, shoplifting, drugs and the like? There must be no need for troopers or cops. If you do have them, are they all corruption free like your local politians and assembly people? If they are corrupt free, they must not be Christian or religious people because it seems democrats don't have religious or Christian values. If they did, they might not watnt to accept murder of the unborn children. "

    From afar wrote on Oct 14, 2008 8:47 PM:

    " Hats off to all of you in AK and Wasilla. Palin is a trainwreck! She has really fooled most of you! Plz do better in the future. She should be impeached, removed asap! Her political career is over. Todd may actually have to get a job. How about that house he and his buddies built in Wasilla? Maybe Wasilla could use it for a Community Center. Wasilla you paid for it! Run Palin out of town! Keep your chin up. There are good people out there. Palin just is not one of them. Vote Obama'08. "

    Erin wrote on Oct 14, 2008 11:30 AM:

    " She's traveling all over the country lying that she hasn't abused her power as governor, saying how glad she is that she's been cleared of all wrongdoing. What a crock! SHE'S A LIAR. SHE WOULD BE A DISASTER IF SHE EVER BECAME V.P. "

    Man wrote on Oct 14, 2008 11:23 AM:

    " Karin, don't you have anything else to do but sit on your big butt all day and write to this newspaper? It is incredible how many times you have written and on how many blogs. Get a job! oh, you're probably being paid by the US government for one reason or the other while we all work our butts off to pay our own way. "

    Walt from Indiana wrote on Oct 14, 2008 10:45 AM:

    " McCain/Palin claim that the troopergate thing was started a few months ago by a vindictive prosecuter and some rogue Republicans aided by Obama operatives. That's intersting.since this started at least two months before McCain selected her as his running mate and no one had ever heard of her ,how could this be true?

    There is only one answer,we know that Obama looks to the future,now we know he can actually SEE the future.
    By the way how do you impeach a "first dude". "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 14, 2008 10:44 AM:

    " JP-
    If you make deals with Priness lines you get princess customers. If you want to know what they are like, take a Princess cruise. It is your state, they play by your rules. You must have inept or crooked leaders that make deals like that.

    Germany is a tourist country, they have no problems with them. None of this is rocket science, you can hire people to help you. You do need to have half a brain to hire the right person, sort of like electing a governor or a president. Think about it! "

    jp wrote on Oct 14, 2008 8:51 AM:

    " Karin, you and all the rest of these people keep saying "that tourist money is good" yeah, it is, if you own Princess cruises!
    princess and holland america had their own train station built so their patrons could avoid local businesses.
    but our state paid to have them built!
    tourists that come here leave us all their garbage, pollute our waters, and are generally rude.
    i don't live off tourist money, i don't care about tourism, i'd rather not have it! "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 14, 2008 7:09 AM:

    " Morgan

    You'd be hard put to vote 'muslem' in this election. But you did just make my case that the one thing Alaska needs most urgently is education and I don't mean home schooling! Thank you for your timely post. "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 14, 2008 7:01 AM:

    " JP-
    You can't turn back the clock, you need to go forward with proper education to get good jobs. You need to develop capable community leaders, not the self serving charlatans that are promising you the world and will forget about you on Nov 5.
    Alaska has the highest rape and incest rates in the US, yet the AIP wants you to home school. You have a great state, yet you are doing everything to make it as unattractive as possible to the rest of the world. Tourism Dollars are nice to have! "

    Smitty wrote on Oct 14, 2008 6:58 AM:

    " How easily some forget the good things our Governor has done. Suspended gas tax for a year puts money in your pocket. Most of these comments come from people who don't know how to say thank you. Either that or they don't know much about the state. Stay warm this winter. It's gonna be a cold one. "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 14, 2008 6:44 AM:

    " JP -

    You are talking to a German, we grew up reading about and admiring Idians. In the 80's I lived in Minnesota and saw what they (we!) did to the Indians. I now live where the 'trail of tears' started. I know you got shafted then and you are hitching your wagon to the wrong horse again. Republicans will not do anything for you, AIP will not do anything for you, the will exploit you like they did blacks. You have great beauty and wealth around Wasilla, the Meth Capitol of Alaska! "

    morgan wrote on Oct 14, 2008 4:45 AM:

    " Sarah has my support. She made it possible to get a stimulus check to all alaskans which were cashed by the very same people who condem her! She bucked big oil and stood solid. She made herself open (transparent) to attack when the vp offer was made. Yet everyone seems simpathetic to poor mr wooten and monagan cause they contribute to safety enforcement... maybe I should go with the popular side of the lower 48 and vote muslem...NOT! Sarah Palin is still a good christian person and will survive this virus of hate. "

    Fighting without a cause wrote on Oct 14, 2008 1:01 AM:

    " I'm still baffled by the number of posts from the lower 48 democrats. What do you have to gain here? You have claims of winnings in the polls and big leads in all the states. But I love the quote of "Democrats win Polls, Republicans win Elections".
    You're fighting without a cause if you want to convince Alaskans to change. Maybe there are a lot of Americans who read our paper here. But no good will come of your disrespect and hatred of our country ,or Alaska if you continue. "

    jp wrote on Oct 13, 2008 10:57 PM:

    " you're right Karin, i am an american, an "Original American" and for your information; Christopher Columbus did not discover america, there were people already there!
    as for the U.S. buying Alaska from Russia, guess what, they didn't own it!
    the true Alaskans owned it, and i think legally, if persued, this could be proved.
    i think all native americans should band together to rid ourselves of the scourge of our land!
    the american government have never held up their end of the bargain when it came to the indians!
    Rebel! Indians unite! and fight! "

    Alaska born wrote on Oct 13, 2008 5:03 PM:

    " OPEN LETTER TO PALIN: Don't think you can come back to Alaska and get the warm reception you once received. YOU ARE NO LONGER A REAL ALASKAN. "

    USAFSGT wrote on Oct 13, 2008 4:47 PM:

    " People, thank God in 23 days you get your Governor back. That woman is at least "6 dogs short of a sled team". I feel your pain. She is certainly delusional at minimum, absolutely egomaniacal and dangerously vindictive I betcha. Even Joe 6 pack would agree, eh? If I were you I would talk her and her hubby the co-Governor into running for Prime Minister of Canada. The lower 48 has been saved. Now you just need a good home for McCain. "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 13, 2008 12:23 PM:

    " One more thing, JP -

    Why would Democrats waste any money on Alaska? You have twice as many registered Republicans as Democrats and the Republican VP candidate is your Governor. So that Paid Democratic Assassin comment does not hold water, lay off the stuff for a while, we would not want you to get too paranoid, or did you just write that for the benefit of your fellow Alaskans? "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 13, 2008 12:10 PM:

    " jp,

    we respect you just fine. Just don't take our tax dollars while you are plotting to cecede. The per capita earmarks Alaska got by way of your crooked representative are so out of proportion with the rest of the states that it is not funny. But that is not enough, y'all want the whole state! And you want us to act like we don't notice what is going on.

    You are Americans, like it or not. If y'all want to cecede get a movement going but don't have Governer Girl shill for y'all. "

    jp wrote on Oct 13, 2008 11:37 AM:

    " wow, i kind of agree with Karin Byars this time.
    the lower 48 has no respect for us, and only want our resources, that much is true.
    But the constant barrage of the "paid Democratic assassins" that have been transplanted here from there just for this campaign, will hopefully leave after election day, or possibly just get too cold to stay.
    i mean no disrespect, but, would you please go home now, tourist season is over! "

    Nameless wrote on Oct 13, 2008 11:15 AM:

    " I think the biggest mistake was by the McCain campaign for interfering with an investigation. Trying to delay the investigation til after the Election was obvious to everyone. That's the embarrassment Alaskan's feel for their governor and themselves. "

    Cobb6 wrote on Oct 13, 2008 9:11 AM:

    " If ..God forbid! McCain/Palin wins this presidential election, lol..Just what role will Todd play then? Seems Sarah can't work her Governorship without him there. Maybe he made a deal with McCain also.She did not honor her office, allowing him to always be in on meetings, using her office for telephone calls,calling meetings,etc...God help us all if they win this election,I seriouisly don't believe that can happen tho. "

    Joe wrote on Oct 13, 2008 8:02 AM:

    " There is a tremendous disconnect between Palin's avowed christianity and her hateful rhetoric and repeated lies. Her assertions that she was cleared of any legal or ethical offenses is absolutely incredible. Her arrogance is shocking. "

    zzq22 wrote on Oct 13, 2008 7:42 AM:

    " People, can't we all just get along? Neighbor vs. neighbor. Family vs. family. American vs. American. What good does all this do? On 11/4 we will elect a new administration and on 11/5, regardless of the outcome, no matter what the partisans say, the sun will rise. Life will go on. And when the dust settles, we are still neighbors, families, and fellow Americans. Please...keep your poop in a group until then. "

    Scratch my head wrote on Oct 13, 2008 7:24 AM:

    " Palin be damned! I that is what all you bloggers want. You better take a clkoser look at Wasilla today!
    We have a carpetbagger from Michigan and more than 10 other places trying to smooth talk his way into becoming mayor or should I say CEO of the city. His "non-profit" corps are the source of his income along with his wife who has a "free" credit card from the GWCC. Sad! Sad! and even sadder the press is turning their back on it all! "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 13, 2008 2:32 AM:

    " In my four weeks of contributing to this paper I have come to believe that the AIP uses these blogs as a recruiting tool. Their shills provoke real Americans until the exchange gets so hateful and ugly that they can turn around and tell Alaskans "See, we have nothing in common with the lower 48 they only want our riches and they have no respect for us".

    How do I know? Sasha's daddy told me!

    The AIP gambled and lost with Sarah as governor. Their only alternative is to get strong in numbers. "

    Jack wrote on Oct 12, 2008 10:18 PM:

    " I need some buddies to help me build my home. Wonder if Todd could help me out on this? Just a few weekends here and there is all I need. Free six packs to all buddies who volunteer. The wife wants some gold brick for the fireplace too. If you're too busy answering phones at the gov's office, how about giving me the names of your buddy friends who did such a fine job, in their spare time building your beautiful 300O square foot 500K home just down the road from our grand sportscenter. If I had a hammer... "

    To capricorn wrote on Oct 12, 2008 6:12 PM:

    " Charges did not happen 2 and 3 years ago. Try 4 months. And even though Alaska is an at will state you can still get sued for firing someone for no reason. Or for wearing green socks. Call a lawyer and see. "

    Burke wrote on Oct 12, 2008 5:46 PM:

    " Sarah-Palin....
    Not only does she sbuse her power She abuse Beautiful animals..Check this video.....
    www.Defenders.org/ "

    jp wrote on Oct 12, 2008 5:42 PM:

    " was the trooper fired? no.
    so how could she have abused her power? trooper wooten was not dismissed, nor was he even reprimanded.
    so what kind of evidence did the prosecutors have? no crime, no penalty!
    now if this man was fired because of her asking someone to fire him, it would be a different story.
    now Monegan's position was at the pleasure of the governor ( an appointed position may be terminated at any time, even without reason from the governor)
    so what was this suit really about???
    a trooper is still out there, who shouldn't be! "

    capricorn1 wrote on Oct 12, 2008 4:53 PM:

    " To Growapair and all others who do not realize that Alaska is an at will state, meaning Sarah could have fired him for wearing green socks if she wanted to. What she was found guilty of was an ETHICAL violation where by she used her office to further her desires not the peoples. And for a quick reality check these charges happened 2 and 3 yrs ago. The Palins never did a thing until she was elected GOV. Hows that for unethical? "

    Frank wrote on Oct 12, 2008 4:22 PM:

    " Alaska's Legislature should act to impeach Gov Palin immediately, before she can do additional damage! "

    Lisa Ca wrote on Oct 12, 2008 3:08 PM:

    " Hey, what goes around comes around..She
    is a very cold and mean woman...But, I was so Happy when they Booed her at the
    hockey game ...Wish I was there to join in...She is an embarressment to all the
    51 states...Can't wait till Ms.witchcraft goes home... "

    Pat Reece wrote on Oct 12, 2008 12:23 PM:

    " Why hasn't Trooper been arrested for his illegal activities, much less being fired. In Alabama, tasering of a felon is investigated and unfortunately, in some instances the tased person has died. Luckily the child survived. Also, just driving drunk, threatening people and killing illegally is certainly more than enough to terminate his employment. "

    Curious Glenn wrote on Oct 12, 2008 12:18 PM:

    " I am confused apparently. The report said that she had the legal authority to fire the Public Safety Director, which is fine. It also stated that she acted improperly and used her position to advance a personal matter. If her former brother in law did all the things that she and Todd Palin alleged, but they were never proven, why are some of you folks supporting her? She isnt worthy of your support and she has no business being the VP of this great nation. Esspecially since Todd is a past member of a group that disavows AMERICA. "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 12, 2008 11:13 AM:

    " For jp continued:
    They have been reminded that the history of immigration in this country has a dark underbelly; they need specific reassurances that their citizenship really means something, that America has learned the right lessons from the Japanese internments during World War II, and that I will stand with them should the political winds shift in an ugly direction."

    jp, it is best to go to the original and not copy those emails your wingnut friends send you. "

    Karin Byars wrote on Oct 12, 2008 11:04 AM:

    " For jp:
    Just for the record: The actual quote from the book is from page 261 and is as follows: "Of course, not all my conversations in immigrant communities follow this easy pattern. In the wake of 9/11, my meetings with Arab and Pakistani Americans, for example, have a more urgent quality, for the stories of detentions and FBI questioning and hard stares from neighbors have shaken their sense of security and belonging. "

    Fern wrote on Oct 12, 2008 9:40 AM:

    " The Alaska Legislature should act to impeach Gov. Palin. Such a grievous error, so soon after taking office, should not go unpunished. "

    don j of FAIRBANKS wrote on Oct 12, 2008 9:06 AM:

    " How can it be a witch hunt? I saw that she got 'protected' at church last year (on my dime I might add). LMAO. "

    don j of FAIRBANKS wrote on Oct 12, 2008 9:03 AM:

    " I have read his book. Much like a lot of Christians take one verse out of context, so have you and many others. "They (Pakistani and Arab Americans) have been reminded that immigration in this country has a dark underbelly.....that America has learned the right lessons from the Japanese internments during WWII, and that I will stand with them should the political winds shift in an ugly direction."(pg. 309). HIs support of maintaing their Constitutionally protected rights does not make him Muslim any more than me (a Buddhist) helping a Mormon friend makes me Mormon. "

    Oops. wrote on Oct 12, 2008 8:17 AM:

    " I keep hearing that song Witchy Woman "

    jomama wrote on Oct 12, 2008 7:33 AM:

    " a witch hunt? how can it be a witch hunt when she invited it and offered to participate? wooten reminds me of jethros little brother, he seems like a bigger threat to himself than others. im not taking his side and really dont think he should be anything above dog catcher but that is up to his supervisor not the govonors husband in the govonors office. she was elected not him. both of them keep feeding the public a bunch of BS and most people are not buying it. "

    AnnieOkie wrote on Oct 12, 2008 6:48 AM:

    " Witch Hunt? Hurry ! ! call Pastor Thomas Muthee ! !.....I have to laugh at the posters who are calling this a witch hunt. Good gravy people, Sarah Palin's true colors are finally being exposed thanks to McCain. You all should be thankful this is out in the open now, for not one of you are exempt, if you should step on her toes...Todd well getcha !! "

    Peggy wrote on Oct 12, 2008 6:00 AM:

    " I was a Wasilla resident for 25 years and we all know how the political game is played there. Also every one who really knows how Palin works, knows if you get in her way, she will stomp you.It is her way or the highway. Thank goodness for Lyda Green. She should be running for V.P. Not Sarah Palin. "

    aj wrote on Oct 12, 2008 4:54 AM:

    " we really dont want her here, can she still come back to alaska? "

    jp to don j wrote on Oct 11, 2008 11:16 PM:

    " why don't you read obamas book, and then you tell me that again.
    he stated that he'd side with islam.
    right there in print, and yes, it is his book!
    i'm betting the democrats would not let this book into the library system, as someone from the other side may actually read it! "

    Alaskas Disgrace wrote on Oct 11, 2008 10:36 PM:

    " Palin is falling like a rock. Good thing too. "

    Proud AlaskanAmerican wrote on Oct 11, 2008 10:23 PM:

    " Thank God the most of you stood up to realize that this whole matter was a witch hunt against Sarah. If your kid was tasered by the parent , that parent would be jailed for Child endangerment, if anyone was caught drinkng in their car they would be jailed for a DUI/DWI, and a moose killed, jailed or fined and yet be a State Trooper and the gloves are off, slap his hand and give hime 5 days off for vacation time. HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN JAILED AND FIRED! "

    don j of FAIRBANKS wrote on Oct 11, 2008 7:33 PM:

    " jp I keep reading your posts. Obama is NOT a Muslim, or do you not even listen to what you PRESIDENTIAL canidate says? I assume that you are comfortable with someone you did not elect running our state(Todd). I am not. She continues to lie even now. Wanna read an interesting article? http://www.salon.com/news/feature/2008/10/10/palin_chryson/index.html
    FULL access to the govenor of OUR state by what appears to be a pretty anti-American group. Who is really 'palin' around with terrorists?? "

    Wierd wrote on Oct 11, 2008 7:04 PM:

    " Just another day. wrote on Oct 11, 2008 9:34 AM:

    " At the office, we the voters will remember this witch hunt and all those involved will not be re-elected. "

    WOW! Some of you poeple are really very scary! Are you kidding me? You want to keep tabs on thsoe persons trying to do things legally because that's what you elected them to do, so you can be sure and not elect them again and re-elect those that don't? That's just perfect!

    A bunch of whackos to be sure! "

    Steve E wrote on Oct 11, 2008 6:10 PM:

    " A little OT, but you Alaskans should not feel to bad. Our premier the Honourable Mr. Dennis Fentie, which is our governor, spent time in prison for heroin trafficking in 1974 ( Wikipedia ). Our previous Health Minister and Deputy Premier, the Honourable Mr Peter Jenkins was convicted of stealing electricity for his hotel in Dawson City at one time, and while in jail he got his pilots license. The Yukon has 30,000 people and receives almost 1 Billion dollars each year to run the government. The government has 7,000 employees and hangersons . Go figure. "

    shelley wrote on Oct 11, 2008 5:55 PM:

    " I would have done the same thing in sarah's position regarding the trooper. I would have ran him out of the state. The trooper was a sorry excuse for a man. The people of Alaska need to realize would you want to be stopped by tooper michael wooten on a bad day? Ya'll wasilla residents need to wake up and smell the coffee. "

    Manchuruan John M wrote on Oct 11, 2008 5:41 PM:

    " Yes I do think you all need to put in a
    Alaska Independance candidate... looks like the whole state is corrupt.. "

    Manchuruan John M wrote on Oct 11, 2008 5:34 PM:

    " Hey GrowaPair
    think your sat tv dish is frozen, ALL the media is reporting that Precious Sara was ok in the firing, but hubby Tod abused power of the Gov Office in his quest to run things and Sara allowing that to happen broke the law..

    pretty simple.. she permitted a law to be broken by hubby..

    How is it that Todd is running the state? "

    few beeps wrote on Oct 11, 2008 4:37 PM:

    " I walked in the park where the McCa-lin supporters were. All 5 off them. Poor kids, the parents dragging them along to stand on the corner for Sarah. In the 20 mins I was there I might have heard about 20 honks from a hundred cars. Hmm. 20% support. What the heck are we going to do with her when she comes back - have a Wasilla Chamber sponsored Sarah Pitty Party? Probably can hold it in the chamber conference room. "

    GrowaPair wrote on Oct 11, 2008 4:19 PM:

    " This place is infested with out of state acorNUTS goose stepping to Obama's socialist siren song.

    Absolutely unAlaskan and unAmerican. "

    CapeCodder wrote on Oct 11, 2008 3:41 PM:

    " I'm sort of surprised that this went on in the Gov's office and other offices for so long and no one did anything. Why was Todd allowed to have free access? Plus, he not only had access having to do with the Trooper but other folks in the community as well. This is an invasion of privacy. He would be able to know what medical conditions people had, physical/mental, etc. This alone is dangerous and just so wrong. "

    Joe wrote on Oct 11, 2008 3:23 PM:

    " Palin needs to resign when she returns home after November 4th. "

    Observer from another world wrote on Oct 11, 2008 2:41 PM:

    " Ya'know, ya'll shoutin' so loud, it's A-mazin' yo mouths haven't fallen off.
    We kin hear yo right aroun' this little globe of ours.
    It's dun just like a freak show...

    Isn't the issue the question of 'what standards of governance and ethics were required from the people you elected?' and were they complied with, in spirit or to the letter?

    Look what happens in the world financial systems when regulation is weak. It's the same in Government if you let it be like that. It's your choice. It's your responsibility. "

    Janet wrote on Oct 11, 2008 2:26 PM:

    " Sarah-DO US ALL a favor and resign when you come home. Save the State and its people the cost of impeachment! You have not done us proud and I am another one who is very sorry I believed in you and voted for you...voting the Democratic Ticket....not because I believe McCain would be bad for our country, but because I think you would be horrible! McCain loses my vote because you are on the ticket. Do the right thing, resign as our Great State's Governor...so the healing can begin! Another dismayed republican! "

    Tammy wrote on Oct 11, 2008 2:19 PM:

    " I wish I had never voted for Palin...I will not make that mistake again! Seriously, this "troopergate" investigation is not the reason I lost faith in Ms. Palin's leadership abilities (although, it certainly didn't help it)...what has changed my mind about McCain/Palin ticket is the HORRIBLE, UGLY rhetoric that has become a huge part of their campaign. This lifelong republican says a NO VOTE to the McCain/Palin ticket and YES to the Obama/Biden Ticket. Palin should do the right thing when she comes home, RESIGN. How she can ever be effective as a Governor? Transparency, NOT! "

    Ken Horne wrote on Oct 11, 2008 1:02 PM:

    " WOW!! What a hate comment page we have today.As always the worst of them are from the lefties.
    I just hope when Gov.Sarah Palin is Vice President she will find time to have one big BBQ in Alaska and after field dressing the goons from this fake 'inquiry' turn them into some feed for the local bears or moose.
    But then I hear most of them are packing and heading to Mexico and beyond before the end of October! May I suggest that most of the hate comments are not from Alaska at all?
    Stick it to them,Sarah,our next VP! "

    Missile wrote on Oct 11, 2008 12:55 PM:

    " Say it ain't so, Sarah. There you go agian trying to cover up the past. "

    Rich wrote on Oct 11, 2008 11:55 AM:

    " You betcha, Your hometown girl is coming home. For a multi-multi-college educated women she screwed up. How did you all get two governors for the price of one. Was there two mayors in office in her hometown. Who voted for Todd Palin for governor. In print it appears that her husband was supported of her position, but now it appears that he was the second governor! What a joke, that a dumb__ __ __ snowmobile racer/fisherman/oil field hand would also be running your great state.The whole country will be watching what the "last frontier" does with the Palin's. "

    jp wrote on Oct 11, 2008 11:11 AM:

    " this just goes to show how all politicians are corrupt, evil, lying, cheating,thieving scumbags!
    the only reason she got burned at the stake is that she's the new comer, and didn't have enough lying, cheating,thieving , corrupt scumbags to cover her hind quarters (i.e. political savvy)
    if you want an islamic radical for president, so be it, but you'll have no more of my tax money to feed the pig!!! "

    Made in Michigan wrote on Oct 11, 2008 10:25 AM:

    " I think that the Palins never thought that their wrongdoings would be revealed. If she knew that she had dirt on her high heels why didnt she decline the offer from Mccain ? Because her and the first dude are on a power trip ! She cant read, cant think on her own , is trying to spark a race riot, and abusing her power. I bet you guys didnt know she she like this when you elected her huh ? She has continued to lie to america. How can she tell Obama to reveal his past ? "

    Just another day. wrote on Oct 11, 2008 9:34 AM:

    " At the office, we the voters will remember this witch hunt and all those involved will not be re-elected. "

    speedydog wrote on Oct 11, 2008 9:16 AM:

    " nana na na nana! "

    Lisa wrote on Oct 11, 2008 8:00 AM:

    " I lived in Alaska for 6 years, 98-02. From Palmer to Talkeetna, all are awesome towns!
    Sarah Palin is the quilty one not Wasilla or anywhere else. People please remember it was/is Rebulicans and Democrats that decided to investigate Sarah Palin and now found her guilty. Be a informed (smart) voter and vote Nov. 4th 2008! "

    justmyopinion2755 wrote on Oct 11, 2008 7:51 AM:

    " Reform Washington, Gov? I hope the citizens of Alaska find a upstanding citizen with character to lead the state.

    Be a role model for once in your crooked life Gov, resign before any money is spent on impeaching you. "

    Kat wrote on Oct 11, 2008 7:49 AM:

    " It is what it is. Quick decision on McCain to put in Sarah for being a woman and didn't check out that this was an ongoing investigation. This is not something just brought up and investigated because of obama or anyone else. She knew her husband was doing what he was doing and this was "abuse of power" on her part. She will have to suffer the consequence for her actions. Now I am wondering what else is there? I do know now that my vote will not be going their way. "

    Ann wrote on Oct 11, 2008 7:35 AM:

    " Bottom line think about it, if this was happening to your family I would hope that any one of you would have done the same thing in trying to get Wooten fired. He is a disgrace to the badge, a taser is a weapon, just as his gun...so I take it if the step son wanted to know what it felt like to be shot, he would have done that too. He obviously abuses his power, which is evident by his comments of "he's a trooper, what are they going to do." The union should not protect him. "

    Helen wrote on Oct 11, 2008 7:29 AM:

    " If I lived in Alaska, I'd vote out everyone who took part in this "investigation". Palin had every right to get rid of Walt Monegan. I guess no one can stand a woman of strength - particularly the opposing party. This is a slam job, if I ever saw one. "

    Dea wrote on Oct 11, 2008 7:10 AM:

    " Is abuse of power considered unpatriotic in America? "

    quick2no wrote on Oct 11, 2008 5:41 AM:

    " I'm a democrat for Obama but Governor Palin is getting a bum rap on this one. Your hometown girl is tough as nails - haven't you noticed? Read this: http://hughhewitt.townhall.com/blog/g/134db782-50f0-42e5-8171-791804d9fbc1 "

    Native wrote on Oct 11, 2008 4:58 AM:

    " Who is Todd Palin? Who voted for this guy? This is embarassing to all of us. Sara Palin may be a nice person but she has shown such poor judgment. These things should not have been happening. "

    NOW is the TIME wrote on Oct 11, 2008 4:27 AM:

    " To shift your interest to matter closer to home. While you are on investigations and that kick, it is time to LOOK into MARTY METIVA, the smooth talking, glad handing sponging, slick boy who has entered the political scene in Wasilla in just 4 years.
    His past is a matter of public record.
    He is NOT good for WASILLA as is his spouse! What a team to reckon with. BEWARE WASILLA! You could have another era of being in the spotlight for the wrong reasons. Palin is nothing to this guy! "

    yesterdays news tommorrow wrote on Oct 11, 2008 4:07 AM:

    " is this paper printed on starbucks coffee cups so sarah can read it? i dont really care what she did in alaska but the report and the circus surrounding it does point to the fact that sarah is no "maverick", and is not quite the washington outsider she claims to be. i think she would fit right in. to me it just looks like, well, MORE OF THE SAME. my condolences to her supporters. "

    Observer from another world wrote on Oct 11, 2008 1:54 AM:

    " Very interesting to read all these views. Nice to see some balanced with a sense of perspective and humour. Irony... hey, isn't that what you do with shirts?

    Some objectivity might be good. How about reading the report before opining? Maybe comparing the conclusions against standards of governance?

    Nobody seems to be disputing the facts of the case, so how would you rate any State Governor or any responsible person, say a CEO, on the basis of this evidence?

    OK, ok, alright then... keep lobbing the missiles and don't let the facts get in the way. "

    Dear LAURA wrote on Oct 11, 2008 12:17 AM:

    " Way to regurg everything you hear on CNN! I prefer thinking for myself and reading a bit (more than headlines and hearing soundbites). I love the fact that Palin is found to have lawfully terminated Monegan when that is the entire issue. Branchflower got his soundbite in by saying that Palin abused her power by "not" doing something?! Calling off her husband - well - nice report, the media can have their field day and people without an education can say things like Palin is a racist (based on what?) and spew foundationless venom that the media provides. "

    NEVER IN - YOURE OUT wrote on Oct 10, 2008 11:24 PM:

    " ALL THAT REALLY MATTERS IS THAT THE PEOPLE DOWN SOUTH HAVE DECIDED PALIN AND FAMILY IS CORRUPT. OH SARAH, THANKS FOR STINKING UP THE ALASKA NAME AS WELL. ANYWAYS, ALL THAT MATTERS IS THE VOTE IS DEFINITELY DECIDED BY THE THE LOWER 48. GOOD BYE McCAIN, GOOD VP CHOICE. AT LEAST SARAH PUT ALASKA IN THE LIME LIGHT, AS CRIMINALS. THANK YOU PALIN FAMILY. TODD WHAT DO YOU DO FOR A LIVING, OH THATS RIGHT YOU ARE THE PUPPETIER OF SARAH. "

    30 year Alaskan too wrote on Oct 10, 2008 11:23 PM:

    " So many of you posting know NOTHING of Alaskan politics and the media distorted version of lies that are being served up are sickening. Our good governor has been railroaded big time.
    I'll be dancing when Lyda leaves office. She hasn't had the last laugh, cause I will be laughing when the door swings shut on her. Hopefully, she and Murkowski will fade into permanent oblivion. She's spearheaded this charade of an investigation. "

    LAURA wrote on Oct 10, 2008 11:04 PM:

    " PALIN IS A DISGRACE TO ALASKA. SHE IS A MEAN HEARTED LIAR AND A RACIST WHO PORTRAYS HATE. SHE DOESNT CARE ABOUT ALASKANS OR ANYONE ELSE FOR THAT MATTER. ALL SHE CARES ABOUT IS HERSELF AND BEING VP. I AM DISGUSTED BY HER DEFINATELY HOPE THE AMERICAN PEOPLE SEE WHAT A FRAUD SHE TRULY IS.
    IM VOTING FOR OBAMA/BIDEN. THEY MAY NOT BE PERFECT BUT ANYTHINGS BETTER THAN A COUPLE OF IDIOTS THAT ARE TRYING TO DIVIDE THIS COUNTRY WITH HATE. PALIN AND MCCAIN DID IT, THEY MADE ME HATE THEM BOTH! "

    Get Real wrote on Oct 10, 2008 10:56 PM:

    " I commend Lyda Green and everyone involved in the Sarah Palin investigation for having the guts to do the right thing, instead of the old mentality of "supporting someone wrong or right". Shame on all the people who think that Sarah Palin's breaking the law should have been overlooked! "

    Get Real wrote on Oct 10, 2008 10:53 PM:

    " It STILL amazes me how some of the people posting here are placing the blame on Lyda and the investigators for doing their jobs. The blame for her actions must be placed squarley on the shoulders of Sarah Palin herself, as it was her choice to break the law. Thanks to all the people who did their job, and did what was right in this investigation. As for Sarah Palin, who in their right mind, operating on a full deck, conducts an investigation, and then find themselves innocent??? "

    LW wrote on Oct 10, 2008 9:42 PM:

    " As a Wasilla resident for 33 years I have known Lyda Green and her family for most of my life. I can actually say that I am so ASHAMED of Lyda. I believed in what she stood for in the past, and have voted to put her in that position and voted to keep her there. Well, now I can say that I am glad to see her go. Her actions and antics towards Sarah Palin have been despicable. Her siding the "leftys" in Juneau makes me sick. SHAME ON YOU LYDA!!! "

    Kwaayesnama wrote on Oct 10, 2008 9:28 PM:

    " Dam the members of the partisan investigation committee they are picking on Sarah!

    Ten republicans, four democrats, blame them anyway it's McCain’s style of politics.

    I know it was the Moslems on the committee, what no Moslems?

    Lets blame the Blacks, what!!! No blacks?

    Do you think it was witchcraft, hurry up call the exorcist!

    That leaves us with the fact that the members were sexist, get the Hillary Clinton supporters to protest the sexist Alaska legislature.

    If all else fails just blame the liberal media for reporting this. "

    GrowaPair wrote on Oct 10, 2008 9:04 PM:

    " The NYTimes says:
    "The report did not find fault with her decision to dismiss the public safety commissioner, the trooper's boss, who had been pressured to fire the trooper. The report found that Governor Palin was within her right to dismiss the public safety commissioner, Walt Monegan."

    Funny how that's missing from all the media spin. "

    Jack wrote on Oct 10, 2008 9:00 PM:

    " Dang it- if only I just winked at Walt, instead of siccing Todd on him....get Bailey on the phone... I need my
    go-fer to fire those darn RNC lawyers and tell McCain he's fired too. You can't impeach me I AM THE GOVERNOR. Lord make a way, make a way, to make Todd and I Dictator and Dictator Dude of Alaska after we secede from the United States. Once we get that drillin goin we'll be unstoppable. "

    Josh wrote on Oct 10, 2008 8:43 PM:

    " If Palin was not the VP, would this report have been published today?
    Probably not... "

    Jack wrote on Oct 10, 2008 8:18 PM:

    " Witchcraft at work. Quick get that Kenyan Minister. Sarah needs another exorcism.... Todd needs to get back into Sarah's office while she's away and start making calls pressuring people to get rid of Branchflower and all his cronies: "Walt, are there any mooseburgers left in the freezer from the moose that Sarah's daddy butchered- you know, the moose Steve shot? I'll need them as evidence." "

    sirloin brew wrote on Oct 10, 2008 7:50 PM:

    " Ah heck. Guess the writing was on the wall. In hindsight, maybe it was a good thing McCain picked Sarah so we could what an old fool he is. Dang buffoon. Imagine what damage he could have done making decisions as president when he couldn't even figure this one out. "

    Ken Horne wrote on Oct 10, 2008 7:46 PM:

    " When Sarah becomes Vice President this will fizzle out like a rainstorm on a BBQ day. The contents of the sausage will be left to rot in the wet.Forgotten like a bad smell. "

    PJC27 wrote on Oct 10, 2008 7:18 PM:

    " Uh, sorry folks, in the lowers 40 we have cities w/ a bigger pop thn your state. She's a comin' back and ya'all can have her. Good bye, good riddens and good luck with her.

    Maybe you can vote her back as mayor, if the 23 mill deficit is not enough for you? "

    Joe wrote on Oct 10, 2008 7:14 PM:

    " What were the dates when these events took place? Poor writing or political bias? Which is it? "

    Take your pitbull back wrote on Oct 10, 2008 7:00 PM:

    " Alaskans, take your pitbull back. We dont want her on the national scene. We dont want the Wasilla high school cronies in Washington supposedly 'cleaning up' Wahsington. First clean up your own state - get rid of your non-ethical governor and find a fine honest upstanding person in her place. "

    Wasilla Resident wrote on Oct 10, 2008 6:51 PM:

    " As a resident of Wasilla I'm not only ashamed of Palin and her actions but that our good town has been damaged by her actions. We all know what she did/didn't do when she was mayor and she carried it into the governership. Innocent people don't fight so hard to quash an investigation and she's shown her colors. I have always voted republican but as long as she's on the ticket, I'll vote Obama who is the lesser of two evils. I don't want her pulling the same garbage in the White House. $1000000 says Alaska becomes a blue state! "

    RODNEY FROM BROOKLYN NY wrote on Oct 10, 2008 6:48 PM:

    " I JUST WANTED TO SEE WHAT THE PEOPLE OF WASILLA REALLY THOUGHT OF THIS SITUATION. SARAH PALIN, TODD PALIN AND ALL THE FAKENESS THEY HAVE BROUGHT TO THE PRESIDENTIAL RACE HAS FINALLY BROUGHT ITSELF TO THE FOREFRONT.. NOW WE ARE FORCED TO ASK THE QUESTION.. "WHO IS THE REAL SARAH PALIN?" MCCAIN HAS GUARANTEED HIMSELF TO LOSE THE ELECTION AND EVERYONE KNOWS IT. NO SYMPATHY FOR A TOOTHLESS PITBULL WITH LIPSTICK!!!! "

    Bob Conklin wrote on Oct 10, 2008 6:40 PM:

    " Nothing but a witch hunt against Governor Palin! She had the authority to fire Monegan. Alaska Liberal Democrats are rejoicing. Are all Alaska's electoral votes going to Socialist Barry Obama now? Ever hear of ACORN Alaskans, or Bill Ayers? Your freedoms are no longer after Obama becomes President, that includes the media! "

    35 year valley resident wrote on Oct 10, 2008 6:16 PM:

    " Congragulations this state stinks so deep with corruption the putridness of the smell will be here for years to come, and it now lingers in the valley..A secretive report and investigation? members "elected officials/ public representatives" meeting in private, led by a person who has openly and publicly admitted she doesn't get along with Palin..kinda sounds like the King and the Church..and so what Lyda if Palin overstepped her alleged authority, the Legislature been doing it for years against the public,,and what was youre comment, hmmmm- there nothing we can do.. "

    Concerned wrote on Oct 10, 2008 6:13 PM:

    " Even if she did fire him for not getting rid of thisd trooper she was right. If I was to Taze my son, DHSS would show up to my door with Trooper Whooten to arrest me for child abuse, now tell me why he is not in jail, that because Police Officers cover for each other. Scarey tehy think they are above the law. "

    Sherry wrote on Oct 10, 2008 6:05 PM:

    " I was just wondering, if you've done nothing wrong; why NOT make it public? Also, if she abused her power, should her husband be held accountable as well? "

    azurewlf wrote on Oct 10, 2008 5:23 PM:

    " The issue regarding Palin just proves that McCain and what's left of the GOP
    republicians should NEVER throw rocks at other people because we all live in a glass house!
    Talk about the pot calling the kettle black! If Palin was sincerely regretful, she should reasign! "

    al wrote on Oct 10, 2008 4:55 PM:

    " even if Gov. palin could pick the
    personnel board to do her bidding
    and do what they did, it was done by
    her in an "arbitrary and capricious
    manner" which is in Constitutional Law
    Textbooks and therefore UNCONSTITUTIONAL. "

    jp wrote on Oct 10, 2008 3:41 PM:

    " hey, i have a great idea for Halloween!



    Lyda Green masks!!! "

    Are you NUTS wrote on Oct 10, 2008 3:12 PM:

    " Right now, Obama looks like he's going to take about 342 Electoral Votes, and with them the election in what will most likely be heralded as a LANDSLIDE. Sarah Palin will NOT be VP, now or if there is any justice in the world EVER. "

    Nina wrote on Oct 10, 2008 2:51 PM:

    " Palin has not conducted herself with any honesty or decency in the VP campaign, so it's no surprise that she continue her garbage in the troopergate investigation. "

    what wrote on Oct 10, 2008 2:44 PM:

    " Open and transparent government has been hijacked by McCain/Palin. I'm ashamed of your administration Sarah, you fooled me once.

    ex-supporter from Wasilla "

    Yeah Lyda wrote on Oct 10, 2008 2:04 PM:

    " Just do your job.
    Good advice. You've been unable to hold your head up because you are too busy with your ridiculous grin and deceptive petty high school vindictiveness. Don't let the door hit you on the hiney on the way out.
    No matter how Hollis French and Branchflower spin this report, Sarah will win the VP spot, and good will triumph over pettiness. So sorry Lyda, Charlie, Dan,and Andrew!! Sarah is so much farther above these people! "

    Oops wrote on Oct 10, 2008 1:20 PM:

    " Lyda just do your job, do it well, hold your head up. It's about Palin people, stop whining. "

    Madmax wrote on Oct 10, 2008 1:19 PM:

    " Sarah Palin and her allies are showing exactly why the report should be made public. They think they the law doesn't apply to them. If the report was favorable to the Gov it would have been released hours ago. Palin doesn't stand a chance because of the economy but Troopergate will keep her from getting re-elected. "

    Cheryl wrote on Oct 10, 2008 12:47 PM:

    " Can you tell under what authority a group of elected officials meet in private to decide whether to maintain a report on possible ethics violations a secret. My sense is if this Board chooses to remain secretive about the results, they can all kiss their jobs goodbye, as well. "

    On the outside looking in wrote on Oct 10, 2008 12:27 PM:

    " It is perplexing how people from another state, or states, can be brought in to meddle in internal Alaskan affairs, and very few people, if any, are crying foul.

    Do you think for one minute that California voters and politicians, or any other state for that matter, would stand for someone from Alaska sticking thier noses into state business? Not a chance.

    Where does the McCain group get off?

    Come on Alaska...grow some cajones! "

    Morgaine Chya wrote on Oct 10, 2008 11:53 AM:

    " Why is the release of this document being decided behind closed doors?

    If this was California, I'd be in Sacramento even as I type, standing outside the chamber doors, demanding to know why this must be decided in secrecy.

    It is the people of Alaska who have been harmed by Gov. Palin's administration. It is Alaskans whose personnel files were opened to Todd Palin, who committed, at the very least, invasion of privacy. If an employee's health was shared with Todd Palin or others (i.e., in a Workers' Comp issue), the problem may be much worse. "

    jp wrote on Oct 10, 2008 11:18 AM:

    " do you think if they find her guilty, will the cabinet and house give her a "Bailout" ? "

    Wasilla Mom wrote on Oct 10, 2008 11:16 AM:

    " Re. transparency: Just like Frank Murkowski said to reporters: "I'm not going to answer that because I don't have to." "

    Jane Six Pack wrote on Oct 10, 2008 10:56 AM:

    " If Gov. Palin has nothing to hide- and is solid in her own evaluation of the ethical poistion she took in the firing, one would imagine in the middle of this hotly contested race, she would be eager to prove to the country at large her sterling ethics!
    Her absence is very telling.
    She called for open government to get elected- where is that transparency now?
    Sarah, where are you? "

    Tell Lyda.. wrote on Oct 10, 2008 10:49 AM:

    " To be quiet herself.
    This woman just sickens me in her enjoyment of these proceedings. I for one will celebrate her leaving office. What a spiteful Senator she has shown herself to be in these last days. Pitiful. "

    brian hall wrote on Oct 10, 2008 10:38 AM:

    " Lets see if justice prevails and the findings are made public in the interest of full transparency/disclosure. Regardless of the findings, Gov. Palin's lack of cooperation in the investigation will severely undermine her effectiveness as a government official. If McCain looses the election I doubt she'll be able to return to office without experiencing extreme fallout from her Alaskan peers and collegues. Her behavior throughout the investigation would have made a lasting impression about her ethics and morals, innocent or guilty. Re-election is no longer an option, if impeachment doesn't find her first. "

WRITE A COMMENT

Use the form below to post a brief comment to this story, or respond to other readers. Please use the word count tool to assist you in keeping your remarks to 100 words or fewer.

Comments must be approved by an editor before appearing on the Web site. Editors review submitted comments periodically during the day for offensive or off-topic content before posting. Your thoughtful contribution to the online discussion is appreciated.

(optional)
Current Word Count:
   

Classifieds

  • View All Ads
  • Place and Ad Online!
  • Call: (907) 352-2250
  • Write: 5751 E. Mayflower Ct., Wasilla AK 99654

Jobs

View All Jobs

Homes

View All Homes

Autos

View All Autos


Community Links

City of Wasilla
City of Wasilla News
City of Palmer
City of Houston
Borough News
Borough Web Site



Make Us Your Homepage