Stepping down

By ANDREW WELLNER
Frontiersman
Published on Sunday, July 5, 2009 9:21 AM AKDT

WASILLA — Gov. Sarah Palin announced Friday morning that she won’t seek re-election and intends to step down as governor.

“It hurts me to make this choice, but I’m doing what’s best for Alaska,” the governor said.

Palin made the announcement in the backyard of her home on Lake Lucille. The news seemed to come as a surprise, at least to most local politicians contacted Friday.

(Use arrows above to view more photos)

State Sen. Linda Menard, R-Wasilla, a longtime friend of Palin and her family, said she didn’t know what was going to happen.

“She kept that very close, just like she did when she was pregnant. Her mom didn’t even know,” Menard said.

Contacted at Saturday’s Fourth of July Parade in Wasilla, Palin’s mother, Sally Heath, declined to comment about when the family knew about her daughter’s decision.

“Those are family secrets,” she said.

As reasons for stepping down, Palin said she’d accomplished nearly everything she set out to do, naming as accomplishments pushing for a natural gas pipeline, slowing the growth of state government, breaking ground on a new state prison and passing ethics reform.

With those accomplishments behind her, Palin said that since her candidacy for vice president as Republican Sen. John McCain’s running mate, the national political machine has descended on Alaska and is attacking her. Those attacks are distracting her from the business of the state, she said, adding that frivolous ethics complaints have also been a drain on state resources.

“You are naïve if you don’t see a full court press right now on the national level picking apart a good point guard,” Palin said.

Borough Mayor Talis Colberg, who was Palin’s attorney general when the governor hit the national stage, said the attacks have been intense.

“There was so much petty attacking of her that it was incredible the amount of volume that came with the national campaign,” Colberg said.

Palin said she’d thought about continuing on as, in her words, a lame duck governor.

“That’s the quitter’s way out,” she said. “It would be apathetic to put your head down and go with the flow.”

Palin said she discussed the decision to step down with her family. They took a vote.

“It was four yeses and one ‘hell yeah,’” she said.

Once Palin steps down, the highest office in the state will be handed to Lt. Gov. Sean Parnell. Palin said the plan is to swear in Parnell at the end of the annual governor’s picnic, scheduled for July 25 in Fairbanks.

Menard said she had a sick feeling in the pit of her stomach when she heard the news. Still, she backed up Palin’s decision. The one bad thing she sees in the decision was that it seems those who have been attacking Palin have won.

“Now a lot of these meanspirited people get their will,” Menard said. She joked that she feels they all should start their own little town in Point MacKenzie, far away from the Valley’s population.

“Make that Meansville and have a grocery store,” she said.

State Rep. Wes Keller, R-Wasilla, whose initial arrival in the state House was due to a Palin appointment, said he was surprised and saddened Friday to hear the news.

“My initial reaction is that I sure don’t blame her. Personally, she’s really been put through the wringer,” Keller said. “I’m very disappointed. I, like for the rest of the USA, I had some high hopes that maybe we’d turn this around.”

He said he believes Parnell will be a good governor.

“The silver lining is that Sean is just top of the line,” Keller said.

Keller said he would also throw his support behind Palin if she ever chose to run for some other office.

“I think she’s bright, I think she’s got nerve and you bet, I would be very supportive,” Keller said.

Mark Neuman, whose state House seat represents the Valley north of Wasilla, said that he, too, was shocked at the news.

“I don’t know if I’m disappointed. She’s the only one who knows why she is stepping down,” Neuman said.

And if the governor’s family played a role in that decision, Neuman said he can certainly sympathize.

“She has a son, a new son with some difficulties. She has a family,” he said. “If those are reasons why she’s stepping down that’s just so honorable.”

On the subject of attacks on Palin, Neuman was slightly more ambivalent, saying that sort of thing tends to come with the job when one signs up to be a politician.

“You can decide to defend them or just say you know what, make the accusations do what you want to do I’m going to go on with my life,” Neuman said.

Neuman said whoever takes over as governor is going to have a tough couple of years going forward, since he sees big budget cuts on the horizon.

“(The) governor and the Legislature are going to have to shoulder a lot of difficult decisions,” Neuman said, before adding, “I’m not saying that she’s stepping down because of that.”

Wasilla Mayor Verne Rupright, who holds the office Palin once did, said he’s been a fan of Palin’s from the start.

“I’ve known Sarah a very long time and you know, she’s her own person and I’m sure there’s good things going on in her decision,” Rupright said. “What an appropriate day on the eve of the Fourth of July. ... If you heard her statements she’s declaring independence. Her message was about independence and doing the right thing.”

As to what’s next for Palin, her speech didn’t say, besides vague mentions of being more effective from outside of the governor’s office.

Keller, Menard and Rupright all said they would happily support Palin if she decides to try for a different office.

“I was behind her 100 percent as the governor, I have so many signs in my barn that belong to her and I would do the same thing,” Menard said. “Certainly I wouldn’t do anything that ethically wasn’t allowed in my position but I am unwavering in my support for her.”

Contact Andrew Wellner at andrew.wellner@frontiersman.com or 352-2270.

Copyright © 2010 Frontiersman

Comments

197 comment(s)

    Littlebird wrote on Jul 17, 2009 4:50 PM:

    " Right on cue you get the childish ones that can't deal with reality. Is this a newspaper website or a teen-ager chatroom? "

    sharpie wrote on Jul 17, 2009 3:59 PM:

    " to "to power wagon" aka Ed

    Writing to yourself again, Ed? You need to see a doctor about that. Oh, and the blogs you're referring to have been anything BUT what you describe. They just don't agree with you is all. Calm down, get help and move on.... "

    To Power Wagon wrote on Jul 17, 2009 4:07 AM:

    " You need a reality check, pal. The very idea of you presuming to tell "Ed from AZ" that he needs to educate himself, and stop believing the headlines, is laughable.

    P/W, you are among the most remarkably superficial, and misguided thinkers around.

    I do not say this merely because I usually disagree with your ideas. I appreciate many ideas I disagree with when they are stated with respect, and the writer makes a good case for the conclusions. But, P/W, you are often misinformed, sometimes enirely illogical, usually rude, and you fail to convince or persuade. "

    jp wrote on Jul 12, 2009 9:58 PM:

    " Golly Edward, was I that close in my description?
    You really need to get outside and get a breath of fresh air. "

    EdwardfromAZ wrote on Jul 11, 2009 8:14 AM:

    " HOME SICK ALASKAN wrote on Jul 10, 2009

    " ALL YOU LAZY DO GOODERS WHO PUT THE BLAME ON EVERYONE ELSE NO MATTER WHAT THE PROBLEM.DO YOU REMEMBER WHEN AL GORE CAME UP AND WAS TELLING ABOUT GLOBAL WARMING.I WAS IN WASILLA AT CARRS AND TWO OLD COGGERS WERE RAISING CAIN ABOUT AN OUTSIDER THAT DIDN'T KNOW CRAP ABOUT ICE PACKS. AND SEE WHAT HAPPENS. SHE AIN'T TELLING SO BE PROUD OF OUR STATE ,THE RESOURCES,THE PEOPLE,AND BRAGGING RIGHTS TO BEING THE BIGGEST STATE====

    Sounds like a perfect description of SP "

    EdwardfromAZ wrote on Jul 11, 2009 8:10 AM:

    " jp wrote on Jul 9, 2009 2:56 PM:

    " i thought shannyn moore was just michael moore in drag ? "==============

    You have just shjown who you really are, and it is not good.

    Knock others, mock others, ignore facts. The world feels for you. "

    HOME SICK ALASKAN wrote on Jul 10, 2009 5:36 PM:

    " ALL YOU LAZY DO GOODERS WHO PUT THE BLAME ON EVERYONE ELSE NO MATTER WHAT THE PROBLEM.DO YOU REMEMBER WHEN AL GORE CAME UP AND WAS TELLING ABOUT GLOBAL WARMING.I WAS IN WASILLA AT CARRS AND TWO OLD COGGERS WERE RAISING CAIN ABOUT AN OUTSIDER THAT DIDN'T KNOW CRAP ABOUT ICE PACKS.ALL OF YOU KNOW SO MUCH WHY DON'T YOU KNOW HOW TO SHUT YOUR TRAP BACKOFF AND SEE WHAT HAPPENS. SHE AIN'T TELLING SO BE PROUD OF OUR STATE ,THE RESOURCES,THE PEOPLE,AND BRAGGING RIGHTS TO BEING THE BIGGEST STATE .NOT THE BIGGEST BLOWHARDS. "

    Power Wagon wrote on Jul 9, 2009 10:39 PM:

    " to pothole;
    Now let's think about this for a minute...Alaska is the biggest state in the union. Roughly 1/3 the size of the lower 48. It's rough and wild. They need lots of military here. The feds need that oil. . That means they need to have a way to get there and get it out. They need a way for the people that get that oil to live here. Now, with a small population, imagine if they spent the the same as some of the other states in this irrelevant 'per person' criteria. Wouldn't be possible. "

    Lisnup wrote on Jul 9, 2009 10:24 PM:

    " Palin's a quitter, she wasn't out one dime personally from the complaints she's just a quitter!! Never liked her or voted for her - good riddance! "

    jp wrote on Jul 9, 2009 2:56 PM:

    " i thought shannyn moore was just michael moore in drag ? "

    to pothole wrote on Jul 9, 2009 2:45 PM:

    " Why does Alaska get so much federal money? Why does the state closest to Asia, with the most military hardware, the most land owned by the feds and the biggest source of domestic oil get so much money?....(ever see the calculations on how much our gas prices would go up if our domestic oil was removed from the market like the liberals want?)
    See what I mean?
    It's in the feds best interests. "

    longtimevalleyRES wrote on Jul 9, 2009 2:10 PM:

    " I think Shannyn Moore should look at her sorry career, how many diffrent radio jobs has she had...can she really hold just one??Since no one listens to her radio shows, she tries to write a blog...she is just a wanabe that no one wants to hear.. "

    Well Done Dems cont. wrote on Jul 9, 2009 1:16 PM:

    " ...or maybe helping the poor willing to work instead of clamoring for us to give money to those who refuse to work. Keep picking on her son with Down Syndrome too - that just smacks of class all the way! You don't have to like her Mr. and Mrs. Left but this hate fest should be embarrassing. When this gas line gets done, history will show who made the first real step in getting it done and it will be this stewardess you ridicule. There will be plenty of Dems up here wanting jobs on it too! "

    Well done Dems wrote on Jul 9, 2009 1:12 PM:

    " $2 million down, 15 complaints - NO wrongdoing. As one DEMOCRAT blogger put it on the news yesterday so eloquently - "We have to find out somehow." Please - spend your own money and stop wasting ours! You didn't care when Frank and Tony traveled, quit picking on the woman! You just cost us a great Governor! She is going to do even greater things - someday you may learn that YOU CANNOT KEEP HER DOWN! BOTH PARTIES HAVE TRIED! So good effort, put your anger in another direction, maybe one that helps kids or something... "

    PotHoled wrote on Jul 9, 2009 12:30 PM:

    " Watcher, indeed, how does that logic hold? A state with surpluses, and APF money, consistently at the TOP of the US in earmarks per capita? (When other states are hurting.)

    There is a reason why McCain dubbed Palin 'The Earmark Queen' in the years before the nomination. But she was not the only one to rake in those bucks, it was across the board. And it is to her credit that she changed her course, even BEFORE the nomination, to ratchet down on the earmarks.

    It's time for Alaska to get off the US teat. "

    EdwardfromAZ wrote on Jul 9, 2009 8:50 AM:

    " Power Wagon wrote on Jul 8, 2009

    " Hey Ed, put me down for somebody that KNOWS that they're impartial. So does a few million other people whose head .......

    It's amazing what things you can learn when you READ and take even a few minutes to educate yourself. I understand that being spoon-fed crap by the headlines is easier, but really Ed....you really ought to try putting forth a little effort sometime to gather your own info. =====
    Think you best take your own advice and look up meanining of IMPARTIAL vs Partial "

    Power Wagon wrote on Jul 8, 2009 10:40 PM:

    " Hey Ed, put me down for somebody that KNOWS that they're impartial. So does a few million other people whose head isn't stuck that far up.

    It's amazing what things you can learn when you READ and take even a few minutes to educate yourself. I understand that being spoon-fed crap by the headlines is easier, but really Ed....you really ought to try putting forth a little effort sometime to gather your own info. You'd be amazed to walk in the world of reality for the first time. "

    EdwardfromAZ wrote on Jul 8, 2009 7:41 PM:

    " Palmer Farm wrote on Jul 7, 2009 10:24 PM:

    " You failed, Ed. You answered his question with nothing more than a wild, unsupported statement that is 100% assumption on your part. Thanks for playing, Ed...but you didn't make it past the novice line...
    Go try The New York Times or The Huffington Post. They're all about zany guesses and unsubstantiated rumors. You'll fit right in=============
    So you beleive the Personnel Board is impartial. God help you, cause you are so ............. "

    watcher wrote on Jul 8, 2009 3:29 PM:

    " Alaska is a "welfare state", but Alaska is also the state with the biggest surplus? Huh? How does that logic come together? "

    PotHoled wrote on Jul 8, 2009 9:58 AM:

    " It remains that there is no explanation for why Alaska gets so much money per capita (other than Hawaii, most years, and Alabama in 2008) than other states in the Union.

    This I admired about Sarah Palin above all: Her refusal of the stimulus package, which was gutsy, considering the welfare mentality of the Alaskan state. She was RIGHT that this was no good for Alaska, that it had strings and that it was high time Alaska started living within its own budget. Self-sufficiency.

    Why don't you spend that money on things like schools? Roads? Sewers? "

    Palmer Farm wrote on Jul 8, 2009 7:53 AM:

    " Look at the spending state-by-state. Notice that the smaller the population, the more the "per person" goes up. It's a given. If Alaska is suddenly jammed full of people like California or New York next week, our "per person" would dive down. It's basic math. It's also a useless, propoganda-fueled statistic, left over from the campaign, that MOST people have stopped trying to throw out after realizing that. "

    buddy glover evansga. wrote on Jul 8, 2009 5:32 AM:

    " Mrs.Palin is the GREATEST THING THAT HAS HAPPENED IN ALASKA. I HOPE I HAVE THE HONOR OF VOTING FOR HER FOR PRES.PLEASE RUN. "

    PotHoled wrote on Jul 8, 2009 3:29 AM:

    " Palmer, the APF payments are terrific and Alaska is lucky to have them. But why is the rest of the US constantly paying you folks an egregious amount of earmarks when you already are rolling in dough? Some years you all got more than $600 per capita when the average US was more like $30/pc.

    Earmarks don't pay for federal programs or the military, but municipal/county/state pet projects - like the Wasilla sewer system.

    I've been thinking of taking a vacation to Alaska so I can use the Wasilla restrooms and get some of my money's worth. "

    Palmer Farm wrote on Jul 7, 2009 10:24 PM:

    " You failed, Ed. You answered his question with nothing more than a wild, unsupported statement that is 100% assumption on your part. Thanks for playing, Ed...but you didn't make it past the novice line...
    Go try The New York Times or The Huffington Post. They're all about zany guesses and unsubstantiated rumors. You'll fit right in. "

    EdwardfromAZ wrote on Jul 7, 2009 8:57 PM:

    " Power Wagon wrote on Jul 7, 2009 6:33 PM:

    " That's the umpteenth time I've seen you throw out this bunk about how the Personnel Board is stifled because the governor can just toss them out. You just CAN'T grasp the reality of that belief, can you? It's totally beyond you to think politician would dismiss the Personnel Board for finding anything wrong with them knowing full well what the outcome would be of that kind of suicide. Just another way you demonstrate your inability to get beyond simple thought. "
    ============
    Wrong fella, SP might have!! "

    Lisnup wrote on Jul 7, 2009 8:08 PM:

    " McCain opened Pandora's Box!! Alaska is paying for his mistake. "

    Power Wagon wrote on Jul 7, 2009 6:33 PM:

    " That's the umpteenth time I've seen you throw out this bunk about how the Personnel Board is stifled because the governor can just toss them out. You just CAN'T grasp the reality of that belief, can you? It's totally beyond you to sit back and think about what politician would dismiss the Personnel Board for finding anything wrong with him/her knowing full well what the outcome would be of that kind of suicide, isn't it? Just another way you demonstrate your inability to get beyond simple thought. "

    EdwardfromAZ wrote on Jul 7, 2009 3:56 PM:

    " to alaskan wrote on Jul 7, 2009 11:42 AM:

    " Palin hired the people on the ethics board? Wrong.
    Branchflower found her guilty? Wrong.

    Come back when you know what you're talking about. "
    =========
    Well you are 1/2 correct..............

    Branchflower found her guilty of abuse of power!!!!!!1 Palin DOES have the ability to fire the Personnel Boards members, therefore she exerts control over them. This makes them to be a "PARTIAL" board and should not be the judge or jury for complaints filed against her. "

    Palmer Farm wrote on Jul 7, 2009 3:26 PM:

    " "Potholed"? Seems more like "pot-head". Why, you ask? Well, since you like statistics so much, why don't you look at how much of Alaska isn't owned by the state, but is instead owned by the Feds? Why don't you look at how much military is up here. Now imagine if the feds dumped in a dollar figure based on our teeny population. DUH! I can't believe ANYBODY would be defending tax-and-spend mecca California! Sheesh! Look where that's got them! Oil revenue? Sorry California can't share the profits of it's industry with it's residents. Wouldn't be very 'liberal'! "

    PotHoled wrote on Jul 7, 2009 2:40 PM:

    " PARASITIC California???

    Read the US Budget office's webpage and you will find where the real parasites live.

    CA: $460,667,000 with a population of 36,756,666 results in $12.50 per capita.

    AK: $154,865,000, population 686,293 results in $225.65 per capita. LIke you need it, with your Permanent Fund annual payouts. . .

    Previous years' records show Alaska grossly overcompensated with earmarks as compared to the rest of the US.

    The Lower 48 pays truck loads for your 'infrastructure,' Fella.

    My question is, Why? "

    to alaskan wrote on Jul 7, 2009 11:42 AM:

    " Palin hired the people on the ethics board? Wrong.
    Branchflower found her guilty? Wrong.

    Come back when you know what you're talking about. "

    Alaskan. wrote on Jul 7, 2009 9:02 AM:

    " Have you all forgotten that Palin herself hired the people on the Ethics Board. Hand picked cronies. Independent investigator Branchflower found her guilty in the troopergate case and she was. She bailed because eventually something was gonna stick. If she would of came out and gave an honest answer as to why she quit. Maybe just maybe it would of went better. Instead she rambled on and on about nothing. I'm glad to see her go. Bye Quitter. "

    jomama wrote on Jul 7, 2009 6:35 AM:

    " mccains kiss of death!!
    like most people in this country when mccain announced her as his running mate i went "who" it didnt take long before the mud started flying and being in this spotlight im sure it made it worse. my money says if mccain had left her alone that she would probably still be govonor. not that everybody would be happy about it. cant blame it all on him tho, she was aware of the issues. i think it just blew up in unexpected ways. "

    TO Watcher wrote on Jul 7, 2009 4:53 AM:

    " Palin brought this all on herself. She had no grace and no tact. It wasn't a smear campaign, but an effort to bring out the truth about Palin. In the end she couldn't stand the truth, so she quit. Seriously what kind of politician listens to their teenage/unwed Mommy daughter? I will never vote for another republican. I am fed up with their agendas and lack of commitment. They no longer have conservative values. I really think conservatives will vote Libertarian in 2012. "

    watcher wrote on Jul 6, 2009 7:37 PM:

    " You people crack me up. "Oooh! I bet she made a secret pact with cloned alien zombies and she has magical powers!" "No, no, that's not it! She quit because she's a secret Cuban spy! I know, because I'm a liberal and don't dwell in the land of facts! Smear, allegations, slander and attacks are where it's at!"

    What a bunch of clowns.... "

    Lisnup wrote on Jul 6, 2009 6:50 PM:

    " Bet some of the ethic complaints have just recently been found UNETHICALLY and she bailed before they hit the media. Her comment about not "Milking it!" I honestly collapsed in laughter, coming from miss secondhand RNC clothing spree, per diem, kiddie travelgate queen. Ya think if a world leader threatened her and she "didn't like it" she'd go fishing in Dillingham? ya know to avoid the media and prove how strong she was. Palin's value's don't represent America, we don't want quitters to high tail it when she doesn't get her way. Pure coward "

    AZ Bob wrote on Jul 6, 2009 6:40 PM:

    " Palin has always been the joke of the repubican party. She is the reason why the repubicans no longer have a party or a platform. All the reall conservatives are fed up with fish fed bimbos. They all jumped ship and now call themselves Libertarians. LOL!!! "

    Carole wrote on Jul 6, 2009 6:34 PM:

    " Would love to know the answers to the following:
    1 - While mayor of Wasilla how much in debt did she leave the city when her term was over?
    2 - How much in debt will she leave AK when she leaves in 2 weeks?
    3 - Why didn't she move to Juneau for her job?
    4 - Will she pay back her per diems to live at home on Lake Lucille & not at the governor's home in Juneau?
    I'm disappointed. If you can't take the bull stay up on the porch in AK. "

    teresa wrote on Jul 6, 2009 6:17 PM:

    " "Our infrastructure would be loads better without having to fund parasitic states (like california)"

    Do people really not understand that Californians pay more in federal taxes than their state gets back in federal spending? And that the situation in Alaska is reversed?

    Amazing. "

    Rainboo wrote on Jul 6, 2009 6:17 PM:

    " I think the basketball analogy was the killer game plan. When you only have your local yokel game plan, no education of the other teams, there struggles and how they got there, no background knowledge - yah you vacate the court., Palin's her game plan failed, Alaska has days of economic hardship coming, she bailed like a wounded player, we all know a phony she quit before she got benched. Inept and dishonored is how she filled the office, good riddance! "

    jp to Ed wrote on Jul 6, 2009 4:31 PM:

    " pretty simple Ed, we have natural resources that you lesser 48'ers can only fantasize about!
    And yes, it is that simple, we also have a huge tourism industry as well, seems to be funding the state pretty well.
    Our infrastructure would be loads better without having to fund parasitic states (like california)
    We would be more in line like the United Arab Emirates, with the wealth the land holds here.
    Obviously our foreign trade is already intact, everything comes through here first! "

    Robert wrote on Jul 6, 2009 3:40 PM:

    " The most telling part of her speech to me was when she said that she "didn't need a title". The Governorship is not a "title" to be won, like some beauty pageant. She asked for the job, and the people gave it to her. There's nothing noble about abandoning her electorate when the going gets a little tough. "

    EdwardfromAZ wrote on Jul 6, 2009 3:04 PM:

    " jp wrote on Jul 6, 2009 12:52 PM:

    " perhaps she realized that America is now just one big Ghetto, and wants no part in it.

    Time for Alaska to become it's own nation! "====================
    Go for it JP. Wonder how you will fund your nation? "

    EdwardfromAZ wrote on Jul 6, 2009 3:03 PM:

    " longtimevalleyRes wrote on Jul 5, 2009 1:31 PM:

    " It just goes to Show that if you get into Politics its for only the low life scum...most of you on here have no back bone..You are all just bunch wimps with nothing to do but wine...Go get a life.. Those of you from out of state, Do something with your lives instead of wishing you up here..We don't care what you say, your a has been...Most likely your state is broke and you are part of problem.. "=============
    OMG someone has a problem with anger, Hi Todd "

    Booneyrat wrote on Jul 6, 2009 1:37 PM:

    " Hahaha,,,what do you fools think of your tundra queen now ? I knew Palin was a loser when I lived in Wasilly back in 1991. What a joke LOLOLOLOL.... "

    jp wrote on Jul 6, 2009 12:52 PM:

    " perhaps she realized that America is now just one big Ghetto, and wants no part in it.

    Time for Alaska to become it's own nation! "

    Stevie wrote on Jul 6, 2009 12:28 PM:

    " I suppose her higher calling will be filing lawsuits. "

    Jim from Boston wrote on Jul 6, 2009 12:03 PM:

    " Some of the jokes about the Iquitarod are pretty funny. "

    bassman wrote on Jul 6, 2009 9:27 AM:

    " Gov. Palin owns the moral high ground. Her attackers have not learned when the go after her, they do so in a unscrupulous manner. That makes it easy for her put them in their place. As she did with Letterman, and those that spread the defamitory allagations. This is a highly ethical Governor, and her attackers need to learn that. "

    liarscheatsand thiefs wrote on Jul 6, 2009 9:00 AM:

    " Vern vern vern. Hahahahaha always liked Sarah. What's this all about? Hahahahaha. What a pile of poo! Did you really say that! What's next in your political world? Your learning fast "

    Clebrate wrote on Jul 6, 2009 8:23 AM:

    " HORRAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I cant be happier! Best 4th weekend ever!! "

    Pegboard wrote on Jul 6, 2009 8:13 AM:

    " You can put lipstick on a Whig, but it's still a Whig.


    BTW, when Palin was mayor of Wasilla, that town only had a population of about 4000. "

    PotHoled wrote on Jul 6, 2009 7:10 AM:

    " And now, with only two weeks to go before she steps down (having given only two weeks' notice), SHE GOES FISHING???!!!! This, above all, should tell you how much she 'cares' about her responsibilities and position as Governor of Alaska.

    Or. . .maybe being governor of Alaska is not all that complicated or hard, after all. That's why she thought she could be VP. . .'not much to it.'

    How any of you in Alaska can support her now, after the unmasking, is beyond me. "

    MAXKATT from NY wrote on Jul 6, 2009 6:23 AM:

    " With SP's plans unclear, I have no comment at this point other than this was a complete surprise.

    While I will never forgive her for stoking mobs with BS rehtoric like "palin' around with terrorists" I don't wish ill upon her. Hope all is well with her. "

    RunSarahRun wrote on Jul 5, 2009 11:44 PM:

    " I hope that Sarah will run in 2012. President Obama will win by a landslide!!! An ex-mayor of Wasilla (>10,000 people) and a ex-governor that actually has worked only two years (deducting campaign time) has no business in national office. The only people that follow her now are the extreme right-wingers and most of them are bigots and racists. America does not need or want a person that promotes hate and division! To the people of Alaska: I pray your next governor will have more dignity and integrity than your last one. "

    PeaceRespectLove wrote on Jul 5, 2009 11:38 PM:

    " If Palin had not given such a hateful speech at the GOP convention then there would have been less people that disliked her. She brought this onto herself. She dissed community organizers that work hard to better their communities - there was no need for her to be so mean and disrespectful to so many Americans in the USA. What goes goes around comes around now she apparently is having to pay the price for the hate that is in her heart. "

    BaitSlinger wrote on Jul 5, 2009 9:11 PM:

    " Gov. Sarah Palin was ( in many democrats opinion) eye-candy for the world to behold. They made her out to be a ditzy, looney, undereducated woman This liberal Sabotage went out in the press, TV, radio and over Al Gore's internet. From the looks of things it was a plan well thought out and executed.to perfection. Maybe her reasons for quitting IS to be with her family more. Then again she may be positioning herself to strick when the irons hot. "

    Puzzled in Clawson MI wrote on Jul 5, 2009 6:28 PM:

    " I, like many others in this country, wonder what all the hoopla is over Sarah Palin. She has shown her true colors time and time again by her bizarre behavior and rantings. She needs to regroup and have someone put a muzzle on the mouth before she speaks. It makes one wonder what her behavior would be like on the world stage where glitz and glam are not so valued. "

    Outwithshelby wrote on Jul 5, 2009 3:39 PM:

    " I blogged on this site the night Sarah made her speech at the RNC convention.The speech was so full of hatred until I was distrubed and voiced it in this paper.I do not wish her any trouble but what you give out you get back.I am glad she has time now to reflect on her behavior .She has also proved to be really petty. "

    dynahog wrote on Jul 5, 2009 3:32 PM:

    " Judging from today's number of comments on a USA Today item that suggests she is NOT out of politics, and looking at a run for President in 2012, I'd say

    GO FOR IT.
    She gets my contributions.
    I'd vote for her. "

    longtimevalleyRes wrote on Jul 5, 2009 1:31 PM:

    " It just goes to Show that if you get into Politics its for only the low life scum...most of you on here have no back bone..You are all just bunch wimps with nothing to do but wine...Go get a life.. Those of you from out of state, Do something with your lives instead of wishing you up here..We don't care what you say, your a has been...Most likely your state is broke and you are part of problem.. "

    Jayne wrote on Jul 5, 2009 12:58 PM:

    " ~~~~ Human behavior amazes me~~~Many of you use alias names to unleash things you would NEVER say to anyone in person. This posting venue should be retitled The Coward's Forum. Whether you are for or against the governor is irrelevant. I see nothing but spineless people sitting safely behind their computers unleashing venom anonymously ON BOTH SIDES. This is why I am an independent. Republicans and Democrats alike, SICKEN ME. I wonder how mouthy you all would be if you were all sitting in a room together. "

    ankle biter and proud wrote on Jul 5, 2009 12:57 PM:

    " Yes Sen. Menard, I am one of the citizen critics who chose to voice my opinion regarding Sarah Palin's policies and political views. And if I and other critics caused the self-professed pit-bull with lipstick to fold and quit, we have done a service to cull out a weak politician who can't take the heat. By the way, the rumor is that you will be sponsoring legislation to make a concentration camp at Pt. McKenzie for Palin critics called "Meansville". Are totalitarian tactics a good way to honor your fallen Queen? Well is it Sen. Menard? "

    Power Wagon wrote on Jul 5, 2009 11:57 AM:

    " Well, it's Sunday but I don't have the Sunday paper on my doorstep today. I can get my news from the internet, but without the comics page I've got to come in here and read the liberal bloggers to get my laughs. Nothing is funnier than watching liberals willingly make fools out of themselves with the wierd, twisted, bizarre substitutions for facts they use to get by in the world. Keep 'em coming, lemming-sheep crossbreeds! HA! "

    Sarah the Socialist wrote on Jul 5, 2009 10:54 AM:

    " But, but, will I still get my check from the state of AK every year?? "

    Alaskan. wrote on Jul 5, 2009 10:45 AM:

    " Hey there YancyDancer, she is/was an elected official that was hired by the people to represent and do the peoples business hence the name Alaska's Governor. We the people of Alaska have every right to talk about what she is doing and whether or not we approve. I guess if can't stand the heat get the heck out of the kitchen. She did, so don't let those big capital doors hit ya in the backside on your way out. "

    Ayers wrote on Jul 5, 2009 10:41 AM:

    " So, Can Bill Ayers sue Sarah for calling him a terrorist? I hope soi! "

    To Duh From Iowa wrote on Jul 5, 2009 10:34 AM:

    " The blogger stated there were "rumors". and used that word twice. You are kidding yourself if you believe that statement is untrue or defamatory. There are rumors. Lots of them.

    I would love to see your silly Sarah take on the 1st amendment. I guess it would leave Obama the option to sue all of those that asked for his birth certificate. Of course, he's got better things to do with his time these days, doesn't he? "

    teresa wrote on Jul 5, 2009 10:30 AM:

    " It's amazing that conservatives are declaring Sarah's history of making untruthful claims as "spiritual values."

    Spirituality used to be associated with ethical and moral behavior. Has the religious right really sunk so far that to them practicing their religion means lie to gain an advantage?

    I still have all 10 Commandments in my Bible. I'll be glad to send any of you 9 Commandment "Christians" a copy. "

    Left wing losers wrote on Jul 5, 2009 9:53 AM:

    " good to see all of us are right on board with all of the speculating crap you are so easy to dish out. I don't see any of you getting off your lazy -----'s to do anything for your town, state or country!!!
    Throw those mudballs from behind the fence, to chicken to sign your own names to the e-mails you plop out.
    Left winged losers "

    EdwardfromAZ wrote on Jul 5, 2009 9:49 AM:

    " Jayne wrote on Jul 5, 2009:

    " I find it comical that many commentors here act as if Sarah Palin's decision is any of their business. She owes no one ANYTHING. As long as she does her job WHILE she is on the clock, the rest of her life is HER LIFE. If she wants to quit, let her. Is it really going to affect you or me? NOT ONE thing is going to change in your life if she is governor or not. Leave her alone and get a life!! "=============She owes an HONEST explanation. "

    EdwardfromAz wrote on Jul 5, 2009 9:46 AM:

    " Duh wrote on Jul 5, 2009
    " No, Joey, her attorney is threatening those that would falsely report fabricated news (the liberal's favorite kind.) The true hypocrisy is wherein an individual would do the same thing, and rightfully so, if a newspaper etc was reporting as factual that you were 'under investigation' for something erroneous and it damaged your reputation, abilility to get a job etc BUT...if it's somebody you don't like then we call it 'free speech' and it's OK. There are laws against that. "============
    Ahh only if Palin non-supporters say it huh?? "

    EdwardfromAZ wrote on Jul 5, 2009 9:43 AM:

    " YancyDancer wrote on Jul 5, 2009
    " If someone can't say something nice about someone just keep your mouth shut.

    Every one of you need to Go to the World Wide Web site "The Way To Happiness" and order the book/extension course, do the course and see if you can pass the course.

    And comments like I've read above would not appear on the Web Sites like this. "==========================

    Obviopusly Sarah went and failed the course, just replay her campaign comments. Terroist much???????????? "

    EdwardfromAZ wrote on Jul 5, 2009 9:40 AM:

    " YancyDancer wrote on Jul 5, 2009

    " Why, don't you hate mongers, go take a look in the mirror at your own personal life and do a PROS/CONS check on your own contributions to life and what you've done good/bad in your life.
    How educated are some of you and how much do you know about life and living. Have you ever iVolunteered to do anything worthwhile for your neighborhood, your village, town, or city, county, borough, or state in which you lilve?????? "==================
    Volunteer EMT 8 years, so I guess I can criticize huh. Sarah QUITS. "

    EdwardfromAZ wrote on Jul 5, 2009 9:31 AM:

    " Amazing, Palin supporters still speak before they think. What part of her personna is blinding you? Shehas lied her entire term as Gov and continues . Her accomplishments are a joke, she has done nothing herself, most if not all were others ideas etc. And the pipe line, oh yes it is almost done, right?
    What hogwash.

    Her only accomplishment has been to create havoc in Alaska and place blame elsewhere.

    Instead of fixing ethics problems, she created them at furious pace. It is time for the State to be specific on all costs for ethics. "

    Duh wrote on Jul 5, 2009 8:02 AM:

    " No, Joey, her attorney is threatening those that would falsely report fabricated news (the liberal's favorite kind.) The true hypocrisy is wherein an individual (like yourself) would do the same thing, and rightfully so, if a newspaper etc was reporting as factual that you were 'under investigation' for something erroneous and it damaged your reputation, abilility to get a job etc BUT...if it's somebody you don't like then we call it 'free speech' and it's OK. There are laws against that. "

    Jayne wrote on Jul 5, 2009 8:00 AM:

    " I find it so comical that so many commentors here act as if Sarah Palin's decision is any of their business. She owes no one ANYTHING. As long as she does her job WHILE she is on the clock, the rest of her life is HER LIFE. The same goes for ANYONE ANYWHERE (you, me, whoever!). If she wants to quit, let her. Is it really going to affect you or me? NO! NOT ONE thing is going to change in your life if she is governor or not. Leave her alone and get a life!! "

    YancyDancer wrote on Jul 5, 2009 7:56 AM:

    " If someone can't say something nice about someone just keep your mouth shut.

    Each and every one of you need to Go to the World Wide Web site "The Way To Happiness" and order the book and extension course, do the course and see how many of you can pass the course. If and when you did maybe this state and country that we are residents of would become a MUCH better place to live than it is.

    And comments like I've read above would not appear on the Web Sites like this. "

    YancyDancer wrote on Jul 5, 2009 7:50 AM:

    " Why, don't all you hate mongers, go take a look in the mirror at your own personal life and do a PROS and CONS check sheet on your own contributions to life and what you've done good and bad in your life. Clean your own doorstep before trying to sweep someone else's..
    How educated are some of you and how much do you know about life and living. Have you ever in your lives Volunteered to do anything worthwhile for your neighborhood, your village, town, or city, county, borough, or state in which you lilve?????? "

    teresa wrote on Jul 5, 2009 6:16 AM:

    " Tennessee Tom - do you really think it was HONEST of Palin to claim that Todd only registered for the AIP because he got confused? The box had the word "party" on it. He was a member for seven years, and the two of them participated in events.

    Do you think it was HONEST of her to claim that she told Congress "no thanks" for federal funds on the Bridge to Nowhere? It was Congress that pulled the plug on the funds over her objections. And still she kept and spent the money.

    How is this honesty? "

    Palin FAILED America wrote on Jul 5, 2009 5:20 AM:

    " Palin is simply disgraceful. She just taught her family that it is okay to quit when the going gets tough. She is anything but conservative. She is a slap in the face to conservative politics. Palin moral values taught her daughter to have underage and unprotected sex in high school. What kind of value system is that? She is thorn in American politics. She is not an example I want my kids to follow. She is the anti-moral value politico who surrenders at will. She is just disgusting. "

    RE remembering teen wrote on Jul 5, 2009 3:43 AM:

    " This is an amazing turn of events. The Gov used the phrase, "remember Alaska..." I did and I it made me think back to that kid last winter that wrote about prejudice in our Valley and did so with such style. I wonder how she's doing? She seemed like a pretty special teen. Anyway, this is an amazing turn of events - I don't get it, but then I guess things will unfold and we'll find out. I pray everyone will play nice about this. "

    hhmmmm wrote on Jul 5, 2009 2:31 AM:

    " I'm not sure I get this move, but I respect her right to choose.

    While I'm at it, has anyone seen this? There are two year books being auctioned on Ebay. It reads that she signed them as a fundraiser for a church group. A nice thing to do.

    I hope only the best for her and her family. "

    GetEducated wrote on Jul 5, 2009 12:23 AM:

    " Robert H Bradley,
    it is improper to call Palin 'madam vice-president'. Here in America OUR Vice-President is Joe Biden. Palin and McCain lost - please accept that fact and move on! "

    Leah wrote on Jul 5, 2009 12:18 AM:

    " Hopefully the next woman that runs for national office will have some intelligence, dignity, and integrity. As a woman I have been disgusted ever since the day McCain put her in the spotlight and then she ridiculed hard working community organizers and volunteers that do good works for the poor and disadvantaged. Shame on you Sarah Palin !!! What goes around comes around! "

    OUT OF SITE OUT OF MIND wrote on Jul 5, 2009 12:11 AM:

    " ENJOY THE MILLIIONS YOU MADE FROM MAKING THIS STATE A MOCKERY. OH, YOU GIVE BACK ALL THE PAYCHECKS YOU'VE GOTTEN FOR DOING NOTHING. THIS COMMENT SOUNDS A STUPID AS SARAH SOUNDS WHEN SHE TRIES TO SPEAK WITH INTELLIGENCE. AT LEAST YOU STILL HAVE GOOD LOOKS. RELIEF AT LAST. "

    Texas4 wrote on Jul 5, 2009 12:10 AM:

    " Stick a fork in her she is done! It is unheard of for a governor to quit midterm unless they are taking the office of the presidency or they have been appointed to a Cabinet position. What on earth was she thinking of when she made that bonehead decision? The only explanation would be that someone had the goods on her and she was forced to step down. I feel sorry for all the Alaskans up there that have been so embarrassed by their governor! It's McCain's fault for unleashing her on us. "

    Good riddance Palin wrote on Jul 4, 2009 10:54 PM:

    " Palin's apparent explanations of why she decided to step down seem to be, as usual, nothing but hypocritcal. Her claims of being a victim of the media also ring false and hollow.

    Palin can more than dish out the dirt regarding misrepresentations of others, their ideas, and their actions, but she apparently can't handle anything but kid-glove treatment!

    Her recent pre-emptive threats to sue various news organizations lest they say a word against her was also boorish and heavy handed. In too many ways, her qualifications as a public servant seem poor at best. "

    PH wrote on Jul 4, 2009 9:50 PM:

    " I for one am relieved. Palin has been a thorn in the states side for too long already. Hopfully some meaningful work can be accomplished after she is long gone.

    But ... I have always been interested in the hockey rink situation. Too many rumors and some of them coming from pretty good sources. Like they say ... where's there smoke there's fire.

    I think there is much, much more to this story. Wasilla ... here come the news trucks again. "

    Joey Brockhouse wrote on Jul 4, 2009 9:11 PM:

    " She now has her lawyer threatening frivolous lawsuits against anyone talking talking about her. It seems that Sarah believes in free speech only if it's hers. Lawsuits are only frivolous when it's not her lawyer filing them. What a hypocrite. She seems to be practicing for her run against Obama by running out on Alaskans. When things get tough quit and blame everyone else. Sounds like my 14 year old niece!! What a loser. "

    Ken wrote on Jul 4, 2009 6:59 PM:

    " Bev wrote on Jul 4, 2009 4:05 PM:

    She has nailed her political coffin closed...now she can be a republican "lame duck" "wanna be"!!!
    **************************************************
    Sit back and watch!!
    Some women are just so jealous!
    .palinforamerica.com "

    Meadow_Lakes_Madman wrote on Jul 4, 2009 6:58 PM:

    " Rather than make judgement I am anxious to hear the reason why. Let down...yes.

    I honestly think some will be eating their words when the truth of "WHY" comes out...there's got to be a reason for this, right? "

    Tennessee Tom wrote on Jul 4, 2009 6:58 PM:

    " Sarah Palin reflects the TRUE values (moral, honesty, spiritual, and family) that every American should strive for. Her greatest opponents are liberals who cannot "digest" such high expectations.
    Gov. Palin has already built a large base of supporters that will only increase when "Governor"' Palin becomes "Citizen" Palin and thus able to defend herself against the lies and slander of negative controlled media.
    I was one American who was NOT going to vote...until SARAH PALIN became the other part of the GOP ticket and I will support her as an Independent or whatever Party when she runs for President. "

    Silly Wasilly Hillbilly wrote on Jul 4, 2009 6:47 PM:

    " It's too bad that Sarah hasn't figured out that playing the victim card is old and denigrating to herself. I am so sick of her whining. This is typical of a narcissistic personality: It's not my fault because everybody else is causing my life to be miserable. GET A CLUE, SARAH. The victim shtick is disgusting. Alaskans don't whine. "

    joytheauthor wrote on Jul 4, 2009 6:35 PM:

    " I keep thinking of that dreadful interview with Katie Couric when Sarah Palin did not know any of the answers to the simplest, basic questions. That said it all. She was so out of her league in a Presidential Campaign. I would choose being home with my disabled baby in a second, over dragging my family across the country for my ambitions. I would love to see her dedicate her life to raising her child and do something that emphasizes her strengths. "

    Hmmm wrote on Jul 4, 2009 6:25 PM:

    " Palin had no backbone and her actions just prooved it. I wouldn't even say she is qualified to be mayor again let alone any other type of politician. She is simply a disgrace. She let down ALL republicans. I will not vote for them anymore. "

    Bev wrote on Jul 4, 2009 4:05 PM:

    " Sarah wasn't thinking about her family when she hauled them all over the U.S. hoping to become V.P. What she is unfortunately not smart enough to realize is that when she started bashing Obama in the campaign with every "bellow the belt" lie...her actions..."what you sow, so shall you reap" have come home to rest. She has nailed her political coffin closed...now she can be a republican "lame duck" "wanna be"!!! "

    Uncle Ellsworthey wrote on Jul 4, 2009 2:34 PM:

    " Her "Real American"
    Here's a news flash for you. Being a "lifelong taxpayer" does not in any way make you a "true blue american". If that's your only claim you have a lot to learn my friend. Good luck with that education. "

    PotHoled wrote on Jul 4, 2009 2:21 PM:

    " Timing. Perfect. She scoops up all that PAC and AFT money, book advance and a gob load of speaking fees. . .and will spend it all in the lower 48! It’s about time we US taxpayers get ‘reimbursed’ for all OUR earmark money you Alaskans spent on Wasilla sewers and whatnot, all the time stuffing your chops with Permanent Fund payouts. I for one am looking forward to some of Palin’s ‘stimulus’ money being spent elsewhere other than Alaska! Yeah, we out of staters belong here, as we SUBSIDIZE your quality of life. Our opinion counts. "

    Badge544 wrote on Jul 4, 2009 1:53 PM:

    " Palmer- Do you actually think that the enlisted men, women and non-coms over there are mostly or all republicans? You're insane.Why do you think your party fights the draft when it's brought up. They have other plans for their offspring. You have to get out of the house more. Get away from that hitler station "FOX-FAIR AND BALANCED". By the way, are they still making the ladies who read the scripts to the camera wear the short skirts? Let's see, Two African-American scrip readers and women in short skirts. Sounds like a republican BBQ. "

    Ryan H. wrote on Jul 4, 2009 1:40 PM:

    " Sarah Palin is completely un-fit for office. What a coward. SP is celebrity, not a leader. Put her on VH1 realty show with the rest of the circus freaks. She loves smiling for the cameras, lining her pockets, promoting her pals and being in the spotlight, she has absolutely 0 interest in being a real leader.

    When the going gets tough, SP tucks tail.

    Anyone can govern Alaska when oil is $150 bbl.

    Good thing Washington didn't go home after Long Island. What if FDR would have resigned after the japs bombed Pearl? "

    Penny wrote on Jul 4, 2009 1:20 PM:

    " Looks like Sarah bit off more than she can chew. I for one am glad the circus is over. "

    Scandal coming wrote on Jul 4, 2009 1:10 PM:

    " I'd like to know the full story behind her connections with Spenard Builder's Supply. Todd's Iron Dog team is sponsored by them, they get a huge contract the build the Wasilla Sports Center, their house was build "by Todd and his buddies" (BS!) with SBS supplies that look suspiciously like the Sports Center, and several people get cushy government jobs in her administration? Bring on the investigation, a la Stevens! "

    Karin wrote on Jul 4, 2009 12:59 PM:

    " Did the dirt under her feet in Alaska get to hot to walk on?

    Is it time to get a new batch of designer clothes and FOX offered to buy 'em and make her rich to boot?

    Is somebody in her family doing some solitary hiking on the Appalachian trail?

    Whatever motivated her to quit will make the media flood to Wasilla and provide lots of comic relief for the lower 48.

    Sarah, the gift that keeps on giving.

    JP where are you? "

    m baker wrote on Jul 4, 2009 12:56 PM:

    " Only a Republican would talk about exceeding the boundries of Freedom of speech and also in the same sentence talk about it as being the foundry of the Democracy. Sarah was nervous to the point of almost hyperventing yesterday because she did not want to be resigning, but something is making her do so for a reason. We will know why I am sure shortly, and it won't be a run for the Presidency. "

    Badge544 wrote on Jul 4, 2009 12:51 PM:

    " Dear Louise,respect must be earned. She has used her offices as Mayor and Gov.to reap perks and line her pockets.When caught she says nothing and pays back.She gets a $7million book deal and turns her back on the people who voted for her,who expected help from her.She will bank untold $$$ to speak to rich republicans and poor republicans(racists).Not a lot of posts bring this up about the republicans but , did you ever notice the lack of color in the adoring few who gathered to hear her and JohnM speak.Fairly attractive/Rich,great strategy snow mobile guy.U-HIT-THE-LOTTERY-DUDE. NOW VANNISH "

    alicia lee wrote on Jul 4, 2009 12:46 PM:

    " To almost everyone ....
    " Quit bashing. If your family can come first, why can't hers?"

    Since when?, lets start with the flight to the hosp. with a known DS child.
    [still questionable]
    She brought him to rallies etc. with 1,000's of people breathing on him.
    Paraded the 'hooky' kids to all.
    Anything to keep her brood in the news.

    Trig was sick before he was born, and she wants 'us' to pay his way through life, guess thats our 'gift'.

    Raise and support your own Sarah, you had a choice.... now own up to it. "

    jomama wrote on Jul 4, 2009 12:41 PM:

    " looking at the republican party id say she may still be the best thing going for them and if i was a part of that group i dont think id be sticking my thumbs in my suspenders and be bragging about it. this would be like bragging about the train wreck and that pretty much sums up that bunch. "

    Palmer re. wrote on Jul 4, 2009 12:39 PM:

    " Wow!!!! so typical of a democrat forum, Thats why all of us Republicans fight in the war so your sorry little you know what's can have free speech of complaining!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

    Joe wrote on Jul 4, 2009 12:01 PM:

    " Re: I agree that there is enough blame to go around but the total smears by Democrats against Sarah Palin crossed the line from Freedom of speech to being
    against the very fabric of Democracy and just agreeing to disagree without hate
    Where have our morals and human decency gone ? "
    ===
    So--I gather you support the hate crimes bill?? "

    Louise wrote on Jul 4, 2009 11:23 AM:

    " All of you who chose to condemn Sarah Palin have no class. She has been attacked from all sides since she came into office. She is a human being! Treat her with a little more respect. "

    Badge544 wrote on Jul 4, 2009 10:43 AM:

    " To D. Maldonado and R. Bradley;Why would you guys use your full names when you post. Now the world knows how idiotic you are. Are you in the same motel room with a laptop?We are not fearful. We weathered your God, Reagan ( UNION BUSTER).That helped the working class people a lot. It's amazing we made it through WAR MONGERS Bush & Cheney Inc. (MADE BIG $$$ ON WAR). Fear Sarah?Never was or is a threat.Ask JohnM.You're her #1 fans?You can carpool to visit her in JAIL.Did any intelligent person understand a word that came out of her mouth? "

    To almost everyone wrote on Jul 4, 2009 10:34 AM:

    " You write "How can she step down" "What a flake" and so many more. Do any of you CARE about your families??? She became pregnant after becoming govenor. Now with child of special needs and her daughter has a baby as well. How many are parents of teen parents! Quit bashing. If your family can come first, why can't hers? Someone is always there to pick up the position, but no one else is for her position as mother. "

    Trying to get along wrote on Jul 4, 2009 10:30 AM:

    " Palin is right - this decision IS best for AK. Maybe now she will do what's best for the U.S. and stay out of politics altogether. "

    Candice wrote on Jul 4, 2009 10:21 AM:

    " Well I'm bummed. So many have picked at her, I'm sure she has a good reason probably starting with her family. Everyone says "That's politics", but why? What part of our political system makes it great to destroy people? There is the truth and then there is BS. I believe Palin was one politic that actually cared about Alaskans and looked at our state as we do, not from political gain. I most likely would have voted for her again. Good luck To Sarah and her family "

    MO Inkslinger wrote on Jul 4, 2009 10:18 AM:

    " If all it took to be President was perky, cute and entertaining, Sarah Palin would be a natural. I hope she finds happiness in some other line of work, because she will never be taken seriously by many Americans after her recent antics. Fame turned Sarah into the Britney Spears of politics. "

    marchingwithyou wrote on Jul 4, 2009 10:16 AM:

    " Sarah, liked your baseketball analogy and it fits. We're with you!!! "

    Joe wrote on Jul 4, 2009 10:15 AM:

    " When the dust settles, and the only one still waiting there is Larry Flynt, you have to ask yourself one quesition:

    Will she do it? Captioned- Nailin' Palin 2 "

    Joe wrote on Jul 4, 2009 10:13 AM:

    " Re:Tax Payer wrote on Jul 4, 2009 8:58 AM:
    " So Joe did you send back that stimulus check? I didn't think so. "
    ===
    Typical Wasilla thinking, trying to compare a $250 one time check to the lifetime of $2000 to $3000 welfare payments for every family member thanks to big oil. I kept my check and banked it. What did you do with your 12-15 K welfare check?? "

    Sharon Deaver wrote on Jul 4, 2009 10:04 AM:

    " I listened (twice) to what your brilliant governor said and I understand completely her pure motives in doing what she is doing. Your state is lucky to have her making principled leader The comments and commentators are just so -0-0 wrong. I was reminded of Reagan leaving summit in Iceland when he did not give up "Star Wars" to Russia, pundits just ridiculed him. But the American people got it. We need a principled leader. Please share her with us. Your Republican Senator lacks class today "

    offsoapstone wrote on Jul 4, 2009 9:48 AM:

    " To me her speech on Friday was the same old credit and blame game she been doing her whole life. She is going to make tons of money so that enables her to turn her back on the voters of Alaska. I'm glad she is gone I hope she stays gone. "

    Ken wrote on Jul 4, 2009 9:11 AM:

    " David wrote on Jul 4, 2009 3:03 AM:

    Hey Ken, have you ever been to TeamSarah.org? If you really want to see hate go there. I have an account there and can't believe some of the hate I find there. Go take a look! "
    *************************************************

    I agree that there is enough blame to go around but the total smears by Democrats against Sarah Palin crossed the line from Freedom of speech to being
    against the very fabric of Democracy and just agreeing to disagree without hate
    Where have our morals and human decency gone ? "

    grownup-movingon wrote on Jul 4, 2009 9:04 AM:

    " SARAH wants to play with the big kids, so she tells her little buddies, Alaskans, that it is better for us if she leaves the little sand box, Alaska, for the big show.
    And, she says that we should be happy that she is leaving. Well, ya gotta love her moxy - she can lie out of both sides of her mouth and smile at the same time.
    Fox News, here SHE comes! Smile, lie, wink, smile, lie, wink. "

    Tax Payer wrote on Jul 4, 2009 8:58 AM:

    " So Joe did you send back that stimulus check? I didn't think so. "

    Real American wrote on Jul 4, 2009 8:51 AM:

    " Lets get one thing straight Palin! I'm tired of you calling out anybody that doesn't share your political views as un American. I'm a lifelong taxpayer and that makes me a true blue American. So long and good riddance! "

    Tom wrote on Jul 4, 2009 8:37 AM:

    " Let's hope all her money-grubbing Wasilla political high school buddies are investigated as well. Never cared about the state, only $$$$$$$. "

    credit for what wrote on Jul 4, 2009 8:27 AM:

    " Sarah takes credit for the prison which she had nothing to do with. That was Murky and Green. How many other things did she claim that she didn't do and how many ethics violations were true but too hard to prove? You can't just read/hear the words. She can say whatever she wants. It doesn't make it fact.

    And how do you Pt MacK people feel when you hear that it should be Meansville with a grocery store? "

    letfreedomring wrote on Jul 4, 2009 8:19 AM:

    " Best wishes to Sarah Palin. Good riddance to all the meaningless opinions from non-Alaskans. And to the political hicks within our state who indulge in the politics of personal attacks, please move back outside and stop trying to turn Alaska into the mess that you left behind back in wherever-you-crawled-in-from-ville. "

    donald wrote on Jul 4, 2009 8:17 AM:

    " Would love to see elected officals complete the term they were elected to.
    Except, in case of death or serious injury or health issues. Just think if she had been the Vice-President of the UNited Sates, would she then pull out of that position mis stream. Or say she became the 45 th President of the United Sates of America, heat got hot, would she then what resign . "

    Kathy wrote on Jul 4, 2009 8:16 AM:

    " I hear all the time how the "leftist lemmings" fear this woman. I admit, I do fear her. She's crazy. She's always had one agenda - hers. She's for... winning, and against... anyone else winning. She's not above twisting the truth or outright lying, and back-stabbing to get where she wants to go. She's going to make LOADS of money at speaking engagements saying whatever comes into her head. She's charming and driven. She has what it takes to rise to the top. But sadly, once she's there, she's got nothing. That's "

    Contessa wrote on Jul 4, 2009 8:15 AM:

    " Whomever supported Palin all this time should be sorely embarassed. Palin claims she'd be a "lame duck" if she remained in office- She's the quitter !! She could have stayed in office and attempted to make the change she claimed she took office for. She's now in it for the money- Boo hoo that she has debt she has to clear up. I can't wait to see her get creamed if she attempts to run in 2012. Poor representation for Alaska- Once again, Palin continues to make Alaska look like an idiot !!! "

    henry wrote on Jul 4, 2009 7:55 AM:

    " I am crushed. I believed that she really cared about Alaska. Now, she quits when we need her the most. What happened to ethics reform, pipeline details, fiscal restraints? She left us before all of this got done. Sarah, where art thou? "

    Marvelouss wrote on Jul 4, 2009 6:54 AM:

    " Sarah Palin Indictment - Alaska Governor Sarah Palin reportedly resigned because of a federal indictment pending in an embezzlement scandal that allegedly involves her receiving huge financial favors from Spenard Building Supplies. "

    Ixa wrote on Jul 4, 2009 6:19 AM:

    " Thank goodness she wasn't VP when she decided to walk away from her job! What a flake. "

    mel wrote on Jul 4, 2009 6:16 AM:

    " I was so looking forward to THAT presidential campaign!! "

    Joe wrote on Jul 4, 2009 6:07 AM:

    " Re:---"most of you bleeding heart liberals don't work and only voted for Obama because you hope to get an increase in your public assistance check"
    ==
    A real case of disconnect from another Alaskan ditz, who enjoys a free welfare check every year for every member of your family thanks to big oil. Return the thousands you`ve received over the years and you might have the right to make this stupid claim. "

    Joe Wau wrote on Jul 4, 2009 6:00 AM:

    " Can a spot on Faux news be in the cards? All she needs to do is become a blond, she already has the bimbo part down pat.

    Can`t wait to see what the scandal is that caused all this garbage. "

    Jim from Boston wrote on Jul 4, 2009 4:54 AM:

    " Like we've known all along. She doesn't have a fastball.

    Things got a little rough. They ain't gonna build the gas pipeline and she doesn't have the dough to hand out big welfare checks so she has to rely on actually doing something.

    She won't be missed. "

    Travis wrote on Jul 4, 2009 3:38 AM:

    " Looks like the lipstick wore off of the pig/pitbull "

    David wrote on Jul 4, 2009 3:03 AM:

    " "You preach liberalism but practice hate."

    Hey Ken, have you ever been to TeamSarah.org? If you really want to see hate go there. I have an account there and can't believe some of the hate I find there. Go take a look! "

    Doug wrote on Jul 4, 2009 2:37 AM:

    " I understood the article just fine.

    It would seem that many in the comments in made about this, are too smart to actually read it and sort of half closed their eyes and hummed to discern a special meaning relevant to their needs.

    All th answers were in the article, sorry so many did not really want to know because it does not fit with many of the peoples need to farther trash this woman and her family. "

    Kingston Watts wrote on Jul 4, 2009 2:25 AM:

    " From Australia, I've watched this woman be torn apart by the leftist's smears. I think deep down, Mrs. Palin wishes she never got that call last August. I'm appalled at the attacks on her and her family, and I think these attacks will strengthen her national support. I wish your state all the best, and I've enjoyed the fascinating reams and reams of interesting pieces to read about this Palin phenomenon over almost a year now. If anything, it has been good for tourism, as I plan on coming to see your wonderful landscapes soon. "

    Uncle Ellsworthey wrote on Jul 4, 2009 2:25 AM:

    " Ken got it right (see below), especially about the "lowlife". Sarah is worth ten or more of any of them.

    Good luck Sarah in whatever you decide to do. This country is better off for having known you and we could sure use you in the future if you decide to go in that direction. "

    Jon wrote on Jul 4, 2009 1:49 AM:

    " She left a prior state job in the middle of it, now she leaves the governor's job in the middle of it... no wonder it took her 5 schools to secure a college degree - she can't finish what she starts, and this woman wants to be president? Give me a break! "

    Sarah Palin Post Turtle At Large wrote on Jul 3, 2009 11:57 PM:

    " Upper Susitna: You said: "I can't imagine hearing comments made about your children that are beyhond bad taste or a photo of a young son doctored to make a political point." --- Well, maybe she should have thought of that BEFOREHAND. Did she not think that her pregnant daughter and special needs son would be massive targets?!? Either she was too stupid to know (which sadly is possible) or she placed her own political ambitions ahead of her children's welfare. Those kids will have a microscope on them for the rest of their lives thanks to Sarah. "

    Sarah Palin Post Turtle At Large wrote on Jul 3, 2009 11:51 PM:

    " Michelle: You said, "No other female politician has been so attacked as Sarah." Hillary Clinton wasn't attacked as much as Sarah? There was only the affair, Whitewater scandal, Chelsea being an ugly child, the fact that Hillary is just a witch (well, not a "real" witch like Sarah needs protection from), etc, etc, etc. Nancy Pelosi gets slammed (I can't stand her either). Judge Sotomayor is getting huge media attention. Etc. The others are intelligent and can handle themselves while Sarah is a "Post Turtle" and her own ignorance is her own downfall. "

    Janine wrote on Jul 3, 2009 11:46 PM:

    " Sarah Palin is running from something. Perhaps as a private citizen, not one serving in a state/governmental position, she has a better advantage if she no longer is the governor. At any rate, best wishes to Alaska with your new incoming Governor. My wish is that Alaska's best interest is first and foremost. "

    Sarah Palin Post Turtle At Large wrote on Jul 3, 2009 11:43 PM:

    " Ken: You said that liberals "practice hate." Aren't the liberals the ones that stand up for the poor and needy? Why is it that the liberal states are the ones to not discriminate against homosexuals ---- to offer physician assisted suicide to help those people who are slowly dying a dignified death (you'll take your sick dog to be "humanely" euthanized, but will let your grandfather rot away in pain) ---- legalized medicinal marijuana for the sick (Watch "In Pot We Trust" to see medicinal results). Yes, they are full of hate indeed. "

    To Oregonian wrote on Jul 3, 2009 11:42 PM:

    " You can start cleaning up the mess by going back to Oregon. "

    pete wrote on Jul 3, 2009 11:37 PM:

    " there is a religious fervor here that states in Sarah we trust she will not lead us astray......

    I find it curious that the woman seems to lak the trait of humility, The Bible says humility is a virtue. It must be a hard row for her to to hoe always being right. "

    JayDee wrote on Jul 3, 2009 11:36 PM:

    " Hey, Linda Menard, a lot of us who live out here in Pt. MacKenzie are friendly, decent people who are not mean. Just because you don't represent this area, doesn't allow you to bash it. Ironic, when you talk about other people being mean and attacking Sarah ... Perhaps, both of you should review an elitist side to your politics. "

    whoopee wrote on Jul 3, 2009 11:22 PM:

    " I'm sure none of these comments are from Californians. How are those IOU's coming? And the rest of the lower 48 - how's the job market? You're trying to tell me that every state governor is on the up and up? Let's point at other politicians and their unblemished records. Only Sarah knows for sure why she's leaving office. Let her leave. And to those of you in the lower 48, stay low, please. We don't want you here. "

    Stephen May wrote on Jul 3, 2009 11:19 PM:

    " Ken wrote: " I did not realize how many loving,caring liberals use this site! Sarah Palin has more decency and class than all of you put together....

    Hey Ken, are you certain that liberals are the ones leaving the comments that seem to upset you? I wouldn't be so sure....... "

    Uncle Jed wrote on Jul 3, 2009 11:13 PM:

    " JUST LEAVE HER ALONE! "

    alicia lee wrote on Jul 3, 2009 11:09 PM:

    " Wow, I can't believe there are still people that cannot see through her, yes she did Alaska good, you'll miss that big oil check, but on the upside, you won't be paying for another house for her, and hopefully she won't continue to embarrass you for while.

    The lower 48 looked to you, the citizens to act, and you did 'nothing'.... did you not figure out she is all bs? What she doesn't lie about, she turns into bs. She should have been impeached,

    The media didn't pick on her, she made her own bed. "

    alaskan10 wrote on Jul 3, 2009 10:32 PM:

    " Maybe now the liberal destroy posse can stop their hateful, nasty agenda against Governor Palin. I don't know where some of these low life came from I know their parents would be ashamed of who they raised for children. Just think how horrible their children must be, no values, or common sense. They have attacked her like a pack of wolves at feeding time. You people think you have won, that's funny you only showed your true selves. You have embarrassed Alaska, Alaskans by what you have tried to do to the Palin Family. "

    Debra Maldonado wrote on Jul 3, 2009 10:31 PM:

    " I have your back Sarah. As for you hateful idiots, CHECK YOUR LIFE AT THE DOOR!!!!!! don't show your fear it's obvious, YOUR SCARED TO DEATH and you show in in your comments. "

    Robert H Bradley wrote on Jul 3, 2009 10:22 PM:

    " Best Darn Governor In The History Of Alaska. Saddened to see her go but trust her decision and support her in furture endevors she pursues. Those who would make negative comments, attack her family openly show their fear of a good and righteous person who would pursue a moral and intelligent path in the political world. Gods Speed Madam Vice President. "

    jomama wrote on Jul 3, 2009 10:18 PM:

    " i dont think it would go too well for her or anyone else to run for office then up and quit before the term is up and think this wouldnt backfire on a person down the road if they ran for any office again. who is going to vote for a quitter for president? if that is the plan it isnt a good one.
    maybe she is pushed out of shape because she had to pay the state back for her families travles. "

    MICHELLE wrote on Jul 3, 2009 9:35 PM:

    " The game is a foot ... gee, I wonder where she will turn up next? "

    Scottie wrote on Jul 3, 2009 9:07 PM:

    " Though most Alaskans will miss the governor and truly wish her and her family well, one good thing that might come of this is all the lowlife leftist interlopers from outside will lose interest in Alaska and quit desecrating the web sites of our local papers. "

    Upper Susitna wrote on Jul 3, 2009 9:07 PM:

    " I'm sad today that Sarah is resigning but I also understand. I can't imagine hearing comments made about your children that are beyhond bad taste or a photo of a young son doctored to make a political point. We have some hateful folks in the world today, no doubt about it and they brush it off by saying it is fair in politics. Thank you Sarah and Good Luck in what ever you decide to do. You still have my vote and I'll be proud to carry your banner. Run Sarah Run! "

    Sheila wrote on Jul 3, 2009 8:34 PM:

    " Bye bye Sarah. Please do Wasilla a favour and don't run in 2012. Haven't you embarrassed yourself, your family and the State of Alaska enough. "

    Tricia E wrote on Jul 3, 2009 7:21 PM:

    " She is stepping down now because staying on as a lame duck governor is the "quitter's way out?!?! Huh? What color is sky in her world??? "

    Michelle wrote on Jul 3, 2009 6:55 PM:

    " Reading all the comments, I think those of you who are cheering are forgetting that Sarah didn't create any of the negative press, the "disasters" of which you speak. She just came out and spoke about things she believed in. She was attacked by others in an effort to get her to go away. No other female politician has been so attacked as Sarah and her family and she dealt with it as long and as well as she could.
    Whatever you do next, Sarah, you've got my vote! "

    Sarah Palin Post Turtle At Large wrote on Jul 3, 2009 6:43 PM:

    " She's dragged her children through the mud thanks to her own political ambitions from making Bristol into a national teen leg spreader champion to throwing Trig out on display to placing Levi in an awkward situation to Trap now having a permanent media on him for the rest of his life to then turning a small Letterman joke that no one would have known about otherwise into a massive media story placing Willow in the crossfire. Then she portrayed herself as a great mom. --- Now she acts like she is shocked that people are talking about her kids. "

    Terry wrote on Jul 3, 2009 6:33 PM:

    " Run, Sarah, Run "

    Red wrote on Jul 3, 2009 6:26 PM:

    " Thank god all mighty, Alaska is finally free of the lipstick pig. Seriously people, I've hurt for you. She can take your oil, money, and pride... but she can't take your freedom "

    Ken wrote on Jul 3, 2009 6:15 PM:

    " I did not realize how many loving,caring liberals use this site!
    Sarah Palin has more decency and class than all of you put together and after this Administration gets through screwing up this Country you will be begging for someone like Sarah but then again most of you bleeding heart liberals don't work and only voted for Obama because you hope to get an increase in your public assistance check.
    You preach liberalism but practice hate.
    You preach free speech but viscously attack those you disagree with .
    That is communism not liberalism. "

    Dumb Dem wrote on Jul 3, 2009 5:37 PM:

    " Sarah hasn't announced why she's resigning, but as a loyal lemming, sheep liberal I KNOW why she's quitting! Allow me to fill these blogs up with nonsense assumptions, guesses and smears! HA! "

    Sarah Palin Post Turtle At Large wrote on Jul 3, 2009 5:23 PM:

    " Sarah pushed this lifelong Republican to exodus the party. Americans are so ignorant that they voted for Sarah (who couldn't name a single periodical) to potentially have her finger on the nuclear button. She couldn't handle Couric and people thought she could handle Putin? LOL! Studies have shown a correlation between IQ and religion. Atheists had the highest IQ and devout believers came in dead last. And people wonder why the Christian Right loves this woman. If Palin and Malia Obama had a geography quiz, I'll take the 10-year old. "

    Lee wrote on Jul 3, 2009 4:52 PM:

    " WOW!!!!!!! What a quitter. She lost my vote for the White House.... "

    dynahog wrote on Jul 3, 2009 4:39 PM:

    " Judging from the spin liberal media gives this, they are breathing a sigh of relief because Sarah Palin would unravel Obama in 2012.

    If she decides to run in 2012 for President, look at the time and opportunities. She has a lot of time to plan and set things in motion. A BOOK won't hurt.

    A Key U.S. Supreme Court decision will come (perhaps this year) on whether Corporations can finance political ads. Currently they can't. If they can it would really make November 2010's warm-up interesting. "

    Oregonian wrote on Jul 3, 2009 4:35 PM:

    " I recently moved to Wasilla from Oregon and at least now everyone from back home can't ask me if I "have seen Sarah Palin yet?" "No, I haven't seen her, and I don't live in an igloo and I can't see Russia either." I hope that the man taking over also knows how to clean up messes... "

    A grateful Alaskan wrote on Jul 3, 2009 4:27 PM:

    " Governor Palin has set the stage for the single largest construction project in this nation's history (the gas pipeline for our lower 48 friends). Where do you read about it? Nowhere - why? Because we care about David Letterman's great jokes and how much was spent on her clothes during the campaign, etc. Sarah - you have put this state in a tremendous position economically. You have done exponentially more for AK than B.O. has done for his state or the country to date. All the best in the future! Thank you! "

    Joey Brockhouse wrote on Jul 3, 2009 4:06 PM:

    " I'm glad to see that she is doing what's right for Alaska. We need a person who is interested in serving Alaska and not her own selfish interests. I can't wait to see her appearance on Jerry Springer!! "

    Diane wrote on Jul 3, 2009 3:54 PM:

    " She could have resigned like a real lady and just resigned. Instead, she had to name call, insult governors - "lame ducks" and milking it, etc. How in the world does she think its beneath her when she has more ethic problems then all the governors combined?! Mark my words, she's trying to get out of this office fast because the headhunters are getting too close for comfort. We'll all see. She has caused her family so much embarrassment. I feel sorry for them. "

    danb wrote on Jul 3, 2009 3:52 PM:

    " The "word" in the "lower 48" is that she wasn't getting the job done. Rumors are circulating that she has a lucrative "lipstick contract" in the wings...5 of us have been listening to the "point guard" BS and after listening to this "pscyobabble" for a long time, (at 7:48 PM, EST), we (1 MBA, 1 BA, 1 PHD, and 2 BS).....we're not stupid....but we can't understand what the heck she is saying...... "

    Tim from lower 48 wrote on Jul 3, 2009 3:41 PM:

    " It's about time!! The state of Alaska would not have re- elected her! So by getting out now- she- doesn't have to face that either! "

    Madman wrote on Jul 3, 2009 3:35 PM:

    " It's about time. As far as being a state employee she was the worst. She spent more time on her personal carreer than doing her job. I feel that as a voter who voted for her she was supposed to be an employee of the people, instead she became a glory hound who only cares about her own agenda. Thanks for nothing Sarah. I won't make the mistake of voting for you again. "

    Cricket wrote on Jul 3, 2009 3:34 PM:

    " She got caught Lying!!!!!!!!!!! Lying about her husband not belonging to that Party! She got out while the getting was good!! The longer she would of stayed the more lies she would of told!! Now that she has left- maybe somebody that worked under her won't be afraid to speak up and tell us the truth! "

    George Kleine wrote on Jul 3, 2009 2:37 PM:

    " Instead of facing the challenges that happened during her reign, Palin leaves right in the middle - not solving the challenges. With no INCOME in sight and with her husband's salary how are they going to live? Make a bunch of speeches and get paid ridiculous fees? She is turning her back on her state so she can go after money and fame. Just the opposite of what she should be doing - remaining to run the state and solve the problems facing it. She obviously doesn't think she is capable. "

    Nancy wrote on Jul 3, 2009 2:36 PM:

    " May she stay in her backyard in Lake Lucille. "

    sauerkraut wrote on Jul 3, 2009 2:15 PM:

    " What a shocker!

    But some of her comments pointed to a cause: politics. As in people in McCain's former campaign making sharp comments about her. And I'm sure the resurrection of the allegations of her close ties to the Alaska Independence Party did not help, either. She's either pro-America or pro-AIP. Can't have that both ways. "

    Floridadude wrote on Jul 3, 2009 2:09 PM:

    " Sarah, whatever you decide to do, you were a inspiration to this country. Bless you.. "

    philjohn wrote on Jul 3, 2009 1:43 PM:

    " This is good for Alaska and the northwest. She creates too much near disaster everywhere she steps. This whole thing was further embarrassment for US Politics and the Republican Party is forever damaged by Sarah Palin. And worse the Republican party and ignorance have forever damaged Sarah Pallin who appears to me to be a very good and honorable person. Just "led down the road too far... "

    Ralph C. wrote on Jul 3, 2009 1:31 PM:

    " Well, over at Alaska Report they are still saying a big scandal is coming to the Palin's. it has been siad that possibly the FBI is looking into a $140,000 embezzlement case of a trust fund that involves the Palin's. Time will tell. Justice moves slow. Happy Independence Day, Alaska! "

    Lorelei Strickland wrote on Jul 3, 2009 1:19 PM:

    " God bless Gov. Palin...she is wonderful and I hope she will run for President in 2012....she is known for all the good she has done and I think she would do a great job as President. She is talented, committed, and a great American. I have great admiration for her and her family and is is disgraceful what the media has done to her. I will not vote for anyone they support, nor will my friends we are not stupid. "

    Transcanada wrote on Jul 3, 2009 1:14 PM:

    " Hmm, must have received a lucrative job offer from Transcanada or Exxon. Before you say no, it's not true, give it two weeks and then you'll hear the announcement. Caribou Barbie my be gone from the governors office but she'll still be around screwing up the state and it's relationship with the oil companies. The only difference is she will be paid by and one of them. "

    ponostutu wrote on Jul 3, 2009 1:11 PM:

    " I was saddened to hear of Gov. Palin's decision, but respect her wishes. As a Californian, and recent visitor to Wasilla, Alaska, I was impressed with all she has accomplished. I was so impressed with her during the convention. It is so much more difficult for a woman (and new mom) to carry a high office--I sure wish we could have traded her for Arnold! Maika'i Sarah--Job well done. "

    Sayitaintso wrote on Jul 3, 2009 1:04 PM:

    " Now she is free to be Herself and travel freely, speak freely and not get bothered by the laws and responsibilities of elected office. Time to let Sean get the pipeline built, balance the budget and attend to details of governing the largest state in the nation.
    Quitting inow is a good move for everyone. LOL Gov., been nice to know ya.:) "

    shocked and worried wrote on Jul 3, 2009 12:58 PM:

    " What will she do with all that time on her hands? Whats about to com e out of the closet? One thing you CAN say, she never does what she says she will do .What a way to mess up a good picnic! "

    Neil wrote on Jul 3, 2009 12:17 PM:

    " Good point guards don't quit when the referees call them for charging ("frivolous ethics complaints") they keep playing until they foul out.

    Maybe Sarah has fouled out, and maybe being a goo governor requires different skills than point guard. "

    Allen wrote on Jul 3, 2009 12:07 PM:

    " So she has a news conference saying she's resigning but didn't say why? Doesn't make sense. What's this I heard about a bunch of leaked emails discovered yesterday? "

    Terry Tonya Thompson wrote on Jul 3, 2009 12:03 PM:

    " We support You, Sarah, in whatever your endeavors. We are proud of your stand - morally, spiritually, ethically, etc. You have allowed yourself to be used in a noble and encouraging fashion. We trully look forward to the path God leads you down. We would like to offer our support of time and prayers on your behalf - sincerely. Thank you! "

    Neil wrote on Jul 3, 2009 11:52 AM:

    " Let me be the first to say, this is good news for Alaska and that I hope Sarah's ambitions are re-directed to private enterprise, charity work or religious evangelizing rather than national office. "

    Amy wrote on Jul 3, 2009 11:49 AM:

    " REALLY?!? DIDNT SEE THAT ONE COMING "

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