Palin resigns as Alaska Gov

[Mavdog]

guess she is gearing up to run for president. ssurely this isn't the best the republicans can offer...
------------------------------------------------------
Palin resigning as Alaska governor on July 26

WASILLA, Alaska – Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin made a surprise announcement Friday that she is resigning from office at the end of the month without explaining why she plans to step down, raising speculation that she would focus on a run for the White House in the 2012 race.

The former Republican vice presidential candidate hastily called a news conference Friday morning at her home in suburban Wasilla, giving such short notice that only a few reporters actually made it to the announcement. State troopers blocked late-arriving media outside her home, and her spokesman, Dave Murrow, finally emerged to confirm that Palin will step down July 26. He refused to give details about the governor's future plans.

"Once I decided not to run for re-election, I also felt that to embrace the conventional Lame Duck status in this particular climate would just be another dose of politics as usual, something I campaigned against and will always oppose," Palin said in a statement released by her office.

Lt. Gov. Sean Parnell will be inaugurated at the governor's picnic in Fairbanks at the end of the month, Murrow said.

Palin was first elected in 2006 on a populist platform. But her popularity has waned as she waged in partisan politics following her return from the presidential campaign. Her term would have ended in 2010.

Palin said she planned to make a "positive change outside government," without elaborating. She also expressed frustration with her current role as governor.

"I cannot stand here as your governor and allow the millions of dollars and all that time go to waste just so I can hold the title of governor," Palin said.

Later, on Twitter, she promised supporters more details: "We'll soon attach info on decision to not seek re-election ... this is in Alaska's best interest, my family's happy ... it is good. Stay tuned"

Palin's decision even took Parnell by surprise. He said he was told on Wednesday evening, and was not aware that any presidential ambitions were behind the move.

Palin emerged from relative obscurity nearly a year ago when she was tapped as then Republican presidential candidate John McCain's running mate.

She was a controversial figure from the start, with comedian Tina Fey famously imitating her elaborate hairstyle and folksy "You betcha!" on "Saturday Night Live."

Most recently, she led a public spat with "Late Show" host David Letterman over a joke he made about one of her daughters being "knocked up" by New York Yankees baseball player Alex Rodriguez during the governor's recent visit to New York. Palin's 18-year-old daughter, Bristol, is an unwed, teenage mother.

Letterman later apologized for the joke.

Palin's family and the ridicule they endure being in the public eye was part of her decision. She complained that her 14-month-old son, Trig, who was diagnosed with Down's syndrome, had been "mocked and ridiculed by some mean-spirited adults recently." She didn't elaborate.

Palin campaigned on ethics reform in the 2006 election, defeating incumbent Gov. Frank Murkowski in the Republican primary and a former two-term Democratic governor, Tony Knowles, in the general election.

She enjoyed an extended honeymoon with lawmakers and voters alike. Her popularity was in the 80 percentile range, even though that fell after the bruising, partisan presidential campaign.

Palin's delivery of two weeks' notice rattles a Republican Party plagued with setbacks in recent weeks, including extramarital affairs disclosed by two other 2012 presidential prospects, Nevada Sen. John Ensign and South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford.

Ensign, a member of the Christian ministry Promise Keepers, stepped down from the Senate Republican leadership last month after admitting he had an affair for much of last year with a woman on his campaign staff who was married to one of his Senate aides. Ensign later disclosed he had helped the woman's husband get two jobs during the affair.

A government watchdog group, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, wants the Senate ethics committee and the Federal Election Commission to investigate.

Just days after news of Ensign's affair broke, Sanford admitted an affair with a woman in Argentina. Some lawmakers are now calling for his resignation. Before the admission, Sanford had been missing from the state for five days visiting his lover. He had slipped his security detail, lied to his staff about where he was and failed to transfer power to the lieutenant governor in case of a state emergency.

Sanford admitted he also saw the mistress during a state-funded trip to Argentina last year. He promised to reimburse the state for part of the trip's costs. The state Commerce Department said the trip itinerary originally included only Brazil, but the governor requested economic development meetings in Argentina.

The GOP troubles seem to have left two prominent 2012 prospects, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and 2008 presidential hopeful Mitt Romney, unscathed, however.

[chumdawg]

Quitters never win!

[Flacolaco]

This doesn't make her any less sexy.

But she doesn't have a prayer in hell in 2012. What is she doing?

[Mavdog]

she is setting herself as the outsider for the 2012 campaign.

get ready to hear the phrase "politics as usual" from her, she is going to portray herself as the anti-"politics as usual" candidate.

everybody else- romney, huckabee especially- is "politics as usual".

you gotta admit, she isn't "usual". for instance, candidates usually have a good grasp of the issues....

as far as being hot flaco, no, it just doesn't do it for me.

[Murphy3]

It could be worse. We could be stuck with Obama for 4 years. It's a good thing he didn't win the election... oh, well..nevermind.

[92bDad]

Kudos to Mrs. Sarah Palin.

She is making this decision for her reasons and there is to this point no controversy. She has shown herself to be an honorable leader and again, given McCain, Obama or Biden...Palin was perhaps the best of the 4 and would have been the best to actually lead this nation.

No doubt the liberal attacks will remain, from politicians as well as the media.

I wish nothing but the best to Mrs. Palin and her family. It is nice to see her voice lifted for women everywhere and providing an alternate option to a twisted view of women by liberals.

As for 2012, we way too far off to be truly vetting candidates. The best option we have is for someone to rise up from a Grass Roots effort and essentially be appointed due to his/her work, rather than campaigning out of personal drive. Hopefully there is still room for a natural and humble leader...but truth be known, it's up to the people to get educated about what is taking place and to effectively cast their votes in 2010 to remove the corrupt currently in office!!!

[dude1394]

Not sure exactly why she's making the move. No matter what she and her family will be criticized terribly by the "tolerant" left.

She gets no cred for being governor of alaska and as I understand it, she's been pretty constantly under attack that she's had to deal with.

Maybe she's just saying f'it, it's not worth it. If so, nice job Sullivan.

[Mavdog]

odd, I've not read any of the left "criticize" palin or her family for her resignation. the people who have the platform to criticize her are the citizens of alaska who, when she told them she wanted to be governor and asked for their vote, gave it to palin expecting that she would fulfill her part of the agreement. she reneged.

there is certainly some bewilderment though by both the left and the right. after all her reason for resignation is, hmm what is it exactly?...well, she said that she didn't want to be in the lame duck status (very weak), that she didn't want to "waste...millions of dollars" so she "can hold the title of governor" (quizical to say the least).

my thoughts: first, she can now go out to the lower 48 and make a lot of money for awhile on the speaking circuit (hey, get the bucks while you can as her capability will not last very long), second she can now spend all the time she has running for president in 2012 without the criticism of ignoring her governor duties, third she can be more visible not being tied to alaska and alaskan politics.

just one more action by a person who is not ready for prime time. my hope is that this is the beginning of the end of her being talked about on the national stage as a person who should be included in the discussion of our country's future leadership. she has proven once again that she does not have the decisionmaking capacity to lead.

[dude1394]

Originally Posted by Mavdog

odd, I've not read any of the left "criticize" palin or her family for her resignation. the people who have the platform to criticize her are the citizens of alaska who, when she told them she wanted to be governor and asked for their vote, gave it to palin expecting that she would fulfill her part of the agreement. she reneged.

there is certainly some bewilderment though by both the left and the right. after all her reason for resignation is, hmm what is it exactly?...well, she said that she didn't want to be in the lame duck status (very weak), that she didn't want to "waste...millions of dollars" so she "can hold the title of governor" (quizical to say the least).

my thoughts: first, she can now go out to the lower 48 and make a lot of money for awhile on the speaking circuit (hey, get the bucks while you can as her capability will not last very long), second she can now spend all the time she has running for president in 2012 without the criticism of ignoring her governor duties, third she can be more visible not being tied to alaska and alaskan politics.

just one more action by a person who is not ready for prime time. my hope is that this is the beginning of the end of her being talked about on the national stage as a person who should be included in the discussion of our country's future leadership. she has proven once again that she does not have the decisionmaking capacity to lead.

I believe the main reasoning was that she was continuing to be attacked with accusations that she (and alaska) had to defend. They had won them all (I believe) but still had to spend dollars to defend themselves. She didn't feel that the people of alaska should have to pay for defending her against political attacks nor did she have the funds to continue to do so.

[Mavdog]

Originally Posted by dude1394

I believe the main reasoning was that she was continuing to be attacked with accusations that she (and alaska) had to defend.

what "accusations" are you talking about, and what defense did she need?

bogus, absolutely bogus.

They had won them all (I believe) but still had to spend dollars to defend themselves. She didn't feel that the people of alaska should have to pay for defending her against political attacks nor did she have the funds to continue to do so.

in general, if you don't do anything wrong you don't need to "spend dollars to defend" yourself. again, just what accusations are you referring to?

harry truman had a memorable quote that seems to be very appropo to your rationale for her resignation..."if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen". well, she left the kitchen pretty darn fast. sure doesn't place her in a very favorable light.

[Mavdog]

she's off and running, 2012 isn't that far away is it?
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Palin links resignation to 'higher calling'
By MARK THIESSEN, Associated Press

JUNEAU, Alaska – Outgoing Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin on Saturday laid the groundwork to take on a larger, national role after leaving state government, citing a "higher calling" with the aim of uniting the country along conservative lines.

A day after surprising even her closest friends by announcing she would step down as Alaska governor more than a year before her term was up, the controversial hockey mom was still keeping details of her future plans under wrap. But in a statement posted on Palin's Facebook account, she suggested that she had bigger plans and a national agenda she planned to push after she resigns at the end of the month.

"I am now looking ahead and how we can advance this country together with our values of less government intervention, greater energy independence, stronger national security, and much-needed fiscal restraint," she said.

Palin also cast herself as a victim and blasted the media, calling the response to her announcement "predictable" and out of touch.

"How sad that Washington and the media will never understand; it's about country," the statement said. "And though it's honorable for countless others to leave their positions for a higher calling and without finishing a term, of course we know by now, for some reason a different standard applies for the decisions I make."

Palin's personal spokeswoman, Meghan Stapleton, confirmed to The Associated Press that the Facebook posting was written by the governor.

The abruptness of her announcement and the mystery surrounding her plans has fed widespread speculation. But Palin attorney Thomas Van Flein on Saturday warned legal action may be taken against bloggers and publications that reprint what he calls fraudulent claims.

"To the extent several websites, most notably liberal Alaska blogger Shannyn Moore, are now claiming as 'fact' that Governor Palin resigned because she is 'under federal investigation' for embezzlement or other criminal wrongdoing, we will be exploring legal options this week to address such defamation," Van Flein said in a statement. "This is to provide notice to Ms. Moore, and those who re-publish the defamation, such as Huffington Post, MSNBC, the New York Times and The Washington Post, that the Palins will not allow them to propagate defamatory material without answering to this in a court of law."

Palin has kept a low profile since her abrupt announcement Friday at a hastily called news conference at her home in suburban Wasilla, outside Anchorage. All of her public communication since then has been on the social networking sites Facebook and Twitter, or through statements released by her office.

At the same time, Palin informed her spokesman David Murrow early Saturday that someone using the name "exgovsarahpalin" on Twitter was spreading a false rumor that there was to be a party at her suburban home in Wasilla, outside Anchorage. Palin was afraid her home would be mobbed, and security was dispatched, Murrow said.

With only a few weeks before she steps down on July 26, and Lt. Gov. Sean Parnell takes her place, the governor spent the Fourth of July weekend in the state capital, Juneau, but was only spotted briefly on the sidelines of the city's parade.

She had been invited to ride in a convertible, as she did last year, but never told organizers whether she would attend.

Juneau parade director Jean Sztuk said officials drew up banners in case Palin showed and was willing to take part.

As the last of the parade's clowns and marching bands headed past her, Sztuk gave up on Palin. "What governor wants to be at the end of the parade?" she asked.

Her low-profile and vague Internet messages left mounting questions about her plans for the future shrouded in mystery. Will she lay the groundwork for a 2012 presidential bid? Will she find a high-profile place in the private sector, maybe on the speech circuit? Will she drop out of the limelight and focus on her five children?

Her constituents, for one, wanted to know, especially in Juneau, where she has struggled to win over residents.

"I think she owes it to Alaskans to tell us why," said state Sen. Dennis Egan, D-Juneau, the son of Alaska's first governor, Bill Egan.

Egan, hosting a 50th anniversary statehood ceremony, said he was disappointed Palin decided not to finish out her term, which was scheduled to end in 2010.

"It's sad she abandoned us at this critical time," said Egan, who was appointed by Palin to an open seat on the last day of the legislative session in April, after a protracted battle with Senate Democrats.

Palin's departure can't come soon enough for Laurel Carlton, a waitress at the Capital Cafe in the Baranof Hotel, where the city's political movers and shakers meet every morning before walking a few blocks to the Capitol.

"I think she has a game plan that's not Alaska, and hasn't been for awhile," Carlton said.

She noted Palin has a book deal, and seems headed for the national stage.

"If you're really not going to stay and do your job every day, you should leave anyway, and so the sooner the better so somebody can step in and actually do the job," Carlton said.

And as far as Carlton is concerned, Palin doesn't need to explain why she's leaving.

"We don't care. We just want her gone," she said.

Palin, whose popularity in Alaska has waned amid ongoing ethics investigations, gave many reasons for stepping down: She didn't want to be a lame-duck governor; she was tired of the tasteless jokes aimed at her five children, including her son Trig, who has Down syndrome; she felt she could do more in another, still-to-be-defined role.

Sen. John McCain didn't rule out a return to politics for his former running mate, saying Saturday he believes "she will continue to play an important leadership role in the Republican Party and our nation." He gave no other details.

Even Parnell, who plans to run for re-election after finishing out Palin's term, said he was shocked at first when he learned of his boss' decision.

"But then as she began to articulate her reasons, I began to understand better," he said. "And nobody — unless they've been in her position and understood what she has gone through and dealt with and who she is as a person — really understands."

[dude1394]

Originally Posted by Mavdog

what "accusations" are you talking about, and what defense did she need?

in general, if you don't do anything wrong you don't need to "spend dollars to defend" yourself. again, just what accusations are you referring to?

harry truman had a memorable quote that seems to be very appropo to your rationale for her resignation..."if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen". well, she left the kitchen pretty darn fast. sure doesn't place her in a very favorable light.

You have to be kidding aren't you. All it takes is someone to file some charges and you have to defend yourself. For someone who will believe any and everything barry says....hmmm...

From that most conservative of sites.
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/20...ethics-charges...

Palin's resignation represents a victory, of sorts. During the campaign she engaged in the lowest form of politics of personal destruction against Obama. She then went on to agitate for Republicans and raise money for them around the country. A year later, she is half a million in debt, her children are an object of public ridicule and still needs to defend herself in court. Hopefully, she will serve as an example to other Republicans who are thinking about playing "hardball."
Out of curiosity, I also found a comprehensive list of the exact charges filed against Palin. Some of them were determined to have no merit, but you never know what's going to stick so they were all worth a try.

• The Progressive Majority's diary :: ::

How about 18 of them that she has to defend herself against.

List of ethics complaints filed against Alaska Gov. Palin

The Associated Press
Published Sunday, June 21, 2009


A listing of known ethics complaints filed against Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin:
1. - July 28, 2008 - Alaska lawmakers launched an investigation into whether Gov. Sarah Palin abused her power when she fired Public Safety Commissioner Walt Monegan over his refusal to let go a state trooper involved in a contentious divorce with Palin's sister. Stephen Branchflower, a special counsel leading the investigation, concluded Oct. 10 that Palin violated a state ethics law that prohibits public officials from using their office for personal gain. The firing itself was deemed lawful since Monegan was an at-will employee.


2. - Aug. 6, 2008 - Complaint filed by outspoken Palin critic Andree McLeod of Anchorage contended Palin and some staff members used their influence to get a Palin supporter a job in state government. Complaint alleged Palin staffers helped Tom Lamal, who once co-hosted a Palin fundraiser, to get a job as a surveyor. Dismissed by state personnel board, although the board's investigator recommended ethics training for one staffer who made questionable comments in e-mails.


3. - Aug. 20, 2008 - Complaint accused Palin of breaking election law by taking a public position on a mining ballot initiative days before the vote. Filed by Brian Kraft, founder of the Bristol Bay Alliance, a group that opposed the Pebble Mine prospect. Rejected May 8 by the Alaska Public Offices Commission.
- Aug. 29, 2008 - Palin named as John McCain's running mate.


4. - Sept. 2, 2008 - Palin filed a "self disclosure" with the state personnel board over the Troopergate affair, saying a state legislative probe had become too political. On Nov. 3 - the day before the election - Timothy Petumenos, a lawyer hired by the board, said that Palin violated no ethics laws when she fired Public Safety Commissioner Walt Monegan.


5. - Sept. 3, 2008 - Complaint by the Public Safety Employees Association alleged Palin or her staff had unauthorized access to and improperly disclosed information from personnel records of Trooper Mike Wooten, Palin's ex-brother-in-law. Complaint was later amended to include an allegation of harassment. The PSEA's allegations were investigated alongside Palin's filing and also dismissed.


6. - Oct. 13, 2008 - Monegan asked the board for a hearing to clear his name. Petumenos, in his Nov. 3 Troopergate report to the panel, said there was no legal basis or jurisdiction for such a hearing.


7. - Oct. 23, 2008 - Complaint with the Federal Election Commission by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics alleged the $150,000-plus designer wardrobe the Republican Party bought to outfit Palin in her vice presidential quest violated Federal Election Campaign Act. The Washington watchdog group argued that candidates aren't supposed to use donor money for personal expenses. The FEC ruled May 19 that party money is not covered by the ban.


8. - Oct. 24, 2008 - Complaint contended Palin abused her power by charging the state when her children traveled with her. The personnel board found no wrongdoing, but in a Feb. 23 settlement Palin agreed to reimburse the state about $10,000 for costs associated with 10 trips found to be of questionable state interest among 72 travel authorizations studied. The money is due to the state on Tuesday.


9. - Nov. 14, 2008 - Accused Palin of partisan "post-election damage control" for talking to reporters about the campaign in her state office. Filed by Zane Henning, a North Slope worker from Wasilla, Palin's hometown. Dismissed by state personnel board March 23.


10. - Dec. 2, 2008 - Alleged Palin violated ethics law by campaigning for Republican Sen. Saxby Chambliss of Georgia. Filed by Anthony Martin of Talkeetna. Dismissed by state personnel board March 23.


11. - Dec. 18, 2008 - Complaint contended Palin misused funds of the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute, a quasi-government entity, to promote her political ambitions with advertisements featuring her, violating ethics law. The ads promoting Alaska seafood ran in the National Fisherman last year through November. Dismissed Jan. 12 after a personnel board investigation determined Palin's only involvement was to give permission to use her image long before she was named McCain's running mate.


12. - Jan. 12 - Complaint alleging interference in a job hiring was filed under the name of Edna Birch, a busybody character on the British soap opera Emmerdale. Palin's attorney, Thomas Van Flein, said no one by that name could be found living in Alaska and the filer refused to use a real name, so the complaint was dismissed Feb. 20.


13. and 14. - Jan. 26 - Two complaints filed by McLeod alleged two of Palin's top aides misused their official positions for Palin's personal and political gain. The complaints said then-press secretary Bill McAllister and Kris Perry - director of the governor's Anchorage office - worked on state time to benefit Palin's interests during and after her vice presidential quest. Pending.


15. - March 18 - Contended Palin improperly used state staff, property, time and equipment for partisan political purposes. One of the grievances cited was Palin's posting of her veep candidacy on the official state governor's Web site - http://gov.state.ak.us/archive.php?id=1439&type=1 Complaint filed by McLeod. Dismissed May 27 as lacking merit by personnel board May 27.


16. - March 24 - Contended conflict of interest by Palin because she wore Arctic Cat logo gear during the Tesoro Iron Dog snowmobile race. Palin's husband, Todd, is sponsored by Arctic Cat in the race. Filed by Linda Kellen Biegel, a Democratic blogger. Dismissed June 2.


17. - April 22 - Alleged that work with Palin's political action committee violated two provisions of the Alaska Executive Branch Ethics Act by misusing her official position and accepting outside employment. Filed by Anchorage resident Sondra Tompkins. Dismissed as lacking merit by state personnel board May 8.


18. - April 27 - Contends Palin is misusing the governor's office for personal gain by securing unwarranted benefits and receiving improper gifts through the Alaska Fund Trust. The fund was recently established by supporters to help Palin pay off more than $500,000 in legal debts stemming from other ethics complaints, including troopergate. Complaint filed by Eagle River resident, Kim Chatman. Pending.

[Usually Lurkin]

"she engaged in the lowest form of politics" . . . "you never know what's going to stick, so they were all worth a try."


hmm.

[Mavdog]

Originally Posted by dude1394

You have to be kidding aren't you. All it takes is someone to file some charges and you have to defend yourself. For someone who will believe any and everything barry says....hmmm...

if the charges are without merit, they get tossed. it takes the charges being of merit to need defending. like I said, she only followed harry's maxim and got out of the kitchen. the strong battle and stand up for themselves, the weak run away.

a for the "barry" quip, deflection shows a weak position on the attempt to defend her rationale...

From that most conservative of sites.

How about 18 of them that she has to defend herself against.

like I pointed out, those without merit were dismissed...troopergate seem to be the basis for the $500K in debt she ran up, which btw she was not completely exonerated for. the lesson was don't abuse the office.

using the excuse of her being hassled for her resignation is about as thin as, well, palin's being suitable for a national leadership position, that's as thin as a piece of paper.

[chumdawg]

It goes to show, again, how out of her league she was last year. Alaskan politics reads like a junior high social drama.

[Mavdog]

here's her resignation speech. the irony of the statement "a quitters way out" is just too funny. yep, apparently to palin when opportunity knocks, you open the door...and quit what you're doing. nope, no serving out your term when self-interest rules the day!

there are 5 "politics as usual" comments. get ready to hear that many. many times as she pursues the 2012 nomination.
--------------------------------------------------
Hi Alaska, I appreciate speaking directly TO you, the people I serve, as your Governor.
People who know me know that besides faith and family, nothing's more important to me than our beloved Alaska. Serving her people is the greatest honor I could imagine.

I want Alaskans to grasp what can be in store for our state. We were purchased as a territory because a member of President Abe Lincoln's cabinet, William Seward, providentially saw in this great land, vast riches, beauty, strategic placement on the globe, and opportunity. He boldly looked "North to the Future". But he endured such ridicule and mocking for his vision for Alaska, remember the adversaries scoffed, calling this "Seward's Folly". Seward withstood such disdain as he chose the uncomfortable, unconventional, but RIGHT path to secure Alaska, so Alaska could help secure the United States.

People who know me know that besides faith and family, nothing's more important to me than our beloved Alaska.

Alaska's mission - to contribute to America. We're strategic IN the world as the air crossroads OF the world, as a gatekeeper of the continent. Bold visionaries knew this - Alaska would be part of America's great destiny.

Our destiny to be reached by responsibly developing our natural resources. This land, blessed with clean air, water, wildlife, minerals, AND oil and gas. It's energy! God gave us energy.

So to serve the state is a humbling responsibility, because I know in my soul that Alaska is of such import, for America's security, in our very volatile world. And you know me by now, I promised even four years ago to show MY independence... no more conventional "politics as usual".

And we are doing well! My administration's accomplishments speak for themselves. We work tirelessly for Alaskans.

We aggressively and responsibly develop our resources because they were created to be used to better our world... to HELP people... and we protect the environment and Alaskans (the resource owners) foremost with our policies.

Here's some of the things we've done:

We created a petroleum integrity office to oversee safe development. We held the line FOR Alaskans on Point Thomson - and finally for the first time in decades - they're drilling for oil and gas.

We have AGIA, the gasline project - a massive bi-partisan victory (the vote was 58 to 1!) - also succeeding as intended - protecting Alaskans as our clean natural gas will flow to energize us, and America, through a competitive, pro-private sector project. This is the largest private sector energy project, ever. THIS is energy independence.

And ACES - another bipartisan effort - is working as intended and industry is publicly acknowledging its success. Our new oil and gas "clear and equitable formula" is so Alaskans will no longer be taken advantage of. ACES incentivizes NEW exploration and development and JOBS that were previously not going to happen with a monopolized North Slope oil basin.

We cleaned up previously accepted unethical actions; we ushered in bi-partisan Ethics Reform.

We also slowed the rate of government growth, we worked with the Legislature to save billions of dollars for the future, and I made no lobbyist friends with my hundreds of millions of dollars in budget vetoes... but living beyond our means today is irresponsible for tomorrow.

We took government out of the dairy business and put it back into private-sector hands - where it should be.

We provided unprecedented support for education initiatives, and with the right leadership, finally filled long-vacant public safety positions. We built a sub-Cabinet on Climate Change and took heat from Outside special interests for our biologically-sound wildlife management for abundance.

We broke ground on the new prison.

And we made common sense conservative choices to eliminate personal luxuries like the jet, the chef, the junkets... the entourage.

And the Lt. Governor and I said "no" to our pay raises. So much success in this first term - and with this success I am proud to take credit... for hiring the right people! Our goal was to achieve a gasline project, more fair oil and gas valuation, and ethics reform in four years. We did it in two. It's because of the people... good public servants surrounding the Governor's office, with servants' hearts and astounding work ethic... THEY are Alaska's success!

We are doing well! I wish you'd hear MORE from the media of your state's progress and how we tackle Outside interests - daily - SPECIAL interests that would stymie our state. Even those debt-ridden stimulus dollars that would force the heavy hand of federal government into our communities with an "all-knowing attitude" - I have taken the slings and arrows with that unpopular move to veto because I know being right is better than being popular. Some of those dollars would harm Alaska and harm America - I resisted those dollars because of the obscene national debt we're forcing our children to pay, because of today's Big Government spending; it's immoral and doesn't even make economic sense!

Another accomplishment - our Law Department protected states' rights - TWO huge U.S. Supreme Court reversals came down against that liberal Ninth Circuit, deciding in OUR state's favor over the last two weeks. We're protectors of our Constitution - federalists protect states' rights as mandated in 10th amendment.

But you don't hear much of the good stuff in the press anymore, do you?

Some say things changed for me on August 29th last year - the day John McCain tapped me to be his running-mate - I say others changed.

Let me speak to that for a minute.

Political operatives descended on Alaska last August, digging for dirt. The ethics law I championed became their weapon of choice. Over the past nine months I've been accused of all sorts of frivolous ethics violations - such as holding a fish in a photograph, wearing a jacket with a logo on it, and answering reporters' questions.

Every one - all 15 of the ethics complaints have been dismissed. We've won! But it hasn't been cheap - the State has wasted THOUSANDS of hours of YOUR time and shelled out some two million of YOUR dollars to respond to "opposition research" - that's money NOT going to fund teachers or troopers - or safer roads. And this political absurdity, the "politics of personal destruction" ... Todd and I are looking at more than half a million dollars in legal bills in order to set the record straight. And what about the people who offer up these silly accusations? It doesn't cost them a dime so they're not going to stop draining public resources - spending other peoples' money in their game.

It's pretty insane - my staff and I spend most of our day dealing with THIS instead of progressing our state now. I know I promised no more "politics as usual," but THIS isn't what anyone had in mind for ALASKA.

If I have learned one thing: LIFE is about choices!

And one chooses how to react to circumstances. You can choose to engage in things that tear down, or build up. I choose to work very hard on a path for fruitfulness and productivity. I choose NOT to tear down and waste precious time; but to build UP this state and our country, and her industrious, generous, patriotic, free people!

Life is too short to compromise time and resources... it may be tempting and more comfortable to just keep your head down, plod along, and appease those who demand: "Sit down and shut up", but that's the worthless, easy path; that's a quitter's way out. And a problem in our country today is apathy. It would be apathetic to just hunker down and "go with the flow".

Nah, only dead fish "go with the flow".

No. Productive, fulfilled people determine where to put their efforts, choosing to wisely utilize precious time... to BUILD UP.

And there is such a need to BUILD up and FIGHT for our state and our country. I choose to FIGHT for it! And I'll work hard for others who still believe in free enterprise and smaller government; strong national security for our country and support for our troops; energy independence; and for those who will protect freedom and equality and LIFE... I'll work for and campaign for those PROUD to be American, and those who are INSPIRED by our ideals and won't deride them.

I WILL support others who seek to serve, in or out of office, for the RIGHT reasons, and I don't care what party they're in or no party at all. Inside Alaska - or Outside Alaska.

But I won't do it from the Governor's desk.

I've never believed that I, nor anyone else, needs a title to do this - to make a difference... to HELP people. So I choose, for my State and my family, more "freedom" to progress, all the way around... so that Alaska may progress... I will not seek re-election as Governor.

And so as I thought about this announcement that I wouldn't run for re-election and what it means for Alaska, I thought about how much fun some governors have as lame ducks... travel around the state, to the Lower 48 (maybe), overseas on international trade - as so many politicians do. And then I thought - that's what's wrong - many just accept that lame duck status, hit the road, draw the paycheck, and "milk it". I'm not putting Alaska through that - I promised efficiencies and effectiveness! ? That's not how I am wired. I am not wired to operate under the same old "politics as usual." I promised that four years ago - and I meant it.

It's not what is best for Alaska.

I am determined to take the right path for Alaska even though it is unconventional and not so comfortable.

With this announcement that I am not seeking re-election... I've determined it's best to transfer the authority of governor to Lieutenant Governor Parnell; and I am willing to do so, so that this administration - with its positive agenda, its accomplishments, and its successful road to an incredible future - can continue without interruption and with great administrative and legislative success.

My choice is to take a stand and effect change - not hit our heads against the wall and watch valuable state time and money, millions of your dollars, go down the drain in this new environment. Rather, we know we can effect positive change outside government at this moment in time, on another scale, and actually make a difference for our priorities - and so we will, for Alaskans and for Americans.

Let me go back to a comfortable analogy for me - sports... basketball. I use it because you're naïve if you don't see the national full-court press picking away right now: A good point guard drives through a full court press, protecting the ball, keeping her eye on the basket... and she knows exactly when to pass the ball so that the team can WIN. And I'm doing that - keeping our eye on the ball that represents sound priorities - smaller government, energy independence, national security, freedom! And I know when it's time to pass the ball - for victory.

I have given my reasons candidly and truthfully... and my last day won't be for another few weeks so the transition will be very smooth. In fact, we will look to swear Sean in - in Fairbanks at the conclusion of our Governor's picnics.

I do not want to disappoint anyone with my decision; all I can ask is that you TRUST me with this decision - but it's no more "politics as usual".

Some Alaskans don't mind wasting public dollars and state time. I do. I cannot stand here as your Governor and allow millions upon millions of our dollars go to waste just so I can hold the title of Governor. And my children won't allow it either. Some will question the timing. Let's just say, this decision has been in the works for awhile...

In fact, this decision comes after much consideration, and finally polling the most important people in my life - my children (where the count was unanimous... well, in response to asking: "Want me to make a positive difference and fight for ALL our children's future from OUTSIDE the Governor's office?" It was four "yes's" and one "hell yeah!" The "hell yeah" sealed it - and someday I'll talk about the details of that... I think much of it had to do with the kids seeing their baby brother Trig mocked by some pretty mean-spirited adults recently. Um, by the way, sure wish folks could ever, ever understand that we ALL could learn so much from someone like Trig - I know he needs me, but I need him even more... what a child can offer to set priorities RIGHT - that time is precious... the world needs more "Trigs", not fewer.

My decision was also fortified during this most recent trip to Kosovo and Landstuhl, to visit our wounded soldiers overseas, those who sacrifice themselves in war for OUR freedom and security... we can ALL learn from our selfless Troops... they're bold, they don't give up, they take a stand and know that LIFE is short so they choose to NOT waste time. They choose to be productive and to serve something greater than SELF... and to build up their families, their states, our country. These Troops and their important missions - those are truly the worthy causes in this world and should be the public priority with time and resources and NOT this local / superficial wasteful political bloodsport.

May we ALL learn from them!

*((Gotta put First Things First))*

First things first: as Governor, I love my job and I love Alaska. It hurts to make this choice but I am doing what's best for Alaska. I've explained why... though I think of the saying on my parents' refrigerator that says "Don't explain: your friends don't need it and your enemies won't believe you anyway."

But I have given my reasons... no more "politics as usual" and I am taking my fight for what's right - for Alaska - in a new direction.

Now, despite this, I don't want any Alaskan dissuaded from entering politics after seeing this REAL "climate change" that began in August... no, we NEED hardworking, average Americans fighting for what's right! And I will support you because we need YOU and YOU can effect change, and I can too on the outside.

We need those who will respect our Constitution where government's supposed to serve from the BOTTOM UP, not move toward this TOP DOWN big government take-over... but rather, will be protectors of individual rights - who also have enough common sense to acknowledge when conditions have drastically changed and are willing to call an audible and pass the ball when it's time so the team can win! And that is what I'm doing!

Remember Alaska... America is now, more than ever, looking North to the Future. It'll be good. So God bless you, and from me and my family - to ALL Alaska - you have my heart.

And we will be in the capable hands of our Lieutenant Governor, Sean Parnell. And Lieutenant General Craig Campbell will assume the role of Lieutenant Governor. And it is my promise to you that I will always be standing by, ready to assist. We have a good, positive agenda for Alaska.

In the words of General MacArthur said, "We are not retreating. We are advancing in another direction."

[chumdawg]

Geez, who wrote that transcript? A junior high girl? The caps and exclamation marks made it difficult to read.

Then again, it was probably Palin's original manuscript.

[92bDad]

And the attacks continue, but woe if anyone makes any negative comments about President Obama.

Some of you are freakin incredible.

From Day 1, we could see that Palin was attacked, first in the press then by various liberal agents. All because she was and is a Conservative woman.

It's sickening to see the double-standards that exist.

The left talks about empowering people, talks about fighting for the rights of people, preaches tolerance...but when it comes right down to it...they only have one view that they support and this for their own selfish power.

I extend my Prayer to Mrs. Sarah Palin and her family and am excited for her next step, whatever that may be.

[mary]

Ha!

I feel sorry for respectable "conservative women" who have seen this woman try to take over their party (much less carry the flag for "conservative women" everywhere).

Women like Kay Bailey Hutchison, who has spent years building a legitimate political career (you know, as opposed to spending months playing the role of "political victim").

But hey, I guess she just wasn't sexy enough for the masses.

[Mavdog]

oh no, obama hasn't been attacked....let's see, the accusations of his being muslim? the lawsuit challenging his birth as an american? the remarks of his wanting the economy to fail so he could "push the country towards more socialism"? the supposed close association with the "terrorist" ayers?

you sir have a very selective viewpoint. nope, not a "double standard" there...

as for why palin is being criticized, it has nothing to do with her being a conservative woman, there have been many conservative women who have been afforded the repsect they deserve. with pain she has exhibited such poor decisionmaking and judgement she has voided any potential respect due her.

[dude1394]

When Obama's children are attacked get back to me. When someone makes a joke about them getting knocked up, and photoshoped around, get back to me.

I don't think Palin has much of a problem with herself being attacked, but it's been a pretty dark day imo, in our political system when attacking someones children has become justified.

[mary]

I haven't seen the photoshop, from what I've read its making fun of another politician (but I haven't seen it).

Other then that, the only people I've heard making fun of Palin kids are late night talk show hosts, and that's been pretty minimal - there's the Letterman incident (for which Letterman apologized) and ONE joke from Jay Leno (yes, Republican Jay Leno).

I don't condone targeting children for political humor, but if there have been widespread malicious attacks against the Palin kids, I haven't seen them.

[Mavdog]

Originally Posted by dude1394

When Obama's children are attacked get back to me. When someone makes a joke about them getting knocked up, and photoshoped around, get back to me.

I don't think Palin has much of a problem with herself being attacked, but it's been a pretty dark day imo, in our political system when attacking someones children has become justified.

what "attacks" of palin's kids are you referring to?

what I've read are jokes about the teen pregnancy, and after all palin has been an outspoken advocate of abstinence as the solution to teen pregnancy so the irony is pretty obvious. btw are jokes about a kid's actual behavior "attacks"?

the photoshop incident with the down's kid wasn't an attack on the the kid, it was a parody of palin's supporter burke (who had his impage placed as her baby).

[spreedom]

I don't think the attacks on Palin and her family have much to do with the fact that they're conservative. It has to do with Palin not knowing what the VP does, having incredibly lame "aw shucks" remarks for every question during the campaign, and being a better candidate for MILF Hunter than the Vice Presidency of the United States.

FWIW, I'm first in line if the last part ever comes to pass. Come on sex tape!

[DirkFTW]

(Note the tags)

Apology for making retard jokes about Palin's kid, offending readers who were also parents of retarded kids.

Look, people on both sides of the political spectrum are jackasses and the internet only highlights that fact. Trying to take the white hat is impossible, as is trying to defend a position that your side was completely free from fault/malice/wrong-doing. After all, what in the history of American politics would motivate any of you to believe that you or your fellow party members come from some absolute moral authority?

[mary]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uvj-Xr0irhE

The mean 'ol liberal media.

[Mavdog]

wow, that piece by eric nelson in the huffington post is totally out of bounds. I don't visit that site often, and with the lack of judgement shown in allowing the article to be posted I'll try to not visit it in the future either.

[MX425]

Media attacks everything. Niether side is immune. Everything put out there in by the media is biased because people are bias. Stories are written with bias and when it comes down to it the media machine is a business. The only interest they have is not going out of business and making money. THey don't give a rats ass if everything they say is true or fair. They play to the crowds.

In regards to Palin, if politics as usual is finishing out your commitment to those who elect you I think I can handle that. Is she suggesting we should make everyone step down from office once they decide they aren't going to run again? You run for your position on the grounds you are the best person for the job and if you can walk away you either know you aren't or don't care about your position or voters anymore.

She has, and always will be, a side show the Republican Party pulled out of a hat to try and get enough attention to stop the grassroots movement that Obama had begun in the spring of 2007. Too little, Too late.

[kg_veteran]

The disdain directed toward Palin by otherwise rational people (including quite a few people on this board) is really surprising.

[kg_veteran]

Originally Posted by Mavdog

oh no, obama hasn't been attacked....let's see, the accusations of his being muslim? the lawsuit challenging his birth as an american? the remarks of his wanting the economy to fail so he could "push the country towards more socialism"? the supposed close association with the "terrorist" ayers?

You had to really stretch if that's your list of "attacks" on Obama.

[Usually Lurkin]

Originally Posted by Mavdog

oh no, obama hasn't been attacked....let's see, the accusations of his being muslim? the lawsuit challenging his birth as an american? the remarks of his wanting the economy to fail so he could "push the country towards more socialism"? the supposed close association with the "terrorist" ayers?

I didn't see this till it was quoted, but if you think that's anything like the ongoing, "it's not really your kid" thing, or the "it's funny to think of your child being sexually assaulted," then you are off your rocker.

[kg_veteran]

Originally Posted by Usually Lurkin

I didn't see this till it was quoted, but if you think that's anything like the ongoing, "it's not really your kid" thing, or the "it's funny to think of your child being sexually assaulted," then you are off your rocker.

Yep, a pretty big stretch indeed.

[Underdog]

This woman stepped down from office because of things that are being SAID about her family and you people want to vote her into the White House???

If her skin isn't thick enough to handle a little domestic slander, then I seriously doubt she could stomach a showdown with Iran or North Korea...


(last I checked, Kim Jong-il has more powerful weapons than David Letterman!)

[Flacolaco]

And she'd have more powerful weapons to use against them in kind. And she'd use them.

On the other hand, there's nothing anyone can do about the media.

And no one said they wanted to vote her into the White House. I don't think she has a snowballs chance in hell. It is entertaining how she ruffles everyone's panties, though.

[Mavdog]

Originally Posted by kg_veteran

You had to really stretch if that's your list of "attacks" on Obama.

oh really? those are just the ones that were easy to recall.

if anyone really believes that obama hasn't been attacked, they're deceiving themselves. are you?

Originally Posted by Usually Lurkin

I didn't see this till it was quoted, but if you think that's anything like the ongoing, "it's not really your kid" thing, or the "it's funny to think of your child being sexually assaulted," then you are off your rocker.

"ongoing"? hardly.

second, the comparison is striking. they accuse obama of deception and duplicity, very much like the shortlived and debunked internet rumour of the kid being palin's.

[Usually Lurkin]

Brian Williams' vicious attack on Obama.



Nasty politics.

[Mavdog]

brian williams???

ok, if you want to show people who use kid gloves....rush limbaugh's vicious attack on sarah palin..."RUSH: I tell you, I was in a quandary here this morning. I admire you so much I really don't know what to ask".

http://www.rushlimbaugh.com/home/dai...106.guest.html

[Big Boy Laroux]

whoops, link didn't work.

[Usually Lurkin]

Originally Posted by Mavdog

brian williams???

ok, if you want to show people who use kid gloves....rush limbaugh's vicious attack on sarah palin..."RUSH: I tell you, I was in a quandary here this morning. I admire you so much I really don't know what to ask".

http://www.rushlimbaugh.com/home/dai...106.guest.html

yes. Brian Williams is as partisan as Rush Limbaugh. That is a problem.

[horse900703]

haha, goodbye Palin.