Palin to resign as Governor http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/frontpage/comments/palin-to-resign-as-governor/ Various sites (Talking Points Memo is the only linking to an Alaskan source) are reporting that Sarah Palin will resign as Governor of Alaska at the end of the month. Politico speculates that this frees her up to run President in 2012. en-us brandonb Copyright 2009 2009-07-03T;18:37:39+00:00 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ Yeah, that's exactly what I meant. She fans the fire of crazy on both sides. Until it drowns out everything else. Sun, 19 Jul 09 21:52:54 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Really? I'm thinking it's going to be cottage industry, kinda of like market for plug-ins to use with Photoshop, i.e. there's a base product and people can make smaller projects to interact with the main product. Some will make a career off of supporting and working with her, while some on the other side of the fence will do the same by being against her. Still others will drink more.
Still others will drink more.]]> Sun, 19 Jul 09 21:36:38 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ Oops, wrong thread for that last comment. Palin unrestrained on Twitter is going to be pretty awful. Sun, 19 Jul 09 20:55:41 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ That dude is officially more arrogant than Blagojevich. Sun, 19 Jul 09 20:53:26 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ From Palin's current twitter stream:elected is replaceable;Ak WILL progress! + side benefit=10 dys til less politically correct twitters fly frm my fingertps outside State site It's going to be like Thanksgiving dinner with a dysfunctional family, only everyday, isn't it? current twitter stream:
elected is replaceable;Ak WILL progress! + side benefit=10 dys til less politically correct twitters fly frm my fingertps outside State site
It's going to be like Thanksgiving dinner with a dysfunctional family, only everyday, isn't it?]]> Sun, 19 Jul 09 16:40:06 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ Palin’s Long March to a Short-Notice Resignation. [NYT] Some questions answered, at least. She refused GOP help/advice, prefered to do things her way, wound up in a royal mess. At which point the party seems to have cut her loose, as shown through the Vanity Fair article. The price for being a maverick, I suppose. Palin’s Long March to a Short-Notice Resignation. [NYT]

Some questions answered, at least. She refused GOP help/advice, prefered to do things her way, wound up in a royal mess. At which point the party seems to have cut her loose, as shown through the Vanity Fair article.

The price for being a maverick, I suppose.]]> Mon, 13 Jul 09 19:49:10 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ The Alaska legislature should throw a big ol party on her last day. Sun, 12 Jul 09 20:45:43 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ It seems there's a problem with Palin leaving, namely who's going to be Lt. Governor. At her resignation speech, Palin said Craig Campbell, long time supporter and Commissioner of the Department of Military and Veteran's Affair, would be the next in line behind the new Governor, Sean Parnell. But back in February, Palin said Joe Schimdt, the Corrections Commissioner would be next in line behind Parnell and he was confirmed by the legislature. Oops. The legislature is working out all the pesky details. It seems there's a problem with Palin leaving, namely who's going to be Lt. Governor. At her resignation speech, Palin said Craig Campbell, long time supporter and Commissioner of the Department of Military and Veteran's Affair, would be the next in line behind the new Governor, Sean Parnell. But back in February, Palin said Joe Schimdt, the Corrections Commissioner would be next in line behind Parnell and he was confirmed by the legislature.

Oops.

The legislature is working out all the pesky details.]]> Sun, 12 Jul 09 19:20:31 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Link above corrected, evidently I had left out the first page. It's an interesting read, though written by a lawyer who represented someone who filed ethics violations against Palin, so keep that in mind. However the reasoning he presents for her quitting seems reasonable; she had lost control of the legislature and not only would she have been a lame duck, it would have particularly painful since even Republicans were going to be going against her. The writer does say that Palin will never run for President because it's too much work compared to being a celebrity.
It's an interesting read, though written by a lawyer who represented someone who filed ethics violations against Palin, so keep that in mind. However the reasoning he presents for her quitting seems reasonable; she had lost control of the legislature and not only would she have been a lame duck, it would have particularly painful since even Republicans were going to be going against her. The writer does say that Palin will never run for President because it's too much work compared to being a celebrity.]]> Sun, 12 Jul 09 14:35:50 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Palin: How she gained control and then lost it, via the Alaska Dispatch Palin: How she gained control and then lost it, via the Alaska Dispatch]]> Sat, 11 Jul 09 17:20:17 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ And of course, the full context of the Cronkite quote puts it in a whole different light. the full context of the Cronkite quote puts it in a whole different light.]]> Fri, 10 Jul 09 19:04:43 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ In a similar vein, I figure the right wing will like this today. this today.]]> Fri, 10 Jul 09 15:05:36 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ Somehow I think that she didn't come up with that herself, that it was on her GOP page-a-day calendar or something. The press is just asking questions. If you're sure of your argument and ideas, those questions may be pesky, but ultimately not a problem.
The press is just asking questions. If you're sure of your argument and ideas, those questions may be pesky, but ultimately not a problem.]]> Fri, 10 Jul 09 14:27:36 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Or wait, maybe it's the media's fault: ...."Most newspapermen by definition have to be liberal; if they're not, by my definition, they can hardly be good newspapermen" W. Cronkitevia her twitter stream. ...."Most newspapermen by definition have to be liberal; if they're not, by my definition, they can hardly be good newspapermen" W. Cronkitevia her twitter stream.]]> Fri, 10 Jul 09 14:15:36 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Also, Palin's problems are all Obama's fault, can't you see the connections. Palin's problems are all Obama's fault, can't you see the connections.]]> Thu, 09 Jul 09 19:13:57 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ If you just can't get enough Palin humor, well here you go. well here you go.]]> Thu, 09 Jul 09 19:04:30 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ The argument is that since this protection already exists for legislators, it should be extended to members of the executive branch. Interesting rule. Does it matter who talks about it or is the rule only against those filing the complaints? If the latter, then it seems like it would be a cat and mouse game of leaking things to the press. The argument is that since this protection already exists for legislators, it should be extended to members of the executive branch.

Interesting rule. Does it matter who talks about it or is the rule only against those filing the complaints? If the latter, then it seems like it would be a cat and mouse game of leaking things to the press.]]> Wed, 08 Jul 09 14:27:40 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ Not to mention, of course, that having to keep complaints secret would allow for multiple complaints to be made on the same issue, and bog down the system entirely. Wed, 08 Jul 09 13:43:40 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ To combat the latter problem, Rep. Bob Lynn (R-Anchorage Hillside) is drafting a bill which specifies that an ethics complaint against a member of the executive branch would become instantly invalidated if the complainant publicized it before it is completely adjudicated. Whoa -- what? So the effect would be that a politician could be neck-deep in allegations, and the image the public has is that they're clean as a whistle? Until after the adjudication is complete, and (presumably) all appeals exhausted? And the public interest to be fought for by just one individual in secret? To combat the latter problem, Rep. Bob Lynn (R-Anchorage Hillside) is drafting a bill which specifies that an ethics complaint against a member of the executive branch would become instantly invalidated if the complainant publicized it before it is completely adjudicated.

Whoa -- what?

So the effect would be that a politician could be neck-deep in allegations, and the image the public has is that they're clean as a whistle? Until after the adjudication is complete, and (presumably) all appeals exhausted? And the public interest to be fought for by just one individual in secret?]]> Wed, 08 Jul 09 13:40:08 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Ah, Valerie Henning has tangled with Palin before. I guess that marriage that fights together, stays together. Ah, Valerie Henning has tangled with Palin before. I guess that marriage that fights together, stays together.]]> Wed, 08 Jul 09 13:13:03 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ There's a new ethics complaint. It's questioning why Palin is requesting reimbursement for travel expenses when the Governor's listed activities for that day were in Anchorage and Wasilla. The logic behind the compliant is that she shouldn't be paid for staying at her home in Wasilla, even if she was working in at the office in Anchorage. This ethics complaint against Palin is the second one filed by Wasilla native Zane Henning. Previously he had complained about Palin holding television interviews about running from Vice-President from the Governor's office. The complaint was dismissed. The link speculates Henening was influenced to file the complaint by his wife, who often calls a local radio station to complain about Palin. Heh, all politics is local. a new ethics complaint. It's questioning why Palin is requesting reimbursement for travel expenses when the Governor's listed activities for that day were in Anchorage and Wasilla. The logic behind the compliant is that she shouldn't be paid for staying at her home in Wasilla, even if she was working in at the office in Anchorage.

This ethics complaint against Palin is the second one filed by Wasilla native Zane Henning. Previously he had complained about Palin holding television interviews about running from Vice-President from the Governor's office. The complaint was dismissed. The link speculates Henening was influenced to file the complaint by his wife, who often calls a local radio station to complain about Palin.

Heh, all politics is local.]]> Wed, 08 Jul 09 13:02:18 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ I'm starting to grow fond of her. Wed, 08 Jul 09 03:06:35 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ It's not the baseless accusations she would have to worry about anyway. baseless accusations she would have to worry about anyway.]]> Wed, 08 Jul 09 01:06:12 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Well, to be fair, it demonstrates she doesn't know crap about the White House in that in doesn't have a Department of Law and any analogous departments aren't there to protect the President from baseless accusations. In fact, one of them is designed to keep the President from doing illegal things. Jesus, could the woman be more ignorant?! And don't give me that "she's just plain folks" line, that's no excuse for being stupid.
Jesus, could the woman be more ignorant?! And don't give me that "she's just plain folks" line, that's no excuse for being stupid.]]> Wed, 08 Jul 09 00:41:31 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ (And to be fair...) to be fair...)]]> Tue, 07 Jul 09 23:20:53 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ Palin claims that were she in the White House, the "Department of Law" would protect her from baseless accusations. "Department of Law" would protect her from baseless accusations.]]> Tue, 07 Jul 09 23:19:51 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ No, you bring up good points, nothing wrong with that. Tue, 07 Jul 09 20:20:25 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ Not that I want to be in a position where I'm defending Palin on anything, but... For some of these, there's some plausible deniability. A small window which Palin can squeeze herself through, and not actually be lying. Example: Palin lied when she wrote in the NYT that a comprehensive review by Alaska wildlife officials showed that polar bears were not endangered; in fact, email correspondence between those scientists showed the opposite. I have no idea what the review actually stated, but just on its face, email correspondence between participants does not equal the conclusions of the group's review. It remains possible for both statements to be correct. Palin lied when she denied having said that humans do not contribute to climate change; in fact, she had previously proclaimed that human activity was not to blame. Let's look at Sullivan's original story: Climate change is a critical issue. Here is what Sarah Palin told Charlie Gibson in her first interview: PALIN: I think you are a cynic because show me where I have ever said that there's absolute proof that nothing that man has ever conducted or engaged in has had any affect, or no affect, on climate change. Here is what she said last year: "I'm not a doom and gloom environmentalist like Al Gore blaming the changes in our climate on human activity." For the record. All the original statement shows is that she claimed not to be an enviromentalist like Al Gore. And she's not. It's open for her to be some other kind of environmentalist, and not necessarily contradict herself. More: Palin lied when she suggested to Katie Couric that she was involved in trade missions with Russia; in fact, she has never even met with Russian officials. You don't have to meet with officials to be 'involved' in the trade mission somehow. More: Palin lied when she said she kept her running injury a secret on the campaign trail; in fact, her bandaged hand was clearly visible in photographs and the story was widely talked about. If she did make efforts to keep it a secret, then it's not a lie. The efficacy of her efforts have nothing to do with it. Listen -- I dislike Palin as much as anyone. I find her repugnant on personal and professional levels, not to mention dangerously unqualified for high office and likely delusional. But there's more than enough in her own record to nab her for, than to be unfair in the presentation of that record.
For some of these, there's some plausible deniability. A small window which Palin can squeeze herself through, and not actually be lying.

Example: Palin lied when she wrote in the NYT that a comprehensive review by Alaska wildlife officials showed that polar bears were not endangered; in fact, email correspondence between those scientists showed the opposite.

I have no idea what the review actually stated, but just on its face, email correspondence between participants does not equal the conclusions of the group's review. It remains possible for both statements to be correct.

Palin lied when she denied having said that humans do not contribute to climate change; in fact, she had previously proclaimed that human activity was not to blame.

Let's look at Sullivan's original story: Climate change is a critical issue. Here is what Sarah Palin told Charlie Gibson in her first interview:

PALIN: I think you are a cynic because show me where I have ever said that there's absolute proof that nothing that man has ever conducted or engaged in has had any affect, or no affect, on climate change.

Here is what she said last year:
"I'm not a doom and gloom environmentalist like Al Gore blaming the changes in our climate on human activity."

For the record.

All the original statement shows is that she claimed not to be an enviromentalist like Al Gore. And she's not. It's open for her to be some other kind of environmentalist, and not necessarily contradict herself.

More: Palin lied when she suggested to Katie Couric that she was involved in trade missions with Russia; in fact, she has never even met with Russian officials.

You don't have to meet with officials to be 'involved' in the trade mission somehow.

More: Palin lied when she said she kept her running injury a secret on the campaign trail; in fact, her bandaged hand was clearly visible in photographs and the story was widely talked about.

If she did make efforts to keep it a secret, then it's not a lie. The efficacy of her efforts have nothing to do with it.

Listen -- I dislike Palin as much as anyone. I find her repugnant on personal and professional levels, not to mention dangerously unqualified for high office and likely delusional. But there's more than enough in her own record to nab her for, than to be unfair in the presentation of that record.]]> Tue, 07 Jul 09 19:48:19 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Andrew Sullivan has a post titled "The Odd Lies of Sarah Palin" Pretty breathtaking and sad that I don't get this from the mainstream media. The Odd Lies of Sarah Palin" Pretty breathtaking and sad that I don't get this from the mainstream media.]]> Tue, 07 Jul 09 19:20:42 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ Bailin' Palin continues to say that she's not a quitter, says she is "progressing in an unconventional way." "progressing in an unconventional way."]]> Tue, 07 Jul 09 13:31:08 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ I think she values loyalty and is highly offended by criticism, even constructive criticism from people trying to help her. Which leads to defensive statements that make no sense to the rest of us. Mon, 06 Jul 09 14:47:45 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Yeah, that was the really odd part of an incredibly odd situation. That a lawyer would publicly say such things just marks him as silly. Where does she find these people? Mon, 06 Jul 09 11:54:28 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ "I can say definitively I am aware of no criminal investigation whatsoever involving Sarah Palin. Zero," Palin's attorney, Thomas Van Flein... Just because you're not aware of any doesn't mean there aren't any. And the defamation claim is laughable. There was simply a report of the rumours that were out there, and they were qualified as such. And raising the claim of defamation is always tricky -- as the main defence is a defence of truth, it inevitably leads to a testing of the claim on the merits themselves -- which doesn't always go your way. But, as they say in the law biz, you can pick your nose, but you can't pick your clients... "I can say definitively I am aware of no criminal investigation whatsoever involving Sarah Palin. Zero," Palin's attorney, Thomas Van Flein...

Just because you're not aware of any doesn't mean there aren't any.

And the defamation claim is laughable. There was simply a report of the rumours that were out there, and they were qualified as such. And raising the claim of defamation is always tricky -- as the main defence is a defence of truth, it inevitably leads to a testing of the claim on the merits themselves -- which doesn't always go your way.

But, as they say in the law biz, you can pick your nose, but you can't pick your clients...]]> Mon, 06 Jul 09 03:09:13 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ She's so maverick, she doesn't have to respond to inquires or keep a schedule! Sun, 05 Jul 09 18:14:19 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ Also: With only a few weeks before she steps down on July 26, and Alaska 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. Also:
With only a few weeks before she steps down on July 26, and Alaska 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.
]]> Sun, 05 Jul 09 16:25:57 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ Oh yeah, it's stupid too. But the bizarreness kinda trumps all else. As if visualizing her as VP didn't give me enough nightmares. She has no business being a public figure if this is her idea of managing media coverage. Jesus.
As if visualizing her as VP didn't give me enough nightmares. She has no business being a public figure if this is her idea of managing media coverage. Jesus.]]> Sun, 05 Jul 09 16:11:01 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ More like weirder and stupider. If you're in debt due to legal fees, it doesn't make sense to start picking legal fights after silly stuff. The really weird part though, is this: In an interview, Van Flein said it's not clear what those options might be. His letter cites the freedom of speech clause in the Alaska Constitution, and its statement that "every person may freely speak, write, and publish on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right." You know, the Alaska Constitution is trumped by a document or two. That the lawyer is pushing that and Palin's own push for "energy independence" i.e. making Alaska rich by drilling like crazy there reminds me that the Alaskan Independence Party is too close to the Palins hearts.
The really weird part though, is this:
In an interview, Van Flein said it's not clear what those options might be. His letter cites the freedom of speech clause in the Alaska Constitution, and its statement that "every person may freely speak, write, and publish on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right."

You know, the Alaska Constitution is trumped by a document or two. That the lawyer is pushing that and Palin's own push for "energy independence" i.e. making Alaska rich by drilling like crazy there reminds me that the Alaskan Independence Party is too close to the Palins hearts.]]> Sun, 05 Jul 09 16:08:24 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ Oh and note in that article, her lawyer is not only threatening to sue the blogger who mentioned a months-long rumor on tv and Huffington Post, but any media repeating the story (notably they're going after the ones perceived as most left-leaning), and NYT and Washington Post just for having reporters looking for people to interview about it. You can't interview people! That's defamation! If they say anything about me that could be negative! At some point in that chain of craziness my outrage at her "woe is me, the media hates and vilifies me by reporting on me at all" becomes pure amusement. And a little bit of pity. She seems to truly have no understanding of what the normal bounds of behavior for the media are. And to be such a visible figure, I can see how that'd be a big problem for her. and NYT and Washington Post just for having reporters looking for people to interview about it. You can't interview people! That's defamation! If they say anything about me that could be negative!

At some point in that chain of craziness my outrage at her "woe is me, the media hates and vilifies me by reporting on me at all" becomes pure amusement. And a little bit of pity. She seems to truly have no understanding of what the normal bounds of behavior for the media are. And to be such a visible figure, I can see how that'd be a big problem for her.]]> Sun, 05 Jul 09 16:08:03 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ It keeps getting weirder. weirder.]]> Sun, 05 Jul 09 15:54:41 +0000 Comment by nax http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/215/ It's the Peter Principal in action. She has risen to the level of her incompetence in politics. Scary thing is that the level of incompetence in politics in this country is so high. the Peter Principal in action. She has risen to the level of her incompetence in politics. Scary thing is that the level of incompetence in politics in this country is so high.]]> Sun, 05 Jul 09 13:25:51 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ FBI says she's not under investigation. Well. She really is crazy. FBI says she's not under investigation.

Well. She really is crazy.]]> Sun, 05 Jul 09 13:04:58 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ I shared with you yesterday my heartfelt and candid reasons for this change... Uh, no -- you didn't. Still waiting. And it's nice to see you still blaming the media, rather than using Occam's Razor to see that the problem with all of your failed communications is in fact yourself. Ever the victim. Nice. I shared with you yesterday my heartfelt and candid reasons for this change...

Uh, no -- you didn't. Still waiting.

And it's nice to see you still blaming the media, rather than using Occam's Razor to see that the problem with all of your failed communications is in fact yourself. Ever the victim. Nice.]]> Sun, 05 Jul 09 04:13:49 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ She released a statement on Facebook today. She released a statement on Facebook today.]]> Sun, 05 Jul 09 03:50:54 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ She's not good to you and me and others. To a certain segment of the American populace, she's brilliant and they can't get enough of her talking. She could probably carve out a nice career being Queen of that faction. Sat, 04 Jul 09 16:29:21 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ (It would, however, make Jon Stewart's job incredibly easy.) Sat, 04 Jul 09 14:49:40 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ I don't buy the rumors of her stepping down for a teevee deal, so she can become the "right-wing Oprah" in advance of a 2012 run. She's not good at preparation, she's terrible when she's off script, especially in interview format. Even the right who loves her will get to see hours upon hours of her trying to wing it, day in, day out, and not doing all that well. Not to mention that with that increased exposure, her inevitable gaffs are going to be magnified all the more. It'd be a real dumb move. Even for her. become the "right-wing Oprah" in advance of a 2012 run.

She's not good at preparation, she's terrible when she's off script, especially in interview format. Even the right who loves her will get to see hours upon hours of her trying to wing it, day in, day out, and not doing all that well. Not to mention that with that increased exposure, her inevitable gaffs are going to be magnified all the more.

It'd be a real dumb move. Even for her.]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 14:48:20 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ The state Senator who oversaw the Troopergate investigation announced he was running for Governor on Wednesday. Talk about conspiracy angles! There was talk of her running for the Senate, but polls showed her getting trounced by current Senator Lisa Murkowski, who got the Senate seat because of her dad who was then Governor and whom Palin actually beat for Governor. So Palin was able to ride a populist wave and beat the dad, partially due to widespread anger over him appointing a family member, but now can't beat said family member. Palin's general poll numbers have definitely sunk and she's no longer the media darling she was portrayed as. The Governor's race in Alaska seemed wide open with Palin as the obvious front runner, but not in a strong way. Alaska has closed primaries, so it's a question of how much Republicans in the State like her, but the state party seems to like her just fine. The state Senator who oversaw the Troopergate investigation announced he was running for Governor on Wednesday. Talk about conspiracy angles!

There was talk of her running for the Senate, but polls showed her getting trounced by current Senator Lisa Murkowski, who got the Senate seat because of her dad who was then Governor and whom Palin actually beat for Governor. So Palin was able to ride a populist wave and beat the dad, partially due to widespread anger over him appointing a family member, but now can't beat said family member.

Palin's general poll numbers have definitely sunk and she's no longer the media darling she was portrayed as. The Governor's race in Alaska seemed wide open with Palin as the obvious front runner, but not in a strong way. Alaska has closed primaries, so it's a question of how much Republicans in the State like her, but the state party seems to like her just fine.]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 14:20:46 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ (And yes, I did look, but couldn't find any numbers as they relate to her continued Governorship.) Sat, 04 Jul 09 14:00:40 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ Assuming for the moment that everything is as she says it is (which is a stretch, I know), and that she honestly doesn't want to seek a second term -- what would her chances have been for that second term? What kind of numbers is she polling now, and likely then? Anyone know? Sat, 04 Jul 09 13:58:18 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ She knows. Sat, 04 Jul 09 13:13:58 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ This quote from her speech is startling: "I polled the most important people in my life, my kids, where the count was unanimous," she said. "Well, in response to asking, 'Hey, you want me to make a positive difference and fight for all our children's future from outside the governor's office?' It was four yeses and one 'Hell, yeah!" And the 'Hell, yeah' sealed it." Nobody talks to their kids that way and if they did, they'd be called out as self absorbed twits. Alaskan Senator Lisa Murkowski (R) is less than amused with Palin's decision. I polled the most important people in my life, my kids, where the count was unanimous," she said. "Well, in response to asking, 'Hey, you want me to make a positive difference and fight for all our children's future from outside the governor's office?' It was four yeses and one 'Hell, yeah!" And the 'Hell, yeah' sealed it." Nobody talks to their kids that way and if they did, they'd be called out as self absorbed twits.

Alaskan Senator Lisa Murkowski (R) is less than amused with Palin's decision.]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 13:02:17 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Somewhere, Mitt Romney is smiling quietly to himself. Sat, 04 Jul 09 04:56:23 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ I'm starting to think that the emails article in Vanity Fair must be coincidental to all of this. After all, you must need a fair bit of lead time to get a piece into print like that, no? And to aim it for this week, to time it with this implosion? More likely that there was a general whiff of something going down in the longer-term, and someone laying the groundwork for distancing ahead of that. But to get this close timing -- you would have to be tuned in to some vastly different sources to get it this exact.
More likely that there was a general whiff of something going down in the longer-term, and someone laying the groundwork for distancing ahead of that. But to get this close timing -- you would have to be tuned in to some vastly different sources to get it this exact.]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 04:32:35 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ Wait a second, the press conference where she resigned was at her house, the same one that's being speculated is part of an embezzlement scandal. Oh ha. Now I'm even more convinced. Palin camera time is special like that. Wait a second, the press conference where she resigned was at her house, the same one that's being speculated is part of an embezzlement scandal.

Oh ha. Now I'm even more convinced. Palin camera time is special like that.]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 04:19:12 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ From Lt. Gov. Parnell: As Alaska celebrates her 50th year of statehood, I believe history will look back on Sarah Palin as one of Alaska's great gifts to all peoples. You have served honorably, Governor. God bless you. "Great gifts to all peoples?" WUT OK, dude, you're a fan -- fine. Granted. But c'mon. She's not exactly Mandela, is she? Even qualified for Alaskans only, does she even rank with Curt Schilling? Has she influenced more people than Jewel? I had this image of Alaska being a pristine place, but dammit if there isn't something in the water... As Alaska celebrates her 50th year of statehood, I believe history will look back on Sarah Palin as one of Alaska's great gifts to all peoples. You have served honorably, Governor. God bless you.

"Great gifts to all peoples?"

WUT

OK, dude, you're a fan -- fine. Granted. But c'mon. She's not exactly Mandela, is she?

Even qualified for Alaskans only, does she even rank with Curt Schilling? Has she influenced more people than Jewel?

I had this image of Alaska being a pristine place, but dammit if there isn't something in the water...]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 04:10:08 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ In Palin's Twitter stream, life goes on. Palin's Twitter stream, life goes on.]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 03:48:01 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ Anderson Cooper on CNN just had Palin's top spokesperson on by phone. She was in New York tonight, while Palin was resigning in Alaska. OK, that's weird. All the more suggestion of this having been rushed through. The building scandal isn't new. I would guess, though, that federal investigators working on it since October would be able to dig up something substantive by now, something well beyond the ordinary clouds of suspicion. I am also presuming that a decision to prosecute would have to be vetted at the very highest levels, given the political sensitivities involved -- and that takes some time, too. Given the hacking of Palin's email account during the campaign by some kid, I expect that while Palin or Todd may have hidden their activities, investigators wouldn't exactly have to break the Enigma codes on it. Whatever it is, it's going to break soon. I would hate for this to be one of those stories that's done and over between my going to bed and my waking up in the morning... Anderson Cooper on CNN just had Palin's top spokesperson on by phone. She was in New York tonight, while Palin was resigning in Alaska.

OK, that's weird. All the more suggestion of this having been rushed through.

The building scandal isn't new. I would guess, though, that federal investigators working on it since October would be able to dig up something substantive by now, something well beyond the ordinary clouds of suspicion. I am also presuming that a decision to prosecute would have to be vetted at the very highest levels, given the political sensitivities involved -- and that takes some time, too.

Given the hacking of Palin's email account during the campaign by some kid, I expect that while Palin or Todd may have hidden their activities, investigators wouldn't exactly have to break the Enigma codes on it.

Whatever it is, it's going to break soon. I would hate for this to be one of those stories that's done and over between my going to bed and my waking up in the morning...]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 03:15:24 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Mudflats, the blog about Alaskan politics is linking to the same story about an embezzlement scandal. Updates from Bradblog: THE $12.5 MILLION sports complex and hockey rink that is the lasting monument to Palin's two terms as Wasilla mayor is also a monument to the kind of insider politics that dismays Americans of both parties. Six months before Palin stepped down as mayor in October 2002, the city awarded nearly a half-million-dollar contract to design the biggest project in Wasilla history to Kumin Associates. Blase Burkhart was the Kumin architect on the job-the son of Roy Burkhart, who is frequently described as a "mentor" of Palin and was head of the local Republican Party (his wife, June, who also advised Palin, is the national committeewoman). Asked if the contract was a favor, Roy Burkhart, who contributed to her campaign in the same time frame that his son got the contract, said: "I really don't know." Palin then named Blase Burkhart to a seven-member builder-selection committee that picked Howdie Inc., a mostly residential contractor owned at the time by Howard Nugent. Formally awarded the contract a couple of weeks after Palin left office, Nugent has donated $4,000 to Palin campaigns. Two competitors protested the process that led to Nugent's contract. ... A list of subcontractors on the job, obtained by the Voice, includes many with Palin ties. One was Spenard Builders Supply, the state's leading supplier of wood, floor, roof, and other "pre-engineered components." In addition to being a sponsor of Todd Palin's snow-machine team that has earned tens of thousands for the Palin family, Spenard hired Sarah Palin to do a statewide television commercial in 2004. When the Palins began building a new family home off Lake Lucille in 2002—at the same time that Palin was running for lieutenant governor and in her final months as mayor—Spenard supplied the materials, according to Antoine Bricks, who works in its Wasilla office. ... Todd Palin told Fox News that he built the two-story, 3,450-square-foot, four-bedroom, four-bath, wood house himself, with the help of contractors he described as "buddies." As mayor, Sarah Palin blocked an effort to require the filing of building permits in the wide-open city, and there is no public record of who the "buddies" were. is linking to the same story about an embezzlement scandal.

Updates from Bradblog:
THE $12.5 MILLION sports complex and hockey rink that is the lasting monument to Palin's two terms as Wasilla mayor is also a monument to the kind of insider politics that dismays Americans of both parties. Six months before Palin stepped down as mayor in October 2002, the city awarded nearly a half-million-dollar contract to design the biggest project in Wasilla history to Kumin Associates. Blase Burkhart was the Kumin architect on the job-the son of Roy Burkhart, who is frequently described as a "mentor" of Palin and was head of the local Republican Party (his wife, June, who also advised Palin, is the national committeewoman). Asked if the contract was a favor, Roy Burkhart, who contributed to her campaign in the same time frame that his son got the contract, said: "I really don't know." Palin then named Blase Burkhart to a seven-member builder-selection committee that picked Howdie Inc., a mostly residential contractor owned at the time by Howard Nugent. Formally awarded the contract a couple of weeks after Palin left office, Nugent has donated $4,000 to Palin campaigns. Two competitors protested the process that led to Nugent's contract.
...
A list of subcontractors on the job, obtained by the Voice, includes many with Palin ties. One was Spenard Builders Supply, the state's leading supplier of wood, floor, roof, and other "pre-engineered components." In addition to being a sponsor of Todd Palin's snow-machine team that has earned tens of thousands for the Palin family, Spenard hired Sarah Palin to do a statewide television commercial in 2004. When the Palins began building a new family home off Lake Lucille in 2002—at the same time that Palin was running for lieutenant governor and in her final months as mayor—Spenard supplied the materials, according to Antoine Bricks, who works in its Wasilla office.
...
Todd Palin told Fox News that he built the two-story, 3,450-square-foot, four-bedroom, four-bath, wood house himself, with the help of contractors he described as "buddies." As mayor, Sarah Palin blocked an effort to require the filing of building permits in the wide-open city, and there is no public record of who the "buddies" were.
]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 02:55:31 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Wait a second, the press conference where she resigned was at her house, the same one that's being speculated is part of an embezzlement scandal. If true, that's an odd way to handle things. Sat, 04 Jul 09 02:36:00 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Sanford is probably sighing with relief at this point. Sat, 04 Jul 09 02:23:50 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ I missed all the good stuff in the video. The text is way better for attempted comprehension. As someone on Kos pointed out, this: 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”. looks like a dig at Sanford. So classy!
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”.

looks like a dig at Sanford. So classy!]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 02:20:23 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ She said BUILD UP 5 times in her remarks. TEAR DOWN was twice. Sat, 04 Jul 09 02:14:29 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ It's stunning, isn't it? The 'tearing down' and the 'building' and 'resources'... Oh god that's hysterically funny. And bizarre. And I think you're right-- what is on her mind is leaking through her ad-libbing. Wow. She doesn't have the discipline to even script a few talking points to avoid that kind of wording? Or the time. Or both. It's stunning, isn't it? The 'tearing down' and the 'building' and 'resources'...

Oh god that's hysterically funny. And bizarre. And I think you're right-- what is on her mind is leaking through her ad-libbing. Wow.

She doesn't have the discipline to even script a few talking points to avoid that kind of wording? Or the time. Or both.]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 02:11:55 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Oh, I'm talking more about the word choice and the way she's spinning things i.e. she's not quitting but choosing not to run for a second term. As you noted, her speeches tend to be filled with that type of drivel. I actually winced when you said you were listening to her again. She literally makes my skin crawl because her sentences add up to nothing, literally complete BS, but she keeps doing it. It's insane.
I actually winced when you said you were listening to her again. She literally makes my skin crawl because her sentences add up to nothing, literally complete BS, but she keeps doing it. It's insane.]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 02:06:46 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ Assuming she's still in control of her situation... Sat, 04 Jul 09 02:00:38 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Remember, she's not quitting, she's choosing not run for a 2nd term and thus handing over power in a few weeks as opposed to when her term ends. Sat, 04 Jul 09 01:58:12 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ 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. OK, OK, I think I get her angle now. She's quitting so that more taxpayer money or Governor time isn't 'wasted' on more ethics charges -- i.e. she's falling on her sword of ethics for our benefit. It's not any admission that the charges are justified, of course. What she's doing is noble, really. This kind of self-delusion is fairly Standard Palin Operating Procedure, no? The impossible, unviable spin that only she believes? 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.

OK, OK, I think I get her angle now. She's quitting so that more taxpayer money or Governor time isn't 'wasted' on more ethics charges -- i.e. she's falling on her sword of ethics for our benefit. It's not any admission that the charges are justified, of course. What she's doing is noble, really.

This kind of self-delusion is fairly Standard Palin Operating Procedure, no? The impossible, unviable spin that only she believes?]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 01:52:24 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ It's stunning, isn't it? The 'tearing down' and the 'building' and 'resources'... This is what happens when you ad-lib a speech, instead of preparing one ahead of time. The embezzlement angle sounded right at first, but watching the tape again -- I'm sold. We're not dealing with criminal geniuses here -- it's gotta be that there's a damning email on one of their fake accounts or such.
This is what happens when you ad-lib a speech, instead of preparing one ahead of time.

The embezzlement angle sounded right at first, but watching the tape again -- I'm sold. We're not dealing with criminal geniuses here -- it's gotta be that there's a damning email on one of their fake accounts or such.]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 01:44:57 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ WTF with Alaskan politicians and free house-building, if this is true. Sat, 04 Jul 09 01:41:06 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ It couldn't be that simple, could it? Sat, 04 Jul 09 01:34:58 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ Jeebus -- reviewing the tape now, can she say "build" any more often? You don't have to be Dr. Freud to see this slip.
You don't have to be Dr. Freud to see this slip.]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 01:28:09 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Embezzlement perhaps? Embezzlement perhaps?]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 01:25:23 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ This smells about right. [As stolen from the blue.] The optics are bad enough, but if there's paper or email backing it up -- she's done. This smells about right. [As stolen from the blue.]

The optics are bad enough, but if there's paper or email backing it up -- she's done.]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 01:21:32 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ 2 day ago CBS had a scoop on emails from the campaign. It was a small leak, supposedly released by the writers of a book about Palin, but it seemed odd in that it wasn't much and was hardly surprising, like the recent Vanity Fair article. I wonder if the CBS leak was a warning shot to her, i.e. "Hey, we're serious about you know what" Hell, who knows? No can really say much, other than "snowmobiling the Appalachian Trail" is probably out. 2 day ago CBS had a scoop on emails from the campaign. It was a small leak, supposedly released by the writers of a book about Palin, but it seemed odd in that it wasn't much and was hardly surprising, like the recent Vanity Fair article.

I wonder if the CBS leak was a warning shot to her, i.e. "Hey, we're serious about you know what"

Hell, who knows? No can really say much, other than "snowmobiling the Appalachian Trail" is probably out.]]> Sat, 04 Jul 09 01:09:44 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ It's not her decision to leave, that much I know. Were it her choice, she could have set a decent time and place, had a proper speech prepared, all of that. This clearly was a rush job, all rambling and angry. And the news cycle is meant for burial, but all of the internettes are on fire with this now, with the mainstream media not far behind. Something big, I tell ya. BIG. Something that won't be able to be washed away as a reformed sinner, but something in black and white that just can't be denied. Hell, at this point, even if there ISN'T something there, there's always going to be a rumour that there was. That may be damage enough.
Were it her choice, she could have set a decent time and place, had a proper speech prepared, all of that. This clearly was a rush job, all rambling and angry. And the news cycle is meant for burial, but all of the internettes are on fire with this now, with the mainstream media not far behind.

Something big, I tell ya. BIG. Something that won't be able to be washed away as a reformed sinner, but something in black and white that just can't be denied.

Hell, at this point, even if there ISN'T something there, there's always going to be a rumour that there was. That may be damage enough.]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 23:09:31 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ No question it will be, in my mind. You don't leave office if it's not coming up fast and furious. I see people counting her out for a presidential run but I don't until we know WTF is going on with her.
I see people counting her out for a presidential run but I don't until we know WTF is going on with her.]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 22:45:40 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ She's clearly trying to dodge something Pleasepleasepleasepleasepleaseplease let it become public. PLEASE. *looks hopefully at next week* She's clearly trying to dodge something

Pleasepleasepleasepleasepleaseplease let it become public. PLEASE.

*looks hopefully at next week*]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 22:41:31 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ "Frivolous ethics violations" sounds like a winner for what's got her leaving now rather than later. Fri, 03 Jul 09 22:41:21 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ Watching the video now. She's clearly trying to dodge something. But I expect she is running for president, if whatever it is doesn't take her down in the meantime. Fri, 03 Jul 09 22:40:10 +0000 Comment by Tehanu http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/80/ Well this is a riddle. An evil riddle, like a hobbit's. Fri, 03 Jul 09 22:26:02 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ I don't know. Speculation is rampant- an affair, something with money, none of it with slightest shred of proof. I've heard the "she's tired of politics" line several times, but that really doesn't seem like her character, she liked winning. To quit seems so out of character. Fri, 03 Jul 09 22:17:44 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ Actually, listening to her on the news just now -- there's a lot of anger there. Fresh anger. And the 'not wasting time and money' bit seems like code for 'I did something bad which I can't fight'. Huh. lot of anger there. Fresh anger.

And the 'not wasting time and money' bit seems like code for 'I did something bad which I can't fight'.

Huh.]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 22:17:22 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ I'm guessing Big Cash Payout. She's from an oil state (more or less), Big Oil doesn't have too much Big left in it -- maybe she can parlay that into a nice wad for herself. Not necessarily insider trading as such, but advance knowledge and connections in the industry, say. Add to that the freedom that private life offers to pursue the nomination, while not having to do the hard work of budget decisions in bad economic times... It sounds right. Opportunistic and lazy. Her being pushed out may sound right, but then it comes up against the same question -- why now?
Her being pushed out may sound right, but then it comes up against the same question -- why now?]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 21:42:41 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ There's also people saying that she really has quit politics for good, due to the pressures and what her family had endured. That sounds rational and thus don't believe Sarah Palin would do it. Fri, 03 Jul 09 21:39:35 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Right, this doesn't seem to add up. It's one thing to run for President, but to QUIT while not completing your first time just smacks of crazy. Sure Alaska is far away from the lower 48, but it looks and is a wedge issue. Perhaps she was forced out by the GOP in Alaska? Did she really hope to hide this by announcing it today? It's just all sorts of bizarre, unnecessary drama.
It's one thing to run for President, but to QUIT while not completing your first time just smacks of crazy. Sure Alaska is far away from the lower 48, but it looks and is a wedge issue.

Perhaps she was forced out by the GOP in Alaska? Did she really hope to hide this by announcing it today? It's just all sorts of bizarre, unnecessary drama.]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 21:14:10 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ "LIFE is about choices." Well... A 2012 run needs big, big cash. She needs time to make those connections that are going fund her, which is a full-time job. If she can be parachuted into the private sector and make a bundle for herself, so much the better. If it's that, it's a smart move (or maybe just one she's compelled by the others to make). But why the total silence on why? Can't she just throw out a garbage line about devoting more time to her special needs son or something? "LIFE is about choices." Well...

A 2012 run needs big, big cash. She needs time to make those connections that are going fund her, which is a full-time job. If she can be parachuted into the private sector and make a bundle for herself, so much the better.

If it's that, it's a smart move (or maybe just one she's compelled by the others to make). But why the total silence on why? Can't she just throw out a garbage line about devoting more time to her special needs son or something?]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 21:10:04 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Is there news to dominate over the weekend? There is now, I guess. It's all so very odd, seems suddenly rushed. The transcript of the speak is here. She mentions "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. " That could be really bad news. Sarah Palin the politician is accountable. Sarah Palin the citizen, like Rush Limbaugh, doesn't have to answer to anyone. Is there news to dominate over the weekend?

There is now, I guess. It's all so very odd, seems suddenly rushed.

The transcript of the speak is here. She mentions "
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. "
That could be really bad news. Sarah Palin the politician is accountable. Sarah Palin the citizen, like Rush Limbaugh, doesn't have to answer to anyone.]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 21:01:04 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ TPM has a longer version of her announcement. The sports metaphor is a bit wonky and full of herself, but hey, it's Sarah Palin. She really does ramble all over the place, hitting Republican talking points. a longer version of her announcement.

The sports metaphor is a bit wonky and full of herself, but hey, it's Sarah Palin. She really does ramble all over the place, hitting Republican talking points.]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 20:51:12 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ Is there news to dominate over the weekend? I would guess there's only a news cycle black hole... It reeks of a hush-hush campaign. Maybe Barry should take this opportunity reward her years of public service with an Ambassadorship to, say, Lesotho?
Maybe Barry should take this opportunity reward her years of public service with an Ambassadorship to, say, Lesotho?]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 20:42:45 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ She's being remarkably cagey about saying why exactly she's not running for re-election, er resigning. Health directors in Alaska were recently forced out due to clashes with Palin, but it doesn't sound like a major scandal. Could it be just an ill thought out plan to dominate news over the 4th of July weekend? remarkably cagey about saying why exactly she's not running for re-election, er resigning.

Health directors in Alaska were recently forced out due to clashes with Palin, but it doesn't sound like a major scandal. Could it be just an ill thought out plan to dominate news over the 4th of July weekend?]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 20:36:51 +0000 Comment by Capt. Renault http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/90/ She'll still have the title of Governor, she'll free herself up to build up a base where it matters, she'll have a minimal track record to hold her to, she can spend her time fundraising, pressing the flesh, and taking potshots on FOX any time the opportunity presents... Not a bad move -- if there's no timebomb behind it as the real motivator. (How did that state trooper thing wind up, anyway?)
Not a bad move -- if there's no timebomb behind it as the real motivator.

(How did that state trooper thing wind up, anyway?)]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 20:34:02 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ CNN video of her announcing that she won't run her re-election, er, resign in a few weeks. CNN video of her announcing that she won't run her re-election, er, resign in a few weeks.]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 20:28:55 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Anchorage Daily News is reporting that she'll resign in a few weeks and the Lt. Governor will be sworn in on July 26th. Here's a statement from the press conference: "I look forward to helping others -- to fight for our state and our country, and campaign for those who believe in smaller government, free enterprise, strong national security, support for our troops and energy independence." Sounds like a Presidential soundbite, IMO. How sound 'till she moves to Washington? is reporting that she'll resign in a few weeks and the Lt. Governor will be sworn in on July 26th. Here's a statement from the press conference:
"I look forward to helping others -- to fight for our state and our country, and campaign for those who believe in smaller government, free enterprise, strong national security, support for our troops and energy independence."
Sounds like a Presidential soundbite, IMO. How sound 'till she moves to Washington?]]> Fri, 03 Jul 09 20:11:35 +0000 Comment by brandonb http://www.politicalfilter.com/content/member/1/ Hell of a timing. Friday afternoon before a major holiday. What's she trying to hide? Fri, 03 Jul 09 20:03:21 +0000