It was announced today that Alaska Governor Sarah Palin (R) will resign that post. She was up for reelection in 2010 and many were unsure of her intentions.
Her decision to
resign opens the door to many possibilities, including a run for the White House in 2012 or a retirement from politics. Being the governor of Alaska would constrain any potential candidacy for the Republican nomination due to the distance the state is from the rest of the country. By resigning, Palin would be free to travel the country and visit early primary states.
Since being on the losing GOP ticket in 2008 as vice president, Palin has kept a relatively low profile nationwide. Despite, the governor not causing controversy herself, she has still been apart of some. David Letterman insulted Palin and her daughter causing a national uproar and former campaign staff members from last year have made negative comments about her.
Regardless, Palin remains one of the media stars of the Republican Party and is a lightening rod for controversy. No matter your personal feelings, watching a potential candidacy for the White House will be sure to energize voters for and against Palin.