(Newser)
–
Sarah Palin's surprise resignation has left Republicans as divided as ever over the woman from Wasilla, Politico reports. Critics within the party charge that leaving the governorship mid-term—and announcing the decision via an odd, rambling press conference—has destroyed her chances for 2012. "There is just no good way to say quitting has made her more qualified to run for higher office,” says one GOP pollster.
Palin's allies, however, say she was plainly unhappy in her current role, and resigning is a daring move that will liberate her to return to the national stage. "Now she can do her book, give speeches, travel the country and the world, campaign for others, meet people, get more educated on the issues—and without being criticized for neglecting her duties in Alaska," says Weekly Standard editor Bill Kristol.
