WASHINGTON: Former vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin said last night that she would not seek the 2012 Republican nomination to run in next year’s presidential election.
The former Alaska governor said she had opted against a White House run because she believed “that at this time I can be more effective in a decisive role to help elect other true public servants to office – from the nation’s governors, to congressional seats and the presidency.”
Her announcement removed a major uncertainty surrounding the Republican presidential race while raising questions about how she might use her celebrity and political following to shape the primary. Ms Palin has recently been a reality TV star and a Fox news commentator.
“I will continue driving the discussion for freedom and free markets, including in the race for pres,” Ms Palin’s statement said.
“I will help co-ordinate strategies to assist in replacing the president, retaking the Senate and maintaining the House,” she said.
In a note to supporters she wrote: “As always, my family comes first and obviously Todd and I put great consideration into family life before making this decision,” referring to her husband. “When we serve, we devote ourselves to God, family and country. My decision maintains this order.”
Ms Palin, whose unconventional tactics and star quality generated attention for her even from the sidelines of the presidential contest, will likely offer a coveted endorsement for one of the Republican contenders.
Her decision not to run could be a boost to Texas governor Rick Perry, who is competing with Minnesota representative Michele Bachmann and businessman Herman Cain for the backing of those Tea Party-aligned voters who favoured Ms Palin.
Her descisioncame a day after New Jersey governer Chris Christie said he would not seek the Republican nomination.– (Bloomberg)