Palin Violates Public Trust, Imperils Campaign

According to an Alaska Legislative panel, Governor Sarah Palin abused her authority. On July 11, Palin fired Alaska Public Safety Commissioner Walt Monegan. Evidently, Monegan’s termination was “proper and lawful.” Unfortunately, Palin’s personal viewpoint was an inappropriate influence. Todd Palin, Governor Sarah Palin’s husband, was also improperly involved.

Governor Palin, Todd Palin, and Commissioner Monegan’s conflict? Alaska State Trooper Mike Wooten. Formerly, Wooten and Molly McCann, Governor Palin’s sister, were married. Allegedly, Wooten abused McCann and her son.

Predictably, McCain Campaign Spokeswoman Meg Stapleton’s reaction was flippant. “Today's report shows that the Governor acted within her proper and lawful authority in the reassignment of Walt Monegan. This was a partisan led inquiry run by (Barack) Obama supporters and the Palins were completely justified in their concern regarding Trooper (Michael) Wooten given his violent and rogue behavior. Lacking evidence to support the original Monegan allegation, the Legislative Council seriously overreached, making a tortured argument to find fault without basis in law or fact.”

On August 29, I applauded Palin’s selection. However, I cautioned she could implode. Tonight, she did. I will not predict an electoral calamity. I will simply state the obvious. Recovery appears impossible.

Alaska Legislative Council Complete Report