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1041 days ago

Palin spokeswoman attacks Levi Johnston's 'lies'

mug.mooney

(CNN) - A Palin family spokeswoman Monday is continuing to push back against recent claims from Levi Johnston, saying the former fiancé of Bristol Palin told an outright "lie" when he said the two were allowed to live together.

"Levi has never lived under the same roof as Bristol or any of the Palins," Palin spokeswoman Meghan Stapleton told CNN.

In an interview that aired in full Monday on the Tyra Banks Show, Johnston said he moved in to the Palin household shortly before the birth of son Tripp last December.

"I just wanted to be there for her when she had the baby," Johnston said, adding the two were allowed to share a room.

"Do you really think the governor and Todd would have allowed that," Stapleton said in an e-mail.

In a statement released late last Friday, Stapelton was also sharply critical of Johnston for appearing on the show.

"We're disappointed that Levi and his family, in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion of their relationship," Stapleton said. "It is unfortunate that Levi finds it more appealing to exploit his previous relationship with Bristol than to contribute to the well-being of the child."

But in the interview with Tyra Banks, Johnston said was driven to "break his silence" after reading several news reports that were "not true."

"I have seen a lot of stuff, read a lot of things in the newspapers and news and it's time we get our story out there," he said. "I have seen a lot of stuff saying I've done steroids and drugs and cheated on Bristol and that kind of thing, and it's not true."

Johnston also described a currently chilly relationship with the Palins, saying the Alaska governor "doesn't want me around, I don't think." Johnston, and his mother Sherry, said they may go to court in an effort to be granted 50 percent custody of the child.

Johnston and Bristol Palin were thrust into the spotlight last September when Sarah Palin was chosen to be the Republican vice presidential candidate. During the GOP's national convention in Minneapolis, Palin revealed that Bristol, then 17 years old, was pregnant with Johnston's baby and the two had plans to marry.

The Alaska governor later indicated the wedding would occur this summer. But news surfaced last month the two had split.


Filed under: Bristol Palin • Levi Johnston • Sarah Palin
soundoff (300 Responses)
  1. Theresa

    They were an engaged young couple with a baby on the way. I mean surely you won't deny the fact that the two had slept together? Come on now...

    April 6, 2009 01:55 pm at 1:55 pm |
  2. Dace Tucson AZ

    How low Palin will sink is amazing – what she is accusing this poor kid of doing is straight from the play book she wrote. So if he is making a little money from the situation he learned from one of the most toxic lying cheating corrupt people in the world – snow billy power grabbing hate monger herself. She is the most disgusting and vile person in US politics and should crawl back into the dark hole she came from.

    April 6, 2009 01:57 pm at 1:57 pm |
  3. Robin

    Oh geez, here come the liberal haters screaming how Sarah Palin is a terrible govenor, person, mom.

    Well, let's start with the kid went on Tyra Banks. Are you really going to take what a star-searching 18 year old is going to say on a variety show as gospel.

    What a punk!

    April 6, 2009 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  4. Heather

    Is there anyone who Governor Sarah Palin doesn't call a liar? It just seems convenient that every time someone claims things are differently than she says they are, her response is to call them a liar.

    April 6, 2009 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  5. jane

    I have a feeling the kid spoke the truth.

    April 6, 2009 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  6. Angie

    Come on do you really expect the people to "believe" Sara Palin? I think that this just goes to show that she would rather "censor" anyone who would talk negative about the Palin Clan! (whispering) Sara it's a free country! This kid has a freedom of speech! Get over your self!

    April 6, 2009 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  7. Pete

    Sarah Palin is a pretty despicable person using Alaskan governmental resources to publicly attack a 19 year old kid.

    I bet that this wouldn't have had to go down like this if the Palin family hadn't tried to pretend that Bristol's pregnancy was somehow AOK in order to placate the "family values" crowd.

    April 6, 2009 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  8. f

    It seems a bit ironic to me that someone who jumped at every chance they were given to be in the spotlight is now getting angry for someone else doing the same thing.

    April 6, 2009 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  9. Mike S., New Orleans

    Why would the Palin camp even comment on this unless they wanted to stay in the headlines? Levi may be exploiting his fifteen minutes of fame, but at least he's not running around preaching abstinence – like Bristol and Sarah Palin – when he didn't practice it himself.

    April 6, 2009 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  10. SK2 DELAWARE

    He learned from the best... Sarah Pallin herself.
    He must have watched her exploit her family, and exaggerate the truth (if not outright lie) in order to gain fame and the spotlight.

    Can this women just drop off the face of the earth already? Haven't we been forced to endure enough of her. By the way, she doesn't look nearly as hot now that she doesn't have a huge RNC bankrolling her.

    Betcha!!!!!!!!!

    April 6, 2009 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  11. Accountability

    Hillbillies....and they could have been the Second Family!

    April 6, 2009 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  12. A little sad

    Palin's camp is concerned that Levi is exploiting Palin?

    After shining a spotlight on what should have been between him and Bristol and their families to bolster Sarah Palin's election bid?

    You have to be kidding!

    April 6, 2009 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  13. Anonymous

    who cares?
    These people get far to much attention for their bad behaviour.

    April 6, 2009 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  14. jim

    the palins "wouldn't have allowed that?!?!!?" so, i guess they wouldn't allow premarital sleeping in the same bed, but the sex in a backseat or sofa is ok? what a joke...

    April 6, 2009 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  15. OBAMA GIRL

    Everyone is telling lies but the Palins....

    April 6, 2009 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  16. John

    America's premier "small town values" clan airs its dirty laundry in public yet again.

    Hey, Levi, just don't park your truck on my lawn please.

    April 6, 2009 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  17. arithmetic is liberal

    Oh, give it a rest!

    It is ridiculous to even pay heed to what a teenager had to say on a daytime talk show. There are a lot more things to worry about in this world than teenagers doing what teenagers do. In fact, the only people who are going to get up-in-arms about Bristol and Levi co-habiting are... ...well, your base.

    Oops. Sorry, Sarah.

    April 6, 2009 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  18. gl, Pittsburgh

    Just think we are lucky Sara Palin is not in the White House with all her drama!

    April 6, 2009 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  19. Brendan

    It would be hard enough to be a teenage father, without one of the most politically visible people in the world having an entire staff to attack you.

    April 6, 2009 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  20. Celeste, Michigan

    Now that is the kind of family values the Republicans can be proud of!

    Palin 2012!!!

    Yeah!

    April 6, 2009 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  21. jackson smith

    Yes, we really think the governor and Todd would have allowed that. Their daughter pregnant with his baby, why on earth wouldn't they have allowed it?! How stupid that this is still news and that we're still talking about Sarah Palin and her crazy family. She lost. She's history. Let's all do our best to try to forget about her.

    April 6, 2009 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  22. Hammer

    Our news media, and I use that loosely, will not let up on Palin. NOw they are dragging her children through the mud. I know they are all without fault and very proud of their journalistic assasination.

    April 6, 2009 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  23. Michael in Houston, Texas

    "We're disappointed that Levi and his family, in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion of their relationship". Huh??? Sounds like they learned from the best, The Palins. Not so cute when it is turned against you, Sarah and company. Levi, don't let them intimadate you.

    April 6, 2009 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  24. Ken

    Palin camp attacking Levi over 'quest for fame, attention and fortune'?

    Pot, this is kettle. Have you met?

    April 6, 2009 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  25. Michael Steele

    As the GOP implodes and eats its kind, these poor kids are caught in the middle of this horrible mess that Sarah Palin and John McCain created.

    April 6, 2009 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  26. zlerpster

    How much was the young man paid to do the interview? That might help us to understand more about what he said.

    April 6, 2009 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  27. barbara

    why wouldn't they be allowed to live together, they were already expecting a child. It's not like she might get pregnant, she was already pregnant.

    April 6, 2009 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  28. terri

    You just can't make this stuff up.

    April 6, 2009 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  29. rich

    You know the media should just let these two young people raise their child. All this back and forth does nothing good for this child getting caught in the middle of this nonsense. It makes no sense for these young people to be at odds with each other when they have a baby to raise.

    April 6, 2009 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  30. Kraig Rasool

    It seems quite obvious that there is that thin line between love and hate. Levi is not saying everything that has happened to him since
    his 15minutes of fame. Look they are young, break-ups happen all
    the time so we are all numb to his feelings and complaints and
    so over-numb to the media who keeps stories like this circulating.

    April 6, 2009 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  31. obama/mama

    Wow....I believe every word Levi says. Sarah is a fraud

    April 6, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  32. gl, Pittsburgh

    Levi Johnston, saying the former fiancé of Bristol Palin told an outright "lie" when he said the two were allowed to live together.

    I know this is true becasue most white people allow their kids boyfriends and girlfriend to live with them. I grow up with alot of whites all of them lived at home with their boyfriends and girlfriends at a eary age! He is not lying. Sara Palin is a big fate and a bid liar.

    April 6, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  33. Tim

    Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha

    Palin, the gift that keeps on giving new meaning to the phase:

    "Late night talk show monologue JOKE."

    April 6, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  34. Christopher

    I dont think that this kid lied. In fact Palin is the one that has been frequently caught in lies and cover up. I am pretty sure that Palin simply didnt think that anyone would ever know of the live in situation since she felt that she had effectivly staged a shot-gun engagement.

    April 6, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  35. @ NYC

    useless people deserve useless people. gotta feel bad for the little new born. doesn't seem like either family is interested in the little guy.

    April 6, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  36. chelle

    Sarah Palin needs to look in the mirror....she shamelessly exploited her kids the whole campaign instead of only having them appear occasionally. Apparently school and a schedule aren't important to her, only the appearance of an adoring family. Levi's appearance would have been low-key if they hadn't protested too loudly! And this coming from the people who sold the baby's pictures to People magazine. One might imagine the money from his appearance might just go to supporting his child.

    April 6, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  37. Big Bill from Brooklyn

    A sad situation.

    April 6, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  38. Sandy

    I believe the kid. They were engaged and about to have a baby. Why would the family not allow them to be together. Puhlease! The wheels are off Sarah's pure white morality bus, and there's no judgment about that. This is just real life.

    April 6, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  39. You Betcha

    Ha- eating their own

    April 6, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  40. Jo Anne Weathers - Colonia, N.J.

    Maybe they should have spent more time monitoring their daughter's
    behavior and mentoring both she and Levi with the upcoming birth of their son, than trying to convince the country that President Obama "hung" around with terriosts??? She evidently was not successful at either task.

    April 6, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  41. S.M

    Sarah Palin is a fine one to talk. Who brought Levi Johnston to the Republican convention and paraded both he and Bristol around as if they were a married couple?

    I wouldn't be surprised if Palin allowed both Levi and her daughter to shack up before the birth of their son.

    If this had been the Obama's daughters Sarah Palin would have trashed both he and his daughters.

    April 6, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  42. Hope for the future

    Whenever something comes up with Palin, fur starts to fly. Watch your back, Levi, she may destroy you; just like everything else she comes in contact with.

    April 6, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  43. Sharon Kitchen

    ah........................the palinsoaphour..................................................

    April 6, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  44. Pastiche

    Ah, the Palin Family Chronicles...a gift that keeps on giving! Thank you John McCain for bringing this great regional soap opera to the national stage!

    April 6, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  45. VGal

    I hear nothing but gossip coming from the Palin's. Is this really the type of leader we should have in our country? The governor needs to get her own house in order before she attempts to run the country.

    April 6, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  46. capnmike

    These people, all of them, are nothing but ignorant trailer-trash, and do not deserve the kind of media coverage they are getting...They belong on Jerry Springer, not in the national news.

    April 6, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  47. oh boy...

    There was nothing exploiting about this interview at all. Every story has two sides. You don't see their family on the news every hour trying to make a buck. Tyra even explained that they were not being paid for the interview. He seemed very genuine and hurt by not being able to see his son. He seemed more authentic than anyone in the Palin family. They need to let him see his son more often and stay out of national politics.

    April 6, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  48. nw

    wwho really cares about either family . the palin and the johnson families need to stop seeking attention and do what is best for the baby.

    April 6, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  49. Tim

    It's impossible to know who to believe. A young kid who seems to be seeking a forum to make some money and lash out or a politician who wants to control the whole situation with their own spin.

    April 6, 2009 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  50. slkwly

    Oh yeah...now the truth comes out....and to think, people actually voted for this lady. Jerry Springer could host this family on his show. The final laugh, quite hilarious, is the previous statement where this Palin spokesperson said that Bristol, will "continue to finish school, raise her child and 'promote abstinence' "-gotta love that.....

    April 6, 2009 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  51. I respect my President & as a citizen, you should too!

    HA! Classic example of hypocracy. Ms. Palin should understand that no life is perfect in black and white. There are minor things here and there that occur in people's lives that cause certain decisions to be made and not based on cookie cutter rules. Keep this in mind while you're out rallying to snatch away abortion and marriage rights from the citizens. Look at what your own family has become. I thought the morals and principles you bestow on your family and the nation were meant to keep life "perfect?"

    April 6, 2009 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  52. Kevin in Ohio

    Ah, another Sarah Palin story...... the liberals must really be concerned about her winning in 2012 to keep the embers of left-wing bias burning...........

    April 6, 2009 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  53. Beverly

    It's amazing that "ALL OF SUDDEN" the young man, that fathered and obviously SLEPT with her daughter has been labeled as trying to QUEST for FAME........Did you not create this ATMOSPHERE. unfortunately, as a mother of a teen age daughter the same age as Bristol, I truly believe him.

    April 6, 2009 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  54. Sammy

    Not that any of this is important but obviously there are several private things in the background going on. Perhaps it should remain that way. However if in the future Sarah uses her powers as governor to battle any potential custody dispute then that is news.

    April 6, 2009 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  55. I respect my President & as a citizen, you should too!

    But as you can see, even some things are beyond government rules' attempt at control.

    April 6, 2009 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  56. Ted

    Will these redneck Alaskan ignoramuses just go away? Who cares about Palin or any of her family or extended family? These people are idiots and we have John McCain to thank for bringing them out of their redneck doublewides in Alaska.

    April 6, 2009 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  57. myview

    Hey, hellooooO Palin, you are the one that thrust this young man into the spotlight ! Now because of that, he has every right to also speak out just as is Bristiol ! and none of us "know" the true story, for sure we wont get it from Palin ! his story just might BE the truth !

    April 6, 2009 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  58. M

    and after all this mess he still said he would vote for Palin for President...LOL.........

    April 6, 2009 02:10 pm at 2:10 pm |
  59. Waller, Texas

    Thank God this version of "The Jerry Springer Show" did not make it to the White House. I believe that young man, like so many other teen fathers, had no intention of marrying Bristol Palin. To place those children in the national spotlight under all that scrunity was not wise on Sarah Palin's part. Just as many other American mothers do daily, you place your family and children ahead of your personal ambitions. Sarah Palin, please apply biblical knowledge....go home and take care of your family. That is your first priority ahead of your job. For everything there is a season.

    I am a professional woman with a Masters degree. I placed my home first. As my children were older, I was able to advance my career. You can have it all, just not all at the same time.

    April 6, 2009 02:10 pm at 2:10 pm |
  60. Homer

    I would beleive the Johnston boy before I would beleive anything that the Palins say. Once a liar always a liar.

    April 6, 2009 02:10 pm at 2:10 pm |
  61. Mike

    Can you believe this -

    "We're disappointed that Levi and his family, in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion of their relationship,"

    I would say he simply took a note out of old Sarah's play book! What exactly has she been doing, not only during the presidential campain, but since! Ya know – just to keep her name in the papers she doesn't
    read.

    April 6, 2009 02:10 pm at 2:10 pm |
  62. Arthur

    Will the Palin saga/mystery.whining/complaining ever reach an end? Enough already. No one cares, Palin and her antics are getting really old, and extremely boring.

    I thank God everyday she was never our vice president. Heaven forbid. And those that still want her as president in 2012? What are you thinking?

    April 6, 2009 02:11 pm at 2:11 pm |
  63. bill

    HA....HA! Palin accusing Johnson..of seeking fame,fortune and exploiting others for the spotlight is a HUGE laugh in itelf. Palin is just pee o'd cuz someone else has came forward to show her true colours. I suppose the alaskan police are falsing accusing Todd's sister of B&E too~...Palin was a joke when she was picked as VP....she's an even bigger joke now and been exposed as a farce ever since~

    April 6, 2009 02:11 pm at 2:11 pm |
  64. skeeve

    "We're disappointed that Levi and his family, in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion"

    Now... replace Levi to Palin and... wow... everything fits just perfectly

    April 6, 2009 02:11 pm at 2:11 pm |
  65. Ryan

    The spokesperson said" The governor and Todd would have never allowed that." Why??? They are having a baby together and were supposed to be getting married at the time.

    Why won't Palin just go away?

    April 6, 2009 02:12 pm at 2:12 pm |
  66. Beth

    Palin's people release a "statement"...and yet strangely enough, I totally believe Levi.

    April 6, 2009 02:12 pm at 2:12 pm |
  67. NYCDoc

    Uhmm, who cares if he was sharing a room with Bristol? She was already pregnant. Cats out the bag, we all know they are intimate with each other. No point in stoping it when she's pregnant (in fact, it's the safest time to have sex). I don't understand why Palin or anyone else would go about denying this. It's just silly.

    April 6, 2009 02:12 pm at 2:12 pm |
  68. MORE SKELETONS FOR SARA

    I wonder if those are the clothes the RNC paid for, he looks handsome. I truly believe he was allowed to live in the Palin home. It is Sara's fault, she put the two of them in the MEDIA SPOTLIGHT!

    April 6, 2009 02:12 pm at 2:12 pm |
  69. Indiana

    How dare someone close to Palin lie or embelish to gain fame. That's her job! Laughable! These people need to go on Jerry Springer and have it out once and for all. Please dear GOD.... Just save some face and fade away already. All of you!

    April 6, 2009 02:12 pm at 2:12 pm |
  70. K in Oregon

    "Do you really think the governor and Todd would have allowed that," Stapleton said in an e-mail.

    *************
    Heavans NO!! Do you know what could happen if a young man and woman were allowed to be alone together in a bedroom? Oh......wait.

    April 6, 2009 02:13 pm at 2:13 pm |
  71. briana

    Seriously? Who cares if they lived together and shared a bed! She was already pregnant - what was the worst that could happen at that point??? I love it when Palin gets all "holier than thou" when it is abundantly clear that she's no more perfect than anyone else.

    April 6, 2009 02:13 pm at 2:13 pm |
  72. Paul

    "in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration"

    Someone owes America a new irony meter.

    April 6, 2009 02:13 pm at 2:13 pm |
  73. pat C.

    oh sarah is jealous! she thinks she is the only one intitled to fame, fortune,attention and flat out lieing. what a hoot. sarah ...you are the pot calling the kettle black!
    get over your ignorant self.

    April 6, 2009 02:13 pm at 2:13 pm |
  74. Tim

    Criticize him and his family all you want for (probably) taking money for talk-show appearances, but why would he lie about this? Who benefits from that?

    April 6, 2009 02:13 pm at 2:13 pm |
  75. ML

    What is regrettable is that Palin put so much into a response, All she had to say, if anything, is that he did not live with them, and that she was disappointed in Levi's interview. Me thinketh someone doth protesteth too much..............
    Seems like whether or not he lived there could be verified. But then again, who cares? Bristol was already pregnant (and was supposedly going to marry Levi)-.so, as Juno would say: "What Other Shenanigans Could they get Into?

    Looks like Bristol, Levi and this baby are going to be a victim of politics. All this is manueverings around custody and visitation of this child-on both sides. Palin holds all the power. Hopefully she won't use it to cut the young father out of the life of his son.

    April 6, 2009 02:14 pm at 2:14 pm |
  76. probama in paradise

    Methinks the lady doth protest too much–why would he make up staying in the same room with Bristol?

    April 6, 2009 02:15 pm at 2:15 pm |
  77. Paul I

    Right out of the Palin campaign book – "... a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion..."

    April 6, 2009 02:15 pm at 2:15 pm |
  78. Jam

    Sarah Palin is using her spokesperson to hit back at her daughter's ex-boyfriend and his family? I congratulate her on embracing her status as a burned out celebrity. She has found her true calling.

    April 6, 2009 02:15 pm at 2:15 pm |
  79. marlene

    How sad to kiss and tell...so immature...thank God they didnt get married

    April 6, 2009 02:15 pm at 2:15 pm |
  80. t.lynn

    Dear Palin Camp,
    Nobody cares. Sarah, enjoy being a granny and Bristol, enjoy being a new mommy. NEXT!!!

    April 6, 2009 02:15 pm at 2:15 pm |
  81. Jackie in Dallas

    So it was OK for Governor Palin to make political hay out of her daughter's pregnancy, but not OK for the father of the child to benefit? I don't know about lies, etc., but it seems that Bristol has been kept under tight wraps now that she is an unwed mother with no prospects of marriage.

    Levi, you are lucky....

    April 6, 2009 02:16 pm at 2:16 pm |
  82. Filp

    "Levi has never lived under the same roof as Bristol or any of the Palins," Palin spokeswoman Meghan Stapleton told CNN.

    Isn't that the whole problem here? If Palin paid any attention to her own family perhaps this would never have become an issue. She dug her own ditch and now she's got to deal with it. Also, since she was the one who was carting him onto stage at the RNC convention she's got to take responsibility for the damage she did to herself. Palin needs to recognize it's not the media that's problem - it's her parenting skills that need saving. Perhaps she can talk to her witch-doctor about it.

    April 6, 2009 02:16 pm at 2:16 pm |
  83. ReasonedTraveler

    Let's see...who am I more likely to believe? A kid who tells his side of the story without once saying anything negative about his ex-fiancee or her family or the press spokesperson for that family who responds by attacking the kid? Let me think about that for a bit...

    April 6, 2009 02:16 pm at 2:16 pm |
  84. Adam

    I am amazed that Sarah Palin would even comment on his interview. Her comments just cause a larger separation between them. It has been ok for Bristol and Sarah to comment but not Levi. Even during the last election Sarah Palin would not let anyone comment in the family. I just wonder what this woman is hiding. She doesn't want the real truth to be known. Again, when you have trailer trash upbringing, what can you expect.

    April 6, 2009 02:16 pm at 2:16 pm |
  85. SHARON-MN

    S.Palin herself thrust these children into the spot light. He has every right to defend his character. I think the Palin's should be ashamed of themselves. I pray for the child. And for Levi. The Palin's have shown their teeth to the public in a very nasty snarl. I hope the Palin's will soon fade from the light. I quite frankly am tired of them.

    April 6, 2009 02:17 pm at 2:17 pm |
  86. Dale

    What a stupid comment made in reference to the two sharing a room together:

    "Do you really think the governor and Todd would have allowed that,"

    She allowed the circumstances that caused her 17 year old daughter to get pregnant.

    April 6, 2009 02:17 pm at 2:17 pm |
  87. Don in Boca Raton Florida

    It's amazing how fast they turn on each other. Wasn't this guy the Golden Boy who was going to be an electrician (without the high school diploma) and marry Bristol....

    but then his mom got caught doing, making, and distributing meth....

    then we didn't hear anytjthing else about the high school dropout Maveric Junior's great future plans together....

    now he's being denounced.... What a world.... what a world

    April 6, 2009 02:17 pm at 2:17 pm |
  88. Voter

    Apparently the Governor and Todd "allowed" a lot of things – why would this be any different??

    April 6, 2009 02:17 pm at 2:17 pm |
  89. Anonymous

    I tend to believe the young man – don't have much faith in Gov. Palin!

    April 6, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  90. joe

    Well they allowed them to have sex and get pregnant what is the big deal is they lived together? Compared to having a baby?

    April 6, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  91. Anna

    Sounds to me like the Palins are the ones lying. What would be the point of not allowing them to live under the same roof and share a room if they were engaged and expecting a baby? Come on, she's already pregnant so what's the worst that could happen?

    Sarah is just trying to protect her uber-conservative image so the Repubs like her.

    April 6, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  92. Peggy - TX

    The young man sound credible. He is telling it the way it is. Palin on the other hand is not credible by saying that young man that she used to parade around with her on the political stump is now lying about her, because what he said hurts the public persona she has worked so hard to build.

    One incredulous comment is Palin said Levi has failed to “contribute to the well-being of the child." Does any one really believe that given the two families' financial situations that her grandchild is lacking because Levi is not proving money. She should be careful, because if Levi does start providing child support, then her daughter could gain independence from her; something I do not think Palin is looking forward to.

    April 6, 2009 02:19 pm at 2:19 pm |
  93. No More Palin

    Can we please move on from the Palin's. They have been nothing but a media sore since McCain picked them up. Even McCain has let it go. They have their own personal problems to deal with and the media is doing whatever they can to keep them in the News. Seriously, we have more issue to deal with than covering the Palin's. The election is over. She is a non-issue. She's just firing shots into the air to keep her name in the media. This is the type of media madness that makes our Country look childish. If you ignore her, then she will go away. I don't want to ever hear her name again. GOP's mistake and we all know that now. Let it go.

    April 6, 2009 02:20 pm at 2:20 pm |
  94. Timus, Powder Springs, GA

    It's good that Levi got out while he could. Those hypocritical Palins would have had him knocked off if he had hung around!!

    April 6, 2009 02:21 pm at 2:21 pm |
  95. Chris ~ Albany, NY

    Actually that quote should have been read like this. "We're disappointed that Sarah and her family, in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion" Well that's the Palins for ya.

    April 6, 2009 02:21 pm at 2:21 pm |
  96. Steph

    Levi looked really composed and mature for his age, and so i do not think he was lying. I watched the Tyra show, and i feel in love with his family. They seem nice, and i hope the Palins allows Tripp to visit his daddy's family more. Did they share a room in the house? Oh yes they did. I just think Palin is kind of ashamed now that the truth is out. Levi needs to be in that child's life whether the Palins want it or not. If not i think Levi and his family should sue.

    April 6, 2009 02:21 pm at 2:21 pm |
  97. holierthanthou

    "Do you really think the governor and Todd would have allowed that," Stapleton said in an e-mail.

    Of course they wouldn't have allowed it. It would have taken the spotlight off of them for two seconds, and miss Sarah won't have any of that.

    April 6, 2009 02:21 pm at 2:21 pm |
  98. Helena

    Another lie from the Palin camp. Just where do you think Levi was sleeping while on the campaign trail. Do you really think he had his own room? I believe him when he said they shared a room. Of course the Palins knew it.

    April 6, 2009 02:21 pm at 2:21 pm |
  99. Takeshi

    oh wow. This is going to be a ROAST. they are going to destroy him.

    April 6, 2009 02:21 pm at 2:21 pm |
  100. Minnesotan

    Did anyone truly think this relationship was going to end up in marriage? Even conservatives knew it was a snowballs chance in hell and yet went with the talking point and even tried to make it sound all romantic. Of course none of them will have to be called on what they did. Ugh! It is so frustrating to see how many ignorant fools are out there that just don't get what is being done to them. Its all for show with the GOP... everything down to their new RNC head who claims he's for the blacks.

    April 6, 2009 02:22 pm at 2:22 pm |
  101. Samantha

    When you have you teen age daughter living in your house with her boyfriend you know they are having sex. The reason Palin rep made a statement is because they know this child is telling the truth.

    April 6, 2009 02:22 pm at 2:22 pm |
  102. jake

    what happened to Sarah's family values? they used this poor kid when it was convenient, and pushed him aside when it wasn't. the entire Palin family should be ashamed of themselves!

    April 6, 2009 02:22 pm at 2:22 pm |
  103. LAVERNE

    Is anyone surprised about this outcome? I'm surely not. This was a train wreck from day one. The marriage joke was just to get Sarah through the election.We placed bets in this office on how long that engagement would last. It serves them all right for thinking that we were stupid enough to fall for a wedding EVER taking place. Not that it matters though because they wouldn't have lasted but a few months if the wedding had taken place. Babies making and having babies is always a disaster. That's why it makes sense to allow teens to use birth control. Get out of lala land people and face the reality that teens are having sex. Teach them how, and then provide the means to protect themselves from pregnancy and disease. Abstinence is wishful thinking and nothing more.

    April 6, 2009 02:23 pm at 2:23 pm |
  104. GAK

    Who cares?? IF the Palin would acknowledge that their daughter is having a child out of wedlock,and admit they pressured Levi to do the "right thing" this would not be a media issue. But as long as Palin or her staff keep putting their foot in their mouth,it will.. And she was going to be the savior of the conservative Repubs!!!!!

    April 6, 2009 02:23 pm at 2:23 pm |
  105. in the middle

    So this guy made up everything! Why go on the defensive? Look I wish the baby well along with the mother and father, but Sara needs to stay out of it if she is not going to be positive. The child needs both parents not just the Palin's. I hope good comes out of this and people understand that Sara is not who she pretends to be.

    April 6, 2009 02:23 pm at 2:23 pm |
  106. aware of nothing

    Wow. Screw the presidency, this could be a hit show- As Wasilla turns anyone....

    April 6, 2009 02:24 pm at 2:24 pm |
  107. freed_from_w

    But Mrs. Palin, is this not the same "media bias" that took on those "unprecendented" attacks on your family?!?!

    April 6, 2009 02:25 pm at 2:25 pm |
  108. Greg

    It's laughable that the Palin camp is accusing Johnston of seeking fame. Palin and crew are at the top of the list when it comes to fame seeking. And what reason would he have to lie about where and how he was living? The Sarah Palin has no clothes. They can't stick to their own "moral" principles that they'd love to see imposed on the rest of us and will deny it just to appease the religious right. They're liars like so many that attempt to cover up unrealistic expectations. So the kids shacked up for bit. Big deal. Get over it.

    April 6, 2009 02:25 pm at 2:25 pm |
  109. Rich

    Golly, things were sure different when the Palin camp scrubbed him up and put him in a new suit for the Republican convention...

    April 6, 2009 02:26 pm at 2:26 pm |
  110. Kris

    The best thing that could happen to Levi is for a complete separation from the Palin family all together. Sarah Palin is a total hack and a nut case and she had no business even thinking that she would qualify for the position of Vice President. Furthermore, if Mc Cain had won the Presidency, can you imagine what we would be stuck with if something tragic were to happen to Mc Cain and Sara Palin ended up in the oval office?

    April 6, 2009 02:26 pm at 2:26 pm |
  111. Farrell, Houston, Tx

    I'm glad Levi is speaking up for himself instead of letting the Palin's sweep him under the rug like he's a piece of dirt. Sarah Palin herself introduced him to the public as her pregnant daughters fiance for political reasons and now they are attempting to keep the baby away from him, if in fact it is his baby. To use Levi and the baby for political gain is totally disgusting of the Palins and proves exactly what kind of people they really are. Keep talking Levi and let them threaten to sue you which they won't.

    April 6, 2009 02:26 pm at 2:26 pm |
  112. Bill

    The nut house is unraveling. The Governor exploited her family for political gain, and now we see it was all public relations nonsense. Why do Republicans love to be lied to and exploited by the "family-values" crowd? It is always a sham.

    April 6, 2009 02:26 pm at 2:26 pm |
  113. NYC REPUB

    The Palin's have more drama than a little bit.... I really don't share any judgement but my previous statement....... It says it all..... President, 2012? I don't think so.

    April 6, 2009 02:26 pm at 2:26 pm |
  114. Chad

    Confirm most of our thoughts that Bristol and Levi were just two dumb kids who fooled around and wound up in a mess. It is too bad that the ADULTS in this situation made the kids stay together and appear to be on the way to a wedding for political gain!

    April 6, 2009 02:27 pm at 2:27 pm |
  115. Mike

    I am disappointed that Palin contiues to use her family, in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, is engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion. And agree that It is unfortunate that Palin finds it more appealing to exploit anything and anyone (including her family) to try and get in the news (get attention from anyone that will listen) than to contribute to the well-being of the child (or the rest of her family.

    April 6, 2009 02:27 pm at 2:27 pm |
  116. bond

    Ahhh the Palin soap opera... the gift that keeps on giving...

    April 6, 2009 02:27 pm at 2:27 pm |
  117. Bryan

    "We're disappointed that Levi and his family, in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion of their relationship," .... "It is unfortunate that Levi finds it more appealing to exploit his previous relationship with Bristol than to contribute to the well-being of the child."

    You mean, as opposed to the Palin Family exploiting Levi for "fame, attention, and political expediency."?

    April 6, 2009 02:28 pm at 2:28 pm |
  118. KJ, CA

    I see a pattern developing – everytime that someone says something about the Palin clan that person is the one lying... hum.........

    April 6, 2009 02:29 pm at 2:29 pm |
  119. Kat

    It seems that Levi is stereotypically a man without integrity. He is man enough to get the girl pregnant but is too much of a coward to stand behind his actions. Levi's parents seem pretty scummy too. At least we know where Levi got his lack of integrity. Let's hope that Bristol attaches Levi's exploitation money for child support.

    April 6, 2009 02:29 pm at 2:29 pm |
  120. T'SAH from Virginia

    The PALINs drove a "free-style" boy into a world of "make-believe" when they thought it was necessary to fullful their fantasy!!! The PALINS lied about the marriage; they lied about the LOVE; they lied about how much of a great kid Levi was when they knew he was "ordinary" and they lied to themselves when they thought they were MORE LAVISH than the Johnstons.

    They are all "hillbillys" and the PALINs are NO better than the JOHNSTONs. It's just that one hillbilly decided she was qualified to run for Vice President of the USA and tried to DRAG all of the other hillbillies with her – thinking it would make a difference!!!! NOT!!!

    April 6, 2009 02:29 pm at 2:29 pm |
  121. Bob Sorelli

    Tyra Banks got just what she paid for: Levi stirred up mud for the Palin family. You should be ashamed of yourself, Tyra Banks. Think ahead to what the little child will be faced with. And, you, Levi, you should just keep quiet, thinking ahead to what your son will be faced with publicly.

    April 6, 2009 02:29 pm at 2:29 pm |
  122. Bill Williams

    "We're disappointed that Levi and his family, in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion of their relationship," Stapleton said. "It is unfortunate that Levi finds it more appealing to exploit his previous relationship with Bristol than to contribute to the well-being of the child."

    HAHAHAHA.

    That is the true definition of a Pot Calling the Kettle Black.

    April 6, 2009 02:29 pm at 2:29 pm |
  123. dbacchus

    ...in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration... – But THAT sounds familiar, doesn't it? Where would he learn this from?

    April 6, 2009 02:29 pm at 2:29 pm |
  124. Richard L

    "engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion"

    No wonder he was welcomed by the Palin family.

    April 6, 2009 02:30 pm at 2:30 pm |
  125. CW

    It was clear to me that this young man has no desire for celebrity status but has been thrust into the limelight by an unfortunate relationship. He was soft spoken and uncomfortable in discussing intimate details of his relationship with the Palin family and his son. It was apparent that he didn't want to "dish dirt" but instead simply wanted to set the record straight. Both Bristol Palin and her mother have talked with their chosen media outlet, talking freely about their feelings. Isn't it only fair to expect Levi to do the same? And if Sarah Palin is not happy about it then she need only look as far as the nearest mirror to find the person who is responsible.

    April 6, 2009 02:30 pm at 2:30 pm |
  126. Cruzan Obama Mama

    I believe Levi Johnston. I think that he has been railroaded by Palin and her ambitions. We all know that, that woman would of given anything to be in the White House, even if she is not qualified or prepared to be there. Imagine how other countries would of viewed the US with this kind of drama unfolding if they were elected. This is disgusting.

    That woman put both of these kids (Levi & Bristol) in the forefront and then wanted privacy when it did not go her way. She is a horrible mother in my opinion. Why open up your family to this kind of scutiny just to advance your ridiculous career. If I was put in her shoes and offered the nomination when I know that I have a grandchild on the way, son (who is a high school drop-out) going off to war, a brand new down syndrome baby, & other kids to tend to...then I would of turned down the nomination that would taken me away from home. She was willing to ignore the needs of her family, but used them as human props to appeal to women voters. I wish she would realize how many working mothers she appalled....myself included.

    April 6, 2009 02:30 pm at 2:30 pm |
  127. Matilda

    Do you really think the governor and Todd would have allowed that? Umm, yes. Why would he lie about that?? Palin is a person who has certain beliefs to get elected but doesnt practice what she preaches at home......I would love to see the TV ad during her re-election bid :)

    April 6, 2009 02:30 pm at 2:30 pm |
  128. Beverly, NYC

    Johnston said, adding the two were allowed to share a room.

    "Do you really think the governor and Todd would have allowed that," Stapleton said .

    Hmmm YES I believe the Governor and her husband would allow the "enganged" kids to move in together. Before the baby's birth, they were going with the myth of planning a spring/summer wedding. The Palins are spinning because Levi didn't sell the story to FOX.

    April 6, 2009 02:30 pm at 2:30 pm |
  129. Gary of El Centro, Ca

    So it turns out this fine young man that the McCain/Palin campaign put on stage for all Americans to embrace is actually a liar and a low life. Gosh, who knew? Never would have guessed such a thing. I mean, the McCain/Palin campaign was the "Straight talk express" wasn't it? And don't they belong to the party of family values? I'm confused.....

    April 6, 2009 02:31 pm at 2:31 pm |
  130. Robert H.

    I'm really tired ot the soap opera that is Sarah Palin and the rest of her ilk being paraded as legitilate news. This is more suited for Jerry Springer or better yet, Tyra Banks. Oh, wait – never mind.

    April 6, 2009 02:31 pm at 2:31 pm |
  131. Gary in Oklahoma

    I admire the Palins a great deal.

    However, instead of attacking Mr. Johnson or his version of the circumstances, I hope that in the future they will limit their responses to only the facts, if at all.

    The characterization of Mr. Johnson as a "liar", only plays to the hand of exploiters and it seems to me beneath the Palins.

    April 6, 2009 02:32 pm at 2:32 pm |
  132. Sirnose

    God forbid it be reveled that Sarah Palin did something that runs counter to her image as a die hard christian conservative.

    Why is it hard to believe that Palin would have allowed Levi to move in once he impregnated her daughter after all the deed has been done.

    April 6, 2009 02:32 pm at 2:32 pm |
  133. John Urquhart

    Levi is using this "in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune"???!!! What is Sarah's excuse for still trying to stay in the spotlight?

    April 6, 2009 02:32 pm at 2:32 pm |
  134. mary

    Even if he were alowed to stay , thats not bad. After all they have a child together. Also if he seeks fame there is nothing wrong with that, he does have to pay for this child some kind of way. The Palin family is only worried about her political futrue in the white house which is never going to happen as long as i'm voluntering and woriking for the good of America.

    April 6, 2009 02:32 pm at 2:32 pm |
  135. Anonymous

    I think it is unfortunate that the Gov. chose to exploit her daughter and her daughter's pregnancy in a search for public office and her own fame and wealth.

    April 6, 2009 02:33 pm at 2:33 pm |
  136. Carlos

    If this is not hypocrisy, I don't know what is !!!

    "We're disappointed that Levi and his family, in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion of their relationship," Stapleton said. "It is unfortunate that Levi finds it more appealing to exploit his previous relationship with Bristol than to contribute to the well-being of the child."

    April 6, 2009 02:33 pm at 2:33 pm |
  137. AJ

    I thought Palin said her office doesn't comment on her children or their personal lives, REALLY? Another lie from Palin. That's interesting. They all deserve each other.

    April 6, 2009 02:33 pm at 2:33 pm |
  138. J S Ragman

    Let me make sure I have this straight. (1) teenage, out of wedlock pregnancy (2) the baby has a grandmother that was arrested for dealing meth (3) baby's aunt was arrested this past weekend on felony burglary charges (4) both of baby's parents are high school drop-outs. Would someone out there please remind me if I have forgotten anything? Now, my question is this: What if this was going on in Obama's family? What would all of the self-righteous right wing kooks be spewing? These folks would have made a very fine example of the second family.

    April 6, 2009 02:35 pm at 2:35 pm |
  139. Darla (Edmonton, Canada)

    Oh, God ... will the train wreck that is Sarah Palin and all the other little Palins never end?

    April 6, 2009 02:35 pm at 2:35 pm |
  140. bill

    Yep. I'm sure that they were not allowed to sleep under the same roof, or even share the same bed ...... "the immaculate conception."

    The Palin family will do anything to keep their image clean because Sarah thinks that she might get the Republican nomination for 2012.

    April 6, 2009 02:38 pm at 2:38 pm |
  141. Danny

    Whooo-eee, boy am I glad we didn't elect this woman. Everyone has their problems, but the last thing we need right now is a vice-president mired down in endless family legal issues. It would have been a four-year long episode of "Jerry Springer."

    April 6, 2009 02:38 pm at 2:38 pm |
  142. John in Binghamton

    Why is Palin using the full force of the media to crush some pot head kid? You just can't ignore him? You would think she would learn by now that you keep the story going and draw attention to it by making comments like this. I didn't hear about this until Palin and her daughter started doing the media rounds.

    April 6, 2009 02:39 pm at 2:39 pm |
  143. Craig Simpson

    I can't believe anything that the Palins say. There are so many questions about the governor's character and her total lack of credibility that have been raised that I feel sorry for the people in Alaska who have to live with her.

    April 6, 2009 02:39 pm at 2:39 pm |
  144. tammy

    Why is Sarah Palin and the goings on around her still considered to be newsworthy? Who cares.

    With everything that is going on around us in the USA and the world there has to be something more newsworthy than this.

    April 6, 2009 02:39 pm at 2:39 pm |
  145. Appalled at Palin

    Once again, Sarah Palin shows she would spite a family member, or even the father of her grandchild, if she felt that they were disagreeing with, or standing in the way of, the shallow conservative altruistic picture that Sarah Palin wants to paint of herself......i.e. her family has no crises, her family has no problems, her family is perfect......or YOU are a liar.
    I APPLAUD Levi for standing up to this hypocrisy....look soon for Bristol and Levi to be on Meghan McCain's website.......if Bristol's Mom will allow it!

    April 6, 2009 02:40 pm at 2:40 pm |
  146. Illini

    Hey Bristol - Good Riddance to him!!!!

    Just keep taking care of your beautiful baby and don't listen to all the negative, judgmental jerks in the "press" and elsewhere.

    You have a family that obviously loves you - that makes other people jealous.

    April 6, 2009 02:40 pm at 2:40 pm |
  147. Jared

    Levi's quest for fifteen minutes of fame is no less embarrassing than Palin's...except that her fifteen minutes ended several months ago and everyone but her seems to realize it.

    April 6, 2009 02:40 pm at 2:40 pm |
  148. Progressive in Cereal City

    I'm sooo not a Sarah Palin fan, but the way she keeps the drama around her...makes me feel sorry and humiliated for her, even though it's her own fault.

    April 6, 2009 02:40 pm at 2:40 pm |
  149. RB

    The Palin house of "moral righteousness " comes tumbling down. Speak the truth Levi and you shall be set free. But, I'd certainly not go back to Alaska now, there might be an arrest warrant out on you now.

    April 6, 2009 02:40 pm at 2:40 pm |
  150. tammy

    Poor young man. I hope he knew what he would be getting into by going public about the Palins and is prepared for the backlash from them. I imagine he is telling the truth – what motivation would he have to do otherwise – unlike his "in-laws"; can hardly wait for the full reaction..........!

    Hope he gets joiny custody of the child also.......

    April 6, 2009 02:40 pm at 2:40 pm |
  151. Sniffit

    Wow...if I was a probate attorney in Alaska I'd be drooling over the chance to get myself hired for the upcoming child custody battle for which each side is obviously trying to position itself. Thankfully, I'm not.

    April 6, 2009 02:41 pm at 2:41 pm |
  152. Matthew

    Wow – I wonder if they consider the fact they aren't winners if they make Levi look badly. He's still the child's father and will always have a connection to that family. Leave him alone – don't publicly respond to things like that.

    April 6, 2009 02:41 pm at 2:41 pm |
  153. John

    This kid was thrown in the spotlight by the Palin's to further Sarah's political aspirations. They were absolutely shameless in the way they put him out there. He did not look for this notoriety, but since he has been made a public character, he might as well make hay.

    April 6, 2009 02:41 pm at 2:41 pm |
  154. branbeth

    The Palins are to blame for this young man having to go pulbic with his side of the story. They should not have made such a big deal out of this story. I am sure the Plains did a fine job of parenting we all know parents can not perdict their childrens future. I also blame the Repubican party for not vetting the Palins. Now we have a child w/o a father and the Governor performing damage of image control. Now that the young man has had his say, leave him and the Palins alone so he can raise his child w/o scrutiny.

    April 6, 2009 02:41 pm at 2:41 pm |
  155. Ed from PA

    Disgusting. There's no reason to attack a child who's what, not even 21?

    If there is still anyone who is not terrified of the fact that Sarah Palin was almost the Vice President of the United States... She's using her bully pulpit to attack her daughter's ex-boyfriend – the father of her grandchild!

    April 6, 2009 02:41 pm at 2:41 pm |
  156. Michael Munro

    Heavens to Betsy! It's one thing to exploit your pregnant teenage daughter for political gain, but to allow her to live in sin under the same roof as her own fiancée would be simply unconscionable. God bless you, Sarah, for preserving the dignity of your unwed child and her illegitimate spawn. Yours is a heavy cross to bear.

    April 6, 2009 02:41 pm at 2:41 pm |
  157. Jim in San Jose

    Could you imagine having Sarah Palin as a mother-in-law? That's a fate worth than death, or at least something close to it.

    April 6, 2009 02:41 pm at 2:41 pm |
  158. Just another American

    Just sad....
    In the end, the child suffers....
    Just for political appearances....................................

    April 6, 2009 02:42 pm at 2:42 pm |
  159. Derrick

    Sarah Palin has gotten in way over her head. I don't believe her or anyone such as her spokesperson. What reason would Levi have to lie? Mrs. Palin, you claimed that the media attacked you unfairly but you keep giving them reason to down you. Everything coming your way is on you. Take responsibility for your actions and maybe you will get more respect from the American public.

    April 6, 2009 02:42 pm at 2:42 pm |
  160. Lonnie in MI

    "We're disappointed that Levi and his family, in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion of their relationship," Stapleton said. "It is unfortunate that Levi finds it more appealing to exploit his previous relationship with Bristol than to contribute to the well-being of the child."

    Really? His quest for fame? How about Sarah Palin's quest for fame that threw her entire family in the spotlight. It is unfortunate that Sarah Palin found it more appealing to to pursue the Vice Presidency that she was grossly unqualified for instead of thinking about the damage it would do to her family but making them publicly live this charade. WHAT A JOKE...I hope Sarah Palin's political career is over. Best of luck to both Bristol and Levi in dealing with this mess.

    April 6, 2009 02:43 pm at 2:43 pm |
  161. Dan

    This is sooooooooo funny! I told you guys, that Palin was a schemer? She loves the spot light but seems to blame everyone else when the truth surface. First of all, why was she allowing them to sleep in the same room together, guess he was there babysitting while she was out pursuing Bill Kristol to talk to the McCain camp to choose her for VP. Y

    You can’t even begin to make this stuff up. Yeah, I hope she does run for President in 2012…I surely miss the Laughs. Levi, you better watch out because remember what happen to the ex brother in -law – Sarah is very Vindictive and quite a show girl. She was running for VP when she really needed to sit on a couch with Dr. Phil or better yet.he chair on the Jerry Springer show. Republicans are these the family values that you guys talk about! If Sarah Palin is the new face of the GOP – You better get ready for another Party...

    April 6, 2009 02:43 pm at 2:43 pm |
  162. David

    So why is it OK for Bristol and Sara to give interviews on FOX but not OK for Levi to talk??
    Because the Palins are hipocrites, everyone can see that. Levis responisbily is to his daughter not Bristol or Sara. Good for him for seeking legal shared custody and placement. He does not need Sara's or bristols permission to spend time with his own daughter.

    April 6, 2009 02:43 pm at 2:43 pm |
  163. Joann

    Why is it our business to know whether Gov. Palin knew her teen daughter was sexually active. Most teens today are so what is the big deal? Now they decided not to get married which is a good thing given their age, he wants to play it for all he can, and you, the media are letting him. Leave people's personal life personal.

    April 6, 2009 02:43 pm at 2:43 pm |
  164. eileen

    Do you really think the governor and Todd would have allowed that?....at that point it wouldn't have mattered. It's like closing the barn door after the horse has gotten out. Listen, neither family is what you would call the nuclear family. His mother gets arrested for drugs, her aunt gets arrested for burglary, not one but two, and brings her 4 year old along as company! I'm sure that if you took a "skeleton count" we would be shocked at the rest of the things still to come about this particular group to sterling individuals.

    Sarah, Levi & the rest of the group....sit down, shut up, and stay the he!! out of the news. You're the ones bringing attention to yourselves. We, in the lower 48, were perfectly happy not knowing you existed

    April 6, 2009 02:44 pm at 2:44 pm |
  165. Lisa, Saugus MA

    I don't think this young man is thinking of his son by going on television and making himself and the mother of his son look bad.

    If he did stay at the governor's home after the birth of the baby that would be understandable but I highly doubt any mother and father would have allowed him to sleep in the same room with their daughter. After all, that is what got them in the mess in the first place isn't it?

    I think Bristol needs to set the record straight on this one and his quest to seek the limelight needs to be quickly dimmed.

    April 6, 2009 02:44 pm at 2:44 pm |
  166. Ann

    Go with your life Bristol. Forget this loser.

    April 6, 2009 02:45 pm at 2:45 pm |
  167. Linda

    It was unfortunate that Governor Palin who knew her unwed daughter was pregnant before the nomination to V.P. chose to accept. The very young couple's poor choice to not practice safe sex was bound to lead to problems. In my opinion, more problems were created in their relationship with each other and with the family with the national spotlight on them than had they left it alone. I don't know who is telling the truth and quite frankly I don't care. The kids are both immature parents. However, I do hope that if Levi does not already have 50% custody, the courts award it to him if he is proven to be a fit father. There are plenty of people capable of making that determination other than Palin's campaign staff, Palin's family or Levi's family.

    April 6, 2009 02:45 pm at 2:45 pm |
  168. Gloria

    Wow, so Levi is not allowed to speak? This is really one for the books. Palin and her camp can put any spin they want on the situation, I believe Levi when he said he and Bristol shared a room. Uh hello people she was already pregnant and isn't she like 18 now. Sarah Palin needs to give it up already, her kid is just like everyone elses and she can preach abstnence and all that other holier than thou stuff, but it no longer washes in Alaska or the rest of the country. Puh-lease *eye roll*

    April 6, 2009 02:45 pm at 2:45 pm |
  169. Moonbeam

    I wonder if he really is a father.
    The Palins certainly needed to produce someone realy quick for political reasons. I also recall that person who announced Levy's fatherhood was his mother, not Bristol or Sarah Palin.
    But what now?
    He clearly not needed politically and he is not quite the right material for Governor's (or more) son in law.

    April 6, 2009 02:45 pm at 2:45 pm |
  170. Terry

    The horse had already left the barn, I'm afraid. If a woman is pregnant by a man, telling them they can't sleep together is kind of silly. It depends on the age, of course. It would apply more to 17 year olds than 13 year olds.

    About 40% of American children are born to an unmarried woman or girl. Those kids are going to have a rough time, since single moms tend to be low income and their education is often terminated by the pregnancy. Half of the marriages will end in divorce. Many of the marriages that don't end in divorce are not good ones.

    The old image of the American family consisting of Dad, Mom, Dick, Jane, and Spot is a fading memory.

    April 6, 2009 02:45 pm at 2:45 pm |
  171. Jim

    How cheesy of all of them (Levi, Sarah, Bristol) to air their dirty laundry in public but I guess the white trash soap opera continues to unfold. Definitely Presidential material – very classy.

    April 6, 2009 02:46 pm at 2:46 pm |
  172. sadtruth

    This is a very sad story because these kids are not being allowed to deal with all of their emotions privately. In the end, because of all of the various social pressures facing them that they have no control over; they will likely spend their lives apart and their children will only suffer for it. The Palin camp will undoubtedly try to absolve themselves from any wrong doing, but in the end, the sad truth is that Sarah Palin is one most responsible for all of this. She is the only person who could have drastically altered the outcome of this situation. Unfortunately she chose to put her own interests before those of these children. Now she has to reap what she has sown.

    April 6, 2009 02:46 pm at 2:46 pm |
  173. John in Binghamton

    I really don't see why Levi would lie about sharing a room with Bristol in Palin house, but I know why Palin would lie. I don't think this pot head kid is smart enough to think of a lie like that. I think it is understandable that they would live together if they are having a baby together and getting married. What is the danger? She will get pregnant??? Too late!!!! Also, I don't think Palin was around too much to even know what was going on. She was too busy calling Obama a terrorist and learning that Africa is not a country.

    April 6, 2009 02:46 pm at 2:46 pm |
  174. cmc Indiana

    Surprise, Surprise, It seems that the Palin family is always defending itself. Is it possible that this boy is telling the truth? Something very wrong with this family. Th trouble with lying is that you always have to remember what the last lie was. If he is lying it will come out, if he isn't that too will come out. Surely there are people in Alaska who know what the real truth is.

    April 6, 2009 02:47 pm at 2:47 pm |
  175. MICHAEL WHITE

    The kid (Levi Johnston) sounds credible. Looks like the Palin's are embarassed about the whole situation and decided to go on the attack as if Levi was a political office candidate. That makes them look less credible.

    April 6, 2009 02:47 pm at 2:47 pm |
  176. eric phx

    i knew when palin said they were going to get married during the campaign it was a crock, and sure enough it was...it seems as if the story about Levi not being able to see the child are in fact true, and the Palins truly detest the Johnson family, im guessing for the mothers arrest for distribution of pain kiillers that caused Palin bad press...which is all she cares about, image, and everything else that goes with her political career rather than whats best for the kid...

    April 6, 2009 02:48 pm at 2:48 pm |
  177. Justmeagain

    Who would care if they shared a room. It's not like they've never slept together before! Yes, I think Todd and the governor would allow that! I mean, why not? She was already pregnant and they were engaged. Also, the baby's father should have 50% custody and his family should be able to see the baby just as much as Sarah's family. After all, Sarah's family is certainly not holier than thou! It seems to me Sarah either loves you or she hates you, there's no in between! Sorry Levi.

    April 6, 2009 02:48 pm at 2:48 pm |
  178. VASS

    "in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion of their relationship," Stapleton said...."

    But thrusting his relationship with Bristol in the spotlight during an election was not a quest for fame? was not distorting their relationship? Oh please. The Palin camp has been ridiculous with this relationship from day one. Now, with no election, they could care less about Levi and what he does.

    April 6, 2009 02:48 pm at 2:48 pm |
  179. boered1

    Another "Everyone else is a liar and it is not my fault" moment from the radical religious right the party of "personal responsibility is what will save America... but do not hold us responsilbe for what we do/say"

    April 6, 2009 02:48 pm at 2:48 pm |
  180. David from Alaska

    Levi – Watch your back. As I'm sure you know, your once-upon-a-time mother-in-law can be viscious.

    April 6, 2009 02:48 pm at 2:48 pm |
  181. Rob Johnson

    The biggest "lie" in this whole sorry saga was the Palin's insistence that Bristol and Levi were two adults who were ready for marriage, when they were clearly two young kids who made a mistake.

    In the immortal words of Tina Fey, "I believe that marriage is a sacred union between two unwilling teenagers." That is exactly what this sham of a marriage would have been. I'm just glad Bristol and/or Levi came to their senses before they tied the knot and ruined their lives.

    April 6, 2009 02:48 pm at 2:48 pm |
  182. terry maineiac

    Poor Poor Sarah

    everyone lies everyone is against her
    Its all the Liberal Media's fault

    April 6, 2009 02:49 pm at 2:49 pm |
  183. Whackamania

    From the Palin camp: "disappointed that Levi and his family,are in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune."
    Just like Palin....lol. What a mess that whole situation is....and what a mess that campaign was. Historically ridiculous!

    April 6, 2009 02:49 pm at 2:49 pm |
  184. Steve

    Getting into a verbal war with an 18 year old kid!
    How mature Sarah!

    April 6, 2009 02:50 pm at 2:50 pm |
  185. Donna from Colorado Springs

    Of course, Sarah Palin will protect her daughter and call Levi a liar! I believe him over her! I think he was dragged into the spotlight last summer. He never had a chance with those Palin people.

    April 6, 2009 02:52 pm at 2:52 pm |
  186. Jon G.

    Flat out lies, gross exaggeration and distortions in a quest for fame. That's the pot calling the kettle black.

    April 6, 2009 02:52 pm at 2:52 pm |
  187. DaVon

    How did he escape the Palin compound?

    The Palin team wanted to make this guy look like a selfish, deadbeat. But they used him but they needed him WAY MORE than he needed them. He just never looked comfortable with them on the campaign trail. He just wanted to set the record straight.

    April 6, 2009 02:52 pm at 2:52 pm |
  188. nicole

    Sooo, when you accept $300,000 from whichever tabloid mag to publish pictures of your out-of-wedlock-teen-parented baby, you are NOT "in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune"? You ARE contributing to the well-being of that child, but NOT being expolitive?

    Did I read that correctly?

    Regarding if he's lying about sharing a room...who the h*ll cares? The horse has obviously fled the barn already anyway. She was knocked up, they were presumably engaged–what difference would it make if they did or didn't? They obviously were not properly educated about what can happen to two inadequately supervised, horny teenagers.

    April 6, 2009 02:52 pm at 2:52 pm |
  189. Just A Guy

    Years from now I'm sure this baby will grow to have such a huge respect for his parents and grandmother over their very public slinging match of he said/she said. Enough already! Why anyone would care about this stuff is beyond my comprehension. I simply cannot believe that professional journalists think this information is at all newsworthy, and that a Palin spokesperson is actually paid to pass this kind of garbage along to the media.

    Everyone involved should take 5 minutes, pull up your adult pants and start acting responsibly.

    April 6, 2009 02:53 pm at 2:53 pm |
  190. Mike

    Yeah Sarah, he's lying. Now tell us again about how you were against the "Bridge to Nowhere". You know, the one you backed til Congress stopped funding, then you were against it. The same one you kept the money from. Sarah Palin calling anyone a liar just makes whatever they say that much more believable.

    April 6, 2009 02:53 pm at 2:53 pm |
  191. Sarah-Sarah-Dang she's History

    For the umpteenth time! This is not a surprise, this kid was used and Sarah Palin should be ashamed of herself for using her family the way she did. She’s a lair, and I said it doing the Republican Convention. Sure enough the truth came out and it keeps coming! This lady is scary as hell and I’m so happy that this board didn’t make it to the WH – It would have been a disaster for the entire nation. She is not only dumb and very ambitions but very dangerous.

    I know the Alaskan’s are shaking their heads, and believe me – John McCain kicks himself everyday for choosing the idiot. This is not news – this crap needs to be on the Jerry Springer Show at best or the national Enquirer, Globe, People Mag., TMZ... Please stop reporting on this family – we got it she's not fit for the national stage or for that matter shoud not be in Politics period. Cute but dumb as a door knob!

    April 6, 2009 02:54 pm at 2:54 pm |
  192. mary

    "Do you really think Sarah and Todd would have allowed that"... in reference to a "lie" Levi told? For Christ's sake, Levi got the girls pregnant and Sarah and Todd couldn't prevent that. Am I comparing apples and grapes?

    April 6, 2009 02:55 pm at 2:55 pm |
  193. M. O.

    Not letting them live together to care for the infant is a lot like shutting the barn door after the horse is gone.

    April 6, 2009 02:55 pm at 2:55 pm |
  194. Justin

    This is just another indication of how dangerous and insane Sarah Palin is. She will turn on anyone, at any time, for the least perceived slight. I just hope that over time more Americans will realize how serious a threat Palin is to the well being of everyone.

    April 6, 2009 02:55 pm at 2:55 pm |
  195. Cheryl

    Unfortunately, this is turning into a BAD soap opera. It isn't doing Govenor Palin any good. It's like reading the National Enquirer. Based on Johnston's family background (mother charged for drugs), she probably would like this young man to fade into the background. I would if I was Bristol's mom. Apparently the $ are too tempting for him.

    April 6, 2009 02:56 pm at 2:56 pm |
  196. Joe

    Does Gov. Palin really think that she can use her political power to bulldoze Levi? This kid has more smarts that she demonstrated in the campaign. If he said they were living together, I'm pretty sure he's going to be able to back that up with some proof.

    It will be funny to watch how she works her way out of yet another mess that she created for herself.

    April 6, 2009 02:56 pm at 2:56 pm |
  197. Raymond Dellenger

    Regarding whether or not the guy "shared a room" near the birth of the baby or not, Palin's spokesperson's scandalized cry of, "Do you really think the grovernor and Todd would have allowed such a thing?"
    is ludicrous. The two kids obviously had shared much more than a room.

    Yet another example of the hypocrisy of Sarah Palin and her much-vaunted "family values".

    Does this woman not have ANY idea of how ignorant, demomgogic, and totally absurd she is? It's how tyrants are born: that fatal combo of arrogance and stupidity....

    April 6, 2009 02:56 pm at 2:56 pm |
  198. JJ

    This exemplifies the hypocrisy of some of the right wing Christian conservatives. It is obvious Sarah Palin has not been a good role model for her family and they are suffering as a result. If this had been the Obama or Clinton family the right wingers (Hannity/O'Reily) group would have totally demonized them.

    April 6, 2009 02:56 pm at 2:56 pm |
  199. Sam

    The election is over, does she still have a "camp"? Really?

    April 6, 2009 02:56 pm at 2:56 pm |
  200. Juliet

    What the Crazy....Wait you mean the "Palins" lied again...grrrrrrrrrrr...lol

    April 6, 2009 02:56 pm at 2:56 pm |
  201. Brad

    The Palin camp is criticizing Levi for being on a quest for fame, attention, fortune, and distortion of the truth?

    funny.

    April 6, 2009 02:56 pm at 2:56 pm |
  202. Brent

    Why wouldn't the Palins allow them to share a room? He'd already knocked her up so what were they worried about? And I'm simply shocked that the "wedding" is off now that the election is over.

    April 6, 2009 02:56 pm at 2:56 pm |
  203. 31% of Americans are TRAITORS for wanting America to FAIL and 69% of Americans to SUFFER!

    Oh the irony of it all.

    Now moose mom is complaining about this kid taking advantage of his 15 minutes of fame!

    Too funny. He is a photogenic kid in this photo so why shouldn't he play it up every chance he gets. That was certainly the only qualifications palin had.

    A "pretty" wrapper covering a hate-filled soul!

    April 6, 2009 02:56 pm at 2:56 pm |
  204. CTSadler

    Shouldn't this story be in OK Magazine instead of CNN's political ticker?

    April 6, 2009 02:56 pm at 2:56 pm |
  205. kd

    Palin is pure People Magazine fodder, nothing more.

    April 6, 2009 02:57 pm at 2:57 pm |
  206. Rob

    So now that Levi has seen that truth doesn't matter, and lies sell, are all you people who bashed him when he was in the Palin camp going to suddenly come to his aid? Maybe you all can start up something about how the evil Republican machine brain-washed him, of course we all know Cheney controls the big brain-washing machine.

    Guess Levi realized he couldn't cut it doing real work, and the money his stripper sister was bringing in only went so far, so he decided to tank whatever smarts and morals he had and go on the "lie and smear" circuit.

    Not to worry, Bristol will come out way on top after all of this, and 15 years down the road Tripp will talk about his birth father's extensive collection of name tags and hair nets. As well as all the scripts from failed reality series Levi tried out for.

    Nice try Tyra, you're stumping for Obama only goes so far.

    April 6, 2009 02:57 pm at 2:57 pm |
  207. Mike

    Bristol and Levi,
    I feel sorry for both of you, that you have to live your life in such a fishbowl. Neither of you asked for this attention. What you do in
    your personal life, should have to remain personal.

    It is just unfortunate that both of you are being dragged in public,
    and the media attention is being focussed on you.

    At the same time, you cannot blame the media. The Palin family
    asked for this attention, in an attempt to showcase their cute family image.
    You cannot trot your kids out at a national convention and during the campaign trail one day and ask for privacy the next day.

    All this attention and media spotlight in your lives, just to feed one person's ego and ambition to be on national stage.

    I am sure the media would let this go, if Ms. Palin would not keep popping her head out every second week, with some wisecracks.

    After all, we dont hear much about Cindy or John McCain after the election.

    Bristol and Levi, you just happen to be unfortunate victims of Ms. Palin's need for fame and attention.

    We understand Levi's need to come out in the media with his side of the story.

    April 6, 2009 02:57 pm at 2:57 pm |
  208. Alaskan speaks

    Well Levi, you really blew you chances of rebuilding a relationship with Bristol by doing this interview I think . Too bad the press and your family members can't just leave the three of you to work out your problems just like any other American kids. Good luck to all of you.

    April 6, 2009 02:57 pm at 2:57 pm |
  209. Lisa in Ga

    We all know that Sarah is a pathelogical liar. I think Levy is telling the truth. Is the Palin's that cannot be trusted. I saw the look on his face during the primaries and saw that he did not want to be there.

    April 6, 2009 02:57 pm at 2:57 pm |
  210. Anonymous

    I find it really funny that the Palin spokesperson was outraged that he claimed he lived there and shared a room with Bristol, when they were obviously intimate at some point. I find it funny, also, how they accuse him of seeking "fame" and fortune when Sarah Palin herself appeared on SNL and other programs. ALL politicians are fame-seekers in a sense. It's all just a joke. I don't think those kids ever intended on getting married. They just have to live up to this conservative "image", and it's all a bunch of garbage. I think Bristol got knocked up by Levi, and he had no choice but to be paraded along as her "fiance". What a shocker...they broke up after the election!! Stupid.

    April 6, 2009 02:58 pm at 2:58 pm |
  211. the voice of reason

    "Do you really think the governor and Todd would have allowed that"

    Yes I do.

    April 6, 2009 02:58 pm at 2:58 pm |
  212. Jason

    Did anyone really believe that these two were going to be married? I mean, come on, Palin was just pandering to the religious right and I feel sorry for anyone who couldn't see that.

    April 6, 2009 02:59 pm at 2:59 pm |
  213. Carl Justus

    I do not know either of then and from the remarks that Sarah Palin made during the campaign and with Johnson being along with them when she was campaigning, I believe Johnson before I would believe Palin.

    April 6, 2009 02:59 pm at 2:59 pm |
  214. Dana

    LOL, LOL! LMAO! Jerry Springer all the way..... My mom said, this woman was a total screwed up person. Who allows two teenagers to sleep in the same room together and then claim she has family values. Lady you got to be kidding me!

    It's no way in Hell my parents would have ever allowed anything of this nature! Sarah knew those kids where having sex because they lived in her house and she allowed Levi to live with them in Bristol's bedroom. Just plain trashy! But whatever! Sarah Palin is over – she's the only one who doesn't know that – her ego is huge to be sooooooooo dumb!

    April 6, 2009 02:59 pm at 2:59 pm |
  215. KR

    I would not believe a thing this woman or anyone associated with her says; Levi shared something or there would not be a child. Lies for 2012

    April 6, 2009 03:00 pm at 3:00 pm |
  216. scott

    "Do you really think the governor and Todd would have allowed that?," ....uh, um.....yeah, I think they may have "shared a room" at some point in their relationship. lol

    BTW....Why on earth does Palin still have a "spokeswoman"???

    April 6, 2009 03:01 pm at 3:01 pm |
  217. joanne

    Is it really appropriate that our governor keeps responding to this stuff. This poor kid. Just leave him alone.

    April 6, 2009 03:01 pm at 3:01 pm |
  218. Francisco

    The Palin representative are saying that Levi's family is looking to be famous give me a break!!! This the pot calling the Kettle black!!!

    April 6, 2009 03:01 pm at 3:01 pm |
  219. Wally

    Listen to the squirm now they can't keep the farce up. Anybody could see that relationship was forced when they appeard on TV.

    April 6, 2009 03:01 pm at 3:01 pm |
  220. John

    That's right, leave the exploiting to professionals (aka Mr. and Mrs. Palin)!!!!!

    April 6, 2009 03:01 pm at 3:01 pm |
  221. Connie

    The bottom line is this...........Sarah Palin is the one who thrust Levi and Bristol into an international spotlight when she chose to put her political ambitions before her daughter's privacy and well being.

    Sarah Palin herself has called People magazine, has given interviews and posted news releases on the Alaska state website regarding Bristol and Levi's personal lives. Bristol did an interview on FOXnews.

    Thank you Tyra Banks for giving Levi (who was not paid for the interview) the chance to tell his side of the story.

    Palin learn to say these two words: NO COMMENT

    April 6, 2009 03:01 pm at 3:01 pm |
  222. David

    Hypocrite. She dragged him onto the national stage when she learned her daughter was pregnant. What goes around, comes around.

    April 6, 2009 03:02 pm at 3:02 pm |
  223. dennisk

    Oh, the poor Palins! Blame, blame, blame... it's always somebody else's fault. These people are pathetic, and never cease to reveal themselves as the low-class trash they are.

    April 6, 2009 03:02 pm at 3:02 pm |
  224. Jason

    Yeah like Grandma's unethical behavior is such a great example for the baby.

    April 6, 2009 03:02 pm at 3:02 pm |
  225. wacko family

    If the Palin family did not want the Johnston family to "in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion of their relationship," then perhaps they should not have performed the twisted dog and pony show with him and the pregnant daughter at the convention. Personally, I tend to believe the high school dropout boyfriend over the scheming, ambitious nutcase Palin family. Hypocritical to the very end.

    April 6, 2009 03:03 pm at 3:03 pm |
  226. Molly

    Wow...its like Jerry Spriner Alaska style!!!

    April 6, 2009 03:04 pm at 3:04 pm |
  227. WMT

    Don't the Palins realize how silly this sounds? "Do you really think the governor and Todd would have allowed that," referring to them living together. They obviously already have been quite intimate, so I think it's a little late to be worrying about their moral image. Whatever. I thought this family had their 15 minutes of fame months ago.

    April 6, 2009 03:04 pm at 3:04 pm |
  228. VIRGINIA SLIM CHESAPEAKE VA.

    why would he make that up, if they never did so?

    April 6, 2009 03:05 pm at 3:05 pm |
  229. John in Virginia

    He isn't lying; it is obvious that Stapleton is. What motive would Johnston have to make up that story? On the otherhand, Sarah Palin has a lot to lose politically in terms of perceived values, if what Johnston is saying is true. It likely is. That is why "Stapelton was also sharply critical of Johnston for appearing on the show." What happened to all the protection they were offering Johnston during the campaign when they were talking him up? Suddenly they don't need him because he could potentially cause political damage?

    April 6, 2009 03:05 pm at 3:05 pm |
  230. Michigander

    I guess Sarah and Bristol's continuing interviews with Greta are not at all a "quest for fame, fortune, and attention," nor the Governor's reported millions for a book. They two 'had plans to marry' when it was politically expedient for Sarah. I feel sorry for them, and, frankly, I believe Levi. Why would he lie when he knows the Palins will come back with guns blazing? This is a sorry situation, and one that was avoidable had Sarah just said no to her ambitions for a year or two. We wouldn't even know her name, yet alone intimate details of her dysfunctional family life.

    April 6, 2009 03:06 pm at 3:06 pm |
  231. Chris

    "We're disappointed that Levi and his family, in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion "

    Apparently the Palin family is not burdened by a sense of irony.

    April 6, 2009 03:06 pm at 3:06 pm |
  232. Katie

    I'm sorry, but I fail to see why the Palin's are so outraged. First, I don't doubt that he did end up moving into their home. And possibly even sharing a bedroom with Bristol. She was already pregnant with his child, so where's the scandal in them sharing a room? Also, they were engaged to be married at that point. I realize that they want to reflect their "traditional Christian values," but don't you think those were kind of blown out of the water a while ago?

    I'm certainly not judging the girl for getting pregnant. These things happen every day in this world and it could have happened to any of us. But let's get over it now, shall we?

    April 6, 2009 03:07 pm at 3:07 pm |
  233. lescroc

    He is in it for Publicity! Bristol you made a smart move in dumping this looser!. Take away his publicity and he is nothing!. Yes Bristol you made a mistake by getting pregnant but you learned a life lesson by dumping this jerk. God Bless you and your mother Sarah!

    April 6, 2009 03:07 pm at 3:07 pm |
  234. elizabeth

    Is he allow to see his son? It is very important. Palin camp should not stop him from aring his views

    April 6, 2009 03:07 pm at 3:07 pm |
  235. KCbob

    He looks like a fine upstanding young man. Perhaps he just wants to clean his name after being associated with the scumy Palins and their lies.

    April 6, 2009 03:07 pm at 3:07 pm |
  236. Nannette

    Are we REALLY surprised by this? It's Trooper-Gate all over again: the Palin Family is blameless and the Big-Bad-Mean Others are all liars. Sarah, get over yourself. You and your family are just as manipulative and fame seeking as Levi and his family are. Better yet, get out of your daughter's, son's and grandson's lives and let them grow up to be thinking, rational and emotionally healthy individuals.

    April 6, 2009 03:07 pm at 3:07 pm |
  237. Dan Balluff

    It is funny how Palin was willing to manipulate and exploit this young man when she was running for President. They are the ones who exposed him to the media, put him in the spotlight and created the image of a loving, committed relationship between two teenagers. Now that they cannot control him, they try to destroy him. Typical hypocrisy from the Palins.

    April 6, 2009 03:08 pm at 3:08 pm |
  238. Alex

    Whose exploiting who in this deal? Looks to me like the Palin clan will do and say anything to get elected into the White House. The more they talk, the worse things look. What an upstanding group of folks!

    April 6, 2009 03:08 pm at 3:08 pm |
  239. Trueman

    Like snow through the hourglass, these are the Alaska redneck days of our lives....
    Gay marriage is a sin and should be outlawed; marriage is a sacred institution under God between two unwilling, uneducated teenagers to save political face. If only "not real America" could understand that.

    April 6, 2009 03:08 pm at 3:08 pm |
  240. Missyutwo

    I truly believe what this boy and his family are saying.

    April 6, 2009 03:08 pm at 3:08 pm |
  241. Sean

    Way to go Palin. Attack the teenage father of your grandchild for your own political benefit. Always lookin' out for number one, arentcha'?!?

    April 6, 2009 03:10 pm at 3:10 pm |
  242. jovana

    I guess it's just OK for the Palin family to comment like Bristols interview with Greta Van Sustrin, I think we all knew that the wedding would be off after the election, unless McCain won. ( What a horrible thought.) At least I was sure of it. Personally I believe him. He has no political motivation.

    April 6, 2009 03:11 pm at 3:11 pm |
  243. Joe

    "We're disappointed that Levi and his family, in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion of their relationship,"

    Sounds like he's taking a page out of the book of Gov. Palin. Isn't that what she's been doing since McCain plucked her out of obscurity?

    Why is this even news?

    April 6, 2009 03:11 pm at 3:11 pm |
  244. Brook E. Mantia

    LOL! Did anyone notice they have a BABY??? Making a fuss now about whether or not they stayed in the same room is just so much closing the barn doors after the horses got out. I am SOOOOO relieved they are not playing out their little soap operas anywhere near the White House!

    April 6, 2009 03:11 pm at 3:11 pm |
  245. God

    Sarah... Sarah... pardon me, but we already know you're not exactly the most truthful person in Alaska, and certainly you're no different than so many other "christians" who all think my rules are "negotiable." If you think anyone is going to believe your "disappointment," imagine how I feel about you.

    April 6, 2009 03:11 pm at 3:11 pm |
  246. S.Positive

    I cannot express an opinion either way because it is jus plan easy to do so but only if this Sarah P had been a lot more matured than rash about the whole thing, at least these embarassment would not have been a material for National consumption...

    April 6, 2009 03:13 pm at 3:13 pm |
  247. Jason

    I believe this kid, he never was rude or dissrespectful, but Palin sure fired back trying to hurt and defame him on every level...

    Really shows the maturity and rationality of the Governor..

    Thank God she is not our VP!!!

    April 6, 2009 03:13 pm at 3:13 pm |
  248. WonderfulWanda

    The Palins are lying, they allow this type of behavior to happen under their roof. Be honest about the issue, I've notice a theme with them, "It's Always Someone Else".

    April 6, 2009 03:15 pm at 3:15 pm |
  249. Patriot from ATL GA

    He deserves to tell his side of the story.

    April 6, 2009 03:15 pm at 3:15 pm |
  250. George the Democrat Obama fanatic.

    What is the big deal about sharing a room when evidently they shared sex organs enough to produce a offspring....so what is the Palin motto? Our kids have premarital sex but they do not shack up! Doesnt make any sense.

    April 6, 2009 03:16 pm at 3:16 pm |
  251. MWA

    Teen marriages don't work. Teen pregnancies based on shotgun governors meddling in their kids lives don't work. Forcing them to get married doesn't work. Sarah Palin is an idiot. I feel sorry for her grandchild.

    April 6, 2009 03:16 pm at 3:16 pm |
  252. SHIRLEY "60"

    I believe the govenor and Todd would allow their unwed teenage daughter to do anything she wanted to do, and that includes allowing her teenage boy friend to share a room with their daughter. Afterall, the cow's already been let out of the barn, so to speak.

    April 6, 2009 03:17 pm at 3:17 pm |
  253. JustBreathe

    The Palin's toted him around on their hip for the cameras when it was convenient for them to do so, why can't he take advantage of the media now also? It was never necessary for the Palin's to comment on their teenage daughter's personal life in the first place. To call this young man names for telling his story after they blabbed all his business is hypocritical.

    April 6, 2009 03:18 pm at 3:18 pm |
  254. Up Close And Personal In California

    "Do you really think the governor and Todd would have allowed that," Stapleton said in an e-mail.

    YES, I do.

    April 6, 2009 03:18 pm at 3:18 pm |
  255. al landers

    And the soap opra continues.

    April 6, 2009 03:19 pm at 3:19 pm |
  256. K1201

    That was a good interview and I beleive every word Levi said.

    There family had no gain in coming on TV and telling the truth.

    April 6, 2009 03:20 pm at 3:20 pm |
  257. Jim

    Now Sarah Palin is attacking an 18 year old boy! It absolutely amazes me what she will do to cling to her 15 minutes.

    I suspect Levi has more integrity than the Tina Fey look alike.

    April 6, 2009 03:20 pm at 3:20 pm |
  258. Deaner

    I say let's get the whole clan together on the Jerry Springer Show and let them settle this once and for all.

    April 6, 2009 03:20 pm at 3:20 pm |
  259. John

    You know, it's getting harder and harder to tell who is telling the truth and who's doing the 'spin control'

    April 6, 2009 03:21 pm at 3:21 pm |
  260. carol

    Who knows what the truth is in the Palin household!! Scandal follows them everywhere they go and they create a lot of it themselves.

    April 6, 2009 03:21 pm at 3:21 pm |
  261. Tim in Minnesota

    Guy comes out and tells the truth, then he's sharply criticized for it by the politcal powers that be. I wouldn't believe Stapleton for a second!

    April 6, 2009 03:22 pm at 3:22 pm |
  262. Rene

    "We're disappointed that Levi and his family, in a quest for fame, attention, and fortune, are engaging in flat-out lies, gross exaggeration, and even distortion of their relationship," Stapleton said.

    ----------–

    Absolutely hilarious that this spokesperson and Palin would call Levi a liar...it's the pot calling the kettle black as far as I can tell! Hey, at least he's doing what republicans do best...guess he's learned quite well while in their presence.

    April 6, 2009 03:22 pm at 3:22 pm |
  263. James Edwards

    This is nothing more than a "he said, she said" between the two and Gov. Palin. I am amazed that the media continue to report on every little thing that they do and say. Governor Palin needs to go back to work and serve the people of Alaska because all this is doing reinforcing the fact that she is not qualified for the national ticket. Period!

    April 6, 2009 03:22 pm at 3:22 pm |
  264. Donna

    For anyone who wants to criticize this boy and his family, Bristol Palin gave an interview to Fox. You can't have it both ways. I happen to think all of them should shut up; however, my sympathies are more with the Johnstons who it appears are being kept from the baby after having been used for reasons of political expediency.

    April 6, 2009 03:22 pm at 3:22 pm |
  265. TruthBTold

    Typical Palin response, deny, attack, distort, play the victim. What a wienie.

    April 6, 2009 03:22 pm at 3:22 pm |
  266. Chugiak Observer

    How convenient, the family "spokesperson" attempts to discredit this young man. Let's hear the rebuttal directly from the horse's mouth....whiney, twist the truth, can't speak in coherent sentences, Sarah!

    April 6, 2009 03:22 pm at 3:22 pm |
  267. DgAlaska

    Let's get this straight. Spokesperson Meg Stapleton has been caught in multiple campaign lies as Palin's official spokesperson....and during the campaign Gov. Palin stated multiple lies in reverence to Alaska, her performance as governor, and during her campaign; however, it's all lies when Levi speaks out. Well, I wouldn't expect anything different from them all.

    April 6, 2009 03:23 pm at 3:23 pm |
  268. Jim In Houston

    Levi,

    Maintain some dignity and get away from this circus. Join the military and serve your country for a while. They will be hard pressed to continue commenting on a soldier in order to further their own agenda.

    April 6, 2009 03:24 pm at 3:24 pm |
  269. ruby

    so what if he lived with the Palins, is that going to change anyone's perception of the situation. They were all putting on a show for the public, everything came out in the light and they hate that. But who cares...its boring.

    April 6, 2009 03:25 pm at 3:25 pm |
  270. Thomas

    It is amusing to see them turn on each other.

    April 6, 2009 03:25 pm at 3:25 pm |
  271. rhoward

    Enough, already. Both sides are being petty and ought to stick a sock in it for the sake of the baby.

    April 6, 2009 03:26 pm at 3:26 pm |
  272. Spunkmeyer

    Seems to me Levi has a lot less motivation to lie than Palin does... just sayin'.

    April 6, 2009 03:27 pm at 3:27 pm |
  273. Eladio

    For what its worth I believe both families profited from the baby pictures, so for the Palins to criticize this young kid just seems hipocritical.

    April 6, 2009 03:27 pm at 3:27 pm |
  274. JOE

    Does anyone really care about these people?
    Palin is nothing more then a pathetic footnight in history and she and her camp are the ones that are constantly putting themselves out their for publicity.
    It seems once this bunch was allowed out of Alaska they just refuse to go back and stay there... where they belong.

    April 6, 2009 03:28 pm at 3:28 pm |
  275. Zachary H

    The Paling campaign comes off looking like bullies in this situation. To me it looks like a hyper-ambitious politician attacking a knucklehead 17 year old kid. Whether he's telling the truth or not, and I get the feeling he is, he now has the full force of Sarah Palin's resources against him.

    April 6, 2009 03:28 pm at 3:28 pm |
  276. walleye

    I dont think Levi has anything to lie about. On the other hand Palin has her dubious reputation to keep untarnished if that is possible.

    April 6, 2009 03:28 pm at 3:28 pm |
  277. Vincent Petrosino

    What else is new with this dysfunctional family? Whether they are religious conservatives or not, their daughter and her boyfriend had a baby out of wedlock like so many others have. They have split up like so many others have. Levi is cashing in on his 15 minutes of fame like so many others have. And the mother and baby are supported by girl's parents like so many others are! So how has all that religion and conservative upraising made any difference? It hasn't like it hasn't in so many others.

    April 6, 2009 03:29 pm at 3:29 pm |
  278. Bonnie

    And this surprises you why? I think we knew it was all about the campaign and a reputation. To tell people they had planned to get married after they graduated anyway was ludicrous. The Palins knew better. This shows what was really happening and it looked forged anyway.

    April 6, 2009 03:29 pm at 3:29 pm |
  279. Anonymous

    "Levi has never lived under the same roof as Bristol or any of the Palins"

    Hahaha...like he knows anything he only impregnated her and was her fiance...not to mention the campaign events and RNC...

    April 6, 2009 03:29 pm at 3:29 pm |
  280. ani2347

    Oh Sarah, Sarah, Sarah... I thought you were all Mrs. Morals and all. Isn't it enough that you publicly condoned your teenage daughter’s behavior while under your watchful eye… obviously the abstinence only agenda isn’t working too well in your household maybe next time you should consider preaching about safe sex… You then top it off by allowing the teenage father of the baby to move into the governor’s mansion. Did he reap the benefits of the Alaska tax payer dollar too? You exploited Levi and Bristol from day one... now its time for you to deal with the backlash... hopefully Levi has some more ammo against you and your "perfect" family.

    April 6, 2009 03:29 pm at 3:29 pm |
  281. windfall

    the whole situation is loaded with lies and politics. how awful for everyone involved.

    April 6, 2009 03:30 pm at 3:30 pm |
  282. NYGIRL

    This is a shame. Another child caught between dueling parents/in-laws. They all should think of the best interests of the child, i.e., a two parent family where everyone gets along or at least pretend to like each other.

    April 6, 2009 03:30 pm at 3:30 pm |
  283. Marie

    Sarah Palin needs to be there for her children and stop running around thinking she will be the next President!! Obviously her children need her at home more. She chose to have children so be their mother!! Also, this kid is out for his 15 minutes!!

    April 6, 2009 03:31 pm at 3:31 pm |
  284. Buffalo

    I, for one, am proud of Sarah Palin for so aptly being concerned about the words and implications by Levi Johnston and how he may skew her sense of decency. It's good to see this is taking a high priority with her, apparently ahead of economic meltdown, unemployment and US wars being waged in two countries. The American people need more of this and less relevant news if we are to focus on “Palin for President in 2012.”

    You go, girl! And take your "aw shucks, gee whiz and you betcha" mentality with you.

    April 6, 2009 03:33 pm at 3:33 pm |
  285. Abby Normal

    That Levi...what a maverick!!

    April 6, 2009 03:33 pm at 3:33 pm |
  286. lori

    No matter what your political views are, it's always sad when a parent opts for the spot light instead of the welfare of their child. What's next for this guy? Maury Povich?

    April 6, 2009 03:33 pm at 3:33 pm |
  287. Ahhhhhhhh!!

    Meg Staplegun should really consult with her boss before she puts out statements on her behalf. Does she KNOW that Levi lied? I'd believe Levi over SP anyday.

    April 6, 2009 03:34 pm at 3:34 pm |
  288. LiLa, WI

    Perhaps if Bristol Palin and her mom hadn't done an interview with Greta Van Susteran, Levi wouldn't have felt compelled to respond with his own TV interview. This round of TV appearances started with the Palins.

    April 6, 2009 03:35 pm at 3:35 pm |
  289. Anonymous

    Wait, so he's not allowed to live with her? Why? Would that be inappropriate since they aren't married? What's the point, you can't lose your virginity or get pregnant twice!

    Talk about closing the barn door after the horse has bolted.

    April 6, 2009 03:35 pm at 3:35 pm |
  290. Patrick S. - Richmond, VA

    Palin has been piping up lately in her own defense. Good! The way the media has been bashing her reminds me of when Ronald Reagan was a viable presidential contender back in the 1970's. It looks like Levi Johnston got sucked up into the smear campaign. The reason for their breakup: he needs to become more mature. You betcha!

    April 6, 2009 03:35 pm at 3:35 pm |
  291. Active Duty Soldier

    Disappointed in Levi's quest for fame? Is this the same Governor Palin that paraded both Levi and her daughter onstage at the convention? Is this the same Governor Palin whose daughter just did an interview on fox news? So, when her daughter gives interviews, she is telling her story, yet when levi tells his story it is a quest for fame. Wow, pretty large double standard there governor.

    April 6, 2009 03:36 pm at 3:36 pm |
  292. Laverne

    I don't blame Levi or Bristol for this situation. I believe Levi when he says Sarah Palin knew. Just like she knew Bristol was pregnant and she knew she was under investigation and she knew she did not have what it takes to be a VP, yet none of that mattered to her. She freely chose to bring her children in the spotlight with her and now Bristol has become part of the media frenzy. A lot of women have to scale back until they raise their children, she should have done the same. Fame will go to your head, if you are not careful. The best thing Sarah Palin can do for her family at this point is be governor and a mother. One thing I will say in her defense if I hope she does not allow the republican party to pimp her out, using her for fundraising and to do their dirty work with no intention of giving her a real shot within the party. She deserves better than that and so does her family.

    April 6, 2009 03:37 pm at 3:37 pm |
  293. Sam7

    I knew it was just a matter of time before the boyfriend became the new target of the Palin Attack Machine. This is the only strategy that this lady knows that could guarantee her a continuous spotlight until 2012… say things that create controversies, and always play victim!!

    April 6, 2009 03:39 pm at 3:39 pm |
  294. Matthew Cohen

    This is pretty sad. What makes it more un-believeable is Levi's past myspace blogs. If you want out of the public, stop trying to jump in front of it. Don't let the fact that you had a child with the former candidates daughter be your one claim to fame. Trying doing something that makes a difference. Airing your dirty laundry just makes you appear like a pathetic. Work you issues out with the babys mother, not with America.

    April 6, 2009 03:39 pm at 3:39 pm |
  295. jamie chastain

    What a joke Palin is. Now she is in a name-calling contest with a teenager (and losing!!). She can't even run her amoral household, even with the help of her husband. How in the world does she think she can run this country.?

    April 6, 2009 03:43 pm at 3:43 pm |
  296. Anonymous

    I do not know who to believe, The Palins or The Johnstons. Both are dysfuntional. I do not know what Bristol was thinking when she dated Levi. Did Sarah Palin tell her daughter, when you lie with dogs, you get fleas?

    April 6, 2009 03:46 pm at 3:46 pm |
  297. Hyacinth

    Maybe both parties are seeking the limelight? Seems like something best worked out in private.

    April 6, 2009 03:50 pm at 3:50 pm |
  298. P from the IE

    Bristol Palin already came out and said that abstinence was not realistic. Bristol by having a baby now makes her an adult and should no longer have anyone speaking out on her behalf.

    The Palin spokesperson smacks of not being credible and trying to put spin on the situation. Mother Palin needs to come to terms with her daughters situation and let her make her own way.

    Gov Palin should busy herself with Alaska's needs and stop this sillyness.

    April 6, 2009 03:52 pm at 3:52 pm |
  299. New Yorker

    Sad situation but has no bearing on whether or not Sarah Palin is qualified for office. If you think it does, let's dredge up accounts of all the other politician's children, siblings, brothers, sisters. We could start with Obama's relatives.

    April 6, 2009 03:52 pm at 3:52 pm |
  300. PopeJohnII

    Stapleton finds it ". . .unfortunate that Levi finds it more appealing to exploit his previous relationship with Bristol . . ."? And Sara Palin was not exploiting that "relationship" during her VP campaign?
    The only thing newsworthy about intruding into the private lives of these teenagers is the hypocracy of moralistic preaching politicians who rarely live up to their own preaching.

    April 6, 2009 03:56 pm at 3:56 pm |