CNN Political Ticker
942 days ago

Huckabee warns Palin: Don't leave GOP

mug.mooney
Huckabee wants Palin to stay in the GOP.
Huckabee wants Palin to stay in the GOP.

(CNN) - Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee has a warning for Sarah Palin: Don't abandon the Republican Party.

The former presidential candidate and potential future White House rival of Palin's said Tuesday he's concerned about speculation the Alaska governor may leave the GOP to become an independent.

"I hope she remains - let me be real clear - a part of the Republican Party," Huckabee told FOX News. "I'm a little concerned when I hear her say that she may sort of branch out and go third party or go independent. That would be a big mistake because we need to rebuild the Republican Party, not abandon it."

The comments come days after Palin told the Washington Times she intends to spend her days out of the Alaska governor's mansion campaigning for both Republican and Democratic candidates whose ideas she supports. That prompted speculation the onetime GOP vice presidential candidate could consider running for office in the future as a third party candidate.

But Huckabee - who, like Palin, is thought to be considering a White House bid in 2012 - said Palin has an important role to play in the Republican Party.

"I want her to succeed, and I'm delighted to see her continuing to use her voice because I do think that she rallies people," he said. "She brought electricity to the Republican ticket last year, when, frankly, there was about as much excitement as you would see, you know, at a - at a Baptist dance, which means there wasn't any, until she showed up for the ticket. And then there was fire going forth."

Related: Poll: Majority of Republicans don't think Palin's qualified for prez

Huckabee - now a commentator for FOX News - also praised Palin's recent Washington Post op-ed attacking President Obama's support of a "cap and trade" program, saying it shows her "serious side."


Filed under: Mike Huckabee • Sarah Palin
soundoff (311 Responses)
  1. Caucasian-American

    Ah, yet another Palin story...... and more fodder for the left-wing liberal hate machine. CNN, you just love to do this, don't you?

    July 15, 2009 01:39 pm at 1:39 pm |
  2. Obama

    Nooo Leave!!! PLEASE!!! and Huckabee turned Arkansas into the pits!! So he can leave too!!

    July 15, 2009 01:41 pm at 1:41 pm |
  3. GI Joe

    Can she type?

    July 15, 2009 01:42 pm at 1:42 pm |
  4. Tim

    To your ticker on whether or not Republicans think Palin is qualified to be president, this is an old story so I'm not sure why you resurface it. It was said that during the presidential debates that Palin wasn't qualified to be president, but she wasn't nominated to be president. The Republicans went on to say that while she may not be ready to be president, she had much more experience than Obma, who is definately not ready to be president, as can be seen from his on-the-job training.

    July 15, 2009 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  5. Twinkle

    The GOP is nothing but a bunch of CONFUSED people!

    July 15, 2009 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  6. Lowell

    If the important role to play is some kind of brainless beauty queen who can't speak coherently and makes a fool out of herself every time she gets in front of the cameras, then yeah, she could definitely fill that role.

    However, if the GOP wants to be in existence in the future, then they'd better dump Palin fast because she's dragging the down worse than a 20 ton boat anchor.

    July 15, 2009 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  7. pv

    Mr. Huckabee, with all due respect, you cannot rebuild the Republican Party with Sarah Palin.

    July 15, 2009 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  8. A. Goodwin

    Of course he praised her op-ed...he's a Republican who is against anything that the Obama administration says or does. We all ready had a successful cap and trade program...Obama is only increasing it.

    July 15, 2009 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  9. Felly

    Huckabee and Palin are losers!

    July 15, 2009 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  10. Peggy in Texas

    Too bad Huckabee is not as interested in seeing our duly elected President succeed as he seems to be in Sarah Plan succeeding. That is a HUGE part of the problem for the repulicant's!!!!!!

    July 15, 2009 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  11. CF

    Huckabee and Palin should both leave. Their intolerance and unacceptance of any belief, religion, or point of view other than their own is a threat to the freedom of choice this country is founded on.

    July 15, 2009 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  12. JVS

    Its blatantly clear to anyone with a slight bit of intelligence that Sarah "The Moron" Palin did not write that cap-and-trade op-ed. I wish people would stop repeating that lie. She is barely literate and has trouble forming complete sentences. It took her 6 years and 5 colleges to get a BS in journalism! That says enough right there. She is dumb.

    July 15, 2009 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  13. david jensen

    Sarah Palin is NOT the future of the Republican Party. Teach her to substitute "hope" for "bridge to nowhere" and give her to the Demosocialists.

    July 15, 2009 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  14. Garofulaar

    Palin's serious side? Her grasp of energy issues is minimal and slanted by her support of big oil.

    As for running as an independent (read – she knows she'd never win a primary), she may take part of GOP lunatic fringe (base) with her. No wonder they're worried.

    July 15, 2009 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  15. Bev - NYC

    Who else but the GOP would want this divisive know nothing quitter. It would be funny though for her to announce she is leaving the party, just to watch the Republicans slam her like the McCain camp did after they were through with her.

    July 15, 2009 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  16. Doug, New Jersey

    No one, and i mean no one, makes Democrats foolishly expose who they really are, what they want for America, and that their hearts are filled with hate and closed-mindedness than Sarah Palin.

    Independents who were conned into voting Obama by the media are shocked to see that a majority of Democrats in America would like nothing more than for Sarah Palin and her family to be killed. Those of us who don't posses this kind of hate need to fight America's National Socialist Party aka liberal democrats. Just don't be surprised that you as a law abiding honest citizen will now be on the Barak/Janet DHS most wanted list, seen as much more evil than Osama Bin Laden.

    BTW, remember that when libbie cries about Palin's comments about Obama, 100% of what she has said is fact and the gods honest truth. Libs attack her because they cannot counter her truth without looking like the liars that they are.

    July 15, 2009 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  17. Chris from Baltimore

    Palin should start her own Party so that all the folks who are so angry that their "values" aren't represented in government will have a place to go.

    Then we'll see how popular those "values" really are.

    July 15, 2009 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  18. Fritz

    Mike, I'm sure Palin could become an independent, heck, even a democrat, the problem with her is what killed Curly: name recognition. Wherever she goes, even as a bald, toothless nun, this woman is recognisable. I, like many Americans, believe in a strong democracy and the Constitution, but Palin was such a dolt on interview that even she couldn't say otherwise. If the GOP wants her, take her. She's a liability of the same strength as W: remember, NOBODY wanted anything to do with him when they were running for office, NOBODY. She's the same, an idiot in idiot's clothing! GOP – keep her, please!

    July 15, 2009 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  19. lucy2

    I like Mike Huckabee. I don't like Sarah Palin. I would never vote for either for President.

    July 15, 2009 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  20. J.S.

    He's right, average Americans can relate to Pallin She needs to attend some of the tea parties that are put down by the current administration and watch...

    July 15, 2009 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  21. Franky, Land of Lincoln

    "Huckabee — now a commentator for FOX News — also praised Palin's recent Washington Post op-ed attacking President Obama's support of a "cap and trade" program, saying it shows her "serious side."

    You know, that's what I'm afraid...I don't even know when she is serious, LOL!!! :)

    July 15, 2009 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  22. The Lonely Libertarian of Liverpool NY

    Do Not listen to Mike, Sarah stick to your ideals. leave the dark side of the GOP and join with us, help restore freedom and liberty in the USA again. Come and see me, CNY Libertarian Chapter....

    July 15, 2009 01:47 pm at 1:47 pm |
  23. Sian Rose

    Sarah Palin is a bigger liabilty than an asset. They should be glad to see her go.

    July 15, 2009 01:47 pm at 1:47 pm |
  24. The Game

    "as much excitement as you would see, at a — at a Baptist dance"

    Ya must be joking Micky, how about a funeral ???!!!!

    July 15, 2009 01:47 pm at 1:47 pm |
  25. Pulease

    Do these morons think anyone cares?!

    July 15, 2009 01:47 pm at 1:47 pm |
  26. Just Me

    Palin has the right idea. It's about the issues, not the party. Party loyalty is dividing this country and turning us into hypercritical idiots who can't focus on what's important. People need to learn to focus on the issues and admit that sometimes the solutions might come from someone who belongs to another political party or no political party at all.

    I actually think that the leaders of both the Republican and Democratic parties get a good chuckle out of the fact that people lock themselves into one party and blindly defend that party to the end. They thrive on the party-to-party bickering.

    July 15, 2009 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  27. Jim

    personally speaking, i don't really care what sarah palin does. I doubt very, very much she'll have any real impact on this country, other than showing the rest of us just how poor of a choice she really is for any government office.

    July 15, 2009 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  28. Shay

    I keep saying, the only reason the Republicans think Palin is okay is because they believe she is "attractive".

    A Susan Boyle would never have been McCain's pick for VP, even if her thought process was the same as Palin's.

    It's all about looks for the Republicans. In other words, you can be as dumb as hell, but if you "look good", you can run for the Presidency.

    Thats a sad commentary for the Republican party!!

    July 15, 2009 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  29. Dutch/Bad Newz, VA

    One loser advising another. Sarah Palin an independent? Get serious! She is the "extreme" right wing of the republican party.

    July 15, 2009 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  30. addon

    Palin / Huckabee in 2012 – Great...we're all looking forward to it

    Right ! Anyone want to join me in a barf bag?

    July 15, 2009 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  31. aware

    Sarah Palin is the one person who is not "politics as usual" but an authentic voice much needed in the world today. Her courageous walk matches her talk!

    Its not all about party when both sides demonstrate corruption. We need a voice that will speak truth to power! :)

    July 15, 2009 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  32. Shucks

    Yes Mr. Huckabee, you definitely need to rebuild the republican party, but neither of you are the "new" building blocks that the republican party needs. Your religious views scare the majority of Americans as they are outdated and would repel us backwards in time. Your idea that the constitution needs to be religiously atune is just plain lunacy. Americans had enough of your religious rhetoric during the last election, let alone the racist, hateful comments spewed by both of you. If I were you I would start praying now that the republican party can even muster a worthwhile candidate by 2012. If you and Palin are going to be the republican candidate in 2012, the republican party has already lost the election.

    July 15, 2009 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  33. Laverne

    Yea, she rallies people. Unfortunately it is the devisive, hate monging people that she seem to rally which says a lot about her as a person and quite frankly is troubling. If Sarah Palin had her way, she would lead this country back to slavery and division where according to her the "real Americans" rule. She is a scary figure and I hope and pray that this woman never, ever make it to the White House!

    July 15, 2009 01:49 pm at 1:49 pm |
  34. Robrob

    "the Alaska governor may leave the GOP to become an independent."

    Please, oh please, please, please!

    July 15, 2009 01:49 pm at 1:49 pm |
  35. Tom R

    So Huckabee backs a person who quit and turned her back on the people who put her in office. Palin quit for the money she can make and the fact that we here in Alaska saw her for what she is a self serving diva. As soon as she stoped getting her way she ran away just like she has done many times before look at her record.

    July 15, 2009 01:49 pm at 1:49 pm |
  36. brad

    yes please stay republican. I'm an independent. Although a vast party of different ideas, I don't want it smeared with Palin's ideals. They just don't gel.

    July 15, 2009 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  37. Puff the Magic Dragon

    Huckabee and Palin are both a joke. Let them roost together on the same perch.

    July 15, 2009 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  38. Eric

    Of course she has a vital role in the republican party. With her running the primaries, she can lose and then it will be Mitt Vs. Obama. If she goes off on her own it will be Palin Vs. Mitt Vs. Obama with palin and mitt splitting the same voters and Obama Winning every single state.

    July 15, 2009 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  39. Henry

    Palin's op ed piece is sooooo shallow. He has no comprehension of what the issues are. She is so simplistic.

    July 15, 2009 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  40. Aunt Bea and Opie

    Mike,have you bought a clue yet?Your only role is to make the party look stupid.Gee Opie,just when we thought it was safe to go outside,along comes Goober.Hide the dog he just may bite him.

    July 15, 2009 01:51 pm at 1:51 pm |
  41. DX in TX

    Come on Mr. Huckabee stop with the warnings All you have to is pay Palin for her services and she will stay.

    July 15, 2009 01:51 pm at 1:51 pm |
  42. roy

    two of a kind!!!!!!!!

    July 15, 2009 01:51 pm at 1:51 pm |
  43. Celia Loudermilk

    If the Republican party would wake up and represent the people in this country, the party wouldn't have to worry about Palin. The Republican party is PART OF THE PROBLEM just like the Democratic party is part of the problem. You guys just don't get it. The system is broken.

    July 15, 2009 01:51 pm at 1:51 pm |
  44. KirksNoseHair

    Sarah Palin is a professional victim and a wholly unqualified and clearly unprofessional politician who couldn't even take the pressure of being Governor in a state where Caribou outnumber humans. She should do all of us a favor now and just move on to some nice cushy job as a talking head on TV or something. She was an embarrassment as a vice presidential candidate and thought it was perfectly fine to make wild and ignorant sweeping hogwash claims about Obama "palling around with terrorists" but when the heat got turned up on her just a little bit, she quit.

    'nuff said.

    July 15, 2009 01:51 pm at 1:51 pm |
  45. AUSTIN,TX

    whether she stays or goes, who cares

    July 15, 2009 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  46. Duck

    Mike Huckabee you will be better off with out S. Palin she's a space head.

    July 15, 2009 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  47. Kevin B

    Sarah will go independant, she has no loyalty to the GOP. Just as the GOP establishment showed no loyalty to her.

    July 15, 2009 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  48. kevin

    Sheesh. Let her go!

    July 15, 2009 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  49. Ed, Santa Fe, NM

    Well let's put it this way: the Democrats and Independents sure don't want Palin. So her options are to remain with the GOP or splinter off into a third party. The latter is preferable because the lunatic fringe she'd attract wold never muster the votes to make this pin head a nationally viable candidate.

    July 15, 2009 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  50. Larry

    "Baptist dance"? That will get you some mail from the Baptists.

    Huckabee, if you need Palin to help hold the Republican party together...

    Well that's just plain pathetic.

    July 15, 2009 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  51. Obama: A change U can beleive In

    Yeah....she should abandon the GOP of the rich old white males that only care about the riches and have no empathy for poor and the less fortunate

    July 15, 2009 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  52. Steph

    Palin starting a far right third party would be the best thing for the GOP. That group of bible-thumping nut jobs who use religion for their own benefit is what scares moderates away from the Republican party.

    July 15, 2009 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  53. Fredrick from OH

    That soteomyer looks shady

    July 15, 2009 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  54. Sniffit

    He's just scared that if she leaves, he'll take her place as the cuckoo fundamentalist who places dogmatic adherence to biblical and religious tenets over objective, rational, thoughtful attention to scientific and other evidence.

    July 15, 2009 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  55. CF

    All they can do is attack, attack, attack, and praise others for attacking. These are the folks whose politics and mindset got us into our current mess, and all they do is attack those trying to get us out.

    Republicans set our house on fire, and now they complain that Obama is using too much water to put it out. While they stood by idley watching it burn.

    July 15, 2009 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  56. Darth Vadik, CA

    I hope the crazy lady remains a republican too.

    July 15, 2009 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  57. virginia nielsen

    This guy acts like he is still in the 50's , forgetting that we're in 2009 with a lot of information from all sources...even he's show is totally outdated ! Palin probably is out because of the scandals in her family. For a regular"conservative"she is not a good exemple !!!

    July 15, 2009 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  58. Sandra Day

    Yep. This is just what I predicted. She is more-so bad news for the Republicans than Democrats. However, Palin is a better fit for the Independent ticket, which commonly covers more of your fringe ideas. She is not appropriate for the Republicans. Republicans need to leave all of those hillbilly ideas behind, if they are ever going to be seen as a progressive party. They also need to get rid of Limbaugh, and, yes, Mr. Steele. They are too old school.

    July 15, 2009 01:55 pm at 1:55 pm |
  59. dominican mama 4 Obama

    "Don't leave the GOP" Huckabee was heard to say, "Come on down here and die with the rest of us."!

    tee hee hee!!

    July 15, 2009 01:55 pm at 1:55 pm |
  60. justme

    oh, No Sarah Palin claims to support if necessary a democrat is a ploy and trick of the enemy.... we do not want her and she should stay exactly where she is the Republican Conservative Right Wing. If she even began to shows signs of bailing to the Dems the Republicans would rejoice

    July 15, 2009 01:55 pm at 1:55 pm |
  61. John Black Hills/SD

    Why would Huckabee beg Palin to remain in the GOP with the notion that to rebuild a failing republican party with the same old ideas and ideologies will create a new winning strategy. Go back to preaching Huckabee, and take your delusional evangelicals with you. Americans need leaders who live in the real world, not a monotheistic fantasy.

    July 15, 2009 01:55 pm at 1:55 pm |
  62. gl, From Pittsburgh

    It is sad that every thing Sara Palin say leave people wondering what she mean about her statement. She is a real nut case.

    July 15, 2009 01:56 pm at 1:56 pm |
  63. sharon endicott

    Everyone knows that politicians have writers and rarely write their own stuff, and it's obvious that Sarah Palin did not write the piece in the WP. Someone did a good job of putting together a column that appears to be well written. Which proves she didn't writie it.

    July 15, 2009 01:56 pm at 1:56 pm |
  64. S M R

    Mike: You're dumber than I thought or you just look good standing next to her. Which is it?

    July 15, 2009 01:57 pm at 1:57 pm |
  65. SlowGun

    "I hope she remains — let me be real clear — a part of the Republican Party," Huckabee told FOX News. "I'm a little concerned when I hear her say that she may sort of branch out and go third party or go independent. That would be a big mistake because we need to rebuild the Republican Party, not abandon it."

    ----------------------------

    umm somebody needs to tell Huckabee that Palin is a quitter. So abandoning the party, now when it is such a mess, is something that fits her character.

    July 15, 2009 01:57 pm at 1:57 pm |
  66. gl, From Pittsburgh

    "I'm a little concerned when I hear her say that she may sort of branch out and go third party or go independent. That would be a big mistake because we need to rebuild the Republican Party, not abandon it."

    Yea, they need to be concerned becasue they only have 21 percent that Identified themself as a Repubicans and have that percentage will go to Sara Palin becasue we don't wont her.

    July 15, 2009 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  67. videodrome

    Huckabee – let me be real clear – SHUT UP.
    SHUT UP.

    I think it is about time for this woman to do some growing up and start thinking with her own mind.
    As much as I dislike Palin, and believe me I DO, I think this woman made a wise choice to focus on others things besides partisan politics. She took the money and ran, but even in this country, this woman should be allowed to do with her money as she sees fit.

    So go preach your vitrole somewheres else, Huckabee.

    July 15, 2009 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  68. Mike

    Sorry Mike, but you don't need to rebuild the Republican Party with idiots like Palin. Actually, do rebuild it with people like her so the party can finish it's slow death slide into obscurity.

    July 15, 2009 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  69. hoho

    huckabee is right that if Palin goes independent and runs in 2012 for Pres that she will get a segment of the Republican base to vote for her and the Republicans will lose the Pres election. The Repubs need her to stay Repub if they have a chance at 2012 Presidency

    July 15, 2009 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  70. CF

    This defines the problem with the Republican party: They consider it "a big mistake" to be nonpartisan, to reach out to others who are not like-minded Republichristians.
    I am thankful every day that these ignorant, self-centered Republicans like Huckabee aren't in power.

    July 15, 2009 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  71. Darth Vadik, CA

    I thought at one point in my life that it was cool to be a republican, they always sounded tough, and Democrats always sounded more reserved, and somehow whimpier. This was before I understood what the parties stood for.

    In the mid 1990's although I had more in common with the Democratic beliefs I still called myself a cernetr republican. Then one night it hit me. All republicans ever had was talk. I agree with nothing they stand for. ANd I for sure dont condone their Hollier than thou attitude with a perverts behaviour.

    So I let go of the old prejudices against the Democrats, and became one.

    I have never looked back, and the republicans have only gone down hill from then. Democrats may not be a perfect party, but they are a thousand times better than anything Republicans have to offer (usually only tough talk).

    I'll take brains over mouth any time.

    July 15, 2009 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  72. Oh, yeh

    No, please, form a third party. Spliit the koo-koo vote.

    July 15, 2009 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  73. Antoine

    I love Huckabee, but the only solution that I think is necessary to rebuild America as a whole, is breaking the two party system with a new and constitutional crowd. And Palin is the right person for that!

    July 15, 2009 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  74. Steve

    Summed up this way.......Huckabee wants to ensure the GOP doesn't lose any bigots like himself........

    July 15, 2009 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  75. Whatever

    I bet if Sarah Palin became president (God Help Us), I think she would quit after two years if she was offered a starring role in a movie. Has she even held a position for four years? That's a lot to ask of her.

    July 15, 2009 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  76. notagain

    Sarah is all about bringing people together. Oh please someone stop me!

    July 15, 2009 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  77. Sir Craig

    Please, please, PLEASE stay with the GOP, Sarah! With your influence, along with such luminaries as Huckabee, Gingrich, Limbaugh, Coulter, Craig, Vitter, Ensign, Coburn, etc., the GOP will wither and die from complete irrelevancy that much quicker.

    July 15, 2009 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  78. Jonzer

    That's one of the kookiest things I've ever heard from that googly-eyed cookie monster, a.k.a., Huckabee.

    First, it doesn't matter her party, she's as right-wing as right-wingers get.

    Secondly, does he really think her being a republican actually "helps" the GOP?

    No one can stand her. If he were smart and were truly concerned about his party, he'd convince her to leave and bid her a fond farewell.

    July 15, 2009 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  79. Bob in Pa

    Rev. Mike always says it like it is, as does Ms. Palin. The two of them together might make for an awesome ticket in 2012. That is If there is anything left to run.

    I am of course referring to the galactic alignment that is to occur in 2012 bringing about the End of Time. Hmm, maybe BO is the AC after all ?

    July 15, 2009 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  80. Seriously?

    LOL, Huckabee, way to insult Baptists. Palin has no chance for national office on the Republican ticket and will have even less than zero of a chance as an independent. This has to be the dumbest person ever.

    July 15, 2009 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  81. TangledThorns

    Whoever said Palin was leaving? I think Huck is trying to patronize Sarah but in the end the Left just see this as more infighting. In 2010 and 2012 Sarah will lead victories over Obama and his economic disasters.

    July 15, 2009 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  82. Gary D.

    Palin is an independent idiot.

    July 15, 2009 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  83. Marie MD

    Does any intelligent person, or anyone with a half a brain, really think that this woman will be huckabee's, or anyone else's for that matter, rival to the White House in 2012?
    And Huckie, the Post piece was written for this dimwit. She is not able to put two sentences together much less a whole article. Then again, you are now a fox news puppet!

    July 15, 2009 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  84. GP

    For being a religious man, Huckabee is at odds with the christian faith. His little 'joke' during the primaries about noise backstage scaring Obama spoke volumes to his mean streak. Definitely something us northerners would expect to hear from a southern gentleman.

    I've watch Huckabee on FOX and plainly he is a hard right partisan and will use any rhetorical device available to serve his cause. That he works for FOX alone is an indeictment to the mans integrity.

    July 15, 2009 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  85. CMG

    Maybe he doesn't recommend that she leave the GOP. However, leaving the country with her dysfunctional family wouldn't be a bad idea.

    July 15, 2009 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  86. You lose all credibility when you say Palin is smart

    Excellent news if she does run as an Independent. That gaurantees that President Obama will be elected a second term.

    Go Sarah go!!!!! Destroy yourself and take the Republicans down with you.

    July 15, 2009 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  87. bayo

    pls, leave this poor woman alone, end of her political career is near.

    July 15, 2009 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  88. Hazel

    What difference does it make if Sarah goes or stays? The GOPasaurus is just as close to extinction with or without the Wasillabilly Wahoo.

    July 15, 2009 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  89. skeeve

    Yes, Please, let her brunch out and let he take Huckabee and the rest of religious conservatives with her. What remains will be meaningful constructive opposition build on issues rather then the Bible.

    July 15, 2009 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  90. Jay

    Just what we need...Huckabee and Palin, two anti-science morons in the Republican party.

    July 15, 2009 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  91. Ted

    Yes, Sarah, stay with the GOP. your electricity short circuited its efforts to mount a successful campaign for the White House. your talents will be needed in 2012 so that President Obama will be reelected without any close GOP competition.

    Go Sarah.

    Obama/Biden 2012

    July 15, 2009 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  92. Elle

    Palin's not leaving the GOP. She just says whatever she thinks will get the most media attention.

    July 15, 2009 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  93. Seattle Sue

    From one bag of hot air to another.

    July 15, 2009 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  94. k

    Wow, what do you really want Sarah to do? One day the GOP wants her to sit down and shut up and the next day they are saying, "Sarah don't go we need you to stay so that the GOP membership numbers don't drop."

    This is why people don't trust the GOP because they want it both ways especially if it gives values to the party and not necessarily for the good of the country.

    July 15, 2009 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  95. history repeats

    haha rebuild the republican party. you cant rebuild intolerance and ignorance especially when the rest of the country realizes they have been bamboozled by you phonies! your best bet is to do what blackwater did: change your name. but that might not work. your base is practically braindead and they might not catch on that the NEW party is actually the same party with a different name.

    "she brought electricity to the ticket last year"?!?!?

    huh?! why?! because shes pretty?! because she said some ideological nonsense that was written for her by bush's speechwriters? jeez how in the world can you say that you would want her to STAY in your party? how can you not realize it was her fault that mccain got killed! i mean ive always known how stupid the repubs have been it just is amazing everytime you hear them talk. it never gets old.

    July 15, 2009 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  96. dave

    you should leave the party

    GOP = PARTY OF NO *

    NO IDEAS *** NO FUTURE

    July 15, 2009 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  97. Cassandra Washington

    Huckleberry must be as nuts as she is. If the GOP needs her ... they are really in trouble.

    July 15, 2009 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  98. Lisa V

    Although I admit Palin rallied people for about two weeks back in September 2008, Huckabee must be delusional if he thinks that she still rallies those sort of crowds. About the only crowds she would rally now would be burned out bikers, high school flunkies, Army rejects, and Aryan brothers.

    July 15, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  99. Nathan,

    Will she ever go away. Take Huckabee with you.

    July 15, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  100. MSH, Miami, FL

    If Huckabee were smart, he wouldn't get in the way if Palin chooses the leave the GOP. He should, in fact, hold the door open for her and escort her out as she leaves. After all, why shouldn't she quit the GOP? Quitting is the only thing she does well.

    And please, none of this "Palin scares Liberals" nonsense. We don't fear her - we pity her. Her delusions of grandeur are truly pathetic.

    And to CNN, I say keep the Palin stories coming. It's like watching a train wreck that never stops....

    July 15, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  101. Jeff In Ohio

    Palin is independent of common sense.

    July 15, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  102. carol

    Yes, she brought fire to the party in the form of speeches that incited riots. She did not write the op-ed. Why is he saying that she brought excitement to the ticket – it was the wrong kind of excitement and still is.

    July 15, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  103. sms29s

    I said it the minute she announced her resignation. This woman is toast.

    July 15, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  104. John

    A serious side? You can't be serious.

    July 15, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  105. Old Guy

    Who cares, she is a nut. She represents everything that is wrong with the Republican Party. The Republican Party needs moderates whom stand for the basic party principles and not the extreme ant- everything religious right. They need moderates that can agree and work with people whom don't get down on knees and kiss the extreme portion of the party, moderates whom would actually listen and represent the other 75%. Moderates whom actually feel that democrats are not un-American and that democrats can have a good idea. Moderates whom when a democrat says the sky is blue can actually say: "Yeah, you're right the sky is blue".

    July 15, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  106. Frank

    Seems like Huck needs her in the party so that he can call her a quitter during the primaries. He knows that if she runs as a 3rd party canidate she will split the Rebublican vote.

    July 15, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  107. not a Jackson or a Palin fan

    Huckabee and Palin...president and vice president of " The Earth is Flat and There's No Such Things as Dinosaurs Society ". As a nation we have truly hit rock bottom.

    July 15, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  108. Irma in North Carolina

    Mike the best thing you good do for Sarah is get her a spot on fox news with you. Thats the place for her along with the rest of the fox gang you will have one more to help you bash the president. Thats all the fox gang and the republicans can do.

    July 15, 2009 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  109. Buckaroo

    Palin wants to create a third party? What's she going to call it, the Pity Party? That's what she's been throwing for herself since Day One, every time that big ol' bad press tells the truth about her.

    July 15, 2009 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  110. Frank

    Seems to me the Conservatives may be more scared of her than the Dems. Go third party Palin.

    July 15, 2009 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  111. citizenjane

    Sorry Huck, a Huckabee/Palin 2012 ticket isn't going to get off the primary floor, let alone be a viable national ticket.

    I'll grant the "fire going forth" comment. Probably not in the same context as Huckabee meant though.

    I viewed her more as a "speaking in tongues" person.

    July 15, 2009 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  112. Mr. Meteoritical

    Let her go to another planet – why do they want to keep her?

    July 15, 2009 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  113. Minnesotan

    OMG are these people serious?!?!? Palin is ALL ABOUT THE GOP! Talk about massaging oneselves egos here. Although, Palin is quickly becoming the Michael Jackson of the political world. Who knows what crazy random thing she'll do next.

    July 15, 2009 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  114. Chris ~ Albany, NY

    Palin for Prez on the Independence party line in 2012!!!

    July 15, 2009 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  115. Ken

    I agree with ol 'Huck'. She should stick to the [R] party. That way all the deluded, hypocritical, neo-moronic rightwingers that follow the likes of Palin, Huckabee and Bush can be corralled in one place. They can then be put in a box, wrapped in festive paper with a bow, tied to a large rock, and thrown into a deep lake.

    July 15, 2009 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  116. Andrew

    We need more Democrats and Republicans to abandon their party if they don't agree with the principles. In this two party system, politicians and voters are given two choices. They have to choose with which option the lose less, or sacrifice the least amount of beliefs to follow. The Republican party does not espouse the ideals of a republic. They need to fix themselves and follow the Constitution, which is as unlikely as Democrats deciding to respect the Constitution and ideals of the Declaration of Independence as well. James Madison said there are three things that drive a politician: 1. ambition 2. personal interest 3. public good. Notice which comes in third.

    July 15, 2009 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  117. tigerakabj

    Huckabee, Palin is going to do what Palin wants to do. She listens to nobody. If she wants to say that the GOP never overturned Roe v. Wade (even when they controlled all 3 branches of govt) b/c abortion is such a nice carrot to get those voters to polls every election cycle, then she will.

    I personally hope she does stick around. She united the Democrats better than anybody could have last election, and shoved most of the independents (and some moderate Republicans) into Obama's camp (and they are staying).

    Enjoy Fox Noise while you can Huckabee.

    July 15, 2009 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  118. GB

    Why on God's green Earth would ANY party want to claim this woman?

    Note to Sarah: Go fishing and don't come back.

    July 15, 2009 02:10 pm at 2:10 pm |
  119. Karen

    I don't care where she goes. I am an independent and was backing McCain until he chose Palin for his running mate. I dont know if he intentionally wanted to loose the election or his team made a bad decision. If she really cared about the country, she would finish her term and finish what she started . Obviously she cannot even do that.

    July 15, 2009 02:10 pm at 2:10 pm |
  120. Sohail

    Finally!!!! Now here's something both Republicans and Democrats can agree on.

    July 15, 2009 02:10 pm at 2:10 pm |
  121. joeb

    I hope she doesn't desert the Republican party either. Huckabee and Palin are like two peas in a pod! You can interpret that however you wish.

    July 15, 2009 02:11 pm at 2:11 pm |
  122. Kyle

    For crying out loud.....Huckabee is worthless, just like Palin. They both need to get over themselves.

    July 15, 2009 02:11 pm at 2:11 pm |
  123. Bill

    I hope she does leave the GOP! It's a fantastic idea! Split the conservatives in two! Yaaaay!

    July 15, 2009 02:11 pm at 2:11 pm |
  124. Norma

    It really doesn't make a difference if she stays or goes. They're both losers. They're too narrow for this country and it's diverse population. This country has enough problems with people from other countries and their hatred of us, we don't need internal problems due to candidates that want to exclude and divide.

    July 15, 2009 02:11 pm at 2:11 pm |
  125. Allison

    What a couple of dumb-bells!

    July 15, 2009 02:11 pm at 2:11 pm |
  126. preciseinc

    I think that because she has uncertanties about politics in general she probrably wants to see what eles is out there...and frankly for those that say they want to rebuild the Reupublican party I would think they would want some of the old ways of thought that was never helpful to their party to die out so that it can be rebuilt.

    July 15, 2009 02:11 pm at 2:11 pm |
  127. Shirley In California Now On The Fence Re Obama

    She rallies people alright. You'll see just how much when we go to the polls again!

    July 15, 2009 02:12 pm at 2:12 pm |
  128. Lisa

    As a Republican who would like to see President Obama limited to one term, I hope she DOES go independent. Running her in 2012 would be a guarantee of '4 more years' for Obama. She is not very bright and a major disaster for the Republican party. Republicans do not vote on gender so she brings nothing to the table.

    July 15, 2009 02:13 pm at 2:13 pm |
  129. Daniel

    I think that Palin has every right, if not a duty to leave the Republican party if she feels that her expectations are not being met. I am far to the left of the Democratic Party, but because there is nowhere else to go (yet), I often vote for Democrats who let me and their base down every time. This happens to the right as well. They give the most ardent support, contribute the most money and are given the shaft. This "bipartisan" rubbish must go. To me "bipartisan" simply means class collaboration and compromise. I think it's time to put an end to the so-called two party system monopoly, the dictatorship of the corporations and begin to form other parties that address the issues that people want addressed. I, of course don't like Palin and her message, but I understand where she might be coming from.

    July 15, 2009 02:13 pm at 2:13 pm |
  130. allen

    So let me see, Palin wants to do something truly bi-partisan – support candidates whom she agrees with regardless of their partisanship – she catches flak for that?

    This is precisely why so many people disagree with the republican party. They are so entrenched in their beliefs that they will not for one second consider anything outside of their scope to be worthy and good.

    July 15, 2009 02:13 pm at 2:13 pm |
  131. Brian

    I wish she'd just go away and the news would quit reporting her every move.

    July 15, 2009 02:14 pm at 2:14 pm |
  132. Craig

    ANOTHER Palin story...CNN's love affair with her continues...I'll mention her over morning coffee tomorrow morning – make sure you guys cover it.

    And display my post this time Big Brother...

    July 15, 2009 02:14 pm at 2:14 pm |
  133. Anny

    Oh please, this man doesn't know what he is talking about, she is more harm to the GOP than good and for him remember he lost......if this is all you have GOP then you are still in a world of HURT

    July 15, 2009 02:15 pm at 2:15 pm |
  134. California Gold

    The Independents don't want her!

    July 15, 2009 02:15 pm at 2:15 pm |
  135. sheilah anderson

    this woman needs to go away she has nothing to offer either
    party and now she is in the spotlight because she likes it and
    she wants money for her new fond fame which will not last long..
    I am sick of hearing about her.... wh is not impressive and not
    very smart at alllll...

    July 15, 2009 02:15 pm at 2:15 pm |
  136. PFFT

    She's just too far to the right. And I'm a devout Catholic white woman. So you know how far she is. However, I applaud her attempts, and she has shown that women don't have to be a parody to make something of themselves. Unfortunately, she's also demonstrated just how "okay" it is to make fun of someone who belives in morals and values.

    July 15, 2009 02:16 pm at 2:16 pm |
  137. Eleanor

    It doesn't matter which party La Palin belongs to, or affiliates with. Her days of political office are through. She'd have a difficult time getting elected dog-catcher in Wasilla, Alaska! If Huckabee and the rest of that bunch of losers pins it's hopes on the Pageant Queen to save them...then great!!! It'll be a goooood loooooonnnnggg time before Rep's see the light of day in another elected office, and I say AMEN TO THAT!!

    July 15, 2009 02:16 pm at 2:16 pm |
  138. John

    So, now, the Republicans hate Baptists?

    At what point does it get so silly and full of headline-making non sequiturs that all faith is lost.

    And I mean that in the most respectful sense.

    No, reall! I haven't lost my faith.

    Aieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee....

    July 15, 2009 02:16 pm at 2:16 pm |
  139. jaxson

    Huckabee is laughable. What a "nut job".

    July 15, 2009 02:17 pm at 2:17 pm |
  140. JS007

    Ha ha ha, Palin will be the end of the GOP! Thank you Sen. McCain! Without the right wing Evangelical ditto-heads who support Palin the GOP will be nothing more than a bunch of old rich guys trying to convince the American middle class that they (the rich) need more tax cuts to buy yachts and mansions. Good luck guys!

    July 15, 2009 02:17 pm at 2:17 pm |
  141. E.C.Coleman

    Too Bad that Palin wasn't running for President.
    McCain was a totally lack-luster candidate.
    Big Mistake.............

    July 15, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  142. Susan

    And the Republican Party wonders why they're not getting elected? ....this is why! GET A CLUE!!!!

    July 15, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  143. John Poggendorf; Prescott, AZ

    Mr. Huckabee:

    Please know your desires regarding Ms. Palin have the heartfelt support of something in excess of 89 Million voters in the US.

    We are collectively known as Democrats, aka the party of ideas, nuanced thought, science, inclusion and progress. And while these are alien concepts to you, please know you carry our fervent and most heartfelt desires with you on your journey into history's landfill.

    Holding fast to Palin would seem to be the political equivalent to stuffing rocks in your pockets en route to a swim, and we applaud your desires.

    Bon Voyage' and good riddance!!!

    July 15, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  144. SickofPalin

    Oh MY God! If this is what the republican Party is placing it's bets on for the future I say the Democrats will be in power for a long time to come. When will they realize that the majority of Americans are no longer lingering in the past with all these backward and negatives ways. All Sarah Palin ever did was to incite bigotry and racism within the hardcore republican party. She never brought one intelligent idea to the forefront. Instead all she did was incite the bigots of the party to spwe their hatred of anything different. Younger America saw right trough these tactics and showed the Republican PArty the door. I only hope Americans never let this crowd of bigots back in.

    July 15, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  145. Alan

    Yes, Sarah - PLEASE don't leave the GOP. They need you to keep the party completely divided and confused...just like you are.

    July 15, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  146. bea

    Palin should keep out of politics, she should take care of her children and be a better mother. She could not complete her term for Governor
    of Alaska, can you imagine trying to be President of the entire U.S
    The woman is all Bullsh-T and no Brains, all she wants is fast money.
    There are a lot of different ways for her to make fast money.

    July 15, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  147. RAG

    I hope she heeds Huckabee's call to stay in the Republican Party. That leaking boat needs another anchor to insure its final destruction and Sarah is a one ton kedge.

    July 15, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  148. Nutmegger

    Sarah Palin is nothing but a puppet for talented speech writers - like a ventriloquist's dummy. Anytime she has opened her mouth unscripted, nothing but incomprehensible, inconsistent gobbledy gook comes out.

    Mr. Huckabee should be honest. He wants Mrs. Palin to remain a Republican because he knows that she makes him look good by comparison.

    July 15, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  149. Jo

    She will be a disaster for the Independent Party also. People why do you think this crazy women has what it takes to be Prez. Do we want another Bush/Chenney in the White House. The Republicans are better off by themselves and Independent alike. Don't let the Palin grass fool you people. Remember it is not what's the other side of the mountain that counts but what's on this side of the mountain. Remember a lot of people make mistakes lurking for the other side of the mountain in which they can't see or judge.

    July 15, 2009 02:19 pm at 2:19 pm |
  150. RO

    Sarah,,, stay home!

    July 15, 2009 02:19 pm at 2:19 pm |
  151. ONE MAD AMERICAN

    Is anyone out there tired of hearing the republican critics? I know I am... Everyday since president Obama was elected in to office, I have had to listen to endless stories about what president Obama did wrong for the day. They bring emails, FOX news articles and share Rush Limbaugh stories; the intensity is like a rally of the local church trying to convert the town atheist. I wish the republican diehards would give it a rest. You didn't see every democrat trying to convert republican voters when JW was in the seat.

    Give it a rest republican’s, because some of us democrat voters are tired of hear it!

    P.S. If I get one more Obama is a Muslim article, I am going to scream.

    Signed
    Tired of hearing it!

    July 15, 2009 02:19 pm at 2:19 pm |
  152. George Garrett

    Doesn't sound like a warning. But, if a warning is what you want to hear, so be it. The leftist elite in the media are so galvanized by Palin, I'm surprised it wasn't seen as a rebuke.

    July 15, 2009 02:19 pm at 2:19 pm |
  153. LoLo

    Please give us a break. This lady is not fit for any office. My 9 year old grandaughter is smarter than she is. It is just amazing how the republican party operates. No one knows what is going on. They are really showing their true colors since they lost the election. This party is definitely a train wreck. More is coming out on their members. No one wants to be a part of these fools agenda.

    July 15, 2009 02:19 pm at 2:19 pm |
  154. Gary

    Palin's "serious side"?She's a quitter.She has NO serious side.Nor will most people pay any attention to anything she say's or does.She
    shot herself in the foot,when she quit .

    July 15, 2009 02:20 pm at 2:20 pm |
  155. Moody

    Funny how a backwoods preacher and a moron have become the faces of the Reoublican party. Makes sense I guess.

    July 15, 2009 02:21 pm at 2:21 pm |
  156. dreamer

    Last time I checked this is America and you can belong to any party you wish.wether or not she would be welcomed addition to that party is another matter.

    July 15, 2009 02:21 pm at 2:21 pm |
  157. mike

    She is so yesterday's news.. the lady was a quack..How about reporting on real news!! .

    July 15, 2009 02:21 pm at 2:21 pm |
  158. Kate

    So what is she runs as Independent? I don't particularly care for her but contrary to what it is today our system was not set up as simply a two party system of Republican and Democrat. Multiple parties were supposed to be allowed into the fray.

    July 15, 2009 02:22 pm at 2:22 pm |
  159. Sally

    Poor Mr. Huckabee... You all can't win without Palin!!!! Sad!!!! Sad!!! Sad!!! Did you understand her speech on July 3th??? Maybe you should have her as your running mate (President or Vice President)...

    July 15, 2009 02:22 pm at 2:22 pm |
  160. phyllis

    Sarah Palin and Mike Huckabee both need to be put on a slow boat to nowhere, and never get off. They are both republician blow hards, They both think they can fix what is wrong, but neither one has done that in their states, so please go away. thank you

    July 15, 2009 02:22 pm at 2:22 pm |
  161. Brian

    She needs to go independant and take the ultra christian fundamentalist wing of the republican party with her. Either that or the politically conservative branch of the party needs to go independant. I would really prefer that, but we all saw what happened when Ross Perot started a viable third party. The christian fundamentalists came in and destroyed it driving out all the reasonable candidates. Good riddance to her. I say go and don't let the door hit you. The people who follow the true republican ideals of smaller government, oversight vs regulation and libertarian values will be much better off.

    July 15, 2009 02:22 pm at 2:22 pm |
  162. Todd

    Every time Palin opens her mouth she gets a little less popular.

    Her op-ed in the Washington Post the other day was a great demonstration of a person who loves to talk but has very little to say. She wrapped up three or four insults in some worn out cliches and including nothing factual.

    She is poison to the party and completely unelectable.

    July 15, 2009 02:23 pm at 2:23 pm |
  163. Diane Panama City Fl

    The reason Mr. Huckabee doesn't want Governor Palin to leave the Republican Party is that her presence provides an easy and stark contrast for him. If a comparison is ever warranted, he will look like a mental giant in comparison to the Alaskan Brood Sow.

    July 15, 2009 02:23 pm at 2:23 pm |
  164. David

    Sorry, Gomer, but some people refuse to buy into the staged two party system.

    July 15, 2009 02:23 pm at 2:23 pm |
  165. becky moore

    I don't see any WARNING in Huckabee's statements. I think you may have used the wrong word there. Maybe it was used to gain attention for a pretty boring story? You gave a negative feel to a positive statement and sentiment. She isn't being WARNED not to leave the GOP, he's practically begging her not to leave. Are you all Democrats?

    July 15, 2009 02:24 pm at 2:24 pm |
  166. Frank

    Why is anyone still reporting on Palin? Is it because the media likes a train wreck?

    July 15, 2009 02:24 pm at 2:24 pm |
  167. Libertarian

    And what will a new Republican Party platform look like? Gay marriage was ceded by Cheney, Stem Cell research ceded by Nancy Reagan, Fiscal responsibility and small government ceded by Bush I & II, and family values and biblical living have been ceded by way too many to even name. What's left? ohhhh.....War and Power!

    July 15, 2009 02:25 pm at 2:25 pm |
  168. John from DC

    i think that her leaving the Republican party for a third party would cripple the Republican party thats why he doesn't want her to leave. i hope she does what she feels is best fit to help this nation, and not because of political affliation.

    July 15, 2009 02:25 pm at 2:25 pm |
  169. Obama=disaster

    CNN – Haven't done enough Sarah Palin stories? I like Sarah Palin and it's too bad the media destroyed her. Democrats obviously choose their candidates based on their great speaking abilities and not substance. You may not like Palin but she is right when she talks about Obamas "Crap and Tax" plan. You fools will all realize that the rich aren't going to be paying for your higher energy bills and the it's just another excuse for them to dig into our pockets even more.

    Waiting for Sniffles and Melissa to hop on board the Palin Bashing. Keeps them occupied!

    July 15, 2009 02:25 pm at 2:25 pm |
  170. mj

    who cares

    July 15, 2009 02:25 pm at 2:25 pm |
  171. bendo

    Oh please..... please.... start a new party...... go Sarah!

    July 15, 2009 02:25 pm at 2:25 pm |
  172. white supremacist = al qaeda =hamas = terrorism

    Sarah palin is looking for short cut; she is trying to avoid the battle of the primary, but that will not solve her lack of valuable education. She has a lot of cash on hand, enough to pay her tuition and her SAT training course

    July 15, 2009 02:25 pm at 2:25 pm |
  173. johnnie

    Palin ,has already left the (GOP) she knows the (PARTY OF NO FUTURE) is (Gone with the Wind) The (independants )dont want her,she is a quitter, and will never forget that (LIE) about (Barack Obama ) pals around with terrorists. (HUCKABEE) better be more about his rating on that (Fox False News Show) it is the most sorry show i have ever had a short (LOOK) at. She is done, CNN knows she is cooked, The whole (MEDIA) knows she is (deleted). The only party that (palin) is going to is ....................(NOT ANY PARTY).....

    July 15, 2009 02:25 pm at 2:25 pm |
  174. herold aubourg/boston/ma

    I think Palin needs to go to an ivy leave university to master the science of politics because she needs to retool herself. Eventhough we have a comedian in the White House and he is smart and intelligent. Right Palin do not stand on nothing even her faith. The GOP needs mind transformation and right now there is someone out there to lead the GOP and it not that who is trying to steal the spotlight.

    July 15, 2009 02:25 pm at 2:25 pm |
  175. Fred the Moderate

    You would rebuild the republican party on sarah palin?

    Please do!

    July 15, 2009 02:26 pm at 2:26 pm |
  176. Simmy

    Please lose that picture of Huckabee.....He looks foolish and non credible....On second thought, Never mind....

    July 15, 2009 02:26 pm at 2:26 pm |
  177. Charlie - AK

    Huckabee get a grip! Her serious side is still about lies. That's the reason why she continue telling them – b/c she will whin, stump and call it sexism if anyone challenge her on anything. All she will ever be is an attack dog. The ghostwriter did her no justice yesterday writing that crap that she was for during the debate in Oct 08.

    We republican's can do without her........! Let her go Please.................

    July 15, 2009 02:26 pm at 2:26 pm |
  178. Melissa

    Huckabee, you'd be better off if she did.

    July 15, 2009 02:27 pm at 2:27 pm |
  179. smokey

    Come one people..Who really cares what she does ? I guess she never heard the saying, " quitters never win "....

    July 15, 2009 02:27 pm at 2:27 pm |
  180. Jane

    That's right, you both deserve each other!

    July 15, 2009 02:27 pm at 2:27 pm |
  181. Darrell

    Thank you Frick and Frack.

    July 15, 2009 02:28 pm at 2:28 pm |
  182. Bruce Ryder

    Recent polls on Sarah Palin are really confusing. One poll (which I saw via CNN) indicated that 70% of Republicans and 43% overall - would consider voting for Palin as President. I thought the 43% number was rediculous. The 70% Republican number, however, was believealble - because a lot of the chatter from the media lately has paid attention to Sarah Palin - and only her. Sarah is big in the Republican base. Today, however, there is another poll (again accessed via CNN) indicating a majority of Republicans do not think Sarah Palin is qualified to be President. What is going on?

    July 15, 2009 02:28 pm at 2:28 pm |
  183. Jamie

    She'd campaign for a Democrat? She'd have to use her running skills to catch one – talk about the Kiss of the Spider Woman! I hope she remains in the Republican party, and runs in 2012 – just what they need to add new life to the GOP (snickering); someone who can't take direction (ask McCain's camp) and who'll carry the ideals of the Republican base into oblivion. Run, Sarah, run!! On, sorry, she's already done that hasn't she? She ran the McCain ticket off the rails, and ran from her responsibilities as governor. Gotta love her! This independent is a big fan!

    July 15, 2009 02:28 pm at 2:28 pm |
  184. pv

    "Huckabee — now a commentator for FOX News — also praised Palin's recent Washington Post op-ed "

    Most of us do not believe she wrote it, Mr. Huckabee.

    July 15, 2009 02:28 pm at 2:28 pm |
  185. 60's survivor

    oh Lord!!

    July 15, 2009 02:30 pm at 2:30 pm |
  186. Stacy from Leesburg, VA

    Wow, Governor Huckabee read a whole lot into that statement! How dare she support a candidate from the other party? That is sacra religious! If she goes off the reservation and becomes an independent, or third-party, or gets Reagan tattoos all over her arms, who cares? In a short time, she will be a private citizen. She can be whatever the heck she wants to be…including Alaskan Independence Party. Man, I cannot believe I am defending Palin on anything….

    July 15, 2009 02:30 pm at 2:30 pm |
  187. T'SAH from Virginia

    HUCK – a – BYE writes... "She brought electricity to the Republican ticket last year..."

    OMG – she brought "electricity" to a bunch of WHITE men who was constantly "drooling" over her body and not paying any attention to her BRAIN!!!

    I don't get it – I'm a female and even though I supported Obama for President – I would have also voted for Hillary!! Hillary had class and sense – PAILIN has neither and have more MEN supporting her than they would have supported Hillary. I've seen ALL men – all nationality – actually drool over Palin (even though MOST if not ALL did not vote for her).

    Palin is good for a REALITY SHOW and nothing MORE!!! She could NEVER be president of the USA... NEVER!!! REPUB MEN need her!! They are so DEAD they need electricity" to move them. But in the end, they will STOMP her out as if she does not exist!!

    July 15, 2009 02:30 pm at 2:30 pm |
  188. Four and The Door

    Sarah does electrify, but not because she is a celebrity or breaks any barriers, etc. It's because of her clear, well thought out and presented ideas about government's role in America and her get-it-done approach. More and more people are recognizing that what she says and what she does make sense. Thank you, Obama for proving that.

    July 15, 2009 02:30 pm at 2:30 pm |
  189. doug

    I say build your own party! Why not?
    You built your house with ill gotten goods, why not a party?

    July 15, 2009 02:31 pm at 2:31 pm |
  190. elsie

    Look, Huck, you play a nice guitar and all, but when Sarah Palin's the best thing you've got, it is indeed time to give up and 'abandon' your party. At this point it can only be a step up.

    July 15, 2009 02:31 pm at 2:31 pm |
  191. Dan

    it will not matter if she becomes an independent. Democrats fear her and will do everything possible that they can do to destroy her. How pitiful of the Democratic Party has become to have to resort to that. How pitiful for people to look the other way when old man Letterman makes such a disgustingly crude comment about a young girl – like he did with whichever Palin daughter he directed his comment towards. How pitiful for Democrats to condone any of this – just because they disagree with her politically. Have the guts to recognize that this is all wrong! And please keep your idiotic comments about Bush as somehow justification – to yourself.

    July 15, 2009 02:31 pm at 2:31 pm |
  192. Ohio Citizen

    Huck wants her to stay so she doesn't run as an independent and pull some of the support he's counting on. This gets tricky for him and the other potential candidates for 2012. I think the speculation is off base. I don't think she'll be running for office ever again.

    July 15, 2009 02:32 pm at 2:32 pm |
  193. Ron

    Why don't you ALL leave the worthless Republican Party. They are only for the rich – and their baloney talk about small government, etc is just a sham. They never were any good, and finally people are realizing that. It has taken WAY TOO LONG to come to our senses.

    July 15, 2009 02:32 pm at 2:32 pm |
  194. neopatriot

    good...maybe she'll play spoiler for repubs in 2012

    July 15, 2009 02:33 pm at 2:33 pm |
  195. bcords

    She could have her own "WHACKO" PARTY. the witch doctor who prayed over her could be her spiritual leader. im sure she could get a few of her whacko right wing nuts, especially the so called southern evangelicals to follow her. they follow any pedofile, pervert or adulterer who says that they believe in god! i just wish that witch doctor could make her disappear.

    July 15, 2009 02:33 pm at 2:33 pm |
  196. LEEinCA

    Palin GO AWAY. You are everything that is wrong with America. Your backwards thinking and lack of intelligence has taken women back 20 years!

    July 15, 2009 02:33 pm at 2:33 pm |
  197. Leanne, TN

    Yes, there is a lot of excitement for hatred and name calling, which is what Sarah Palin brought to the election. No wonder she lost the presidency for John McCain.

    July 15, 2009 02:34 pm at 2:34 pm |
  198. Barbara Coleman, Washington, DCe

    Sad that the Republican party is in such a disaray that Mike Huckabee would be begging trainwreck Palin back into their trainwreck party!

    Is there no shame in this party? Palin dumped Alaska, and she'll dump the Repubs in a heartbeat if it so suits her. She is simply a shallow woman who pursues self-interest above all else.

    How can the party want a person who charged Alaska (a state she "professes" to love) for sleeping in her own home? How honest can Huckabee be if he chases after a woman who cheats her own state, and constantly dumps on the Republicans and just about everyone else the party will need to win to go forward?

    Whew, get me outta here!

    July 15, 2009 02:34 pm at 2:34 pm |
  199. elsie

    Also: her "serious side"?
    So what would you say she's been showing the world up to now, during her governorship of a state and her Vice-Presidential candidacy?
    Talk about accidental truthtelling...

    July 15, 2009 02:34 pm at 2:34 pm |
  200. Jose

    She could form the right wing nuts party and of course speak without having logical facts, only little catch phrases. Maybe the platform of her party could be speak and talk without saying anything coherent while attacking everyone and anyone spewing racist hatred to those who don't agree with her.

    July 15, 2009 02:34 pm at 2:34 pm |
  201. AZBY

    Huckabee is not a politician but a religious leader. So who cares his opinion when it relates to politics.

    July 15, 2009 02:34 pm at 2:34 pm |
  202. T'SAH from Virginia

    HUCK – A – BYE is praising Palin for the Washington Pose Op-Ed she truly did not even write!! Come on now – Palin wrote that!!!

    But like all REPUB men, they are BLIND by her LQQKS and ELECTRICITY that they could not even tell someone wrothe that Op-Ed for her... Jeez!!! Come on NOW – give me a BREAK!!!

    July 15, 2009 02:34 pm at 2:34 pm |
  203. JFI

    Let Palin do what she wants,,,its time that both the Dems and Reps dissolve. THe two party system is old hat as is the electoral system. Presidents should be elected by popular vote so everyone truly has a vote that counts.

    July 15, 2009 02:35 pm at 2:35 pm |
  204. Stu-Florida

    Just why shouldn't / wouldn't she abandon it. She does everything else she commits to...

    July 15, 2009 02:35 pm at 2:35 pm |
  205. Bob

    Her becoming an independent would be the best thing for the Republican party. Let the Christian Right and other RIght Wing Loonies depart so that a much more sophisticated version of conservativism can arise as it has in the UK and Canada.

    July 15, 2009 02:35 pm at 2:35 pm |
  206. Al-NY,NY

    Has she ever sat down with anything other than a right-wing news outlet since her earlier disasterous interviews? The Washington Times?? Faux News?? Sending an Op-ed piece to the Post means nothing unless she actually sits down and answers questions that are not mashmallow-softies like she would get from those 2. I guess Dregs (Drudge) is next eh? Maybe NewsMax? Hey Fido, want some credibiity? Meet and provide an interview with someone who doesn't lob softballs at you.

    July 15, 2009 02:35 pm at 2:35 pm |
  207. grammy11

    Of course they don't want her to abandon the repugs. They need her to be the fall guy after they all use her to get money and crowds.

    July 15, 2009 02:38 pm at 2:38 pm |
  208. Susan

    Huckabee and Palin should both be in Republican Party. This will ensure Obama's re-election.

    I can't believe that Huckabee does not believe in evolution. I believe in God but I also believe in evolution.

    July 15, 2009 02:38 pm at 2:38 pm |
  209. Duck Fallas

    Stay, Sarah, Stay!! Please!!

    Palin-Bachmann 2012

    July 15, 2009 02:38 pm at 2:38 pm |
  210. bella

    Good news, Sara! Perhaps Huckabee will "call you on the phone" in 2012, say about July 1st or so, and ask YOU to be his VP Candidateii Good Luck!!!

    July 15, 2009 02:38 pm at 2:38 pm |
  211. Marsh (Republican)

    I guess Huckbee didn't read the article from WaPo – Let me sum it up: Palin threw out her statements and backed nothing up with facts. John Kerry wrote a great article yesterday taking each point and giving the facts.

    July 15, 2009 02:38 pm at 2:38 pm |
  212. Will, So Cal

    Who cares!

    July 15, 2009 02:39 pm at 2:39 pm |
  213. SGJ

    The only democrat who would let this "brain stem with lipstick" campaign for them is when Cheney runs as one!

    July 15, 2009 02:39 pm at 2:39 pm |
  214. Jimmy

    Mike Huckabee is scared to death of Sarah Palin.

    He and she would share the same base in a 2012 presidential run, which would be detrimental to his ambitions.

    So he subtly makes it sound as though Sarah Palin is not a real Republican, which is clearly a swipe at her. Look forward to other subtle dismissals of Palin from Huckabee in the future!

    July 15, 2009 02:40 pm at 2:40 pm |
  215. Alan Deming

    A rabid pit bull would bring plenty of excitement to a nursing home; doesn't mean you open the door and give it full reign.

    July 15, 2009 02:40 pm at 2:40 pm |
  216. Dave

    Huckabee DOES remember that McCain-Palin suffered a crushing and humiliating defeat in November, right? Even with a war hero on the top of the ticket, Palin managed to lose not only OH and FL but also VA, IN, and NC.

    The only 'excitement' Palin brought to the ticket was for Obama supporters. I hope she brings the same kind of 'excitement' in 2012.

    July 15, 2009 02:41 pm at 2:41 pm |
  217. max

    'quitter' seems to be a running theme for yet another repug coward ... they all suck

    July 15, 2009 02:41 pm at 2:41 pm |
  218. TCM

    CNN- trying to make something out of nothing....again...Palin's agenda is her agenda. Why report on it unless she's announced she's running for office? Are you that entrenched with the Obama administration that you are required to consistently attempt to tarnish her? Give it a break...

    Hey, I know, report on the US Army Major who refused to deploy to Afghanistan – reason? His Commander in Chief has yet to prove he's a US citizen by birth....what happened ? The Major won the lawsuit; his orders revoked, and he doesn't have to go....that's unprecedented for the military to rescind orders without cause; in this case it will draw thousands of refusals and rightfully so. Obama's going to have to provide a TRUE vaulted copy of his birth certificate or he could have a military refusing orders..hahaha...it's his own fault!

    July 15, 2009 02:41 pm at 2:41 pm |
  219. Navybill

    Most Dems are gonna read this and P&M all over the place about the GOP and how lost they are. Fact is, there are more core Republicans who are just waiting for a good cantidate to roll over Nobama. It will take time to rebuild the GOP, but it can be done. So, to all the Republicans out ther waiting for the next Gipper, I submit it is time for you to toss your hat in the ring and help find him/her.

    July 15, 2009 02:42 pm at 2:42 pm |
  220. Gary of El Centro, Ca

    Yes, by all means please stay in the Republican party Ms. Palin.......you will delay any attempt at a serious comeback for several years just with keeping that "R" behind your name. Do us all a favor and stay put.

    July 15, 2009 02:42 pm at 2:42 pm |
  221. Joey Fritts

    Is it really going to matter who the Republican candidate is? The base of voters that bought the Reagan argument is dying physicially every day. The country is changing and there is really nothing anyone can do to stop it.

    July 15, 2009 02:42 pm at 2:42 pm |
  222. Dee

    To be perfectly honest, it terrifies me to think that politicians want Sarah Palin back not only in the spotlight, but in politics in general. She was a terrible choice as a Vice President, for time and time again she proved her incompetence and how out of touch she was with reality. I know this has been repeated ad nauseum, but if she feels that continuing her position as Governor of Alaska will be useless if she is a 'lame duck,' I do not feel that she is ready for a position as large as the Vice President of the United States, never mind the President. I truly hope that the public becomes more informed and listens carefully to her speeches, and realizes that she is not worth endorsing as a serious political candidate, in any capacity, or in the future. Her sweet-talking and down to earth nature, and the fact that she is a woman, cannot and should not sway the public toward giving her blind devotion.

    July 15, 2009 02:43 pm at 2:43 pm |
  223. ray

    both these morons should go to iraq and never to come back.

    July 15, 2009 02:44 pm at 2:44 pm |
  224. MK Minnesota

    Maybe she will join the Alaska Independence Party

    July 15, 2009 02:44 pm at 2:44 pm |
  225. Bob Evano

    "saying it shows her "serious side.""

    – Good one, Huck! Such a jokester. I would bet my life that palin didn't "write" much of that article – even though it did seem juvenile and plain ignorant, I just don't think she is at that level yet. Huck is though!

    July 15, 2009 02:45 pm at 2:45 pm |
  226. Richard L

    Did Huckabee get approval on that from Chuck Norris or is Norris making plans for his new presidential mansion in Texas?

    July 15, 2009 02:45 pm at 2:45 pm |
  227. DrMrMojo

    Is it not likely that HER ambition is to be the next commentator for FOX News–likely considerably more money to be made and much less risk.

    July 15, 2009 02:45 pm at 2:45 pm |
  228. Kellie

    Oh, Sarah, whether a Republican or an Independent - you will do great things for Dems if you run. Please run! And as for her cap and trade op-ed in the Washington Post - Senator Kerry has slapped it down because of its inaccuracies. Regardless, doubtful Sarah wrote that piece herself. Also. You betchya.

    July 15, 2009 02:46 pm at 2:46 pm |
  229. dbacchus

    Palin is going back to Alaska Independence Party.
    ALASKA FIRST! :)

    July 15, 2009 02:46 pm at 2:46 pm |
  230. John M in NoHo, CA

    PLEASE stop with the Palin obsession

    July 15, 2009 02:46 pm at 2:46 pm |
  231. jaye

    GOOD GRIEF... give it a rest!!!
    She quit – she abandoned her state – she's done.
    Why keep on reporting every single thing about her....sheesh!!!

    July 15, 2009 02:46 pm at 2:46 pm |
  232. jeanne

    And her fire she brought forth, burned you all....I will never go back to being or voting Republican if she is anywhere near the ticket.....

    July 15, 2009 02:47 pm at 2:47 pm |
  233. AJ

    America will NEVER elect a "Born Again" President! Most Americans know that Adam and Eve didn't have pet dinosauers,and are not waiting for the rapture! You betcha!

    July 15, 2009 02:47 pm at 2:47 pm |
  234. What a Joke

    It seems, Sarah Palin will go where the money is regardless of what side of the coin it falls. I'm not mad at her because we all have to take care of our family. However, I would not vote for her because maybe the presidential salary is not enough to handle any issues that may come up.

    July 15, 2009 02:47 pm at 2:47 pm |
  235. cv

    huckabee is right. stay with the GOP. independents don't want a diva.

    July 15, 2009 02:47 pm at 2:47 pm |
  236. Joyce

    Cynical reasons abide here. Huckabee wants Sarah to stay a Republican, because if she leaves she takes a big chunk of the Republican base, which he aspires to win over, confident that Sarah would never make the Republican nomination, or so he thinks.

    July 15, 2009 02:47 pm at 2:47 pm |
  237. John

    Dear Mike Huckabee,
    The op-ed piece you refer doesn't show any side of Sarah, serious or otherwise. Someone else obviously wrote it for her. Sarah is not capable of putting that many sentences together that contain a cohesive thought.

    July 15, 2009 02:47 pm at 2:47 pm |
  238. Peace

    Huckabee get a grip! Sarah brought electricity in the Party that time when people recognised her as a governor, and had a hope that she can become VP.
    The way she has abandoned Alaska, I do not think such electricity is still on. Just wait and see!

    July 15, 2009 02:48 pm at 2:48 pm |
  239. STEPHEN BLEDSOE

    Wow, two idiots in a pod.! Now, if they can get the war criminals that just got out of office together, then they could truly have THE most pathetic, shameless morons in the entire country in their own pod.
    These guys are just so miserable they make everyone feel better about life.

    July 15, 2009 02:48 pm at 2:48 pm |
  240. Oh, yeh

    Start a third party! Split the koo-koo vote. Maybe all the koo-koo's will follow Palin and the Republicans can rebuild into the party of crooks and liars, but not extremists.

    CNN, gonna delete this one, also?

    July 15, 2009 02:48 pm at 2:48 pm |
  241. Barb

    Yes, she needs too leave the GOP. John McCain used her and then abandoned her. He knew she wasn't ready , but he had too do something because he couldn't even draw a decent crowd. McCain should be ashamed of himself , and so should the GOP. She needs too go independant, if she doesn't win she can take vote's away from the GOP.

    July 15, 2009 02:48 pm at 2:48 pm |
  242. Ben in Texas

    As a person who abhors nearly everything the Repugnant Party appears to stand for, and who thinks the Democrats need to clean up their act, too, I vote with Huckabee on this one.

    Keep Palin in the Repugnant Party! Keep all of those nit-wits in one spot so we can contain the contamination and begin cleaning up the country. Having Palin on the loose would make our task just that much more difficult.

    July 15, 2009 02:48 pm at 2:48 pm |
  243. david

    huckabee, you might want to consider that palin, rush, newt and others have been instrumental in driving many republicans to the democratic and independent ranks. sanford and ensign are making other republicans abandon the party as well. only the republican base as many refer to them supported palin but it wasn't enough votes to beat obama. many republicans voted for obama because of palin and mccain's inability to address the issues, specifically the economy.

    July 15, 2009 02:49 pm at 2:49 pm |
  244. Philadelphia

    I love reading CNN.com, but the excessive coverage of Palin needs to stop. I'm seriously considering abandoning CNN for another online news source.

    July 15, 2009 02:49 pm at 2:49 pm |
  245. Failin' Palin supports the Republiklan creed “money talked and Ms. Bu!!$h!t walked” away from her duty to serve the citizens of Alaska!

    Never mind, huckleberry, the half-wit will be right there a Fox news so you can keep an eye on her and her new show!

    Joe Scarborough seems to have an inside line that says missy is taking over Greta Whoever's spot.

    July 15, 2009 02:49 pm at 2:49 pm |
  246. Galileo813

    That fire, Mr. Huckabee, was before people got a good read on Ms. Palin. It was looks, video splash, and prepared speech that ignited them that first night. Over time, they got to know her. Her primary remaining cheerleaders are talk radio hosts, who envision her going forward as their marionette.

    July 15, 2009 02:50 pm at 2:50 pm |
  247. Saad

    I love CNN.... it can make such a drama out of something. Huckabee warns Palin.... lol at the heading.

    July 15, 2009 02:50 pm at 2:50 pm |
  248. zippy29

    Gee...I'm about ready to cry...Don't leave Palin...oh boo hoo...if you leave you'll take votes away from me. As far as her creating excitement, well, let's just say it was riotous.

    July 15, 2009 02:50 pm at 2:50 pm |
  249. frank

    Sounds like she is going rogue. Somebody better warn the real "independents".

    July 15, 2009 02:51 pm at 2:51 pm |
  250. Republicans are the American Taliban

    Issues a warning....remember the Taliban will not tolerate traitors...and being a woman, Sarah Palin needs to be wearing the traditional Republican berka...

    July 15, 2009 02:51 pm at 2:51 pm |
  251. NATHAN WIMBERLY

    When will they learn? They just love doofus candidates. This woman keeps trying to show them that she is unqualified but they keep talking about how good she is. She lost the election for them last year and they are determined to walk the plank again in 2012.

    July 15, 2009 02:51 pm at 2:51 pm |
  252. Hugo

    I was all for Huckabee until he brought his religious beliefs into politics, he was sound on fiscal management. Why can't these guys get it through their head that you can't legislate morality. It is an individuals right to believe in the God of their choice as it is an individuals right to hate who they wish, they can't legislate it away. People are just the highest evolved order of animal with all the same natural faults. No matter what, we are a hair width away from stepping back to our primordial roots, it only took 4-days during Katrina...

    July 15, 2009 02:51 pm at 2:51 pm |
  253. F-Dog

    She's just being all Maverick-y again – you betcha!

    July 15, 2009 02:51 pm at 2:51 pm |
  254. TBA

    Huckabee is a wash up Repubican. Thats why he is on a wash up TV network, Fox News Network aka Republican News Network. Basically Huckabee doesn't want her to come and have her own show on the same network as him, due to the fact that shes going to take away all of the viewers, and most likely they going to replace him with her.

    July 15, 2009 02:51 pm at 2:51 pm |
  255. geecee

    Of course, the Repugnantcans need all the votes they can get, whether its from their moderate, sane voters or their right-wing nutjobs. If Palin pulls away the latter, then the party will be split, guaranteeing they will NEVER hold elected office again!!! Sounds to good to be true.

    July 15, 2009 02:51 pm at 2:51 pm |
  256. Jeremy

    Lets hear all the "GET OUT OF THE SPOTLIGHT PALIN" comments. The media seeks her out to bash.

    Can we rename this the "Palin Ticker"? After all, that is what it has become.

    July 15, 2009 02:51 pm at 2:51 pm |
  257. David

    Huckabee just want's Palin to stay in the defunct GOP to be a distraction, so he is seen as a more viable candidate to the last remaining Republican voters.

    I can't wait to hear what sex/money scandal he is involved in that we will hear about before the end of year.

    July 15, 2009 02:51 pm at 2:51 pm |
  258. Pat Dunedin Fl

    What is wrong with this picture? Hair falling out , very stressed constantly Lies. Palin is in for a Meltdown. No the Dems don't
    want this woman or joe the plumber, or Mr Cook who fails to
    fulfill his Military Obligation because He Has a grudge against
    Hawaii the Birth Place Of Our Wonderful President!!!
    Huckebee can have Palin, Joe the fake plumber,and the un patriotic
    Mr Cook. The mental instituition is open for all including Rick\
    Perry and Chuck Norris!!!!!! Nut Jobs Welcome

    July 15, 2009 02:51 pm at 2:51 pm |
  259. Bakum

    I never dreamed in my wildest dreams that Palin would leave the republican party. What a wonderful wonderful thought. She could take all of the crazies with her! THe Republicans as an entity would be ruined, the crazies would be identifiable, and -god willing- honest, thoughtful, logical conservatism can make a comeback.

    Please please please please please please please please....

    July 15, 2009 02:52 pm at 2:52 pm |
  260. Jeff from PDX

    Palin is a Bush, Cheney, Limbaugh, Hannity, Joe the Plumber Republican. I'm not sure what party she would branch out to.

    July 15, 2009 02:52 pm at 2:52 pm |
  261. paco

    C'mon CNN
    enough with Sarah Palin. You guys keep trying to fram her as some sort of important figure in the Republican party, when iun reality she's not. I have been a Republican all my life, and I voted for McCain in spite of her. She's,kind of a joke. And without McCain she would not get 5% of the popular vote in a presidential race – especially against media golden boy Obama. I have yet to speak with one single Republican who would even remotely consider voting for Sarah Palin.

    There are real Republican possibilities for Presidential consideration. How come you guys don't cover them?

    July 15, 2009 02:53 pm at 2:53 pm |
  262. Michael D. Houst

    Frankly, Ron Paul's Campaign for Liberty makes a better political party than the Republican Party.

    The Republican Party is dead to the majority of Americans primarily because of their lack of understanding of the needs and wants of the average American; plus their no brain lemmingish following and support of the G.W. Bush Presidency.

    July 15, 2009 02:53 pm at 2:53 pm |
  263. Josh

    Way to Go Palin – Go even crazier than anyone thought, Go Indipendent. I am loving it.
    51% of your fellow Right Wing Nuts do not think you are Qualified to be President – Show them you are. There are enough Crazy repubs who will follow you.

    Drill Baby Drill; Oh that should be go indipendent go.

    July 15, 2009 02:53 pm at 2:53 pm |
  264. VON BISMARK,Vienna.

    She will be a good VP for Rush to failure.

    July 15, 2009 02:53 pm at 2:53 pm |
  265. Make-You

    I like Mike Huccabee's views to not only address the people's physical concerns (economy, climate change, education...) but also reminds them to obey God with respect to life, family and/social values (real marriage).

    God bless Mike.

    July 15, 2009 02:54 pm at 2:54 pm |
  266. Gerald

    Mike , you are a class guy , keep up the good work. To all the Palin bashing libs that will surely throw darts remember "Hope is not a plan"

    July 15, 2009 02:54 pm at 2:54 pm |
  267. Lori, Houston Texas

    I totally agree with The Huckster. Palin should stay a Republican and go around the country to support any and all Republican candidates. Especially here in Texas. What better way to remind Independents who and what the current Republican Party represents? I understand Rick Perry/Texas and Sarah/Todd Palin/Alaska have much in common, so make sure y'all get your tix to the Secession Party!

    July 15, 2009 02:55 pm at 2:55 pm |
  268. fet up

    who cares about either of these idiots...they can stick in that party cuz that's all they have! Indepents this time woke up, but they're so indecisive they'll probably fall for it again in 2012 and vote for another retarded republican!

    July 15, 2009 02:55 pm at 2:55 pm |
  269. tim

    Let her go, Go!

    July 15, 2009 02:56 pm at 2:56 pm |
  270. Jeanne H.

    "and then there was fire going forth"... You betcha! With incendiary divisive remarks inciting shoutings like "Kill him! Kill him!" there was fire for sure. Not the kind of fire that's good for this country.

    July 15, 2009 02:57 pm at 2:57 pm |
  271. Registered Republican

    The Independents can have her.

    July 15, 2009 02:57 pm at 2:57 pm |
  272. Realistic

    Democrats do not want Palin and an Independent she can never be because to be an Independent you can not be closed minded. Palin needs to stay with the republican party and stay out in the wilderness.

    July 15, 2009 02:57 pm at 2:57 pm |
  273. Tom Paine

    Another day, another CNN Palin story with the requisite liberal commentary. YAWN.

    July 15, 2009 02:57 pm at 2:57 pm |
  274. KenS

    I'd love to see her run as in independent. She would get about 20% of normally Republican votes, and about 20 normally Democratic votes. ( Yes, 20 votes, not 20%! )

    July 15, 2009 02:58 pm at 2:58 pm |
  275. Louisiana Man

    CNN's lead-in title for this article is so misleading-projecting a negative:

    Huckabee WARNING Palin ..... sounds to me like he is begging
    her to stay in the Republican Party.

    Whatever Huckabee is doing .... it isn't ... WARNING.

    WARNING ... ?

    BEGGING sounds more like the truth of the situation.

    July 15, 2009 02:58 pm at 2:58 pm |
  276. Obama Campaigner

    Well, she may not leave the the GOP, but she sure has left her post. As a pentecostal christian, the one she claims to be, she's a disgrace. She made me campaign for President Obama, so that I won't have another hypocrite in office. I mean golly, why must we christians be represented by the most unethical people.

    July 15, 2009 02:59 pm at 2:59 pm |
  277. Shawn

    Palin's goofy op-ed in the Washington Post was instantly exposed as a series of exaggerations and lies, as she is now a shill for big oil. Good to know Republicans still admire dishonesty over all else.

    July 15, 2009 02:59 pm at 2:59 pm |
  278. Hobart in TN

    Has Fox officially annouinced that it is the mouthpiece of the GOP 24-7, or are they still trying to hide that fact from the public?

    July 15, 2009 02:59 pm at 2:59 pm |
  279. mike

    Can not wait for this woman to be out of the news!

    July 15, 2009 02:59 pm at 2:59 pm |
  280. Dave C - NJ

    Gerald, Palin has no plan, never had a plan, never will have a plan. Her ghost writer that wrote her Times article got it all wrong, not that that's a shock. She sits on the sidelines and critiques, but has no vision, no strategy, nothing to offer. Just like the rest of the GOP, thus Huck is correct, she should stay.

    July 15, 2009 02:59 pm at 2:59 pm |
  281. Neutralizer

    IMHO only Sarah Palin can rally the GOP to work together and go back to fundamental stand of the party, basic principles of the Republican Party. Palin is a new kind of Conservative, not too far right but at the center where it should be – true governance is in the middle and it always succeed be it Republican or Democraps. There's an increasing number of independent voters; the Jackarse and elephant are moving too far left and too far right. The GOP must stick with fundamental laws of the land, that is the constitution. Palin can bring conservatives, moderates and independents into one big umbrella. The democraps hates her because they're afraid of her, the extreme rightwingnuts hates her because she follows the law of man (constitution) not the bible. Palin is a moderate Republican which we all call conservatives, there's nothing wrong with that; this country was founded on conservatism not liberalism or socialism.

    July 15, 2009 02:59 pm at 2:59 pm |
  282. Andrew

    I was a huge opponent of Sarah Palin during the election. That being said, I believe that it is a very big step in the right direction for her to step out of the republican line and say that she will support any candidate that has the same beliefs as her, whether that be a democrat or republican. George Washington, in his farwell address, warned our nation about political parties, and he was very right. People need to stop identifying themselves as republican or democrat, especially our nation's youth. These new voters are basing their feelings about issues, like abortion and the death penalty, on their political party instead of on their own true feelings.

    "I'm a republican so I must be pro-death penalty"
    "I'm a democrat so I must be all about increasing taxes"

    These sad misconceptions will one day bring about the downfall of all individual thinking. Thank you Sarah Palin for swimming against the stream. You are an example for us all.

    Andrew

    July 15, 2009 03:00 pm at 3:00 pm |
  283. Pete

    Sure, Mike, keep her in the GOP. That will guarantee a Democratic victory next time. Just because she can "see" Russia from her house doesn't make her an expert on foreign affairs; just because Alaska has oil reserves doesn't make her an expert on energy policy. She doesn't know much about the issues that a politician must know to be successful. She likes to be looked at, likes to be in front of adoring fans, some of which fantasize about her sexually, and likes to feel important. She can only be one to slam the opposition, and, just like Limbaugh, and has no ideas to replace the ones she complains about. I'd love to see her at the top of the ticket in 2012, but the Republicans can't be THAT stupid, can they?

    July 15, 2009 03:00 pm at 3:00 pm |
  284. JayG

    Although I'm not a huge supporter of Palin, I dont see why there is sooo much hate against this woman. Everybody calls her stupid and a moron, but I've heard some dumb things come out of Obama's mouth and nobody says anything. If people in the media were attacking Obama's children like they did to Palins everybody would be screaming racism! double standard is not fair at all. Leave the woman alone.

    July 15, 2009 03:00 pm at 3:00 pm |
  285. Zenichi-maro

    Funny how the GOP seems to be rallying around its loose canons, rather than securing them.

    I humbly suggest that extremists like Palin (and, to a great degree Huckabee) are exactly what the GOP does NOT need in order to survive and remain relevant. Why does this, the Party of Lincoln, look more toward flash and sparkle, verve and image than to substance and well-argued public policy? If I wanted a Barbie doll for president, I'd vote the Mattel ticket. However, wishing to have intelligent, articulate, moderate, and educable human beings occupying high office, I shall continue to avoid the GOP.
    -znm

    July 15, 2009 03:00 pm at 3:00 pm |
  286. once upon a horse

    looks like there seem to be more Republicans throwing darts lately than "LIBS" as you all like to call them. But when they attack their own I guess it's alright.

    July 15, 2009 03:00 pm at 3:00 pm |
  287. JGB

    Geez, enough already. CNN you have done your job in destroying her. You just love to read all the idiot posts you create? People around here get their facts from Saturday night live!

    July 15, 2009 03:01 pm at 3:01 pm |
  288. Gasman

    As a commentator for FauxNews, Mike Huckabee has lost all claim to any vestigial decency that remained after his presidential bid. It doesn't matter whether Palin is in or out of the Republican Party, she will kill it either way. If she leaves, she takes with her the inbred cousin lovers who have skulked in the darkest recesses of the party for decades. If she stays, she drives away nearly any Republican who has a brain.

    The GOP is made up of far too many moribund cave dwellers who cheer when Palin utters inanities. The sooner the party implodes the better. Maybe a new party will emerge from amongst the ashes of the GOP that will serve our country better. It can't happen soon enough.

    July 15, 2009 03:01 pm at 3:01 pm |
  289. indyreader

    Frankly, I'd love it if Sarah Palin left the GOP and formed her own party. What would be left in the GOP then, might actually be worth voting for.

    July 15, 2009 03:01 pm at 3:01 pm |
  290. John in Tampa

    Mr. Huckabee, I'M an independent. Ms. Palin cannot BE one, so rest assurred she will stay Republican or we will all die laughing. I don't mean it is a club, I mean she is incapable of thinking in any way that 'independent' people think.

    It is not what SHE does, it is what the Republican Party does. You need to dump this quitter-person or you will never be taken seriously again either.

    July 15, 2009 03:02 pm at 3:02 pm |
  291. Steve

    The Republican party will be dead by 2012. Its main support nowdays
    is in the South with people who are Baptists which is the Church almost everyone belongs to in the South. Huckabee fits well with this group.
    Rupublican Party will become a third party and a new party will dominate the country if not in 2010 it will sweep the country in 2012.

    July 15, 2009 03:02 pm at 3:02 pm |
  292. Mike

    I agree with Palin's views, but if she joins a third party it won't be taken seriously just like she wasn't taken seriously.

    July 15, 2009 03:02 pm at 3:02 pm |
  293. Brett from Oriskany,VA

    Yes, Sarah, by all means stay in the Republican party. It will assure independents and Democrats that Republican means "wing nut" and assure a second term for Obama. Only the super rich, racist poor whites and assorted wing nuts can support either Palin or Huckabee. Oh, and change the name from Republican to American Taliban, it suits your philosophy.

    July 15, 2009 03:03 pm at 3:03 pm |
  294. Shawn - GA

    Love her or hate her that is your right. One thing that can not be ignored is that she is important to both Dems and Reps.

    If she was as useless and pointless as many of you try to say, she would be ignored and left behind. Instead major people are paying her major attention.

    July 15, 2009 03:04 pm at 3:04 pm |
  295. Cathy in AZ

    His comments prove why we was not the nominee either! I have no problem with Gov. Palin staying in Alaska. i just would like her to stay out of national politics!

    July 15, 2009 03:04 pm at 3:04 pm |
  296. Tim

    Clearly Huckabee's afraid of a third party or independent run by Palin because he knows she would take votes away from him.

    July 15, 2009 03:04 pm at 3:04 pm |
  297. Third Party Palin

    I support Palin's bid to run as president under a new third party:
    The Egotistical Party.

    To Gerald @ 2:54: and "progress" is not a verb.

    I sure hope Palin "progresses" in her effort to start a third party.

    July 15, 2009 03:05 pm at 3:05 pm |
  298. Jon

    How bad off can the GOP get, when even Palin makes noises about leaving it?

    The GOP is on life support right now as it is. If Palin goes, it's another nail in the coffin.

    The only thing is how many nails can that coffin lid hold already? It seems that it should be pretty filled up by now.

    July 15, 2009 03:05 pm at 3:05 pm |
  299. Sarah/Irrelevant

    Yeah...stay on Sarah. You level of intelligence is less than 1%. You might have the looks but no "BRAIN". The GOP is the biggest joke in the world to support this nut case...

    July 15, 2009 03:05 pm at 3:05 pm |