Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin announced Wednesday that she would not be running for president. Abandoning her 2012 dreams, Palin also freed her loyal followers, the so called "Mama Grizzlies" (as well as many male Palin fans) to get behind another GOP candidate. Where they will throw their support is still uncertain. Though Gov. Rick Perry is a social conservative like Palin, the two have butted heads before. She accused him of "crony capitalism" after Rep. Michele Bachmann insinuated Perry supported a mandate to vaccinate girls against HPV because the vaccine -maker, a Perry supporter, stood to benefit. Former Gov. Mitt Romney may also have trouble courting Palin followers, facing the same issues of "Obamneycare" and other liberal stances he took earlier in his career that have turned off much of the conservative base. The "Mama Grizzlies" may rally behind Herman Cain, who has modeled himself, like Palin, as an anti-establishment candidate. Or they may find Bachmann, another Tea Party-embracing female, most Palin-like in the field.
[See a collection of political cartoons on Sarah Palin.]
There is also a chance that without the unifying force of the Fox News commentator, Palin-ites might disperse among the candidates, facing the same qualms that the Republican electorate as whole is dealing with in getting behind a single person. However, if Palin endorses someone quickly, she may be able to attach her popularity, or at least her notoriety, to a candidate.
What do you think? Who will Sarah Palin’s fans support for the GOP presidential nomination? Take the poll and comment below.
Previously: Should Sarah Palin Run for President?
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Steve of FL 10:47AM October 07, 2011
luzriedel of CA 5:12AM October 07, 2011
Gail Fernandez of CA 3:08AM October 07, 2011