While the move was odd, and I do think she's shirking her responsibility to the people of Alaska, maybe there is a valid reason we don't get. Often, women are told we can have it all. What they don't tell us is that family is the first to go if we want it all. Something gives. Usually, it's those we love most to some extent. Nannies raise our kids. We make the soccer game if we can. Our travel schedule controls us and not the milestones in their lives. Here's a novel idea. Sarah Palin has a special needs baby, one who may take extra time and care to raise. She has other kids and a grandchild. Maybe, just maybe, that family meant more than her political career for right now. Do I think she's given up the ghost? No. Do I think she's taking time out to breathe? Yes. Traditional family values mean that being a wife and mom is first and everything (including career) are secondary. Odd view for true feminists. But maybe she is looking out for her husband and kids first. No underlying motive, just a need to do those base things women are called to be-good wives and moms who are fulfilled by those roles and don't need an outside career to be whole. Give the woman a break. She made a decision. It's not hurting anyone (except maybe the people of Alaska who trusted her with their state, and they'll survive). Move on. No one thought it a big deal when Mrs. Obama gave up her career to be a mom to her girls beyond anything else. Give Mrs. Palin that same respect. As a mom who is trying to do the right thing for her family, she's earned it.

I think she quit because of the ongoing pressures and the requirements of having a special needs child. If that is the reason though I wish she had stated it rather than talked about everything else but her family responsibilities. It would have liberated a lot of women from some guilt feelings when they see they can't do it all either without scrimping on one.

I find it quite odd Annie Kate that Palin would now decide that having a special needs child is so time consuming. While running for vice president Palin made it very clear that she could handle her job and family witthout problem and even went as far as to call journalist sexist because they asked questions about who would watch the children.

I don't get what the appeal Sarah Palin has on the 7 out of 10 republicans who say they would vote for her. I'm a republican and I am almost ashamed to say she could be the next leader of the GOP. If she has to resign as Governor of Alaska to focus on personal issues but still seeks the presidential election, she has to be crazy to think she has a chance to win. And it's even more crazy if people vote for her after all of this. John McCain said "Country First," which I agree with, depending on your job title. If she ends up being the President of the United States, she'll have to focus on her job first. Her husband and family can help with her family but as President, you have a duty to your country.

There it is! I can agree with both Annie Kate's and Brandon's points. Well said guys! The special needs child should take first place in her life. Believe me, he needs her more than Alaska does!

Donna Wood
Lexington, Tennessee