July 3, 2009

WASILLA, Alaska (AP) -- Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin has given notice
she's resigning at the end of the month. The surprise announcement came at a hastily called news conference at her home in Wasilla.

Palin said she decided to leave office quickly after deciding
she wouldn't seek a second term. She said she didn't want to be a
covential lame duck.

But she provided few details about her future. It's unclear if
she intends a future presidential bid. She did say she has a bigger
role in mind, and hopes to make a "positive change outside
government."

The 2008 vice presidential nominee has been seen as a likely
presidential contender in 2012. But a Vanity Fair magazine article
quoted unnamed campaign aides questioning if Palin was ever really
prepared for the presidency.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)