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Republican John McCain shook up the presidential race with his surprise choice of little-known Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate.
Palin, a self-described "hockey mom," is a conservative first-term governor of Alaska with strong anti-abortion views, a record of reform and fiscal conservatism and an outsider's perspective on Washington.
Image Source: AP
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Sarah Heath during her days as Miss Wasilla, 1984
Source: Wonkette
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Governor Palin is greeted by the Vikings and the Valkyries during the 2007 annual Norwegian Festival in Petersburg, Alaska.
Source: state.ak.us
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Alaska Governor Sarah Palin tested out the Engagement Skills Trainer at Camp Buehring, during a July 2007 visit in Kuwait.
Source: Pfc. Christopher Grammer, 50th Public Affairs Detachment
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Gov. Sarah Palin accompanied 1st Lt. John Lombrano on a tour of facilities on a military base. Lombrano is commander of Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 297th Infantry, Alaska Army National Guard.
Source: Official Army photo by Staff Sgt. Mac Metcalfe, Alaska Army National Guard
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Sarah Palin, as candidate for Alaska Governor, waves to supporters.
Source: AP
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Back in February 2008, Palin graced the cover of Alaska Magazine and was named "America's Hottest Governor".
Source: Alaska Magazine
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Sarah Palin shown signing the Alaska state budget bill in June 2007.
Source: AP
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Palin agrees to be the GOP vice presidential candidate in a rally with McCain.
source: AP
