Former Alaska governor Sarah Palin is slated to attend a Tea Party rally with former U.S. Senate candidate Christine O’Donnell this weekend, sparking speculation that Ms. Palin may announce her decision regarding the 2012 presidential campaign.
Ms. O’Donnell, who lost to Delaware Democrat Chris Coons in 2010, is currently touring the nation as part of her book tour. The Delaware Republican reportedly reached out to organizers, asking if there was a spot for Ms. O’Donnell, whom Ms. Palin catapulted to the national stage with an endorsement in 2010.
Ms. Palin’s address is drawing interest from around the nation, according to organizers of the event, who say Ms. Palin has not provided any additional information on what she may discuss at the event. Sources close to the Alaska Republican say the speech to Tea Party supporters could serve as a platform for a potential 2012 race for the Republican presidential nomination.
SarahPAC, Palin’s political organization, recently shot down a suggestion by political strategist Karl Rove that the 2008 GOP vice presidential nominee could join the White House race by Labor Day.
“Any professional pundit claiming to have ‘inside information’ regarding Governor Palin’s personal decision is not only wrong but their comments are specifically intended to mislead the American public,” the political action committee said.
The rally is meant to help promote the tea party values of limited government, the importance of the Constitution and fiscal responsibility, event organizers have said.
Still, rumors of a 2012 entry by Ms. Palin have been fueled by supporters, who say the former Alaska governor is set to make a “major” announcement. Earlier this week, Tea Party of America hit the airwaves with a radio ad promoting Ms. Palin’s speech in Iowa.
