Cheney: I'd Still Like To Know Why Palin Quit As Governor

"I've never gotten around the question of her having left the governorship of Alaska in mid-term," former Vice President Dick Cheney said today when asked about fellow Republican Sarah Palin and her suitability for national office.

"I've never heard that adequately explained. ... I'd like to know more about that," Cheney added.

Cheney, who as we've previously reported is making the media rounds to talk about his new memoir, was talking with radio show host Laura Ingraham. You can hear their conversation here. The comments about Palin, which were in response to a question from Ingraham about whether Cheney thinks Palin has a thick enough skin to be vice president, come around the 24-minute mark.

On July 3, 2009, when Palin announced her decision to step down, she said in part that:

"I've never believed that I, nor anyone else, needs a title to do this — to make a difference ... to help people. So I choose, for my state and my family, more 'freedom' to progress, all the way around ... so that Alaska may progress ... I will not seek re-election as governor.

"And so as I thought about this announcement that I wouldn't run for re-election and what it means for Alaska, I thought about how much fun some governors have as lame ducks ... travel around the state, to the Lower 48 (maybe), overseas on international trade — as so many politicians do. And then I thought — that's what's wrong — many just accept that lame duck status, hit the road, draw the paycheck, and 'milk it.' I'm not putting Alaska through that — I promised efficiencies and effectiveness. That's not how I am wired. I am not wired to operate under the same old 'politics as usual.' I promised that four years ago — and I meant it.

"It's not what is best for Alaska.

"I am determined to take the right path for Alaska even though it is unconventional and not so comfortable.

"With this announcement that I am not seeking re-election ... I've determined it's best to transfer the authority of governor to Lt. Governor Parnell; and I am willing to do so, so that this administration — with its positive agenda, its accomplishments, and its successful road to an incredible future — can continue without interruption and with great administrative and legislative success."

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