Quick Facts about Sarah Palin
Age: 44
Party: Republican Party
Marital Status: Married to Todd Palin
Children: Track, 19; Bristol, 17; Willow, 14; Piper, 7; Trig, born in April 2008
Education: BA in journalism from the University of Idaho
Birthplace: Sandpoint, Idaho
Where's she from?
Sarah was born in Sandpoint, Idaho. Her mother was a school secretary and her father was a science teacher and track coach. The family moved to the small town of Wasilla, Alaska, when Sarah was very young. Palin graduated from high school there in 1982.
Educational background?
Palin started her college career at Hawaii Pacific College in Honolulu, majoring in business administration. She later transferred to the University of Idaho where she earned a BA in journalism.
Did you know?
Palin won the Miss Wasilla Pageant in 1984 and went on to finish second in the Miss Alaska Pageant. At that time, she also won a college scholarship and the "Miss Congeniality" award. Before her political career began, Palin worked briefly as a sports reporter in Anchorage.
Political experience?
Her political career began in 1992 when she ran for Wasilla City Council. She won that year and won reelection three years later in 1995. In 1996, Palin challenged the incumbent for mayor and won. She won reelection in 1999. Term limits kept Palin from running again, and in 2002, Palin sought the office of lieutenant governor but lost in a five-way race in the Republican primary. Palin was appointed to chair the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission between 2003 and 2004. In 2006, Palin ran for governor of Alaska and won, becoming Alaska's youngest and first female governor at the age of 42.
Hot issues:
Among the issues that Palin has stressed during her political career are energy policy and tax reform.
Share your political views with other brides on the
Election 2008 message board!
-- The Knot
See More: Brides Decide coverage