Palin steps down as governor of Alaska
Despite being from an oil-rich state, Palin is noted for her independence from big oil companies. On social issues, the fiscal conservative is pro-life and against gay marriage. Alaska was one of the first U.S. states to pass a constitutional ban on gay marriage. An avid hunter, she is a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association. She has admitted to trying marijuana when it was legal in Alaska, but said she did not enjoy it. ASSOCIATED PRESS
