Advertising

The Seattle Times Company

NWjobs | NWautos | NWhomes | NWsource | Free Classifieds | seattletimes.com

The Seattle Times

Nation & World


Our network sites seattletimes.com | Advanced

Originally published Saturday, July 4, 2009 at 4:41 PM

Comments (0)     E-mail E-mail article      Print Print view      Share Share

Palin's replacement wants full term

In temperament, Sean Parnell is the polar opposite of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin.

Associated Press Writer

ANCHORAGE, Alaska —

In temperament, Sean Parnell is the polar opposite of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin.

Palin, with her signature updo, glasses and bright wardrobe, has had a tenure marked by high drama, ethics complaints and family crises.

The lesser-known lieutenant governor, an attorney with a long history in public service, is quiet in both dress and demeanor.

Republican state Rep. Mike Hawker described Parnell, who is inheriting Palin's office with her sudden resignation, as a "public craftsman, not a swashbuckling crusader."

"He's passionate but deliberate," Hawker said Saturday.

Hawker believes Parnell's even-keel personality will help him have a better working relationship with legislators than Palin. But others say it raises questions about Parnell's ability to lead.

"I think Sean certainly is not going to scare away any potential opponents," said Andrew Halcro, a Palin critic who lost the 2006 gubernatorial race to her. "I don't think he's intimidating enough."

Democratic state Rep. Les Gara added that while Parnell "seems like a nice guy," one of his weaknesses is not articulating a specific vision.

"But I'll keep my mind open and see if he has a vision to present," Gara said.

Parnell, a Republican who has served in both chambers of the state Legislature, will be sworn in as governor July 26, the day Palin steps down. The current term expires in early December 2010, and Parnell has said he plans to seek a subsequent four-year term.

A social and political conservative, Parnell emerged as Alaska's next leader when Palin, the 2008 Republican vice presidential candidate, abruptly announced her resignation Friday. Palin and her representatives are keeping mum about her future plans, but the governor has been seen as a likely presidential contender in 2012.

"I think we have a great team in place," Parnell said shortly after Palin's announcement. "I think we can have a seamless and stable transition across the next few weeks."

Parnell served four years each in the state House and Senate, starting in 1992, then worked for ConocoPhilips before taking a job as the deputy director of the Alaska Division of Oil and Gas. Last year, he challenged U.S. Rep. Don Young but lost by 304 votes in the Republican primary.

Copyright © The Seattle Times Company

More Nation & World headlines...

E-mail E-mail article      Print Print view      Share Share

Comments
No comments have been posted to this article. Start the conversation.

advertising


Get home delivery today!

More Nation & World

Senate Democrats split on health bill's fate

UPDATE - 05:12 PM
SC gov faces 37 charges he broke state ethics laws

U.K. started planning early for war, leaked papers show

Vaccine to kill nicotine buzz now in late tests by small drug firm

India's feeling bruised even before White House visit

Advertising

Video

Real Salt Lake wins MLS Cup
Real Salt Lake defeated the Los Angeles Galaxy with penalty kicks after 120 minutes of play at Qwest Field in Seattle.

Raw Video | Real Salt Lake receives the MLS Cup trophy
Raw Video | Real Salt Lake fans celebrate
Real Salt Lake fans enter Qwest Field
Raw Video | MLS Cup Opening Ceremony
LA Galaxy's David Beckham
Real Salt Lake's Kyle Beckerman
MLS trophy arrives in Seattle
Chittenden Locks Inspection
Full interview with New Moon actors

Marketplace

Open Houses

Find this weekend's open house listings.
Or search by location:

nwautos

Less is more: Group rides, good gas mileage have led to a scooter swarm in Seattlenew
Local riders say they've seen a surge in scooter interest in recent years, mostly from people wanting another commuting option. Seattle now ranks as o...
Post a comment

Advertising