If you feel the need to compare her to a historical figure, try Churchill. He changed parties - twice!
You don't think there was any political or personal risk in abdicating the Governorship of Alaska?. Was that like a speed-bump to you?
History will record Palin's abdication like Napoleon's deliberate abandonment of a strong central position at the Battle of Austerlitz - one of the most sublime battle-winning manoeuvres in history.
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Not completely congruent? Try not even close. Palin is beloved by her fans for what she says. She has no skin in the game at all, in fact, she's benefitting financially without any sacrifice or cost at all.
Thatcher never quit and never used her notoriety to cash in. The comparison is down right silly.
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History will record her quitting for what it was...bone-headed weakness.