Palin 'seriously interested' in 2016
DES MOINES, Iowa -- Is Sarah Palin interested in running for president in 2016? It depends on what the definition of "interested" is.
But this much was clear from her appearance here on the eve of the biggest GOP cattle call of the presidential season so far: She's definitely interested in people thinking she's interested.
Even if she's not really that interested.
"Without putting any words in my mouth, you can absolutely say that I'm seriously interested," said Palin, the 2008 vice presidential nominee, in the lobby of the Marriott late Friday night. But in the same conversation, she appeared to downplay her interest, suggesting she is merely keeping her option open.
"It's not a major story because 2016 really is still far off," she said of the Palin-for-president talk. "I think it's a major story because maybe you guys are bored," referring to the mainstream media. (Surrounded by national reporters, she resisted referring to them as the "lamestream" media.)
Then, bringing the exchange full meta, she later added, "It's a significant step, of course, for anyone to publicly announce that they're interested. ... Who wouldn't be interested? Who wouldn't be interested when they have been blessed with an opportunity to speak about [issues important to the country.] Who would just ignore an opportunity?"
The 2008 VP nominee's comments came as she and a lineup of other big-name Republicans are set to address the "Iowa Freedom Summit" hosted by Republican Rep. Steve King and Citizens United.
Palin publicly mused about running in 2012 before taking a pass. In an interview Thursday with ABC, Palin had said "of course" she might run in 2016.
Asked to clarify Friday night, she said: "I don't know what all the politically correct terminology is when you talk about being interested in having an opportunity to serve your country. So I don't know if that's the right terminology or not."
Pressed, she added: "As I said yesterday, I'm really interested in the opportunity."
Palin had a long conversation in public view with King. He could be heard making a joke about "moose stew." Citizens United President David Bossie showed up to pay his respects. Newt Gingrich and his wife Callista approached to welcome Palin to Iowa and to "thank" her for coming. And Rick Santorum - who won the 2012 Iowa caucuses - appeared to give Palin a copy of his new book, which tells the story of raising a special-needs child - something that the two have in common.
As an aide tried to usher Palin away, a supporter approached and told her that he plays football.
"I'd rather talk football with him," Palin joked to the reporters trying to ask about 2016.
Few GOP insiders think Palin will go through with the hard work of actually staging a credible bid, from raising money to building organization. But expressing interest, especially in the Hawkeye State, will generate buzz and could overshadow other more conventional candidates. Among those also speaking Saturday are New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker and former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee.
And if Palin did get into the race, it could roil the likely field.
Palin's daughter, Bristol, is accompanying her to Iowa.
In Las Vegas the day before, while serving chili to the homeless, Palin said she would like someone to break the glass ceiling.
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