McCain, the 2008 GOP presidential nominee, says that he believes that Governor Palin will remain on the national political scene and a leader within the Republican Party. "The fact is she is very popular with our Republican base. She will be a very strong voice," McCain added.

According the the Arizona senator, he was not consulted about Palin's intentions or decision to resign. Saying he was a bit "surprised," McCain said he spoke with Governor Palin about it afterwards and understands how she came to her choice. Widely expected to enter the race for the presidency in 2012, McCain said he was "confident" about Palin's ability to be a good president, but did not endorse her for the office. On July 3rd, Palin sent shockwaves through the country by announcing that she would not seek a second term as Alaska governor and would resign the office by the end of July. Since then, the 2008 Republican vice presidential nominee, has been the subject of much media attention over her intentions. In a sharply worded message to critics of Sarah Palin, Senator McCain said "In all due respect to those who like to examine the entrails and look backward, the fact is we were three points ahead on Sept. 15 and the stock market crashed and we went seven points down. Sarah Palin ignited our party. We were winning and we could have won."