Sarah Palin posted a statement in response to the intense criticism she's faced in the days since the Arizona shootings.
A few excerpts: "Like many, I've spent the past few days reflecting on what happened and praying for guidance. After this shocking tragedy, I listened at first puzzled, then with concern, and now with sadness, to the irresponsible statements from people attempting to apportion blame for this terrible event..."
"There are those who claim political rhetoric is to blame for the
despicable act of this deranged, apparently apolitical criminal. And
they claim political debate has somehow gotten more heated just
recently. But when was it less heated? Back in those 'calm days' when
political figures literally settled their differences with dueling
pistols? In an ideal world all discourse would be civil and all
disagreements cordial. But our Founding Fathers knew they weren't
designing a system for perfect men and women. If men and women were
angels, there would be no need for government. Our Founders' genius was
to design a system that helped settle the inevitable conflicts caused
by our imperfect passions in civil ways. So, we must condemn violence if
our Republic is to endure."
Palin also released a video version of the same statement.