Miss Wasilla 1984

Sarah Palin won the title of Miss Wasilla contest in 1984. Palin was elected governor of Alaska in 2006 but her 1984 pageant win received renewed attention after she was declared John McCain's running mate in his 2008 campaign. Palin went on to be first runner-up in the main Miss Alaska contest that year.¹

Fast Facts

1984: Palin won Miss Wasilla contest
Runner-up in Miss Alaska
Won Miss Congeniality contest
Palin's beauty pageant history has led many to label her as a VPILF
2008: Her husband Todd Palin was a judge in 2008 Miss Alaska contest¹
2007: Palin appeared on the cover of Vogue²
Video of pageant swimsuit segment posted to YouTube by Richard Millay³

McCain Running Mate

August 29, 2008: John McCain announced Sarah Palin as his running mate in the 2008 campaign. Palin is the governor of Alaska. McCain made the announcement at a rally in Dayton, Ohio.

Sarah Palin Facts

Born: February 11, 1964 in Sandpoint, Idaho
Party: Republican
Became Alaska governor: December 4, 2006
Married to Todd Palin
Journalism degree from the University of Idaho
Youngest governor in state history⁴
Earned over 90% approval ratings in surveys conducted during 2007⁵

Quotes

"Sarah says she wants to prepare for a career in television broadcasting by majoring in telecommunications and political science. It is no wonder that she has also been recognized by 'Who's Who?' since she has displayed her leadership in all areas, from academics to student politics to athletics... Ladies and gentlemen, contestant no. 8, Sarah Heath."⁶