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.Miss America: National Election News from The Miss America Organization(August 29, 2008)

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.

1. Born: February 11, 1964 in Sandpoint, Idaho
2. Party: Republican
3. Became Alaska governor: December 4, 2006
4. Married to Todd Palin
5. Journalism degree from the University of Idaho
6. Youngest governor in state historyCNN: McCain Picks Alaska Gov. Palin as Running Mate (August 29, 2008)
7. Earned over 90% approval ratings in surveys conducted during 2007Washington Times: Editorial: McCain and History (August 28, 2008)

"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."

• Huffington Post: Sarah Palin's Beauty Pageant Swimsuit Competition ... (September 26, 2008)