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President Bush:

"Governor Palin is a proven reformer who is a wise steward of taxpayer dollars and champion for accountability in government. Governor Palin's success is due to her dedication to principle and her roll-up-your-sleeves work ethic and serves as a wonderful example of the spirit of America."

U.S. Congress:

Palin has clashed with U.S. Rep. Don Young on some issues, such as Ketchikan's so-called "bridge to nowhere," that Young backed and Palin mocked in her acceptance speech.

Still, Young praised the selection, and Palin's energy expertise, as did Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska.

"Governor Palin's knowledge of energy issues will be critical as she and Senator McCain begin their path toward the White House," he said.

"I think it puts Alaska on the map, and that's great news for the state," Murkowski said.

State legislators:

Rep. Beth Kerttula, D-Juneau, doubted whether two years of experience as a governor was enough to qualify Palin to be vice president.

"I've worked real well with the governor, but she's not ready for this step," Kerttula said.

Sen. Bert Stedman, R-Sitka, disagreed.

"There was a substantial learning curve Gov. Palin faced as she became governor, and she excelled at that. I expect her to do the same as vice president." he said.

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"I'm a delegate to the National Republican Convention next week, and I look forward to casting my vote for both John McCain and Gov. Palin," said Rep. Bob Lynn, R-Anchorage.

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"This governor knows how to keep a secret," said Sen. Gene Therriault, R-North Pole.

In addition to her selection as VP, Palin also kept secret for months the fact she was pregnant, before giving birth to her fifth child earlier this year.

Alaska political parties:

"The Alaska Republican Party is proud of and supports our vice presidential nominee: Governor Sarah Palin," said Randy Ruedrich, chairman of the Republican Party and a longtime Palin adversary.

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"She's going to resonate well with most people around the country," said Ben Brown, Juneau Republican Party Chairman.