@Leftofthemind

Actually, Palin claims that dismissal was due to “weak performance” and specifically, failure to hire sufficient new troopers and budget disagreements. I’m inclined to think that she is telling the truth, especially given the fact that Palin’s administration has cooperated with the inquiry into the matter, rather than trying to stone-wall it. However, Leftofthemind, where I disagree with is if refusing to firing the trooper was a factor, it would represent abuse of power, regardless of the fact that safety comissioner can be dismissed or appointed at governor’s whimsy. Bush’s dismissal of DAs comes to mind and it was a clear example of abuse of power. I am not directly comparing it to the current set of facts, as Palin does not appear to be at fault here. It will be used against her though.