Palin Support Sinks in Poll

As she prepares to exit Alaska's governor's mansion Sunday, Sarah Palin's nationwide support is lower than it has been at any time since she became John McCain's running mate, according to the latest Washington Post/ABC News poll. Some 53% of Americans now view Palin negatively, the poll finds, while just 40% see her in a positive light. GOP voters are still fans, with 70% positive, although the number holding "strongly favorable" views of her is down sharply.

Republicans and Republican-leaning independents still see her as one of the top three contenders for the party's nomination in 2012. Her chances may be damaged, however, by the perception that she doesn't understand complex issues, a view held 57% of poll respondents, including 40% of Republicans. (More Sarah Palin stories.)