McCain sees ex-running mate Palin continuing to be ‘force’ within Republican Party

McCain: Palin to be ‘force’ in Republican Party

WASHINGTON — Sen. John McCain says he sees Sarah Palin continuing to play a major role in the future of the Republican Party.

McCain says he respects the decision that his 2008 vice presidential running mate made to resign as Alaska governor. The Arizona senator says people make decisions based on what’s best for them and for their families.

And he says he thinks Palin “clearly” made the best decision. McCain says he thinks she will continue to be “a force” within the GOP.

Palin intends to write a book and try to build a right-of-center coalition. Her long-term political plans are unclear — and there’s speculation about a possible a 2012 presidential bid.

McCain spoke in an interview broadcast Sunday on CNN’s “State of the Union.”