Across the World: United States

Palin to step down

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin was to step down yesterday with her political future clouded by ethics probes, mounting legal bills and dwindling popularity.

Palin, who became a national political figure last year after she became the Republicans' vice presidential candidate, has said little of what her life will be like as a private citizen but has said she plans to write a book, campaign for political candidates from coast to coast and build a right-of-center coalition.