I am sure Twan could tell us all about the concept of entropy. Right now, so could pretty much anyone in the GOP.
As others have said, Palin either got too hot in the kitchen and wanted out, or there is a scandal looming (now wouldn’t that be fun?) The short-term significance of this will depend upon further revelations- if there are any. Long term however, I rate this no higher than 2 stars.
Sarah Palin was not the future of the GOP. She was both crucified and lampooned by the media, and the Republican powers-that-be turned their backs on her at least eight months ago. If Sarah Palin could un-seat Obama in 2012, they likely believe, so could most anyone and we want someone who will tow the party line.
In the meantime, one of two scenarios will play out: Either A) the media will continue to have a field day with the implosion of the Republican Party, or B) Michael Jackson is not really dead- it was all a publicity stunt- and the GOP will thank God that focus shifted.