Palin has Georgia on her mind

Sarah Palin is back on the campaign trail today for the first time since she and John McCain lost the presidential race, trying to help Republicans keep their US senate seat in Georgia.

Republican Saxby Chambliss is trying to fend off a challenge from Democrat Jim Martin, who is getting help from President-elect Barack Obama and other Democrats leading up to Tuesday's runoff. Democrats, with the support of two independents, have 58 seats in the incoming Senate, and if they were to win Georgia and a recount in Minnesota, could reach the magic number of 60 -- a potentially filibuster-proof majority.

"Georgia, the eyes of America are upon you. We all have Georgia on our minds," Palin said. "Georgia, the stakes are so high. America is counting on you. Tell your friends. Tell your family. We are rebuilding our party. And we're renewing the common sense, pro-working class, conservative cause in America. And it's starting right here in Georgia by sending Saxby back to work in the United States Senate."

"Senator McCain came back here because he understands that losing an election does not mean we have to lose our way. He is ready to carry on the good fight in Washington, but he needs Saxby to help him do it," she added. "Now, we've got a lot of hard work to do. We're got our work cut out for us if we are to lead again in changing Washington for the better and to put government back on your side. It takes rebuilding. And I say let that begin here in Georgia tomorrow.

Palin, the Alaska governor who might seek the top spot on the GOP ticket in four years, is scheduled to appear at four rallies across the state today with Chambliss.