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Palin spotlights special needs

by Leyla Santiago
Sunday, Sept. 14, 2008

ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Gov. Sarah Palin's child, Trig, was born with Down Syndrome this year. She cites his birth and rearing as evidence of a new understanding toward children with special needs.

It's a topic she's been vocal about throughout the campaign. But critics say her record doesn't exhibit a dedication to special needs programs.

One program that supports special needs children is the Special Olympics.

"It's very good for other people with disabilities and others in our community," said one Alaska Special Olympics participant.

During her speech at the Republican National Convention, Palin pledged support to families with special needs children.

"To the families of special needs children all across this country, I have a message for you: For years you've sought to make America a more welcoming place for your sons and daughters, and I pledge to you that if we are elected, you will have a friend and an advocate in the White House," the governor said.

Since Palin's pledge support for children with disabilities has increased.

"Any time a political leader or someone in the limelight speaks on behalf of people with disabilities, that awareness piece is very huge and it goes a long way," Alaska Special Olympics President James Balamaci said.

But some legislators in Alaska say the state's approach to the special needs community is nothing to be proud of.

"I don't think there are many people in the Alaska disability community that would say she's been a champion for them," said Sen. Bill Wielechowski, an Anchorage Democrat. "And maybe she's changing her position on that, and I think that's a good thing."

Despite Palin's support for children with disabilities, Sondra Thompkins, who's son has autism, participated in a rally against the governor Saturday.

"We feel very strongly that Sarah Palin is not the right choice," Thompkins said.

Some say Palin has supported special needs programs financially but has cut out others.

"It's been a mixed bag," Wielechowski said. "There are certainly funds provided for some things for Special Olympics and there were other things that were cut."

While the Special Olympics did not want to make any comments about budget cuts, Channel 2 News looked into the governor's funding of the program.

Records show Palin actually increased their funding by $25,000. However, that amount is only half of what the program asked for.

"This governor from the very start has a very clear record of her support for children with special needs," said Palin's campaign spokesperson Meghan Stapleton. "Since taking office she has nearly tripled funding for those with special needs in the public school system."

The Department of Education in Early Development says funding for special needs and intensive needs has gone up $73 million since  Palin took office.

Contact Leyla Santiago at lsantiago@ktuu.com