It’s ‘Sarah Palin’s Defense Fund,’ but It’s Not Sarah Palin’s Defense Fund (UPDATE)

Interesting. Sarah Palin hasn’t yet formed a legal defense fund. But an independent group, FreeAmericanCitizens.org, has set up what they’re calling “Sarah Palin’s Defense Fund” and pledging money raised will go directly to Thomas Van Flein, Governor Palin’s private attorney.

Is it wise for a group to do so without the expressed report of the figure? And is it wise for Palin to have a defense fund operating in her name if she hasn’t signed off on it?

Confusing things further, a comment was made to a pro-Palin blog that an “official” fund is in the works.

UPDATE: A statement from a Palin family spokesman, according to Team Sarah:

The continuing generosity of Alaskans and Americans is overwhelming as many reach out to assist Governor Sarah Palin and her family with their legal bills.

However, the official legal defense fund for Governor Sarah Palin has not been formed and the Governor cannot accept monies for those obligations from any other entity than the one in formation. Numerous federal and state laws to need to be abided by and the official legal defense fund will have very strict donation guidelines.

We thank everyone interested in helping the Governor. The best way to assist her will be through this official fund which will launch later this month.