Palin's rural adviser quits

JUNEAU, Alaska — Gov. Sarah Palin's rural adviser is resigning amid criticism of the governor's record on hiring Alaska Natives.

Rhonda McBride said Monday in an e-mail to Native leaders that she agrees the job would better filled by an Alaska Native. She said there are too few Alaska Native voices in Palin's Cabinet.

Many Alaska Natives have said they felt ignored when Palin made appointments to her administration.

McBride is not an Alaska Native, but has extensive experience covering rural issues as a journalist.

McBride said she plans to return to reporting to help bring attention to Native issues.

Her resignation is effective Oct. 23.