Things with Sarah Palin have taken another turn for the weird

Two weeks ago the Palins, Alaska’s former first family, waded into a brawl at a party in Anchorage. Now, self-described “Mama Grizzly Bear” Sarah Palin has referred to the incident on Facebook, writing that she is “proud” of her eldest daughter Bristol, who is said to have punched the party’s host in the face during the fracas.

“I love Bristol,” wrote the Alaska Governor and 2008 Republican Vice-Presidential candidate. “My straight-shooter is one of the strongest young women you’ll ever meet. I have to say this as a proud mama ... my kids’ defence of family makes my heart soar.”

Mrs Palin and her husband Todd, both 50, and two of their five children – Bristol, 23, and Track, 25 – attended the birthday party on 6 September at the home of Chris Olds.

Alaska-based blogger Amanda Coyne wrote that the fight broke out shortly after Track Palin turned up at the event. Track, an Iraq War veteran, spotted a former boyfriend of his sister Willow, 20.

Police said “alcohol was believed to have been a factor” in the “verbal and physical altercation” that followed.

As many as 20 people are thought to have been involved in the melee at its height, including Todd, who was reportedly left with a bloody nose, and Bristol, who is alleged to have hit Mr Olds in the face.

No one was arrested following the brawl, and no charges were filed against any participants.

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