Sarah Palin: Newsweek Cover is Sexist!

For the second time since Sarah Palin stepped into the national political spotlight, a photo of her on the cover of Newsweek is sparking controversy.

Palin herself blasted the "out-of-context" cover as "sexist" on Facebook.

Originally published in the August 2009 issue of Runners World, the photo of Palin features the former Alaska governor in short runner's shorts.

Palin took issue with Newsweek using a photo from an article about fitness to promote an analysis piece contemplating her relevance in politics.

"The cover photo choice for this week's issue of Newsweek is unfortunate. With Sarah Palin, this 'news' magazine has relished focusing on the irrelevant rather than the relevant," the Going Rogue author's spokeswoman wrote.

"The out-of-context Newsweek approach is sexist and oh-so-expected. If anyone can learn anything from it: it shows you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, gender, or color of skin. The media will do anything to draw attention."

Newsweek editor Jon Meacham said the photo choice was simply the "most interesting image available" to "illustrate the theme of the cover."

The cover flap isn't the first for Newsweek and Sarah Palin pictures.

The October 13, 2008, issue featured an extreme close-up of her that she said was totally re-touching free and designed to highlight her flaws.

What do you think? Is Newsweek trying to sabotage her as a dope just because she's a conservative? Or is the cover a shrewd and accurate portrayal of just how far this particular politician is willing to travel on the road of self promotion?