"What is occurring in the Democratic Party is no different than what always occurs in the Democratic Party, " said Brad Woodhouse, the DNC communications director.

CNN: Health care, Afghan war splits Democrats

"Either Sarah Palin is leaving the people of Alaska high and dry to pursue her long-shot national political ambitions, or she simply can't handle the job now that her popularity has dimmed and oil revenues are down, " DNC spokesman Brad Woodhouse said.

CNN: Palin stepping down this month