Palin Announces She’s Restarting Bus Tour in Iowa With Stirring Video

DES MOINES, Iowa (The Blaze/AP) -- Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin plans to visit the Iowa State Fair on Friday on the eve of the leadoff caucus state's GOP presidential straw poll and in the wake of a Republican debate at Iowa State University.

Palin says in an email to supporters she is resuming her summer bus travels to iconic U.S. destinations with a stop at the fair. The visit to the early voting state comes as most declared Republican presidential candidates will be in Iowa, and as Texas Gov. Rick Perry is expected to enter the race and visit.

She also posted an rousing video on her website to coincide with the announcement:

Palin suspended the tour earlier this summer, creating speculation that she might no longer be interested in the presidency, despite numerous claims that the tour is not a precursor to any campaign. She said later the suspension was due to jury duty.

However, her visits to Iowa, including one in June and one planned for Sept. 3, have stoked speculation she is eyeing a 2012 presidential bid, although she has done none of the groundwork there other candidates have.