Sarah Palin and her ex-husband, Todd Palin, were married for more than 30 years, making their divorce a surprise to many who had followed their long relationship. The couple tied the knot in 1988 and raised five children together while building a life in Alaska. For decades, they were seen as a united front during Palin’s rise in politics and national fame.

According to court filings, Todd Palin initiated the divorce in 2019, citing “incompatibility of temperament” under Alaska law, which essentially means irreconcilable differences. Sarah Palin later described the split as an “empty nest divorce,” explaining that major life changes — including their children growing up and the pressures of public life — played a role in their decision to separate. There were no allegations of misconduct made public by either party.

Despite the end of their marriage, both Sarah and Todd Palin emphasized respect and privacy during the process. Their divorce was finalized quietly in 2020, marking the end of a long chapter in both of their lives. While the breakup surprised many supporters, it reflected a reality faced by many long-married couples navigating change after decades together.