CBS reports that a new ethics complaint has been filed against Sarah Palin, this time in response to the recent disclosure that she charged the state more than $50,000 for her kids’ travel expenses when they attended events with the governor.  Though Palin had been invited to these events in an official capacity, her children typically were not, and last week’s AP story quoted some event sponsors as being “surprised” when the governor showed up with kids in tow. For other appearances, the Palin tots were extended official invitations only after Palin herself implored organizers to include them. Though state law permits governors from bringing their families to events where they have official responsibilities, no one can quite explain what responsibilities Bristol, Willow, or Piper Palin might have exercised.

The official response from the governor’s office? She’s a celebrity!

“The Governor’s office has expended $54,803.00 in Alaska state dollars for family travel since December 2006,” according to the Governor’s Administrative Services Director, Linda Perez. “The documentation related to family travel has changed and you have to keep in mind that the governor and her family are very popular,” added Perez.