Palin urges GOP to broaden message

OXON HILL, Md. (AP) - Returning to the national stage, former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin says the Republican Party must broaden its message in order to grow.

She says the GOP must "leave no American behind." And she adds that it's "imperative to reach out and share that conservative message."

Palin addressed the Conservative Political Action Conference on Saturday. The party's 2008 vice presidential nominee thrilled the audience with pointed criticism of President Barack Obama.

She likened the president to Ponzi-scheme felon Bernie Madoff and later offered Obama a direct message: "Step away from the teleprompter and do your job."

Palin even took a swing at New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, bringing out a "Big Gulp" soda and taking a drink during her speech.

Palin maintained a low-profile during last year's election. She's expected to play a limited role in the future of the party but shared several pointed recommendations Saturd