We already know that the Republican National Committee has laid down over $150,000 on Sarah Palin's wardrobe since she was announced as McCain's running mate -- but rumor has it that she went all outlaw on us when she bought her handbag. According to a Fashionista tipster, Governor Palin has been seen around town carrying a fake Louis Vuitton handbag. Does that make her fiscally conservative, or a cheapskate?

Now, keep in mind that this is an allegation -- we don't really keep up with LV's handbags enough to spot a fake -- but we're not actually sure which scenario we'd prefer. People are always slamming politicians for spending tons of money on superficial luxury items like Rolexes and Rolls Royces -- but when they try to cut some costs here and there by buying a cutesy cheapo or a knock-off, it doesn't really earn them any bonus points.

The picture going around the blogosphere features Palin's daughter Piper carrying the suspect Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Montorgueil, but there are some noticeable differences in the design when you compare it to the version for sale on eLuxury.

Anyways, it doesn't really matter to most people, but keep in mind that we're trying to make this the most superficial election in history, and that's no easy task. Do you think it's a fake? Does it have deeper philosophical meanings about Palin's beliefs about piracy?

[via Fashionista]