(Right, because when has putting someone with no national-arena experience ever not worked out for the federal government?)
Oh, yeah. Heckuva job, Brownie.
Now, I’m not saying that if Sarah Palin becomes vice president, the levees will break and another American city will be virtually destroyed before our very eyes while the Executive Branch kind of sits idly by, biting at its cuticles and going, “Oh, gosh, I sure hope someone does something about this.” That’s just ridiculous. But there are a lot of misconceptions out there about our pretty governor, and before America gets all dazzle-eyed by her perky personality and her willingness to stand up to Big Oil and her ability to recall just exactly how many houses she owns (and the occasional $1200 bonus check), let’s clear up some of the stories that are bumping around out there:
She’s not politically moderate. In fact, when it comes to social issues, Palin is almost as conservative as they come. In a 2006 gubernatorial debate, when asked to respond to a hypothetical situation in which her own daughter had been impregnated by a rapist, Palin responded immediately and unequivocally, “I’d choose life.” No discussion. (And no say in the matter for daughters Bristol, Willow or Piper, either.) In 2002, she sent a letter to Alaska Right to Life (the people who drive around town in a giant truck decorated with huge photographs of aborted fetuses) claiming to be as “pro-life as any candidate can be.” (She does say, however, that she’s pro-contraception.) She’s also opposed to gay marriage, and she supports teaching creationism in public schools. Oh, and climate change? It’s not a pressing issue in Sarah Palin’s universe. Woe betide ye, polar bear who stands in the way of progress.
She was never Miss Alaska. She was Miss Wasilla. She lost the state pageant to Miss South Central, Maryline Blackburn.
She is not more experienced than Obama and Biden. If you want to get technical, she has more “executive experience” than both men, yes — but give me a break. By that rationale, she is also more experienced than John McCain. She was the mayor of a very small town, and she has less than two years under her belt as governor of the third least populous state in the union. (A tenure during which, apparently, she has not been in full control of her office — at least, according to her account of the Troopergate scene.) Biden, on the other hand, has been in the Senate since 1973, and Obama was in the Illinois State Legislature for seven years before being elected to the U.S. Senate (in addition to his experience as a community organizer). Being mayor of Wasilla (population: somewhere between 5,000 and 8,000) is not on the same level. Sorry.
She’s not a moron. She might let her personal bidness up in the executive office a little more than one might like, and she certainly has made some PR fumbles recently, but the lady is sharp. To assume she’s not intelligent just because she’s pretty — well, where I’m from, kids, we call that sexism.
She’s not in Big Oil’s pocket. Just ask Alaska’s Republican old guard about her oil tax hike. She is pro-development and pro-drilling-in-ANWR... but I think we have a different idea of what it means to be pro-Big Oil here in the AK.
She’s not responsible for cleaning up Alaska’s corrupt government. The FBI did that pretty much on their own… well, OK, the IRS helped.
Not everyone in Alaska loves her. Yes, she’s popular. She’s also coming on the tail of four years of one of the least popular governors in American history. All she had to do to be better-liked than Frank Murkowski was show up and not buy another jet. She’s charismatic — like a head cheerleader, she makes people feel drawn to her. But (also like a head cheerleader) she’s not perfect, and we’re not all fans (and not because we’re all band geeks and bitter chess club nerds).
There are no naked and/or swimsuit pictures of her on the Internet. (Side Note: Sorry if that’s how you got here, creepy Googlers.)
She’s not a substitute for Hillary Clinton. In fact, apart from the biological similarities and a penchant for unfortunate hairdressing decisions, there’s not much they have in common. Universal health care, reproductive rights, environmental issues, fiscal policy… these are areas in which Clinton and Palin couldn’t be further apart. To anyone who’s so desperate to vote for a woman that Clinton and Palin are interchangeable — STOP VOTING WITH YOUR HORMONES AND READ A DAMN NEWSPAPER ALREADY. You’re killing me here. (Side Note: As I Twittered earlier this afternoon: News flash: Not every female candidate is a GOOD candidate for women. Case in point: Would you vote for Phyllis Schlafly?)
But, as LeVar Burton would say, you don’t have to take my word for it. Some reactions from my Twitter feed this morning:
“Wondering how Palin can compare herself to women who actually support and fight for women's rights.”
“Overheard: Rush Limbaugh summed up Sarah Palin this way: ‘Guns, Babies, Jesus.’ That about sums it up.”
“Sarah is certainly not Hillary. The only thing they have in common is their gender.”
“Christ on a crutch already. One shouldn't wake to the fact that a former podunk mayor with less than two years experience is the new VP pick.”
“OMG! I just remembered. Palin will have to debate Joe Biden. It'll be JUST LIKE CHRISTMAS!”
“I would love to see a woman in the White House, but come on.”
“Sarah Palin? Because she's a woman, right? ... I just threw up in my mouth a little bit.”
“Unfortunately, Sarah Palin will be reminiscent of Dan Quayle.”
“Hey! If Palin's VP (I really hope not) then we don't need Ted! Who needs 4th (or is it 5th?) in line for President when you have 1st?”
And perhaps the most relevant question of all, from Roblef:
“If McCain gets elected and dies, and the vp takes over, will they finally ship to AK?”
**************************
UPDATE: Thanks for the comments, and the 12,000+ hits this hour. A few things you should know, my dears:
- Comment approval will not be immediate. This girl has a life.
- If you insult and/or belittle other commenters, your comment will not be posted. (This includes referring to entire groups of people as “douchebags.”)
- Unpleasant remarks about Bristol and/or Trig Palin (or any of the Palin minors, for that matter, although Piper and Willow don’t seem to come up much) will likely not be approved, even if I agree with you. Don’t take it personally. I just don’t think the kids should be punished because some of us don’t want their mother to be vice-president.
- A lot of you have commented that this article appears to have a leftward slant. Guess what? You’re right. This isn’t a newspaper. It’s a personal weblog written by a thinking voter who happens to lean left (but who has also voted for Republicans, Greens, and Independents — when they’ve been the better options). If you’re looking for unbiased reporting, read the Washington Post. (There. I’ve just saved you the trouble of commenting. Never say I’m not a giver.)
144 smart remarks:
I can't remember the last time my blood boiled as much as it did today.
Thank you for putting together all these facts!
I think McCain f'ed up big time and I hope this blows up in his face.
This political pandering sickens me to no end.
Thanks for reading, and thanks for the comment. Tell all your friends...
i do want equal access shipping to alaska. but not at that cost...
Thank, again, for another source to actually get facts during this campaign (which, imho, has been showing a fascinating, if frightening, abhorance to such things!).
Really enjoyed the article!
My first reaction- after 'who?'- was that this could be interesting... then, a few facts later; I was simply disgusted at the level of pandering shown in this selection.
What, you mean just because apparently the Straight Talk Express crew thinks we're so dense we'll blindly accept any old woman candidate and think she's Hillary Clinton?
I don't know why that would offend you.
/sarcasm
There are swimsuit pictures now up on the internet. She is wearing a red, white and blue stars and stripe bikini hold a rifle.
The Real Issue is not that Governor Palin is a woman but what she stands for and her partnership with Senator McCain who has voted 95% with the Bush Administration policies that have caused economic disaster for many Americans in this country.
I recall that when Nixon chose Spiro Agnew for his vice president, there was a rumor that if anything ever happened to him, the Secret Service was under orders to shoot Agnew on sight. So much for vice presidents.
A H. F.
You mean there is someone out there who thinks Obama and Biden would be better! Talk about lack of convictions and experience!!
They just check to see which way the wind is blowing before they comment!!
Thanks for the clarifications. What about one of the other stories circulating on the net? -- mainly that Palin's youngest child is really her grandchild. Truth or Myth?
Thinking that women would vote for someone just because of their gender is sexist to the max. If you want a gun-toting, staunch right-to-lifer who doesn't believe in protecting the environment, Patin is for you. This is especially true if you believe we should stay in Iraq, and that national and international experience is not important.
Obviously this won't be posted because of your political views but here goes...
I'll take quality over quantity these days when it comes to experience [and I believe most people feel the same way]. The problem Obama has is not so much the short amount of time that he has been in congress, but what he has done with that time. What really is "pathetic" for the Democrats is that Palin could point out many of her accomplishments in the first 10 minutes of her introduction to the country then Obama could in all his prominent well rehearsed speeches full of rhetoric. The truth rings true for Americans and you should be very afraid because people really do want change. However they want it from someone who actually can demonstrate it and will actually enact it and not just talk about it. Obama has done virtually nothing and that is his biggest problem now.
This is obviously a pro Obama site as you have nothing here that is pro McCain/Palin. This is basically just a bash Palin site and I'm sure this comment wont show up either. McCain has made a very smart choice and time will tell wont it.
How about the lastest - she didn't actually have her son, Trig. Her 16 year old daughter did.
Bristol was convienently missing from schol for nearly 8 months during her mom's 'pregnancy' and Sarah only came out as being pregnant when she was 7 months... but no one, not even her staff knew.
Then she was in Texas giving a speech when her 'water broke' she then flew 10 hours back to Alaska and then drove an extra 45 minutes to a remote town in Alaska to have the baby.
For someone who was 44, and so pro life - why didn't she thought to the fact that 11 hours in labor after water breakage can kill the baby...
Oh sure, there are photos out there saying she doesn't look pregnant - some that say she does.. I don't care. The photos mean nothing to mean.. except now, those 8 months of pictures are suddenly gone - that's quite interesting.
What's scary is this is a woman who may have forced her daughter to have a baby - a developmentally disabled child and because she feared what folks would think, she claims the baby is hers.
Whether or not this a true store...it should be looked into - the right's of all women and their daughter's could very well be in this woman's hands and that scares the crap out of me.
you do realize people that there is more than one channel on tv and there are newspapers out there besides reading the biased things you obviously do or just get your news from blog type sites and people's comments... ? if you researched using real facts and news you wouldn't be shining so high on your Obama/Biden ticket... oh well, you are probably kids, live and learn...
Hillary pandered to every group she spoke with - a big phony and arrogant as well! Mrs. Palin is real and has her OWN accomplishments to be proud of and doesn't ride in on her husband's coattails to win elections!!
The Republican selection for Vice President is sure better than the Democrat choice for President!
She may not be Hillary, But then again, Obama is no Martin Luther King either. I am sure MLK was rolling over in his grave with the spectacle put on with fire works and all last week. It reminded me of Hitler and China putting on fanfare to hide the truth about themselves and try and win people over with flash. MLK didn't need anything but his powerful voice that rang through the nation.
She may not be Hillary, But then again, Obama is no Martin Luther King either. I am sure MLK was rolling over in his grave with the spectacle put on with fire works and all last week. It reminded me of Hitler and China putting on fanfare to hide the truth about themselves and try and win people over with flash. MLK didn't need anything but his powerful voice that rang through the nation.
you guys have it all wrong. she will make an immediate impact. after all what does a vice president do anyway. mostly learn how to be president! how many vice presidents have been elected to be president? i am telling you that this was the most political scheme ever to get millions of $$$$ worth of free campaigning on the networks ever. It was a real coo for the republicans. Obama's name was hardly on the networks or on the blogs on Aug 29 and 30 the immediate days after the democratic convention when he should of had all the news bullets anywhere. I think he could win now,.
I don't understand what gratification people get by putting others down. Must be some ego system failure or a failed upbringing... Political pandering is a fine example of an oxymoron. Priceless.
The country can save a lot of money if she becomes VP. We can do away with the secret service protection as Sarah "get your gun" Palin can defend herself.
I thought you were going to give some unbiased facts? All I saw was your political opinion. As sargeant Friday would say "just the facts m'am". You are wearing blinders and you missed this one completely.
You call this facts??? YOu said it yourself she has more executive experience than Biden and Obama. Name the last successful senator that became a President. Then name all that failed to hold the highest office. Obama was a community organizer... and? What does that do? Name something he has done? She has fought corruption. She has ousted both Republican and Democrats. She works with all 3 parties including Independants. Hilary Clinton? WHat has she done? What has she done for womens rights? WHat did she do exactly? Hilary Health Care? Come on, do you really think the GOvernment can run health care??? Look at the failure of medicare! Research your facts
Just another Liberal blog.. probably endorsed by the Three toed sloth Michael Moore.. For get it guys McCain Palin is in.. The racist and his , crazy vp choice is out
You people are scarey. The fact that Palin's got executive experience, no matter how small, does make a difference, even if it's small. The BIG issue is that the other 3 candidates (McCain, Obama, and Biden) don't have ANY experience running anything. We've never had such a poor choice. And Obama has less experience than any of them doing anything. This is what Americans have chosen for our choices? I think people who truly believe that either side has a great choice are fools. No wonder I became a libertarian!
what a liberal article!
Frankly, McCain's chioce of Palin is a reckless endangerment of the country's well-being.
He's an old-codger, and (God forbid) he dies, he leaves a remarkably unqualified person in charge.
Mindless, ponderous - what can anyone say about this that is positive? Is this how women advance in our society? By dumb luck? (I hope not.)
wow
what a wonderful choice after reading your article i am sold on mccains choice
GOOO republicans
I still like Palin. She reminds me of a candidate from the Jacksonian period. We don't know much about her but she's from the new frontier, and she deals with problems quickly and with a gun. I likes her.
i think the reaction of many when mccain announced his running mate was sarah who? i work in an office where half the staff are hard core republicans. without even knowing her full background, they were blinded by the fact that she was a woman and it was a "brilliant" choice and began cheering as if their home team just won the superbowl. now mccain would be guaranteed the christian, women and nra votes. in their words, "a slam dunk." i'm sorry, i think different, i believe it has now become a very tight race. nothing against governor palin as she might be a very lovely woman, but because she is a woman and because she seems like a very nice person is NOT the reason why i, as a woman, would vote. and i am not the ONLY WOMAN who feels this way so if the republicans believe that because of her gender she will now get our votes, i think they really underestimate our intelligence. governor palin is one heartbeat away from the presidency, literally. mccain's age is a factor in the sense that if she wins, there will come a point where she might have to lead for a short while, if not until the remainder of the term. is she ready? do i feel comfortable with her in power? no and no. i'm sorry. she does not have the same experience as senator clinton and although she has a reputation of being tough and can defend herself quite well, i don't think she is a match to those that will be against her in washington. washington is not alaska....apples and oranges. biden will shred her to pieces in the debate. this should be interesting. i'm still wondering what it is i'm not seeing here. you watch the news and some think it is a brilliant move while others, like me, are left wondering what mccain was thinking. this certainly can end up backfiring on him.
Judging by the monochromatic nature of these comments, somethings gotten under the lefties' collective skin. Methinks thou protesteth too much!
There's some good information here, but I'm a bit disinclined to believe some of it, or at least the way it was presented.
From the way you worded things, I'm guessing you're one of those who doesn't like her as much (am I right?) I also notice that in your quotes at the bottom of your page, EVERY ONE was against her, none for.
So like I said: good info, thanks. But it comes off a bit biased.
Palin is not a b---h like clinton, she cares she is honest and she will do a great job - considering the politicians demo & repb have shown us over the years that they can not. Who cares if she is conservative - she is women - watch her roar!! We all have our on personal beliefs thats what makes us US
I wish someone would do a page like this on Obama. No one has seen past his speeches to see he wants to tax this country into an even worse economy than we already have.
Biden is the same old Washington and Sara is too new. At the end of the day it is Obama vs. McCain.
Let me preface this by saying that of course rape is a vile evil that should never happen to anyone. That being said, why is the "rape abortion" the most holy of holies to the pro-abortion crowd? Killing the baby (fetus, if you prefer)does not reverse the rape. It is not the child's fault, why should he or she be punished in such an ultimate way? Two wrongs don't make a right. What is it about a baby that is so offensive to you people? Taking the child's live will not heal the mothers psychological damage.
Wow Gag me with a maggott or something like that.
What a jealous cat-fight rage over who is the better woman's advocate or Gov or whatever.
Sorry she isn't a liberal, Harvard eddicated snob. Eat your heart out.
Those of us who arn't from Harvard or Yale have the right to live too.
Suck up your worst nightmare, an actual real middle class person potentially running government, who cares about self employed, hard working women because she is one.
Hillary wasn't so bad. She was self employed too before she was Senator.
If you all weren't so left-slanted, you would have been trashing Hillary too. Hey, maybe you were part of the Big "O"'s trash talk team?
Finally, a person might get elected based on their convictions and morals and not just who she knows and who her friends are.
She won't enter office owing favors to campaign contributors, or lobbyists.
As far as her foreign policy experience- come on- you mean she might do something other than turn the whole world against us? Can she really do worse than Bush? Before you answer- remember she would be surrounded by the most intelligent experienced people that would be giving her the facts-she would only be making decisions based on their facts and her morals. What a nice change of pace.
selective postings... hmmm, now that is truly "democratic".
How can we be sure your are telling us "facts"? It seems you are totally pro Obama. Why would anyone believe what you say, except those dummies who think "if I read it, it must be true."
This article and site are very one-sided (Liberal). Liberals criticize Palin for not being experienced enough for VP when they select an extreme liberal with no experience for the #1 spot.
If Palin were a Liberal, you guys would all love her.
Obama talks change change change but his VP selection is an old line political hack. McCain let his actions speak for him. He selected a fresh face with absolutely no inside the beltway obligations and this lady is sharp enough to learn very quickly exactly how her basic political foundation extends to larger issues. Her selection is a masterstroke.
Thanks for clearing up the myths for me.
She's getting my vote.
I was prez of my high school student body - I've never met John McCain but I did get a pre-recorded phone call from him, asking me to vote for him. And I am a pretty female. Given all those factors, I think that makes me just as qualified to run for VP.
Yes, this was good at dispelling myths and pointing out the inexperience of a possible VP of America. Too bad you haven't done the same to show the inexperience of a possible Pres. for the US.
You say people have to stop thinking of gender when they vote, but too many people are already doing that with race (and sure, theres plenty that will not vote for someone that is not white, but alot more are really pushing for a guy just because he would be the first non-white president).
I have nothing against Obama. Hell, Ill vote for him...if he runs again in 4-8 years. The idealistic, 'we need change' mentally is great, but his ideas shows his lack of understanding of the basics. For example, with the tax hikes he wants to put on Corporate profits, AND dividends, AND capital gains, your going to see alot of people stop investing in, and pull their money out of, American company stocks', and go foreign. Thered be a huge outflow of investment, and if you think the economy is bad now, wait till you see what happens if he gets his way; companies will really start struggling. America has the second highest corporate tax in the world. Countries in Europe are doing just as well, if not better, with a lower corporate tax. If your going to go on and say only the rich will be hurt by the increases to corporate, dividend, and capitals gains taxes, your wrong. In the vast sums of their wealth, it will be negligible. It will be the middle class that will be hurt. Those who have money invested for college tuitions, for that little extra sum of money to get by, and for retirement. So many penisions, 401ks hold stocks and bonds; his tax increases will surely hurt alot of retirement plans. I just hope when everyone is having trouble surviving after 65, we have a way to go back in time and change the choices we made when we saw we were too blinded by "change", instead of looking at the long-term consquences of the policies and actions.
The only relief in all of this is that many of the democrats (in addition to republicans) in Congress are against 1 or more of those tax increases, so all of them passing? Somewhat unlikely. But you would still have a man in the White House that thinks its a good idea. And doesn't understand the fundamentals. And who knows; maybe those in congress WILL let them pass, because we've seen throughout the years of this country what congress will let fly for a president of their party, or a president that is just popular with the people.
After reading all the comments, I'm now convinced that my choice is a good one. Many said she's no Hillary. I say thank God for that! That's a relief.
What the arrogant bigoted leftist Demo snots have yet to figure out is that there is also a moderate and a right wing to the Dem party, with people holding some typical Repub views like pro gun rights, anti abortion, religion, as do many indpendent voters.
PUMAs goal to to deny the Dems who ran the sexist campaign the White House to ensure no politian ever again pulls this Shi.t again; pay back pure and simple. So Palins politics are not relevant.
Its pretty bad when McCains VP pick has more executive experience than the dem candidate for POTUS.
Sara has pretty much been at work everyday for the last 8 years.
Whereas Obama in the last b2 years has only been there 145 days and in his 7 years voted "present" 80% of the time.
Her approval rating as governor in Alaska was 80% or higher (I guess your referring to those 20% of people who don't "love her"). Her "executive experience" nearly outshines Biden's Senate record in my book (compare what a mayor/governor and Senator is responsible for for yourselves) but completely blows away Obama's record (who has been campaigning for 2 of the 3 years he has been in the Senate- btw who knows what he accomplished as a "community" whatever in Illinois, he hardly ever talks in detail about it!) Also, maybe she wasn't instrumental in fighting the corruption in the Alaskan government, but she certainly helped (that's partly what helped her gain the office). I don't know where you got your facts from. Hopefully she will set the record straight when she makes her only second public statement (it's sad to see how much criticism she has received already when the Americans has only heard from her once, maybe twice).
she sounds like a smart and committed woman. I wish her luck, not to win the election but wish her luck.
I like her. Thanks for giving more dimension to Palin. OK she is not as experienced as hoped....but from everything I have and and heard that far, Palin is new and good blood. I like that she speaks openly and with facts aned convinction (facts? now that is something new)...not just tired rehashed rhetoric. Did you see her on MNBC?
Did anyone notice on TV when McCain introduced Palin that he played with his wedding ring and the ring finger of his left hand while she spoke?
Is there a message in this?
I wouldn't count Palin (or for that matter ANYONE) out in a debate with the gaff prone Biden just yet. We got no superstar there.
Hey, if this election were ever about experience, how in the world did the DNC ever pick Obama over Hillary. Personally, I can't stand either of them, but lets face it, this has been nothing more than a holywood style popularity contest from the get go.
Back at you all the same for BH Obama. No experience, Homecoming King (that's about all), all talk, no walk, crepe hanger and MASTER EQUIVOCATOR.
To play on her comments about what the VP does is blatant spin.
I'm pretty sure she asked about what exactly the VP does because she wants a job to do, she doesn't sound like the type to get into a position to just sit- her history tells us that... she wants to WORK and get things done. Everyone knows the VP takes over if anything ever happened to the President, she wasn't asking that... she was implying she doesn't want to be sitting idle for the next four or eight years.
I never heard she won the Miss Alaska, merely that she was in it...as to executive experience...she is far more experienced than Obama...less than a term in the senate and never in an administrative job.
Obama is like cotton candy, looks pretty, tastes nice...but really nothing to it...he talks pretty, looks nice and has not got a clue.
Rodger
sounds like the democrats are really worry about palin. to degrade her because of her inexperience, surprisily nobody ever heard of bill clinton before he ran for president. so if bill clinton can fafe it for eight years i think palin can be vice-president.
THANK YOU! Finally, someone with a clear-eyed and clear-minded assessment of the ridiculous adulation most of the press is giving this woefully unqualified VP pick. I guess you didn't drink the Kool-Aid.
I heard Laura Bush this a.m. waxing eloquent on the "wealth of experience" that Palin has because (1) "She is the mother of five children." and (2) "She was the mayor of a town."
Give me a break!
Most of the regular media seems to be handling her with kid gloves.
kim in michigan (born in AK)
Enjoyed reading this! What about her 4 month old baby with Down's Syndrome? Who's taking care of the baby while she campaigns?
How about we all give her a chance to present herself? We've given Obama that chance & he's proven himself intelligent and thoughtful. I think Palin will be the same. Kinda tired of the people who criticize Dems for the same stuff they defend Repubs for, and vice-versa. Politics should not be a zero-sum game. Hope the independent-minded in this country get to be something more than a swing vote someday...
As I recall OBAMA was the one playing the "I'm not corrupted by Washington, haven't been there long enough etc.." card. Well I think Gov. Palin has that in spades . She is a respectable , every American's American, who doesn't vacilate on her platforms becaause of political pressure or the "system ". There are bigger issues than women's rights ( after all we have 18 million cracks in that glass ceiling already !) and America does need a cheerleader right now , in case anyone hasn't looked at the scoreboard lately !
Personally , I DETEST our so called choices for president, however , we cannot afford 4 years of the reincarnation of Jimmy Carter in the White House. They say history repeats its' self , and the Carter administration will be back if we elect Obama. Do a little research on Carter and compare his platforms with Obama's. Then look at the state of our economy during his term . Let's not make that mistake AGAIN !
Palin is NO Hillary; we wanted Hillary because she was who she was. Palin is a very insulting and cynical choice.
Picture this...McCain is elected to office- he is sitting at his desk in the oval office, and there is a knock at the door. A woman enters(Palin), and approaches McCain. He looks at her, smiles, then says, 'Who are you?'
I am reading this as an evacuee as Gustav heads straight for my home. My memories of Katrina are still fresh in my mind. Your snide reference to the problems that occurred during that storm are beyond inappropriate and ill timed. They are sick. Those of us who lived though it...and are experience another storm at this very moment, KNOW who was to blame for slow help to those who refused get out of New Orleans when they had the chance. It all falls squarely on the arrogant and pathetic former governor of this state. Blanco, not Brownie is the one you should have referenced!
palin's pick has been making my blood pressure percolate. i can see im going to have to get in shape just to survive this election. it wouldn't be so bad if the "git us a woman - we need us a woman - we got us a woman" didn't ooze from the expressions - both facial and verbal - of the republican candidates, their strategists and their mouthpieces.
Yes, thanks for your liberal biased 'reporting'. LOL And 'not everyone in Alaska likes Palin'....yeah your right, not everyone....just between 80 and 90 percent of Alaskans. I guess your looking for someone with a 100 percent approval rating in your fantacy land. LOL
We supported Hillery because she was a TOALLY QUALIFIED woman running for president. It is insulting to have McCain think that mere biology will lead us to support this woman -- especially she she is the anti-Hillery on all the issues which matter to the American people, rgardless of sex!
Wonder how mych the Obama campaign paid you to post this article?
I like her! I believe in what she does as a mother and an american
Nice hatchet job. We are ready to elect Obama who spent his time in the U.S. Senate running for president but pan someone who has acutally done something. Both Obama and Palin have work to do if they become president. They are both lightweights. As far as McCain - he'll out live many of the people who are talking about his age.
ARE YOU AS UPSET WITH OBAMA AND BIDEN? ... (gasp) THEY'RE NOT IN FAVOR OF GAY MARRIAGE EITHER (or so they say pre-election - I suppose the truth could be quite the opposite - but what's a little lie coming from a Liberal Dem, afterall?)
PS The future of our country does NOT depend on the issue of abortion ...
Have people forgotten that McCain has melanoma cancer and it has recurred twice. The next time, it will probably go to major organs. Palin is truly a heart beat away from becoming President of the US!!!
Would you give the keys to your brand new shinny '08 expensive vehicle to a 12 yr old? NO! Why? Because you LOVE your new truck! Then why be willing to give the most powerful, richest, greatest country over to a person with such little experience? And they claim to LOVE thier country? Biden/Palib comparison is a JOKE! Not even close.
Fabulous article. I haven't read this much good information on any of the official news sites.
And I, too, hope this blows up in John McCain's face. How long before he calls this woman a c**t in public, like he did his wife? He clearly has no real respect for women.
I am sure that these comments will not be posted but I send them anyway. First let me say before I am mischaracterized, I a woman attorney, a democrat and am very strongly in favor of anti-discrimination and freedom. I dislike bigotry. What irks me about the article and the attics is the bigotry and narrow mindedness of people who claim so strongly to be in favor or choice and freedom. Your double standards are hypocritic to say the least. Of our last Presidents we have elected most are former Governors who never served in Washington, Regan, Clinton and Bush. Secondly, simply because her views are different than yours on when life begins and where civil rights begin that does not merit atack and such attacks are bigotted. She is entitled to her views as well as you are yours. If you don't like hers vote for someone else but your nasty attacks are uncalled for and upsetting. I think everyone should appreciate diversity and if you claim to be so supportive than her views are just as valid as yours. So cut out the nasty remarks. If you keep it up you will cause me to vote for her.
I was unfortunatley unable to link to "what it is that the vice president does", but I can virually garantee you that Mrs. Palin knows more about the Vice Presidency than you. Seeing that your 29 years of living coupled with your experience with "dorky crafts" doesn't actually inspire confidence in your knowledge of Governing. I won't bother arguing viture with you, since you apparently have no concern for the innocent(babies in the womb), or the defenseless (people in their homes with no protection), or the people who refuse to have what they earn taken from them by force to give to those who haven't earned it. Maybe when you realize what this country is all about, read the constitution (it's only about 15 pages), you could see what Mrs. Palin stands for. Virtue leads to a successful life, lack of vitue leads to ruin.
It's amazing to me that the very same people that think 1/2 year as a Senator (before he started running for Prez.) is more qualifying than actually running a State for the past two years. Budgets, real jobs, etc. Nobama hasn't run anything, and yet he's supposed to run our country! What joke! Palin is a great choice for VP. A real person that stands for what she believes in. I'll take that anyday!
This post was linked with the title "Myths about Sarah Palin dispelled." I found that interesting because I didn't know there were any myths about her. So to find out what the myths are, in order to have them dispelled, I clicked the link.
The first thing I read was, "I guess someone must have finally told Gov. Sarah Palin just what it is that the vice president does. (Side Note: Apparently they do not teach civics at Wasilla High School or the University of Idaho.)" I spent the next few minutes perusing the article in a vain attempt to learn what she said or did to merit this condescending comment. Sadly, no specifics were given to support the writer's inference that Mrs. Palin doesn't know the role of the vice president.
Still, I found the article and posted comments quite informative, for the insights from people who have had a closer view of Palin in action than the rest of us in the lower 48.
Thought I might get some new info on Palin here. Just got the same lame shame posts from liberals trying to bring her down before she can assert herself. Give her a chance. McCain will either be genuis or bafoor, but time will tell, not 85 IQ bloggers with nothing new.
Thanks for the facts. It was the line "STOP VOTING WITH YOUR HORMONES AND READ A DAMN NEWSPAPER ALREADY" that finally put into words how I've been feeling since the decision came down. I've posted a link for my friends to read your blog also. Cheers!
Thought I might get some new info on Palin here. Just got the same lame shame posts from liberals trying to bring her down before she can assert herself. Give her a chance. McCain will either be genuis or bafoor, but time will tell, not 85 IQ bloggers with nothing new.
you guys all sound so damn bitter! Lets see how the vote comes out.
She sounds good to me. I would rather have her as VP than Mrs. Clinton.
Evolution has been given status as if it is fact, when it is only an unproven theory. Let there be full debate on the issue rather than trying to hide the facts that show big problems with the theory of evolution.
Abortion is one reason kids these days don't value life. Think about that. If you can abort a baby at most any time, what does that tell you about the value someone gives that baby. On the other hand we must give help to those women who are suffering because they had one or more abortion. Let the truth about abortion be told to any women thinking about abortion. Don't hide the truth.
I SEE THE LIBERAL VIEW IS NEVER ANY FARTHER THAN THE TV NEWSPAPER AND INTERNET . AND THE LIBERALS CRY THEY WANT EQUAL TIME , GIVE ME A BREAK. THERE IS RUSH LIMBAUGH AND THAT MAKES LIBS SO MAD. GET OVER IT . I CANT WAIT TO SEE PALIN DESTROY BIDEN IN A DEBATE . SHE WILL HAVE HIM LIMPING OUT OF THERE HOLDING HIS NUTS. YES IT WILL BE FUN TO WATCH.
Palin was obviously a knee jerk selection in the face of the largest landslide election in modern history. She was not properly vetted and will probably join the ranks of Eagleton before the vote begins. It really is moot since McCain has no chance at all to win this election.
Direct ship to AK? What does that mean?
let me guess, you are going to veto this comment b/c it isn't what you want to hear? Give me a break. Are you paid by Obama? All you did was prove how biased the media is. How about giving her a chance? My blood is boiling as much as lilsass but for different reasons.
thanks for sharing a local view of the lady. i am in total agreement with you about voting with hormones. 10 years ago they tried that tactic in cali with kathleen brown...one MUST vote for her if she is a woman i was told by one of her people. frankly when someone waves double x chromosones my way thinking i will blindly follow because i got me some of those too it tends to make me me run in the opposite direction. it is an interesting choice mc cain has made and it will be a rip snortin' interesting election yet i still don't know what choice i will make.
For those who think the Biden/Palin debate will be a gift to the Democratic Party, I direct your attention to the Clinton/Lazio debate, where Lazio was criticized for being overly aggressive merely for physically approaching Clinton. Palin goes into the debate with zero expectations, so any points she scores are a plus, while Biden will get tagged for being scored on by a neophyte. She will do what McCain brought her onboard to do: mobilize the social conservative base of the Republican party. And, hate to disappoint you folks, she's doing just that. The Obama camp (for now, anyway) needs to focus less on Palin and more on reconciling with the Clinton base that, while not voting for McCain/Palin, may just choose to sit this one out in November.
Wow! She stands up for all that conservatives want - she sounds perfect! I'm not sure why you think this article unveils deep secrets. She was picked precisely for where she stands on issues and her executive experience.
At least she stands for SOMETHING. Obama just says "change, change, change," but he's never told us HOW he would change anything. He's a good "speechifier," but don't ask him questions in an interview like Rick Warren did at Saddleback. What a travesty for Obama. He looked like an absolute fool.
And on the experience thing? Palin only wants the veep position. Obama - with NO executive experience - was the number one spot. That argument doesn't hold water.
McCain is already showing signs of dementia in his decision making skills! Out of all the choices he had, he picks someone who knows "nothing" about running this country! She stands up to the good ole boys? Hell, SHE is a good ole boy in a woman's body. What could the argue about? I was worried before if McCain won, now I'm terrified.
Wow, I'd like to hear about ONE actual accomplishment that you can cite that Obama has achieved ?? Palin has an actual record of doing things that have 'changed' how govt is conducted .. give me one comparision to an actual change that Obama has done... other than changing his stand when it it's expedient.
I think this was a personal move for McCain. He is an old man who knows he is going to lose the election but he wants to make history some how. What better way than to put up the first republican female VP candidate. No one remembers who lost the election but they remember historical markers. He wants to be remembered. Some things are not political at all but come from apersonal desire to feel like you have made your mark on the world
I feel McCain just lost the election with his choice for VP, I could not take a chance that she may be president someday
Since when it is a bad thing to be against abortion and killing babies that had no say in how they got here? And when is it a bad thing to be for contraception and want be responsible and not create an unwanted baby? It is not a double standard, it is being responsible.
As far as gay marriages, I think it's disgusting and it IS a sin. Gays cannot be wed in God's name because it goes against God's law, it states it in the bible, all you have to do it read it. Gay marriage SHOULD be banned. God created Adam and Eve for a reason, if He wanted it differently He would have created Adam and Steve!
As far as gun control, I have that right to carry my concealed gun with my permit or to go hunting with my 12 gauge.
I'm tired of listening to everyone whine about Palin's lack of experience. Obama has no experience whatsoever. The people in his own district can't stand him. He never did anything to help make that area any better, just ask them. He has spent 120 days in office and then only voted "present" and never on the issues. If you want your blood to REALLY boil go to www.dontvoteobama.net You will all change your minds very quickly about who your choice of candidate will be. I am a registered Democrat and will be voting for McCain/Palin because I believe in real change and McCain has proven that he is willing to take that chance and make it happen, Obama talks a good talk, "just words."
We can always find something wrong with everyone.
You can all stand in judement!! what have you a accomplished lately? why aren't any of you negative bloggers pick for VP
Look in the mirror
so look what "exeperience" has got us:
FEMA, Amtrak, bankrupt Social Security, $400 bil deficit, wars in Iraq, etc, etc.
Yes we need more experienced politicians like Biden & Hillary Clinton.
Give me a fresh start who is SMART any day of the week.
Thats who will clean up Washington and fix things.
What do you want to bet that Joe Biden suddenly comes up with some mystery illness and has to drop out to be replaced by Hillary so Osama can hope to get the women vote back?(although I'm still not convinced Hillary is a woman)
I can't think of anyone I'd rather have for VP--matter of fact, I like her even better than McCain.
I've been following politics since the Johnson Administration and have interest in world History from 1930's to that present and lived through much of these times. I respect her positions and agree with them, not because they are new and a fad but because they are time honored and history is filled with failed societies such as the ones in opposition to Palin's views . So I say to you if Palin's opponents win, history will give you an insight to your fate.
BY PICKING PALIN, IT JUST GOES TO SHOW YOU HOW FAR JOHN MCCAIN AND THE REPUBLICANTS WILL GO TO GET ELECTED.
HOW SAD !
Good read, a bit disturbing, but thanks for putting this together.
If Ms. Palin is so qualified and conservative, I just have a couple of questions. She says she had an amniocentesis and knew that her baby had down's. An amnio could be risky to your unborn child. Why would you have this procedure done if you were not considering an abortion? If she has all this wonderful experience, why diidn't we have the option of her for President?
Maia: I appreciate your point of view. However, in spite of the fact that you live in AK and are a bit closer to the issues you might want to consider this: This country needs someone who is strong and principled with good moral values. Have you really seen those attributes vocalized in the DEM party? Liberals have of modern history been a party of do-nothings. Tax and spend - no regard for anyone but themselves. This country is in for a world of hurt with the likes of Obama/Biden; neither of which understand or see the big picture. I wasn't too thrilled with McCain either - until he had the sense to choose your governor, with her faults and all. It took courage. I hope you have the intelligence and good sense to see this. I wonder though, since you have to place a ridiculous caveat on your blog.
Nancy from NM
Have read through the comments. both against, as well as in support of McCain's choice of Sarah Palin as his VP choice. Obviously, there are some very extreme liberals here. I have known a few 'extreme liberals' and have not been impressed by them. They do not believe in God or the attending of religious services. They like to 'whore' around, both males and females, basically, the morals of a 'bitch' dog. They have no concern for the impoverished here in the USA, but will give their last dime for someone in Africa or other Third World country.
I much prefer to associate with, and be associated as a conservative liberal, who voted for Hillary. But, when she through her vote behind Obama, I said the H--l with it, McCain looks better. Why, his goals for the US are more like mine, low taxes, small government, and the welfare of the population, without the 'big brother' tactics. I see McCain as a man of high principles.
A man of strength. And, before you throw out the words, he divorced his first wife, you do not, as most of us do not know the reasons for that divorce. Mercy, people are getting divorced every day. Even preachers, both male and female are getting divorces. Things like that happen. Some get nasty, some do not. Some part as enemies, some part as friends. But, just what does the fact that McCain is divorced from his first wife, and has been married to Cindy for what, 17 years or so? What does being divorced have to do with being the President? You tell me.
As to McCain inviting Sarah Palin to be his Vice President, I see a good choice. One, she in not a lawyer, so she can think like a normal person. She is pro-life and a Christian, and I commend her on both. You cannot be sure as to what Obama is, he was a member of an anti-white, leftist leaning church, who favored the antics of Louis Farrakhan, he is an extreme liberal, the most liberal of the current list of Democrat senators.
He is friends with William Ayers, a self styled, home grown terrorist, who set bombs at the Pentagon, and other Federal buildings. All 'respectable' people, I presume, in your opinion.
Obama, for all of his rhetoric about Change, and not being from the 'old school', proved that he must be, by his selection of Biden, who has sat in the Senate for 36 years, way to long for any one to be a Senator. Term limits, no, he voted against them, for with term limits, he would have to seek steady employment. Then, Biden on his religion. He professes to be a devout Catholic, yet, he supports abortion. Oh, yes, the church's position of abortion is not clear, no wait, that was Pelosi's comment, wasn't it? Interesting that Biden and Pelosi were openly advised by several Catholic Priests to not partake of Holy Communion.
I believe that Sarah Palin will stand up to Biden, will be able to 'pull her own weight'.
Now, to see if this post gets accepted. If it does not, then, I can be sure that I am to 'right wing'
While most of our forefathers believed there was a God and their beliefs reflected that when writing the constitution...they did not have the wealth of knowledge every High School kid has today....230 years later. Personally, I do not beleive there is a God...too many bad things are happening in the world today that a "supreme being" if he/she is worthy of the title, would never let happen. But I do respect everyone's right to believe what ever they want. McCain, Palin and their religous right brethren do not hold the same respect. They want to impose their beliefs on creation, abortion and religion on all of us. If you don't want to abort your fetus....don't, not my concern. If you want to teach creationism and religion to your child...do it at home, my child doesn't need to be exposed to your myths and blind beliefs. Palin is just another ultra conservative right-winger...she's just in a prettier package than most. McCain made a big mistake if he thinks picking this women will get some of the Dems angry women vote... Hillary's women aren't that easy.
Nancy from NM:
Thanks for your comments. (Actually, thank you, everyone, for your comments, particularly those that are respectful and properly punctuated.)
My “ridiculous” caveat serves a purpose: It lets people know that this blog does not stick to serious issues. I try to keep a sense of humor in all things, and in general I hope that my readers will, too.
Since this post turned up on Propeller this morning, tens of thousands of new readers have come here to OTS. Those who disagree with me or don’t find me interesting will not come back, and that’s fine. I’m not trying to force my opinions on anyone. (No one’s making you read, right? If they are, tell them to back off.) But I hope those of you who enjoy my posts (even if you disagree with me!) will come back and read again.
Someone on here said that we should look to other media outlets other than local (liberal) papers and (liberal) TV stations. I would, but everytime I watch a so-called "unbiased" TV station or listen to a conservative radio station, I get the Barack Hussein Obama message, and how Obama is, behind the scenes, an anti-American who will blow us all up. By the way Obama has yet to say Palin is inexperienced, but I do recall McCain on more than one occasion talk about experience, and if you think being Gov. of Alaska for 1.5 years is "experience" then this country deserves its stupidity to be rewarded.
I live in the battleground state of Ohio and McCain's choice is getting mixed reviews around where I live. The pro-lifers and gun enthusiasts are excited and energized about her selection, but we had to research her record and beliefs since we knew very little else about her. The Hillary supporters don't agree with Governor Palin's views and aren't inclined to vote for her because of her gender. It is the positions of the candidates that attract voters, not which restroom they use. To assume that a woman who supported Hillary is automatically going to vote for Sarah is preposterous. Governor Palin is popular in Alaska and I commend her for making the decision to have her baby knowing that Down's Syndrome was present, but that was HER choice. By wanting to overturn Roe vs. Wade she wants to take that choice from all women. The mother and father won't have a say in it if McCain and Palin have their way. A decision of that magnitude is not something for the government to decide, it is up to the individuals involved. Governor Palin says that if her daughter had the misfortune to be raped and became pregant she wants her daughter to have the baby? I doubt the rapist will provide a medical history to the daughter before he runs off. A violent rapist is not exactly the ideal genetic parent. I respect Governor Palin's devotion to her views. I'm appaled that she wants everyone else to toe her line.
Like her or not she is the last nail in Mr. Obama's coffin
Wow! Now THAT'S a Palin post!
Perhaps it is time for change from doddering arrogant talking heads like Obama who "come before you to stand in back of you to tell you something they know nothing about!"
Palin will be a breath of fresh air to the running of this country.
As far as your "facts" go --how much of it is factual and how much is embroidered? Forget the experience issue --look how many mistakes and bad judgement calls have been made by "experienced" politicians.
Worry when Palin, just like Bush, can't properly pronounce the word "nuclear". She used "nookular energy" in her first speech with McCain. Imagine the message this sends to our school age kids. What an embarrassment for our country to have another ignorant executive in the White House.
the pick is pandering, and a political gimmick in the worst sense.
http://www.palinisntready.com
I wonder why the right wing talk shows out rate the left wing talk shows by tons, day in and day out. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm Could it be that the left wing moderators are mostly liars?
Why don't you write an article that you don't have to throw your obviously biased opinions into... Your obviously a cry baby because now Obama is going to lose because he was not savy enough to realize that he needed Hillary to win.
I have been reading blogs from both sides, and I have to honestly say, the meanest cruelest comments typically come from the liberal left. It's sickening that these people can't debate the issues with courtesy, respect, and dignity. Instead, it has to be sarcastic, low-class, uneducated, and hateful...extremely hateful, and full of lies.
Look at the folks busted by the police in the Twin Cities for trying to create a riot during the RNC with weapons, etc. Sick...and these are suppose to be peace loving environmentalists? Is this what Obama is attracting? Scary...
As far as this article is concerned...this author has done most of what I have described. It's hateful, sarcastic, and I don't see any credible sources here. I do see, however, all the bias. Typical. And most of the respondents are of the same mindset. It did nothing to persuade me. All this article did was make me cringe and perpel me in the opposite direction to its anticipated attempt to discredit McCain/Palin. Too bad there are so many who are inclined to think like this. Once again, these are peace-loving environmental types...LOL...whatever...
Interesting that this article mentions that Palin only has "executive experience", opposed to Obama's lack of experience. We are willing to put a man in the Chief executive position that has 12 months experience as a Senator, the other two, running a campaign for the Presidency and no real accomplishments. Oh, was it mentioned that he had ties to the "Mob"? a left wing "Socialist"?, four alias'? a organizer of what? America is so willing to put a man that has no experience what so ever into the highest executive position our country has to offer and we are worried about a woman that actually has a track record of successes, executive experience that the others don't have, and the gonads to fight for what she believes in? America, are you stepping back and seeing the entire picture of who you are willing to vote in as president? We are in real trouble if your choice is the candidate with no experience into the chief executive position. The other choice may not be as glamourous, when was that a criteria? We really are a stupid nation to base it on charm and appeal and not on the fact that the candidate has a special interest in our country. Remember, McCain has not always agreed with Bush. They don't even politically like each other.
John McCain's decision to pick Sarah Palin as his run mate shows how much he prioritised his personal interest against American people's interest. He has shown poor judgement and will be doing the same mistake when elected President. I personally think his age also contribute to his poor judgement.He was confused because of the successs of Democratic National Convention. Actually, I started getting worried about his ability to take this country in the right Direction. American people have suffered enough and we deserve better. Iam a Republican, and we Republicans are ashamed of ourselves but can not admit our failure in public or in the face of American people. its part of the reasons why beside, Hurricanne issue that came accross the convention, the leaders of our party do not want to show up at our convention. its ridiculous to hear from McCain's campaingn that in less than two years, Sarah has enough and necessary experience in executive office to lead this great country. who knows Sarah in US? not even mentioned Abroad. lets be honest could Sarah Palin lead not only America but all over the world? My fellow republicans, think about George Bush junior who actually is leading this country. He has executive experience thousand times better than Palin and his father also has lead this great country and they were knowledgeable about foreign policies and domestic issues but despite George Bush executive experience, he failed in foreign policy he failed in domestic policy too and throw this country into debt. socially, American people are suffering and looking forward to renew our promise. I personally do not think Palin is ready for this job and wish she resign very soon when she can no longer accomodate criticism from her own party , or handle the national political situations as john McCain thought.John met her only one time and made his decision based on her resume not her background check otherwise she was under investigation in the state of ALASKA for wrong doing why hired her? John has made wrong choice because, john did not have enough time to study Sarah. This sickens me and I can not stand this. before then I gave all my heart and my voice to John until friday August 29 2008. personally I do not think John will have my vote anymore, because Sarah Palin as Vice President is an insult to American People. we have good people like Mitt Romney, and so many ladies in our republican party. And when we talk about politics some people talk about religion. Conservatism what in the hell Religion has to do with politics. Because Sarah palin is conservatist we prefered her better than Mitt romney who Knows economy and and understand it and is also conservatist as you want. what is wrong with John McCain. once again John McCain instead of helping American people wants to see american people suffering. I personally do believe that John McCain knows what is happening to American Public, only that he does not care about American people. Because he is reach and enjoying himself with his wife CYNDY McCain. and if McCain wants a woman to compete.he has many of experienced women in his big party. He wants Hilary's 18 million voters. Are they all women? let me remind John McCain, that it would take long time to know Sarah. How many days left to ELECTION date to introduce Sarah palin to American people? After this long period of Democratic primary season American people still saying they do not know Obama yet. would American people know Sarah in a month or two? John, I also have good news for you. let me remind you that you have a lot of work to do. Good Luck!
sincerely, Member
from the Repulican Party.
Mr.Elias, Nick name:Mr.the Thruth.
1. Was/Is she the most qualified ?
2. Refer to number 1.
3. Does she have 4 children or 5 ?
4. does her experience give the election to Obama in a landslide ?
5. Refer to number 1.
6. Hey John, you really messed this up ?
7. I guess anything is better than talking about the issues.
8. Cancel all the debates cause you and your girl DON'T HAVE A SNOWBALLS CHANCE IN ............
I haven't read all the comments yet, but so far I haven't seen anyone pick up on what I suspect is the main reason McCain chose Palin. Palin has a son in the Army stationed in Iraq. McCain expects to take a lot of heat in the election about his support for the war in Iraq, and he probably assumes it will sound like this: "How can you support that awful war? Don't you know our boys are dying over there? Don't you have any idea how traumatic it is fearing that your own boy may be next?" With Palin on the ticket, the campaign is totally insulated from that attack.
McCain is ofted touted as a Republican in name only, an independent Republican, or a maverick Republican. I believe the he won the Republican nomination because the Republican party felt that no Republican could win this election following George Bush so it didn't matter whom they nominated.
In choosing Sarah Palin McCain pulled a coup. McCain has a broad appeal because of his status as a "rogue" Republican as well as his war record. He is the one Republican that can be viewed as being separate from George Bush. By picking Palin instead of other well-known Republican women, such as Senator Dole (who had issues when running the Red Cross) he has attracted the voter who wants change but is uncomfortable with O'Bama. The voter who wants someone outside the tainted atmosphere of DC. The voter who wants the little guy to win. The voter who is disillusioned. Voters like me, who were sitting on the fence. McCain may have just made this a real race despite the issue of his age. I will be watching the VP debates with great interest.
Sentor Obama has made a huge mistake. His statement on the choice of Palin puts down both small town America and Women............Sarah Palin is one tough LADY!............Her nickname when she was mayor of Wasilla was 'Sarah the Barracuda'......This is a woman who is suing the federal government over threatened species of Polar Bears..............America if you really listened to Obama's big speech the other night on MIDDLE AMERICA, then Obama just made Palin his poster MASCOT!
It's refreshing to note that Republicans and right-wingers appear to be so very defensive these days...about everything...Palin/McCain and especially Obama/Biden. After 8 long years of hubris and unbridled bravado (and, lest we forget, corruption) from the right-wing, it's a pleasure to watch them squirm and posture(he said with admittedly immature delight and glee) in the effort of making this Palin pick palatable to the public. She has appeal, of course, but she's simply not right for the job. Period.
Is she electable? Yes, if the Democrats blow it by discounting her appeal to the right-wing base. They need something to latch onto considering their disdain for McCain (hey, a new campaign slogan?).
I'm guessing I would truly enjoy an evening around the dinner table with Palin and her family but I'm absolutely certain I don't want her a heartbeat away from the Presidency. Not a personal attack...just a fact.
I also think it's interesting to note that a majority of the venomous, anti-Obama/Biden comments posted on this site are done so annonymously.
Proudly,
RDNolen
Okay, my actual political standing aside for a moment, I want to point out that McCain's choice of Palin as his running mate has two major flaws:
First, and less important but more widely acknowledged, is the fact that the attempt to appeal to hardcore Hilary fans who refuse to vote for Obama is a reckless and potentially costly move, especially since it will only work on a small portion of voters. I have a friend who falls into this category, and when I asked her if McCain's decision appealed to her, she told me she was considering simply not voting; Palin's name on the ticket had no effect on her.
Second, and more of a concern, is the issue of an unbalanced ticket. When a party- Republican, Democrat, or even Bull Moose for that matter- is seeking a VP candidate, they aim to balance the ticket in a geographical sense. Having both candidates come from, say, the Northeast makes the party appear to be shutting out the rest of the country. This is why most tickets tend to have people from both coasts, or from a coast and from Middle America, or North and South, etc. By choosing someone who is also from the Western US, McCain is distancing himself from Middle and Eastern America. What's more, Palin is not even from the continental US, which places her at an even more disconnect; regardless of how competant (or incompetant, depending on what stories you read) she may be, she still does not have that relation to the rest of the country because of her geographical positioning. This West-heavy aspect is potentially more damaging to the GOP in the long run than anything else.
One last point for all of you who are annoyed that this blog is biased: it's written by a person with opinions, so OF COURSE it's going to be biased! We all carry our own views and biases, whether we intend to or not. Learn to read past them to get the underlying information, then make a judgement.
And yes, I'm a left-wing liberal from the Northeast. But I'm also a political science student, and acknowledge that both sides are equally flawed. But something to remember is that it's not just these individuals who will determine everything- it's also the people they surround themselves with. White House staff probably affects policy more than the individual president or vice president ever will, so pay more attention to general party platforms and less to individual personalities, because the platform is what's most important.
From what I have seen and heard this Governor Palin (with an 80% approval rating! Pelosi and crew 9 %!) presents in her demeanor: natural qualities as a politician of the people!
Her achievements for her time-line of a record far exceeding both Biden and even the chosen one, messiah Obama.
Gov. Palin's done more, better quicker with the people on her side. She wins ‘em over. Why? Because she has convictions and a commitment to work for the people…not an agenda designed to separate people and created class warfare with the politicians as the ruling class.
She represents the people; if you watch her you will see that.
Side questions: What was organized in Chicago? Maybe a miss-spent $14 million sounds like to me? Biden needed to plagiarize in expressing his empty rhetoric to puff himself up in his earlier career? Yes, caught several times. Where did you get the soap-opera idea of the fake pregnancy? Isn't that a privacy issue like B.J.Clinto and Sen. Edwards according to you libs? Those records of birth may be as hard to find as Obama’s along with the records of his community organizing with Ayres and throw in his thug politics in Chicago? What’s real and what's not will surface there eventually.
Gov. Palin speaks as a real American with all the right convictions. Conserve the Constitution is OK with me anyway. I was relieved to hear her after she spoke only a few minutes. Thank God for Sarah Palin, she is a breath of real fresh air.
Ask anyone who has lived under communism what they think of the right to bear arms...chances are they will tell you if they had the same right in their country, there would not have been an oppressive communist government. Commies, AlQuida and anarchists will think twice before trying anything to overtake the U.S. Think about what Gov. Palin really represents: the best constitution on this planet.
The American Constitution is at the core of our most honored status in world politics and way of life. Only a twisted liberal or radical terrorist would think otherwise.
She's a maverick choice over Mitt Rommney for me...she still makes the cut having all the right stuff to make a great Vice President.
Watch her clarify and display Biden as the political poser he really is and know you will see a real woman with the bravado, the conviction and intelligence to speak for the majority of American people, not for a liberal agenda set to create a socialist regime.
Started out liberal, then I grew-up. Gov. Palin or Sen. Biden in my "lifeboat"? Who would you want?
Ed
New Jersey
My favorite aspect of Sarah Palin that she's a realist who's not afraid to break away from the typical feminist mold--that's Authentic change for you. Did anyone see her interview on CNBC (YouTube: "Palin on energy, Biden and national security")? She makes more sense than any politician I've heard yet! It seems to me that she's got her hands right in the middle of three issues that are driving this election--abortion, the war and the energy crisis--and is putting her money where her mouth is on all of them while still adhering to conservative values. She not only has a son in Iraq, but is governor of the state that is at the center of the energy crisis debate and has chosen life when faced with two difficult pregnancies in her personal life (a son with Downs Syndrome and her pregnant 17-year-old). Can anyone on the Obama/Biden ticket claim to have such direct personal involvement with the issues?
I wasn't excited about this election until now, and actually considered sitting it out--now I plan on being one of McCain's most vocal supporters!
I think my husband hit the nail on the head when he gave me his reaction..."McCain has insulted ALL Americans...no matter what their political leanings, their gender, or any other aspect of voters that makes them differ from one another". One of my earlier reactions was...He must not have been able to get anyone else to run with him. They all said 'no'. Think about it...
What horrifies us is that most of the comments are attacks to the person (like calling Obama 'Osama' or implying that Trig is not Gov. Palin's child, and carrying on about what is or is not experience). Heck, we learned in junior year high school that 'attacks to the person constitute fallacious argument.' Doesn't anybody care about the issues? Experienced or not, we certainly do have a real, well-defined choice. The McCain/Palin ticket is about as conservative as it gets,whereas the Obama/Biden ticket is at the opposite end of the spectrum. The only real question, it seems to us, is what kind of country do we want America changed into? The rest is . . . well, as our old friend Greenie used to say, "Ain't that nothin'"
From Ky I ask this; what is Palin doing by excepting more responsibility when she has a Downs Syndrom baby only months old? If she becomes V.P. or God forbid President, will the baby be in her office or with a Nanny?
What will she do if the baby becomes ill during a serious national problem? Will she be a mother first or V.P. or possibly President at the time. Please don't tell me that a mother who really puts her child first can do both.
I do not respect that fact that she puts her career before a baby who will need more care, more nuturing and more medical attention than other babies.
Mom's who have children with this problem spend more time than normal with the baby and or under stress trying to give the baby all the attention they can. Dad's can help but a mother has and is always the childs best nuturer. Sorry guys but truth is truth.
They showed the place she governed from when in office as Mayor, they said it was no larger than a bait shop. People, there are few people to govern in Alaska.She has no ideal about inner cities or National problems.
Another thing, if you get your news reports from Fox News, think again. They are owned by a Republican and the CEO is a Republican. I researched this when I realized how seriously slanted they were. Their intent appears to brain wash people not inform them.
My best friend, a midwife with considerable experience in neonatal, birth and family counseling, has expressed to me her horror about how a woman with a 5 month old with down syndrome would (1) take that child into a crowded convention center, (2) be preparing to leave that child with handlers while she campaigns and intends to serve as Vice President, and lastly, (3) how she is so out of touch with what maternal instincts and good common sense tells you about living up to the committment to raise such a child.
Another example of McCain's appaling lack of judgement.
Well, I'm new to this site, but my second comment (my first being thanks for the info) is that maybe you should print less comments from "anonymous" and more of other people. He/she gets boring after a while. And for the record, I absolutely DO think that McCain's choice for VP is worse than the Dem's choice for President. But that's just this "kid's" uninformed opinion.
Finally, Suzanne Sugarbaker all grown up
i had to stop reeding the coments because i just cant take the compleat lack of propr speling and pnctution. Love you, love your blog. Ta ta.
Although I do feel strongly that Palin was a disgustingly poor choice for VP, I'm not sure it will hurt McCain much, if at all. To be honest with you, it is a bit of a problem for the Democrats. Everyone is talking about how badly Biden is gonna tear her up in their debate, but think about it. What kind of asinine sexist is Biden going to look like if he really gets into this debate like he should?
Love the post, thanks! I surfed in from superwife!
A question I've had that no one seems to even be asking, much less answering: The dude who knocked up Bristol Palin, being 18 to her 17: Isn't this what is known as statutory rape? A crime in all 50 states? Why is this not being addressed as a crime, rather than an evangelical blessing?
Ray,
No crime was committed. The age of consent is 16 in Alaska unless the adult party is three or more years older than the minor or in a position of authority (such as a teacher).
Oh. OK, I stand corrected. Thanks Maia.
Dang, people really don't get you. My question is, when did blogs become objective, nonpartisan news sources? And more importantly, when did YOU become an objective, nonpartisan news source? Did I miss something in the 48 hours since I last checked your blog?
Really, though...anyone who reads one of your posts (and especially 2+) -- on politics or otherwise -- should have enough sense to recognize the snark and sarcasm. Geez.
right on! i couldn't agree with you more...click over on my blog to read my thoughts as well. i'm not voting for mccain & i consider myself to be conservative...but i just can't do it!
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