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LITTWIN: Is Palin 'nothing but net,' or a long shot at buzzer?

Published August 29, 2008 at 11:45 p.m.

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I love this presidential campaign, in which everyone seems determined to leave no cultural issue behind.

We have race. We have gender. We have age.

And now we have, yes, gambling.

We have a vice presidential pick who is not only unknown to nearly all Americans, but one who is basically unknown even to the person who chose her. Apparently John McCain had met Sarah Palin exactly once and had talked to her on the phone exactly once before inviting her to Arizona, where he offered her the No. 2 job, which is, of course, a heartbeat away from the real thing.

This is what you might call vice presidential speed-vetting.

It's also what you might call either the ultimate gamble or, in the words of conservative columnist Charles Krauthammer, "near suicide." (Near suicide, I guess, would be shooting yourself, but only in the foot.)

If you're looking for an objective measure for how well the Democratic convention went, this is it. McCain's hand was forced - and, if you listen to Krauthammer, also his trigger finger. According to the Nielsen ratings, Obama's speech drew the largest audience in convention history - somewhere in the neighborhood of 40 million, which is quite a neighborhood. It was larger, according to an AP report, than the TV audience for the Beijing Opening Ceremonies or the American Idol finale.

However you look at it, Obama was a hit - and Denver, it should be pointed out, didn't do too badly for itself either as a backdrop.

No wonder McCain was desperate - desperate to change the conversation, desperate to change the momentum, desperate to find someone who doesn't look anything like Dick Cheney. (A female friend advises selling your stock in contact lenses and investing heavily in designer glasses.)

McCain definitely changed the conversation. And given that Sarah Palin was a point guard in high school, we'll abstain from the usual hail-Mary metaphor used in these instance and just call her, instead, the 94-footer-with-no-time-left-on-the- clock vice presidential pick.

Why would McCain do this? Why would he sacrifice his most compelling argument - that Obama wasn't sufficiently experienced - by making a vice presidential pick of someone who, 20 months ago, was mayor of Wasilla, Alaska, a town slightly smaller than Fort Morgan?

Ask yourself this: Who is the mayor of Fort Morgan and, if you know, would you want him/her to be your next vice president? Somewhere, Dan Quayle is chuckling.

McCain needed to do something different. The Republican convention next week promised to offer nothing except the chance to see how Republicans respond to speeches from George Bush and Dick Cheney. Don't be surprised if there's some kind of national blackout.

But Palin has no international experience, unless you count the fact that Alaska is near Russia. She has no domestic-affairs experience as it might relate to states with, say, actual cities in them. And in Alaska, some question what role she might have played in firing the state's public safety director, who reportedly had refused to fire her former brother-in-law.

Like me, you may wonder how many people hear Obama called "inexperienced" and think what they mean is "inexperienced and black." Now you have to wonder when you hear Palin called "inexperienced," if you'll think "inexperienced" - and as Pat Buchanan just said on MSNBC - and "girl."

Under what criteria would she be qualified to be the vice president? Palin made it clear in her first nationally televised speech what she thought her qualifications were.

She praised Hillary Clinton - who disagrees with Palin on approximately every significant issue - and said: "It was rightfully noted in Denver this week that Hillary left 18 million cracks in the highest, hardest glass ceiling in America. But it turns out the women of America aren't finished yet, and we can shatter that glass ceiling once and for all!"

She changed the conversation at a time when all the momentum is going Obama's way. But changing the conversation is not the same as changing anyone's mind.

Vice presidential picks don't usually matter. Geraldine Ferraro did little for Walter Mondale. Dan Quayle didn't hurt the first George Bush. But it's only reasonable to guess she'll make mistakes - Joe Biden will make mistakes, too - and the media will put them down to inexperience.

Of course, McCain needs help with women voters and with young voters, and Palin is not simply a former beauty pageant contestant. She hunts and fishes and rides motorcycles and calls her husband - who belongs to a union! - the First Dude. What's not to like?

Well, there could be this: Doesn't she seem to be your basic affirmative action choice? Isn't it patronizing to think women vote for women just because they're women? And Palin, in any case, is not Hillary Clinton. Palin is strongly anti-abortion and strongly to the right on most religious right issues and favors drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

And her choice means it's open season on McCain's age. It's absurd to say McCain is too old to be president. I've spent time with him on the trail, and I've struggled to keep up with him.

But he is, at last count, 72 and a cancer survivor and, incredibly, a survivor of 51/2 years in a POW camp. And the actuarial tables are what they are.

And if you're 72, it seems you have a responsibility to pick a vice president who can, as they say, be ready on Day 1 or whatever day it becomes necessary.

Or you could just spin the roulette wheel and see what happens.

littwinm@RockyMountainNews.com

Comments

  • August 30, 2008

    6:32 a.m.

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    T1anda writes:

    I would much rather have a less experienced number 2 presidential candidate, than vote for a very inexperienced number ONE candidate who will need.... a quote by Obama's running mate Joe Biden ...."On the job training!!!"

  • August 30, 2008

    7:36 a.m.

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    samsmargolis writes:

    Palin is more Margaret Thatcher than the gee-whiz boy is JFK. Not even a contest there. She's already building a track record to prove it. And BHO has....what? And, a point of clarification - BHO is the one who needs help with the women voters. He's running a phony "first black candidate" campaign to draw attention to his otherwise anemic credentials when, in fact, he's bi-racial and not the first bi-racial person in the White House on top of that. So, by shutting Clinton out through the unfolding of this big lie to the gullible masses, he's foiled the bigger opportunity of a lifetime for some of these women voters to see the sexism (bigger problem than racism) finally overcome where the White House is concerned. Well, that is until now....

  • August 30, 2008

    8 a.m.

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    DaddyDave writes:

    Since you didn't follow through with it, the door is still open for the next journalist - this was a Hail Mary shot if there ever was one! That should be her nickname.

  • August 30, 2008

    8:11 a.m.

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    T1anda writes:

    Hail Mary... for the touchdown!!!! One thing Palin has that the other three do not have is executive experience!! Great choice!!

  • August 30, 2008

    8:18 a.m.

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    Tom writes:

    Wow, it looks like the local conservatives (T1anda -- the multiple exclamation pointer -- and sams) are just as desperate to pump this incredibly unqualified candidate as McSame was. Both (so far) are trying to turn the conversation away from Palin and on to Obama, who showed the world this week he has the strength and intelligence to be President.

    It's sad, really.

  • August 30, 2008

    8:28 a.m.

    fluxtube writes:

    (This comment was removed by the site staff.)

  • August 30, 2008

    8:35 a.m.

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    Speak writes:

    I am not sure did we all of a sudden start voting for the VP to be president. Last time I checked it was vote for who would best be President or at the most vote for your ticket of choice and least you forget Biden has suffered two, count-em two aneurysm. Cancer is a slow death process unless caught and with McCain it has been. Annurisiun can be instant and where is NOBamas medical record, what’s he hiding (he’s not too young to have issues). And if you want to peddle more information lets continue your dialogue about McCain’s pow, he survived broken bones then his captures repeatedly broke his bones once they healed and he survived yet again. I would rather a survivor in the Whitehouse that say's never give up, never surrender than the Rockstar that hangs with terrorist. And as for NOBama being a hit, Rockstar Concerts filled with the who is who usually are a hit. As for McCain being desperate yes desperate to give us female something more than a bunch of men walking around puttin down the fact that it's time to elevate women. Take a chapter from Biden he was clear when he stated "The Presidency does not lend itself to OJT", he was talking about NOBama.
    But the fact is the VP slot does lend itself to OJT and by all accounts (you might not want to credit Palin) but she took steps to hone the job description she now finds herself in. Have you not heard of cabinet advisors she’ll have plenty to assist her because it would appear you people are marching McCain to the grave.
    Unlike NOBama that has been a druggie, a racist, a community organizer he’s also got lots of street cred with Ludicrous (the rapper). NOBama disciples are just desperately trying to counter the move of Palin at least she's always been proud of her country. Can NOBama even wear the uniform Palin and John McCain can. "CHECKMATE".

  • August 30, 2008

    8:42 a.m.

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    samsmargolis writes:

    So, Tom - explain to all of us desparate conservatives exactly what BHO has run in his life. Aside from his mouth, that is. When has he actually been in charge of anything? Anything that would require him to actually make the final decision, actually be held accountable as the ultimate decision-maker? The man (loosely qualified) can't even show up for most of his votes and pick a side as far as I can tell. Answer this one while you sip your Koolaid, as well: is he really the first bi-racial (not black) candidate for the White House - or just the first to outwardly claim it? And, if not, why does he cling to that so closely? I think he's running for the White House on his "blackness" alone, simply because his other "qualifications" don't exist. In other words, he's after the white guilt, sympathy vote. BHO is a used car salesman. Always has been, always will be. Oh, and now you can add sexist to his accomplishments. Anyone pointing their finger from his campaign at Palin and talking smack about lack of experience is clearly furthering the glass ceiling mentality. Read it and weep, there Tommy:

    http://www.diversityinc.com/public/14...

  • August 30, 2008

    8:49 a.m.

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    Tom writes:

    I'm sorry, RickyLee, if Obama's speech went over your head and you missed history being made.

    The excitement and promise of something new in government compared with the same-old "moderate" Republican and his featherweight running mate will assure an Obama victory.

    Her use of Hillary's "cracks in the glass ceiling" line was a special insult to the women who supported Clinton, with whom Palin agrees on exactly nothing. Her "experience" of running a small Alaskan city government (a record not devoid of scandal it seems) followed by one term as governor of a rural state which is nothing like mainstream America -- the "experience" argument against Obama is now invalidated. This woman would be a cancer patient's heartbeat away from the PRESIDENCY.

    "Turn out the lights...the party's over..."

  • August 30, 2008

    8:53 a.m.

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    Tom writes:

    And sams, again, this article and thread should be about McCain's choice for VP, not Obama. We've all heard your kind's desperate attempts to dub him "inexperienced", all the while supporting a man who, in his first real show of "presidential judgment" chose the most under-experienced, under-qualified person for the job of president EVER. And yes, the VP must be able to step in and become the leader of the free world at a moment's notice.

    If I were a Republican, I'd be very, very bummed.

  • August 30, 2008

    9:01 a.m.

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    JustFine writes:

    I am pretty appalled at the majority of the responses here. Lets take the partisan responses out of the equation here for a second. Sams...you are making some pretty inflammatory and racial comments. Why bring up an issue that is of no real consequence to anybody else? It is obviously of major consequence to you. Obama isn't running "on his blackness" he just happens to be so. That is where the discussion ends. He could have played up the MLK angle a lot more during his speech and instead of doing so he gave credit where credit is due and moved on. Palin is such a reach that she completely discredits the Obama is inexperienced argument. It pulls the cover off the experience argument and apparently reveals that gory truth underneath...that America still has to contend with racists and their beliefs. Everyone is entitled to their opinions and the ability to express them, its the American way after all, but it is time for people to look in the mirror and really look at their hate. It has to be a pretty scary picture. It is this type of ignorance that votes and it is this type of ignorance that is wrong for this country.

  • August 30, 2008

    9:05 a.m.

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    titancain writes:

    Obama won the election yesterday. This woman is a nut. Creationism in schools?

    Incompetent choice by McCain. He's toast.

  • August 30, 2008

    9:31 a.m.

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    samsmargolis writes:

    Good to know you can't answer the questions, Tom. By the way, I'm an independant voter that was fully in Hillary's camp and am not swayed by BHO's line-o'-crap. I CLEARLY addressed Palin's CEO experience in my comments and asked you to submit the same for BHO. I didn't dodge the choice of Palin as VP candidate - I made my points in support of her. Still waiting for you to compare / contrast BHO. Doubt I'll get an answer from you or any of his supporters, though. Feel free to hide behind his "picking on the black candidate" skirt the rest of the campaign. I'm sure we've only skimmed the surface of your type of rhetoric in this campaign. Oh, how'd you like the article? Make it seem like your hero is a tad bit on the untruthful side?

  • August 30, 2008

    9:44 a.m.

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    NeilT writes:

    I'm starting to like McCain!

    This stud surrounds himself with young, hot models. His first wife was a swimsuit model. His current wife is a ultra rich beauty queen. Now his partner in politics is a beauty queen! Cindy had the cash and the connections, so that makes her the winning choice out of the group. But Palin is the coolest! She is everything that Cindy is not.

    The Hugh Hefner of the Oval Office!

  • August 30, 2008

    9:52 a.m.

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    not_gene writes:

    Anyone who comments righteously to defend Sarah Palin as a great choice, ask yourself one question: How much did you REALLY know about her when you went to sleep Thursday night?

    How can anyone be staunchly for or against her when most of the nation didn't even know her name Friday morning?

    All we can really do for the next few days, while she is publicly vetted, is scratch our heads and say, "Huh?"

  • August 30, 2008

    9:54 a.m.

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    Tom writes:

    Great leaders are those who inspire the greatness in all of us. I am inspired by Senator Obama's life story, his compassion and intelligence, his strength of character, and the love of country and hope for the future that he creates in those who hear his message.

    I am appreciative of Senator McCain's military and congressional service, but not personally inspired by it. And if you can't tell the difference, then we're just ships passing in the night, never to meet on this issue.

    Like Obama, I "get it" about America. And like Obama, I don't believe Senator McCain understands the people he plans to govern. His choice of VP is just one more example of this, in my opinion.

    Look at where the excitement and optimism are. Look at where the desperate, empty devotion to the past is. The world saw the former last week and will witness the latter in the days to come.

    And sams, if you were ever really "fully in Hillary's camp" and are now supporting McCain, that speaks volumes about your commitment to Democrat ideals.

  • August 30, 2008

    9:54 a.m.

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    WestminsterJ writes:

    Whence this fixation on "CEO" or "executive" experience, such that Sarah Palin's stint as mayor of a town of 7K and her grand total of 1 1/2 years as governor of a small state somehow sets her way in front of Obama or Biden? What is important to me are the ideas and goals that a candidate has, not their aquaintance with the mechanics and formalities of being an executive; those are easily learned.

  • August 30, 2008

    9:55 a.m.

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    bronco writes:

    McCain is done. This election is going to be a landslide. This woman is an absolute joke of a pick. Cannot wait to see Biden rip her apart in the VP debates.

  • August 30, 2008

    10:03 a.m.

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    danirobi writes:

    In response to the claim of scandal in Alaska, Governor Palin has fully cooperated on the investigation and the person over seeing the investigation (a Demcorat) has not issued any subpoenas in this case. Sarah Palin has taken on members of her own party and gas fought the oil companies and corruption in her state.

    To all the feminists out there, I ask this...what is so wrong with being a strong, educated women, who happens to be a Republican. The suffrage movement was for womens right to vote and to be heard. The feminist movement of today is, women should be heard, unless your a Republican. If you are pro-life, and Republican, somehow you are not a "female"

  • August 30, 2008

    10:06 a.m.

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    samsmargolis writes:

    not_gene: "How much did you REALLY know about her when you went to sleep Thursday night?"

    Yeah. That's why the DNC spent a whole night of their convention trying to tell everyone BHO's life story - no one knew (or still knows) that guy, either. While you're at it, have BHO put this stuff together for us so we can "get to know him" a little better:
    His Occidental College records. His Columbia College records. His Columbia Thesis paper. His Harvard College records. His Selective Service Registration. His medical records. His Illinois State Senate records. His Illinois State Senate schedule. His Law practice client list. A Certified Copy of his original Birth certificate. His EMBOSSED, signed Certification of Live Birth. His Harvard Law Review articles that were published. His University of Chicago scholarly articles. His Record of baptism. Get right on that for me, not_gene.

    Tom - as an independent voter, why would I only be committed to "Democrat ideals?" Duh. That's why I'm registered as an Independent. Not a real critical thinker, are you?

  • August 30, 2008

    10:10 a.m.

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    RoloFan writes:

    I'm sorry, but I'm voting for the next PRESIDENT of the United States, not the VP. Obama is a liitle too far to the left for me, McCain is a very tired old politician who is a little too far to the right for me. His running mate is a political lightweight without much depth or experience, way too conservative, a bit of hypocrite, and just naive enough to thinks its okay to use the powers of her office to punish people who were married to someone in her family.

    Whether or not you like his experience, Obama seems a little more seasoned because of the types of things he's done. His whole career has been about community service and education. And that Harvard law degree doesn't hurt. Palin has a degree in communication, which tells me it's all about what "spin" you place on things.

    If I were to vote today, it would be Obama. McCain is McCain, and I'm unimpressed with his running mate.

  • August 30, 2008

    10:10 a.m.

    jwbeuk writes:

    (This comment was removed by the site staff.)

  • August 30, 2008

    10:14 a.m.

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    WHATRIGHTS writes:

    And exactly what experience did the group of men who wrote the constitution have? Hmmm?????? The greatest document ever written based solely on the need and want for change. We cry that we want change, tired of politicians....now we get the argument on both sides that there is no experience, thank GOD, there is some "less experienced" politicians in the game on both sides.

  • August 30, 2008

    10:17 a.m.

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    jwbeuk writes:

    Tom, still waiting to hear all about Barack Obama's executive experience. That's right, he has none. So, lets talk about his foriegn policy experience. Oh that's right, he has none. Funny, all Barack Obama has is 143 days in the US Senate, a few years as a State Senator and his experience as a "community organizer", yet the left thinks he is qualified to be President. Sorry liberal minions and your left wing media cohorts. There is a reason American's choose Governors as Presidents and not Senators. FYI, what change are Obama and Biden going to bring to Washington? They are both part of the establishment, Palin is not; McCain has been fighting it for years; so who is the party pushing change in Washington Tom? Oh yeah, I forgot; Obama "inspired" you. Giving inspirational speaches does not qualify one to be President.

  • August 30, 2008

    10:20 a.m.

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    margfbrown writes:

    As a Republican, I NEVER thought there could be someone MORE stupid than our present president. The choice of Palin is nothing but a knee-jerk reaction with NO thought for the consequences to the party or the security of the U.S. We don't need a president that operates like that, nor a V.P. that comes from "Podunk" Alaska. The Republicans are turning into the party of non-thinkers. So I'm "outta here" with the them.

  • August 30, 2008

    10:30 a.m.

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    RoloFan writes:

    "Giving inspirational speaches does not qualify one to be President"

    LOL, that's what JFK did, and people still feel inspired by the words he spoke. JFK had a VISION, which ignited passion in this country. Things like "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." Or "Let's be the first country to land a man on the moon." At the time, that took a great leap of faith to accomplish. And, in 1960, he ran against a far more seasoned and experienced politician by the name of Richard Nixon.

    Or MLK, with "I have a dream."

    FDR with "We have nothing to fear but fear itself."

    Thomas Jefferson and the "Declaration of Independence".

    Great leaders have great vision, and they inspire the rest of us to achieve more, and, just perhaps, do things for less than selfish reasons. That doesn't require "CEO" experience or Washington experience, because there are plenty of those types available as advisors.

    Obama has the vision, McCain does not.

  • August 30, 2008

    10:43 a.m.

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    JustFine writes:

    Sams....still haven't responded to my commentary on your racial insults....I guess I must have been right about you. "Running on his blackness" you are running your mouth on your bigotry and idiocy. Please don't vote, you are embarrassing the rest of us.

  • August 30, 2008

    10:46 a.m.

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    Colorado_Bill writes:

    For me the issue of age is not abut how long ago you were born, but when. We have all been shaped by the zeitgeist in which we matured (those of us who have).

    McCain was born into the Great Depression, and was a child during WWII, when society was oppressively conformist and oriented toward fighting external enemies while denying any consideration for internal reform. Virtually everyone of his generation carries this baggage.

    My generation had a slogan in 1968: "Don't trust anyone over 30." It is still excellent advice. The people who were over 30 in 1968 are now over 70, and they are still not to be trusted.

  • August 30, 2008

    10:48 a.m.

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    maxine writes:

    RoloFan: I like the fact that she isn't a lwayer.

  • August 30, 2008

    10:50 a.m.

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    HopiMedicineMan writes:

    What happened to the formatting of this forum? It's horrible.

    There seems to be this assumption that choosing Palin somehow removed McCain's experience.

    She gives a more coherent speech than Obama. It was an inspired pick.

  • August 30, 2008

    10:52 a.m.

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    RoloFan writes:

    "RoloFan: I like the fact that she isn't a lawyer."

    And,exactly how does that add to her qualifications to be VP?

  • August 30, 2008

    10:57 a.m.

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    RoloFan writes:

    "There seems to be this assumption that choosing Palin somehow removed McCain's experience"

    And Joe Biden's experience?

    We all know who McCain is. The issue has been Obama's lack of experience, which can no longer be a factor because Palin has even less.

    So now we get to talk about the issues.

  • August 30, 2008

    11:05 a.m.

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    samsmargolis writes:

    JustFine: "Sams....still haven't responded to my commentary on your racial insults...."

    What racial insults? BHO has every media outlet imaginable touting the "historical" aspect of his nomination and I'm throwing down the gauntlet and saying it isn't so. How is that insulting? Read this article and tell me his "historic" moment isn't a load:

    http://www.diversityinc.com/public/14...

    And, if I say - in my opinion - that the best thing he appears to have going for him in this campaign is the "historic" moment thing because he has no other meaningful qualifications, how is that racist? You've actually proven the point I made earlier - if you're not a BHO supporter, you're painted as a racist. It just ain't so. I'd vote for a Colin Powell or a Condoleezza Rice in a heartbeat. BHO, aside from his flowery speeches, has nothing in his pockets. If saying that makes me a racist in your world, well - too bad. Sway me to the contrary with all the lavish experience and resume I haven't seen yet. The BHO apologists keep the "racist" tag in a quick-draw holster for use when you know you have no argument to the contrary. Hmmm. Just as it was scripted above and.........right on time. Sweet.

  • August 30, 2008

    11:12 a.m.

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    HolierThanThou writes:

    Palin is an inspired pick all right...inspired by Karl Rove and the same old tired conservatives.

    Why couldn't McCain wait until his convention to name his running mate?

    The choice of Sarah Palin is an act of desperation, a scream of "Look at me! I picked a lady!"

    Well, a lady she is not, not if she fired an employee for not firing her former brother-in-law, not even if she came up with a good excuse for doing so. Abusing power like that makes her a petty tyrant.

    America has had a enough of the petty tyrant thing.

    I put 50:50 odds that she'll be replaced before the general election. Either that, or her selection is a sure sign that McCain is throwing in the towel.

  • August 30, 2008

    11:18 a.m.

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    JluvDC writes:

    I really like the idea of a woman being on a party ticket, but I can't get behind someone who is ultra pro-life and believes that creation should be taught in schools. I would think republican women should be happy with this pick, but I'm not sure why anyone would think she would appeal to Hillary supporters.

  • August 30, 2008

    11:55 a.m.

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    HopiMedicineMan writes:

    There were conservative demonstrations during the DNC. Here's a link:

    http://www.lookingattheleft.com/2008/...

  • August 30, 2008

    12:04 p.m.

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    WestminsterJ writes:

    jwbeuk: Ritter was DA of Denver for 8 or so years before he was elected governor. Idiot.

  • August 30, 2008

    12:15 p.m.

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    CitizenPained writes:

    How a part-time Republican mayor of a town with a population less than 9,000 (Obama's legislative constituency was probably more than that) turned govnuh of a very Republican state with less than two years of experience has more "executive experience than McCain, Obama and Biden" is beyond me.

    But if you want to go on Governor Palin's real record (and it's a short one!), let's talk about her issues.

    1. Palin supports drilling in ANWR. She believes we can end our dependency on foreign oil by drilling in Alaska (even though scientists, economists or experts...disagree with her...as Alaskan oil would last us less than eight months.) Her idea on global warming (it's not manmade; it's natural! so we should carry on with our Earth-trashing ways) and oil is radically different from Senator Obama's AND John McCain's. She's all about Obama's energy plan (except ANWR) though - she even issued a press release on her Governor website, which is still viewable from the Google cache. (It was removed within the last 48 hours.)

    2. She doesn't like polar bears, though. She's suing the United States for attempting to put polar bears on the list of endangered species.

    3. The gun-toting, mooseburger-eating, polar-bear killing Earth trashing hockey mom is also under an ethical investigation for firing Alaska's police commissioner because HE wouldn't fire her sister's ex husband. She replaced him with someone known to sexually harass women in the workplace. (He got the axe, too.) Snap! She's only been govnah for less than two years.

    And all that executive experience? Well, she's so on the national front that she doesn't even know Senator McCain.

    Sarah Palin in her Own Words:

    "Polar Bears Aren't Endangered!"
    "What does a VP do?"
    "Senator McCain Will Come Around - He's Living in La-La Land!"

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Z8lI8...

    And no one seems to know her.

    Yeah, she's exactly who I want for President.

    We've had nine sitting VPs become Presidents. And Vice Presidents have a wonderful way of running for President later.

    James Dobson must be having politicalgasms at the moment.

  • August 30, 2008

    12:16 p.m.

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    not_gene writes:

    "What is it exactly that the VP does everyday?"
    -Sarah Palin, 07/2008

  • August 30, 2008

    12:47 p.m.

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    Speak writes:

    VP"s become versed at being president!

    Live it love it Palins a great pick!

  • August 30, 2008

    12:54 p.m.

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    AG writes:

    Palin is an insulting choice. She has absolutely no business being considered for VP. Comparing her experiences to Obama in a manner that suggests they both share the same level of inexperience is simply inaccurate and foolish. There is almost no other candidate who could be even remotely as unprepared to be POTUS as Palin.

    Whether or not you agree with her stance on key issues- and I do not, especially on the medieval concept of teaching creationism in schools- it should be obvious she has no business in a debate with Biden. If she and McCain hope that she garners sympathy votes from women who feel sorry for going up against a male opponent the caliber of Joe Biden, they are both sorely mistaken. She is so utterly out of place; putting her in this position is disgraceful and a trainwreck is guaranteed. None of Clinton's supporters will vote for her; she stands for the absolute polar opposite agenda on ALL key issues. McCain has also shown that he is willing to pander to the social conservative base in a manner totally unmatched to his alleged principals. A desperate move, and a demonstration of weakness that goes against any fake "maverick" image he has used to political gain.

    Game over.

    Stop the misguided Obama comparisons. None can say she is remotely qualified, or ready to assume the presidency in any scenario. And so much for McCain's honesty. He has totally changed position on so many key issues that we could never know who he really is or what he really intends.

  • August 30, 2008

    1:29 p.m.

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    RockyWilly writes:

    What has Obama run in his life, you ask? How about a U.S. Senate office? And a very successful national campaign for President.

    It's comical how conservatives -- who days ago were bemoaning Obama's lack of experience -- are now trying to convince the rest of us (and themselves) that Palin is qualified to be President.

  • August 30, 2008

    1:49 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    jwbeuk writes:

    He has run a US Senate office? Are you serious? As for his campaign, he doesn't run it; staff do. Palin is a Governor. She runs the state. She manages a budget, is the commander of the Guard, and the list goes on. And all you can say about Obama is he has run a Senate office. Wow, he is more shallow than I thought.

  • August 30, 2008

    1:53 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    Ima_Sheep writes:

    Well, I'm a life long democrat and I'm going to vote for McCain because he chose a running mate with genitalia just like mine! FINALLY someone I can relate to! Whew!

  • August 30, 2008

    1:53 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    jwbeuk writes:

    Ritter was DA in Denver for 8 years? And that makes him more experienced how? Again, the same fools "representing" Colorado screaming about Palin not being qualified were pumping Ritter. Degette especially has done nothing but embarass herself since this announcement was made.

  • August 30, 2008

    2:13 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    gary writes:

    He has no real identity. He is half-white, which he
    rejects. The rest of him is mostly Arab, which he
    hides but is disclosed by his non-African Arabic
    surname and his Arabic first and middle names as a way
    to triply proclaim his Arabic parentage to people in
    Kenya . Only a small part of him is African Black from
    his Luo grandmother, which he pretends he is
    exclusively.

    What he isn't, not a genetic drop of, is
    'African-American,' the descendant of enslaved
    Africans brought to America chained in slave ships.
    He hasn't a single ancestor who was a slave. Instead,
    his Arab ancestors were slave owners. Slave-trading
    was the main Arab business in East Africa for
    centuries until the British ended it.

    Let that sink in: Obama is not the descendant of
    slaves, he is the descendant of slave owners. Thus he
    makes the perfect Liberal Messiah.
    It's something Hillary doesn't understand - how some
    complete neophyte came out of the blue and stole the
    Dem nomination from her. Obamamania is beyond
    politics and reason. It is a true religious cult,
    whose adherents reject Christianity yet still believe
    in Original Sin,..... transferring it.... from the evil of
    being human ...to the evil ....of being white.

    Nuff Said!

  • August 30, 2008

    2:19 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    ham writes:

    I have never given money to a political campaign ever. But when John McCain picked Sarah Palin, I'm ready to.
    While Obama talks, change, change, change, change, and then proceeds to name Joe Biden his running mate, you know his change mantra is just talk.
    Meanwhile, Sarah Palin is absolutely change. I am very excited about her.

  • August 30, 2008

    2:28 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    kc02 writes:

    Hey, CitizenPained! Polars bears AREN'T endangered! They are flourishing! There has never been more of them. Gov Palin is right, and the decision to put them on the endangered species list is nothing but political manuvering. Go do some research.
    You represent every voter Barack Obama is counting on.
    I suppose you clapped and cheered when Barack Obama said he could end America's importing of foreign oil in 10 years, even though it's impossible. Doesn't matter if it can't be done; It sounds good.
    You people have no brains.

  • August 30, 2008

    3:03 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    johnhenry writes:

    McCain VP and his rash behavior -- Country at Risk
    More rash dangerous decisions.

    McCain only talked with his VP choice last week. He just does not know her. McCain is willing to make a decision that could impact the country on one conversation!!!

    And we all know that McCain still has cancer. He looked death in the eye 2 times. Once was just after the 2000 presidential race where he tried to be selected as the GOP presidential candidate. Shortly after he had to have an operation of 5 hours. That is why the left side of his face is scared and large. He gets checked once a month. But there is nothing that can be done if the cancer starts to spread quickly. That means that there is a chance that he will die or be very sick if he is President. This puts his VP choice as the new President. She a smart and clever person, but she is not brilliant and is grossly ignorant of the world --provincial. She would need to be to do the job at all well. There are high school students that know more about the world than she does.

    McCain has put the country at risk. Talk about decisions.

  • August 30, 2008

    3:12 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    HighCountryGolfer writes:

    Palin is from outside the beltway and a refreshing choice. She literally has no baggage. In my opinion she is a really good pick for Vice President.

  • August 30, 2008

    3:13 p.m.

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    sawzallartist writes:

    He choose Palin?

    What......was Laura Ingalls busy?

    And my god are the rightards out today.

  • August 30, 2008

    3:26 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    anderson writes:

    Titancain: "This woman is a nut. Creationism in schools?"

    If it is in fact her position that creationism should be taught in public schools, uh, that's sort of a litmus test for me. All other things considered, how many would vote for someone who advocates creationism in schools? You might as well vote for someone who thinks that bloodletting should be taught in medical school.

  • August 30, 2008

    3:38 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    MarcoPolo writes:

    "Well, I'm a life long democrat and I'm going to vote for McCain because he chose a running mate with genitalia just like mine! FINALLY someone I can relate to! Whew!"

    Now here's someone who is voting based on genitalia.

    This country is over.

  • August 30, 2008

    3:42 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    anderson writes:

    If we all did so, would that make us a kinder, genitalia nation?

  • August 30, 2008

    4:32 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    Speak writes:

    Not all black people hate white Americans. I happen to have alot of white Americans as family members whom I love and they love me. The irony is NOBamas disciples needed for a black man to echo change in order for them to pursue positive change in their own lives. This is exactly what NOBamas campaign has done; it’s fostered the notion that all black people are Democrats.
    Howard Dean has penned us the "White Party" well I am not white but very proud to be in the Republican party.

  • August 30, 2008

    5:48 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    mover2 writes:

    Is johnhenry god??

  • August 30, 2008

    6:22 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    HopiMedicineMan writes:

    CitizenPained,
    Your assumption is that the mayor of a large city is more qualified than the mayor of a small city. Why would a large population be your determinant? The mayor of a small city is more hands on. This has been the frustration of many small town managers for decades. The infrastructure is failing in this country. No one knows better than small town officials. Palin would be the first Pennsylvania Avenue inhabitant since Truman who understands Main Street.

  • August 30, 2008

    6:47 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    goldfinch writes:

    I am way more concerned about experience at the top of the ticket than I am for the VP slot. The VP is a minor consideration when I decide who to vote for. VPs are usually picked to balance out the ticket, to appeal to a group of voters who might not be excited about the candidate for President, or for their ability to carry a specific state. Obama passed on the chance to sew up the election by picking Hillary. McCain picked a candidate that will excite his base, shore up the West, and maybe appeal to the people Obama considers 'bitter clingers' in the Rust Belt swing states.

    And, yes, I knew Palin's story before McCain picked her. But I am a political junkie. Most people did not know who she was...but then, few people would recognize Biden if they came face to face with him on the street.

  • August 30, 2008

    7:03 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    goldfinch writes:

    anderson...about teaching creationism. I have been trying to track that one down. What I have found out so far is that it seems to have come up in a debate. Her answer was 'Teach both'. However, when she got a second chance at the question, she backed off...or clarified her comments and said she thought discussion of different ideas in the classroom was healthy so she thought creationism could be discussed in the classroom, but that it should not be part of the curriculum.

    Funny thing about the hits on Palin. Most of them are coming from people who claim to support women...but Palin is the 'wrong kind of woman'. After years of women's lib, we are now being told women should walk in lockstep. That doesn't sound liberated to me.

  • August 30, 2008

    7:22 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    anderson writes:

    goldfinch, I found the creationism charge in the Denver Post's editorial: http://www.denverpost.com/editorials/.... Not that they are an infallible source, but I assume they have some basis for mentioning it. Maybe your source is closer to the truth. In any case, I'm sure she will have to deal with the question in the days to come.

    You apply what I think of as the "Clarence Thomas" question to Palin. Are her critics expecting her to have certain positions because she's a woman? And is that fair? Maybe it depends on the specific criticism.

  • August 30, 2008

    7:36 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    ConservativeWoman writes:

    My, my some of the reactions to the Palin pick only serve to confirm my belief that the left is a bastion of sexism. Governor Palin clearly has more managerial experience than Obama - and Biden and McCain for that matter. Of course the military teaches leadership and McCain commanded a squadron - now tell me again what Obama has ever led, created, managed or accomplished? The left is trying desperately to disparage Governor Palin, but all that seems to do is to point out the shortfall on the Democratic ticket. Oh and beware of anyone who feels the need to write TWO autobiographies before the age of 47. We get it, Obama, it was all part of your plan to become the first Marxist president of the United States. Not gonna happen though.

  • August 30, 2008

    8 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    anderson writes:

    ConservativeWoman, by calling Obama a Marxist, you support a certain prejudice out there that conservatives are largely an ill-informed and uneducated bunch. As to what Obama has accomplished in life (he was just nominated for President by the Democrats, shhhh), you probably wouldn't notice if it hit you in the a__.

  • August 30, 2008

    9 p.m.

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    goldfinch writes:

    anderson...here is a link to the Anchorage Daily News from October 2006. It describes her 'Teach both' answer. Farther down, she backs off of the answer and makes it clear that she does not believe creationism should be part of the curriculum but that we should not be afraid of discussion in the classroom. Read it and make up your own mind.

    http://dwb.adn.com/news/politics/elec...

  • August 30, 2008

    9:23 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    Frank25 writes:

    You folks will have a ball the next 60 days. Don't really understand why you want to quibble over just a few names, when Vote Smart lists 323 names who have registered or announced for President. 6 of those are major party (Baldwin,Barr, McCain, McKinney, Nader, and Obama). Throw other names into the mix, and confuse each other. I started as Democrat, then unaffiliated, then Republican, and will be Unaffiliated rest of my life. Both parties have deadlocked themselves into rigid positions- and are dead locked. Have forgotten there are humans out here who have to live, while they play schoolyard games.

    At present I like McCain - Palin, since both have resisted fraud, elitists, and free-spenders in both parties, and have been forceful in letting them know it. Have a good weekend. Obama and Biden have been part of problem over past 20 plus years, and work "patronage system".

  • August 30, 2008

    10:03 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    BO writes:

    ConservativeWoman-
    You probably don't even know what Marxism is.

  • August 30, 2008

    10:07 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    BO writes:

    I would also be willing to bet that you hadn't heard of her before Friday morning, and yet you're now singing her praises.

  • August 30, 2008

    10:44 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    BO writes:

    Here's an interesting tidbit:

    http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/08...

    And another:

    http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/08...

    I know the second one isn't as compliementary...but I'm sure some jacka$$ will point that out to me, anyway.

    Or is it a flip-flop:

    http://blogs.wsj.com/environmentalcap...

  • August 30, 2008

    10:47 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    BO writes:

    sorry..."complimentary"

  • August 30, 2008

    10:52 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    LOUIE writes:

    More liberal drivel Littwin? I guess when your caught up hook, line, and sinker in one party, the whole picture becomes quite elusive. Is there any balance at the Rocky, anyone who looks at issues objectively? If this paper keeps losing readers as it has been doing, you'll need a "fairness doctorine" to survive; the right wing will be having to pay your bills out of thier profits. Write Ms. Polosi Littwin, tell her how sad of shape your extremely left wing paper is, maybe she can attack the more financially successful media sources to prop you up like she does right wing radio. Even after the JOA with the Post, the Rocky hasn't learned much. Everytime Mr. Temple gives the public the state of solvency report of the Rocky, it's more losses. Been that way for years now. Like Mr. Obama, it's time for "CHANGE", starting with a editorial overhaul. One day, Scripps will be telling the public that the Rocky is on schedule for anticipated losses. Sad, it used to be a great paper.

  • August 30, 2008

    11:12 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    CitizenPained writes:

    Frank25: I'm not sure what country you are part of, but John McCain has been part of the Senate for the last near three decades. He rolls in big money with the rest of 'em.

  • August 30, 2008

    11:16 p.m.

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    speakthetruth writes:

    She's gonna' be toast in a few days. Her hidden scandal is about to break. Her 5th child is actually her daughters illegitimate baby and not her's at all !!!!

    Oh, I can't wait for this to hit the fan. Read on Limbots...

    http://news.spreadit.org/bristol-pali...

  • August 30, 2008

    11:43 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    CitizenPained writes:

    "Hey, CitizenPained! Polars bears AREN'T endangered! They are flourishing! There has never been more of them. Gov Palin is right, and the decision to put them on the endangered species list is nothing but political manuvering. Go do some research.
    You represent every voter Barack Obama is counting on.
    I suppose you clapped and cheered when Barack Obama said he could end America's importing of foreign oil in 10 years, even though it's impossible. Doesn't matter if it can't be done; It sounds good.
    You people have no brains."

    First, polar bears are endangered - by global warming. Global warming is also something that Govnuh Palin believes is all because of nature and not because of human action. (Nevermind pollution or anything like that. Nope!) Global warming > rising temperatures > melting ice > less time for bears to hunt and eat > risk of polar bear. That's why it made the US Endangered Species List.

    She was angry because it interefered with her oil drilling - when an animal becomes endangered, its habitat is protected and a plan is put forth. Well, that's her stomping ground and she wasn't going to have it. She probably drinks Pepsi, too.

    OMG LULZ thanks for your "fact check" ! I was going to have to go and re-order my World Wildlife Fund checks with the polar bears on the cover!

    It's not that we think polar bears are thriving everywhere- it's that THEY ARE INLAND FOR LONGER PERIODS OF TIME AND MORE NOTICEABLE AND THEY'RE HUNGRY SO THEY'RE HANGING AROUND HUMANS.

    If anything, polar bear populations have stayed relatively safe due to lack of DEVELOPMENT in their habitats and Mooseburger Palin wants to change that.

    In answer to your other question, no, I didn't jump to my feet for Obama re: energy because he seems to lead towards ethanol as a means of sustainable and ethical biofuel and I don't.

    However, I do believe that in ten years we can do a great deal to lessen our dependence on foreign oil and the technology has been there for our automobiles for years.

    Oh, snap. McCain doesn't believe in drilling in ANWR, either! He also believes in nuclear energy (not concerned about Yucca Mountain, though) AND making cars cleaner.

    yours very sincerely,
    polar bear hugger and WWF member

  • August 30, 2008

    11:54 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    CitizenPained writes:

    Hopi Medicine Man,

    I've been to Alaska (several parts) and I'm not impressed by her part-time mayoral stunt. She even left a nice little debt for her former constituents. I don't think that mayors are qualified to be presidents unless you're running a town the size of, I don't know, New York City (and I'm still going to question it)!

    But I'd like to think that in my America, anyone can be President. That being said, she's still not qualified for the Presidency (and everyone knows being Vice President is a good way to become President). Even people with slim "qualifications" at least have the ego and the dreams to inspire people.

    Now, if she had been a full-termed governor or a two-termed governor it would be slightly more credible for the Republicans, but only slightly. And Alaska? The last frontier? Population 700,000 with 65 per cent of it owned and managed by the federal government?!

    She hasn't done anything. She hasn't shown that she loves this country, that she serves this country (if anything, she's more concerned about her image and Alaska) or that she'll serve me as a voter. The I'm-a-soccer-mom-not-a-politician-I-went-to-work-three-days-after-the-birth-of-my-special-needs-child thing isn't working for me.

    I used to live in Iowa in a town that went Home Rule (from commissioner-mayor to part time manager/city council with part time mayor) and before that, I lived in a small town. But that's no qualifications for President.

    While some Americans may find it charming, I'm thoroughly alarmed.

  • August 31, 2008

    12:44 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    AC writes:

    samsmargolis writes: "Palin is more Margaret Thatcher"

    Palin probably never even *heard* of Margaret Thatcher. Unless you mean Michael Palin.

  • August 31, 2008

    1:08 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    goldfinch writes:

    speaksthetruth....Do you have enough tinfoil left over to make the rest of us hats like yours?

  • August 31, 2008

    1:44 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    jax writes:

    speakstruth:

    Oh please, save us the tabloid BS. I read your so called article and it is so much baloney I wish I had some stupid-juice to choke it down with.

    There are a million expectant mothers who hardly show at all – especially at 7 or 8 months (I happened to be one of them) and every teenager has a “bloated” abdomen at any given time of the month (it’s called BEING A FEMALE)...That child does not look pregnant in the slightest, so save the drama and find something worthwhile to write about. Tabloids get sued for a reason, ya know.

  • August 31, 2008

    1:57 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    CitizenPained writes:

    While I don't believe that Palin covered up her child's pregnancy, I do believe it was very irresponsible of her to

    1) Use her special needs child for political posturing
    2) Pose as a pro-life mother when prenatal testing poses threat to the fetus (questionable)
    3) Have her water break a month early, give a speech and then hop on a PLANE back to Alaska to give birth when the child was in questionable danger (it was induced, he had to have been) and then
    4) Return to work three days later and tout how tough she is.

    A complete stunt.

    #3 is the #1 reason why I think she's a vapid excuse for motherhood and women across America.

  • August 31, 2008

    4:10 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    Dusty_Piniella writes:

    Ahem....Global Warming is NOT anthropologic, which is to say not caused by human activity! Anyone who really believes our insignificant presence on a planetary body could alter a climate to the point of catastrophe needs their head examined. The same amount of climate change is occurring elsewhere in our solar syatem. So there is the hint kiddies, "solar". Climate change is natural, cyclical, and caused by that big huge fiery object you see in the sky each day, and not by driving Hummers.

    Educate yourselves.
    http://www.spaceweather.com/

  • August 31, 2008

    5:41 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    speakthetruth writes:

    Palin is definitely hiding something. Every pic of her right up to her so-called delivering, she never showed being pregnant? Hmmm? She then said when her water broke, she got on a 8hr plane ride back to Alaska? Hmmm, right. Then, back to work in 3 days showing no signs of weight gain? Hmmm?

    The daughter starts showing a tummy in pics. Hmmm? They yank her from school for 5 months? Hmmm? Now, the state pulls all pics on the Alaska website of the family. Hmmmm?

    Too many coincidences to cover up! She's done.

  • August 31, 2008

    9:11 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    jhous1490 writes:

    Palin has four children, including a 4 month old baby with Down's Syndrome. Who is going to raise these children while she is running the country after McCain't has a heart attack? What mother would put her ambitions ahead of her family? It disgusts me as much as the US women soldiers serving in Iraq and leaving their youngsters in the care of grandparents for more than a year.
    STUPID and SELFISH!

  • August 31, 2008

    9:38 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    jefferson3 writes:

    Why doesn't she care about her sick child?

  • August 31, 2008

    10:25 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    fastnloose writes:

    Hail-Mary pick? as I recall that play comes as a last ditch effort that comes at the very end of the game(something Littwin should know having covered sports as poorly as he has politics).Palin has 9 weeks give or take to win the voters over,she will. Obama made a stupid,egotistical move in leaving Hillary off the ticket and he very well may pay dearly for it.I have talked to 6 women personally this week who have made the switch to McCain.

  • August 31, 2008

    10:49 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    tiero writes:

    Excellent choice. When she heads the senate, certain senators shoud be concerned with their hidden & covered up past dealings. Lets hear it for ethics

  • August 31, 2008

    10:52 a.m.

    dealmkr writes:

    (This comment was removed by the site staff.)

  • August 31, 2008

    10:56 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    dealmkr writes:

    jhous1490 writes:

    Palin has four children, including a 4 month old baby with Down's Syndrome. Who is going to raise these children while she is running the country after McCain't has a heart attack? What mother would put her ambitions ahead of her family? It disgusts me as much as the US women soldiers serving in Iraq and leaving their youngsters in the care of grandparents for more than a year.
    STUPID and SELFISH!

    ==============================

    So you are ok with insulting MILLIONS of working moms, eh? And did you forget she is also MARRIED and the husband will obviously play a big role!!! Ignorant comments like this is the reason this country is slow to progress. Please go back to your cave and put a rock in front of it and dont come out. Idiot.

  • August 31, 2008

    11:01 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    dealmkr writes:

    Tbone writes:

    "shes got more executive experience than obama!~!!1!!"

    sounds a lot to me like:

    "bush will be the first CEO prezidnt and run the country like a business!!11!"

    How'd that work out?

    Also, I cannot believe the crap that comes out of WcCain's mouth:

    "Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz) used the announcement of his vice-presidential pick, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, to blast the experience of his Democratic rival, Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill), arguing that Sen. Obama has never been the mayor of a 5,000-person town.

    “The Presidency of the United States of America is the toughest job on the planet,” Sen. McCain said. “And my friends, the best testing ground for that job is being the mayor of a 5,000-person town in Alaska.”

    Heh. Indeed. Obama has never run a small town into the ground, therefore he is not qualified.

    Republicans, may I at least recommend some ranch sauce, if you're going to be eating bullsh!t for the next 2 months? Oooh...also some breath mints.

    ===========================

    Another Lib who is panicking. So, lets see, we are expected to accept BHO day one with his very limited experience, but he will do great right? Or we can have a much more seasoned President who can groom a successor over the next 3-4 years to take his place since he is 72. Seems like to me, the grooming of the candidate is the best and ONLY choice rather than getting some bozo in office day one with no experience.

    Question: Senator Obama, what should we do about the high gas prices?
    Answer: Uh, put more air in your tires.....

    Yep, that is real presidential.

  • August 31, 2008

    11:55 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    BeckMom writes:

    jhous1490- You are the sexist pig that defines the glass ceiling!!!!

    I am a working mother of 2 and very proud of it. I can't afford to be your ideal mother who stays at home and obeys her husband. I work so we can afford a better life and my kids seem to be the better themselves for it.

    I am very impressed with McCain's choice. A working mother who actually knows a thing or two about the real world outside of Washington, DC! I think it's the spark we need. She seems to be smart enough to get over the inexperience angle quickly and make it a non-issue. And I have been impressed with her for awhile, not just with her name being thrown into the limelight this week.

    Everyone keeps harping on her scandalous actions regarding her former brother-in-law. Maybe these people should do some research on the reasons.

    She won't be a token to invite women to vote for McCain. I still haven't decided yet myself and I refuse to vote for McCain based solely on his VP pick, just like I refuse to not vote for Obama just because I don't like his VP pick.

  • August 31, 2008

    1:38 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    richardboyd writes:

    Incredibly gutsy move by McCain. Who has ever heard of this woman? But the more I read, the more I like her. Palin is young, energetic, and I believe tougher and smarter than Hillary will ever be. In my opinion there would be a lot more gifted women (and men) like this in the Democratic party if they didn't have to toe the line for the party's stupid abortion-on-demand plank. This is the most exciting development politically that I can remember, and I am four years older than Palin. I am a Repubican who is ready to leave the party in disgust over Bush. Now I am totally psyched. Normally a VP doesn't matter much, but this pick is huge, and gutsy, and visionary. Sarah Palin is and will be an exciting breath of fresh air on the oh-so-stale political scene in America lately. She is going to tear Biden apart in the debates, because she is 100% the real deal, and that is going to make a big-time difference. She's a regular person, not a privileged millionare lawyer like all the politicians are these days. Her husband is an oil field worker, and a regular, decent, beer-and-barbecue guy. Like myself! I hope she is the first female president of the United States. A commander-in-chief with a son in the Army? Anytime! Go for it, Sarah!! She and McCain are the real change, that is what's so ironic.

  • August 31, 2008

    2:08 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    BJG writes:

    If John McCain chose Sarah Palin to make me feel better about the big BO not picking Hillary, it didn't work. If McCain thinks any female will do, he's wrong. This just feels like a scramble to find any republican woman that would say "yes" when asked if she wanted to be his running mate. Surley, Republicans have women in their party that are more qualified than Palin and should have been vetted for the VP position.
    As a very disappointed Hillary supporter, I am taken aback that the McCain people think I could be so easily swayed by his choice of an inexperienced woman to "replace" Hillary. There is just no comparison. Thanks John McCain, you have helped me to make up my mind who I will vote for in November.

  • August 31, 2008

    10:10 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    farmboy writes:

    fastnloose and Shaggy,
    You can find similar sentiments at http://www.hillaryclintonforum.net/di...

  • August 31, 2008

    10:54 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    dirkle writes:

    All the tirades here, and most seem to be missing the boat.
    Palin IS CURRENTLY UNDER INVESTIGATION for abuse of power in her own state. Too bad Agnew is dead and was unavailable.

    Why didn't McCain have enough sense to vet this person before putting her on the ticket?
    A vp candidate that is being investigated??? - And possibly a daughter/ baby hoax as well??
    What a joke! - No wonder they're scaling down the convention and blaming a hurricane. Bush would have given such a great speech.

  • September 1, 2008

    9:23 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    speakthetruth writes:

    The latest McSame statement is...

    "Palin has plenty of international experience, because Alaska is next to Russia".

    Oh my God, this man truly is nuts!

    Obama/Biden will crush them at the debates if he keeps saying stupid things like that.

  • September 1, 2008

    9:41 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    jhous1490 writes:

    Palin has 4 children including a 4 month old baby with Down's syndrome...what is she thinking??? But hey, if we get REALLY lucky she and McCain't will win, McCain't will become unable to handle the strain, and we will have a pregnant President. Now there's a sitcom we can all enjoy, right?

  • September 1, 2008

    12:12 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    RoloFan writes:

    "Palin has 4 children including a 4 month old baby with Down's syndrome"

    And a pregnant teenage daughter.

    Yes, she's a working mom, but she's also not like you or me. She can afford to let other people take care of her children, which says to me that her kids are more like pets than real children who need their parents involved in their daily lives, especially a special needs child.

    I love how these ultra-conservative types like Palin feel they can tell the rest of us how to run our lives when they can't keep their own house in order.

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