August 29, 2008

Sarah Palin, the VP pick! [ADDED: And the live-blog and profusion of comments continue here.]



10:25: Thought you'd like to see a picture. The handsome guy is her husband (and Bill Clinton's chief competition on the face of this earth for future First Gentleman).

And this post can be used for commenting on the [first] live-blog post, when the comments there hit 200 (and become hard to see).

10:30: Here's almost the whole family. (There's a new baby now.)



Wow. Beautiful. Including the mountain!

10:44: She named her kids Track, Bristol, Willow, Piper, and Trig. Does that seem like something a Commander in Chief would do? Why not? It's bold. Crisp.

10:47: In the comments, Sloanasaurus writes:
Palin is the common man's dream wife. Smart, accomplished, beautiful, was a sportscaster, loves to hunt and fish.

Perhaps Palin is the "post-feminist" woman. She competes in a mans world being governor of the largest state, but she can still be feminine (a mother and wife).

Hmmm... maybe Ann will have fun with this analysis.
It's not perfectly feminist, Sloan, but I understand what you mean, and I think it's something that will appeal to many of the swing voters. As a feminist, I love that she did not leverage herself into power through her husband and consider this an important improvement over Hillary.

10:53: David Gergen -- on CNN -- is saying the media thought McCain was going to make a "safe pick" and that it would be Pawlenty.

11:13: "We're the ones with a babe on the ticket," says Rush Limbaugh, who's been enthusing about the "inspired," "brilliant" choice. "Alaska is about as far away from Washington as you can get."

11:17: McCain comes out. The music is "Right Now."

11:18: Big cheers. "Happy Birthday" signs make him say "Thanks for reminding me," which is an old-guy response to "Happy Birthday." Really big cheers. He's glad to announce in Dayton, where people are "hard-working" and "honest." He's picking up what was the biggest theme of the Democratic convention: Fighting for hard-working people. He wants to "shake up Washington." He's found "the right partner to help me stand up to those who value their privileges over their responsibilities, who put power over principle, and put their interests before your needs."

11:24: He's found someone who's stood up to special interests, he says, fought against government spending, and has executive experience. A huge cheer comes when he says Palin's parents were both coaches who "raised their children to excel at sports."

11:28: She's been a union member and her husband is a union member. "In the week we celebrate the anniversary of women's suffrage," she's a "devoted wife and a mother of five." She's got the "grit, integrity, good sense and devotion to the common good" we need today. She doesn't let anyone tell her to "sit down." (Is that a reference to something? Did someone tell Hillary to "sit down"?)

11:31: Here she is, in a dark, skirted suit. (No pantsuit.) Behind her, a daughter is holding the new baby. Palin is wearing a HUGE, glittering flag pin. She's got that trademark hairdo. (Want to wear that hairdo? I'm going to be looking around on campus to see if any of the young women are wearing their hair in the Palin style. If you see me, let me take your picture!)

11:33: She introduces the hunky hubby Todd. And it's their 20th anniversary, and she said she was going to give him a little surprise. He's a fisherman. He's a world-class snow-mobile racer. Four of her children are there with her. The 5th, Track, enlisted in the Army last September 11th. This September 11th, he's deploying to Iraq. McCain won't talk about his sons in Iraq. He's made a principle of it... one that she obviously doesn't share. A "U.S.A." chant. She introduces the kids that are there, including Trig, "a beautiful baby boy."

11:31: She's speaking extremely well, and she's presenting herself as a McCain-style maverick. She seems like his perfect counterpart. She enumerates achievements in Alaska that involve taking "risks" and "challenging the status quo." She rejected "the Bridge to Nowhere." Now, she's praising McCain extremely well, and he's fiddling with his wedding ring, a reflex married people often have. Her speech is amazingly clear and strong, passionate and devoid of any hesitation or filler "uhs." The sign on the lectern reads "Country First." It's fitting, she says, that this privilege of running with McCain has been given to her almost 88 years after women got the right to vote. She wants to honor Geraldine Ferraro, the first (and up until now the only) female, major-party VP pick and Hillary Clinton, who "showed such determination in her presidential campaign." Palin loves to point her index finger and jab it about, a gesture that you don't see that often in a politician anymore and that you almost never see done with a pointy polished fingernail. It's especially striking as she talks about Hillary and urges us to join her cause.

11:49: Wow! Great performance! Fabulous first walk onto the national stage!

11:51: On the radio, Limbaugh calls the speech "magnificent." "Her story is real." She doesn't have to "put any holes" in her story the way Obama does. He's been emphasizing that we should be comparing Palin not to Biden, but to Obama. Biden and McCain are more comparable as long-experienced Senators, and she, as a relatively inexperienced outsider who would be a first, is more comparable to Obama. "Middle America is going to love her. She lives their values." He speculates on questions she'll be asked -- about how to shoot a gun, whether she baits her own fishing hooks, and if, when she found out her unborn baby had Down Syndrome, she considered an abortion "before or after it was born."

12:05: I see we're getting up close to 200 comments again, so I'm going to put up an new post, so please spill over there.

289 comments:

1 – 200 of 289   Newer›   Newest»
Palladian said...

Stop taunting me with her hot "breeder" husband! I'm supposed to be thinking good thoughts!

Palladian said...

I think she's an excellent choice as a VP running mate, just as I thought that Obama would have been an excellent choice as a VP running mate.

I do have to confess that every time I see her picture, I think of how Hollywood styles actresses for parts where they play timid microbiologists who are romanced by a free-spirited guy from the wrong side of the tracks and at some crucial point in the narrative, take off their glasses and shake out their hair and down a glass of whiskey in one gulp.

Not that this is a bad thing!

Peter V. Bella said...

Great looking family! This is going to be one hell of an election season.

Palladian said...

Beautiful indeed. OMG Ann, stop it! Now you've also reminded me of my totally inappropriate crush on Track Palin.

Maxine Weiss said...

She's beautiful. Her hair, her makeup. That shade of lipstick she wears (hint: it's not red !!!)

McCAIN/PALIN 08 !!!!

--The most attractive ticket since Reagan/Bush.

McCain was so shrewd to pick her, and he knew. Libras always have an eye for beauty, but more than that---he knew what was right for the Country.

She is a reformer, and has a Ronald Reagan common-sense about Goverment. I have never been so excited about a campaign, and I feel like it's the Reagan years all over again !!!

McCAIN/PALIN 08 !!!!!!

Ben (The Tiger in Exile) said...

It's Christmas in August for Republicans.

Joseph said...

I think this pick kind of neutralizes the "inexperience" card on both sides. Its hard to use that attack against Obama when McCain's choice is much less experienced (and succession is a much bigger concern for McCain). This allows the debate to move to more substantive contrasts. Let the candidates argue the issues.

I think its great that there's a woman in the mix. Its a shame that the bench of potential female candidates is so shallow though.

Simon said...

Ann, do you think this is a game-changer for people on the fence generally, or for cruelly neutral persons particularly?

Brian Doyle said...

Let's just arrange this family... randomly.

Sloanasaurus said...

Palin is the common man's dream wife. Smart, accomplished, beautiful, was a sportscaster, loves to hunt and fish.

Perhaps Palin is the "post-feminist" woman. She competes in a mans world being governor of the largest state, but she can still be feminine (a mother and wife).

Hmmm... maybe Ann will have fun with this analysis.

vbspurs said...

Track Palin is OUTSTANDING, Palladian.

I confess. I want to see him in his uniform. Drool.

Roger J. said...

Who was that dude who gave a speech in Denver last nite? anyone remember him?

Peter V. Bella said...

Simon said...
I want a camera crew to find Hillary Clinton and ask her reaction now.



Just look for an area the looks like two hurricanes and three tornados blew through it with disease and pestilence in their wake. That is where you will find her after this announcement.

About now she has to be the angriest White woman in America.

She was a contender. She coulda beeeeeeeeeen somebody.

vbspurs said...

Guys, Ann linked to a photo of the family, but it's a little small.

Here is my photo version (I got it from the Official Gov. of Alaska website last night, before it went down):

The Palin Family

Ann, you are welcome to use it!

Simon said...

Joseph Hovsep said...
"I think this pick kind of neutralizes the 'inexperience' card on both sides. Its hard to use that attack against Obama when McCain's choice is much less experienced (and succession is a much bigger concern for McCain)."

I don't see it that way. She has more experience than Obama and Biden put together.

reader_iam said...

I am in a salon spa in Delaware. You should hear the talk. My hairdresser/colorist took my iPhone and passed it around to show the pix on your blog, after another customer saw what I was doing. Even a couple of Obama supporter said this touched.

Interesting place to be for this announcement!!!!

Joseph said...

I can totally see her in Palladian's hot movie scientist role.

She was second place in the 1984 Miss Alaska competition.

Mortimer Brezny said...

I think she could have married a better man, frankly. She's way hotter than her kids. Must be his fault.

vbspurs said...

Who was that dude who gave a speech in Denver last nite? anyone remember him?

Barry Manilow.

Simon said...

Doyle said...
"Let's just arrange this family... randomly."

LOL. How are those grapes, Doyle? Sour, I'm thinking. Can you imagine how much it's going to hurt lefty feminists to be asked to spend the next couple of months fighting to prevent the first female veep from taking office?

mrs whatsit said...

Wow. I, like Ann, am in the Hillary target demographic. Maybe that's why, even though I'm probably not a McCain voter, I'm thrilled by this choice.

Palladian, somewhere out there is a video clip (which I can't find for you, because I'm at work) of a late-night television personality in Great Britain with the last name Craig (probably everybody but me knows exactly what his full name is) making pretty much the same observation about Palin after running a video clip in which she grants him honorary Alaskan citizenship. I believe he used the phrase "sexy librarian" or something like it. It's not terribly respectful, I suppose, but it's pretty funny.

vbspurs said...

Morty, no way! Take it from Palladian, a gay male, and me, a straight female.

Todd Palin has a hockey player vibe going on, and man is that SMOKING for us.

Joseph said...

"She has more experience than Obama and Biden put together."

She was mayor of a small town and governor for a year and a half. If you mean she has more executive experience, that seems like a pretty weak point. Less than half of a term governing one of the smallest states... and she has more executive experience than McCain too.

vbspurs said...

Mrs. Whatsit, here is the video of Sarah Palin on Craig Ferguson.

I wrote a post on it last night. :)

LIGHTS ARE DOWN!

lurker2209 said...

I have figured out why I like her so much. She reminds me, for some reason, of a younger version of Mary McDonnel. There's a demographic you want to pick up with a VP pick: the Battlestar Vote!

Roger J. said...

Looks to me like the dems will have only one attack they can use against her: the experience thing, and she still has more executive experience than Obama and Biden.

The trooper thing has been investigated and she comes out very well in there.

What I am most interested in is how her pick will play with women when stratigied by age cohort. I am guessing very popular with younger women, less so with older, but I dont know.

vbspurs said...

LOL! Did you hear the official Obama reaction??

SOURGRAPES CITY.

Brian Doyle said...

LOL. No one at Powerline is excited.

Mirengoff: "I'm very disappointed that John McCain would put someone as inexperienced and lacking in foreign policy and national security background as Sarah Palin a heartbeat away from the presidency."

From the mouths of wingnuts.

Anonymous said...

Sloan-

being governor of the largest state

Geographically-ya but jeez I think Alaska has as many electoral votes as-

Delaware.

vbspurs said...

Oh man, the elitist urban BoBos who love Obama must be hating this.

Cheerleaders. How suburban. How MIDDLE AMERICA.

How genius, McCain. Mwah! You beauty!

jeff said...

I heard on the radio this morning. I am suddenly getting excited about this election. I sent McCain some money this morning. I see Obama sent the typically classy statement about the pick.

Palladian said...

"I confess. I want to see him in his uniform. Drool."

I confess I want to see him first in his uniform then out of it.

Wait, what are we turning this into?! This is supposed to be an historic, serious moment and I'm sitting here with a raging hard-on! I feel like Chris Matthews!

Eric Muller said...

Ann, your neutrality is unusually cruel today.

Brian Doyle said...

If you mean she has more executive experience, that seems like a pretty weak point

Not Simon's first. Certainly not his last.

Simon said...

Joseph Hovsep said...
"If you mean she has more executive experience, that seems like a pretty weak point."

I couldn't disagree more. Listen, I've worked in IT for nearly a decade. I have a lot of "experience" for purposes of applying to an IT post. I have zero "experience" for purposes of applying to be a veterinarian. She has experience that's relevant to the Presidency. Biden and Obama do not.

"she has more executive experience than McCain too."

Correct.

Peter Hoh said...

The smart Dem approach is to say, "Great pick. Too bad she's not the head of the ticket."

vbspurs said...

LOL, Palladian. I feel a tingle in my leg!

(Funny how gay men are still horndogs. The last thing I want to see, is Track nude. He's just too young!)

EnigmatiCore said...

Terri: "I always disagreed with identity politics, but I am embarrassed to admit that this excites me!"

A lot of people disagree with identity politics until it is their identity that benefits. We are funny people that way.

DTL: "She's not very bright."

She should stop all that bitchin' and get back in the kitchen, eh?

Anonymous said...

Mrs Whatsit and Ann Althouse-

Really-now you are going to vote for McCain?

Anonymous said...

Maxine Weiss: "McCain was so shrewd to pick her, and he knew. Libras always have an eye for beauty, but more than that---he knew what was right for the Country."

WHEW! Thank you for providing me with a day's worth of smiles.

Sarah Palin means pretty much everything McCain has been saying about Obama for the past six months is moot.

The thing about vice presidents is... you have to be able to imagine them as President.

Though you guys happily gave us G.W., so... I guess experience really only matters to you when you're talking about a democrat.

Palladian said...

"(Funny how gay men are still horndogs. The last thing I want to see, is Track nude. He's just too young!)"

18 is never too young for nudity when it comes to hot men.

And of course gay men are still horndogs. We're men of course.

mrs whatsit said...

vbspurs, that's it, thanks. I certainly butchered his name!

vbspurs said...

Rove taking it to the Obama Campaign for their absolutely horrid, small reaction to the pick.

("She was a Mayor of a small city" yadda yadda)

That's like saying he was "only an actor", and or "a peanut farmer", quoth Rove.

Absolutely. And this after the magnanimous congratulations video McCain gave Obama last night.

Petty. Bad move, Obama. Loser.

Ruth Anne Adams said...

Can you see the two young studly military sons at the RNC Convention??

Jack and Track

Zachary Sire said...

Now you've also reminded me of my totally inappropriate crush on Track Palin

Palladian, it's not inappropriate at all! Trust me, her son's hotness is the only thing keeping me from saying anything negative about her.

But...does it matter to anyone that this is a transparent pick deliberately meant to "balance" McCain...just as Obama's pick of the more experienced Biden was intended to balance Obama? Not that any of you can be objective right now...you're too busy swooning!

Oh have your fun. Congratulations guys. So much for experience.

Even Maxine is on your side!

Palladian said...

I think our Democratic friends (and enemies) are a bit... scared.

john said...

McCain's staff reads your blog, Ann. They took seriously our mini-groundswell for Palin in the various comment threads.

Simon deserves accolades here. He did it, without even leaving his basement apartment with no windows. Here's to you guy (toasts).

Barry said...

Althouse: "As a feminist, I love that she did not leverage herself into power through her husband and consider this important improvement over Hillary."

This was always my perception of Hillary, too. I hear that's unfair. Eh.

I'm encouraged by this choice. Is McCain bringing back the Maverick side? That's by far his best angle. Now, Palin's his best angle.

And if Obama can't attack Palin's inexperience, then doesn't that defuse the inexperience attack against Obama, too?

bearbee said...

Good Interview with Palin re:energy. Clear, crisp speaker.

Bob said...

Ha! I noticed that in the original Palin post from months ago, I was one of the first to declare for her, and I notice that I expected McCain to poke conservatives in the eye again by picking his sycophant Lindsey Graham. Well, McCain surprised and pleased me, so much so that I just sent him a donation.

Well done, Maverick! Bravo Zulu!

Peter V. Bella said...

Joseph Hovsep said...
"She has more experience than Obama and Biden put together."

She was mayor of a small town and governor for a year and a half. If you mean she has more executive experience, that seems like a pretty weak point. Less than half of a term governing one of the smallest states


I may be wrong here. But, I did study history and geography. I seem to recollect that Alaska is the largest state. Did I take that out of context? Did the revisionaries change things?

vbspurs said...

McCain has two sons in the military, no, Ruth Anne? :)

That's 3 in uni.

Listen, I was very touched by Beau Biden being shipped to Iraq in October. He gave a great speech.

But this ticket trumps it.

Palladian said...

"Palladian, it's not inappropriate at all! Trust me, her son's hotness is the only thing keeping me from saying anything negative about her."

On this we agree. I'm into the whole hot straight daddy thing, so I have her husband to perve about too.

"Oh have your fun. Congratulations guys. So much for experience."

The difference between Obama's inexperience and Palin's is that she's the vice-presidential candidate, as he should have been.

mrs whatsit said...

No, Mad, I didn't say that. If you read it again, you will see that I said I'm probably not a McCain voter. That hasn't changed -- but this is still an exciting choice.

vbspurs said...

Well said, Palladian.

Balfegor said...

There's a demographic you want to pick up with a VP pick: the Battlestar Vote!

Y-es . . . but McCain looks like Col. Tigh. And sounds like him too. Is that really the best association for the Republicans?

bearbee said...

Who is Sarah Palin

At present, Palin chairs The Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission

Beth said...

Ann, I liked the long post you made (the first one, below) about this. You raise the question of abortion rights, and make the point about respecting Palin's choices. I feel about the same way, but would add that I'd need to know that she, too, respected other women's choices.

I am impressed with Palin, and think McCain made a great choice. It doesn't change my vote because Palin isn't running for president. She's running for McCain's VP, and I'm not voting for McCain.

I'm still disappointed in Obama's choice of Biden -- there's just no exciting anyone with that choice.

Palladian said...

"I'm still disappointed in Obama's choice of Biden -- there's just no exciting anyone with that choice."

I know, it still puzzles me.

vbspurs said...

It was reported on NPR that Bush might skip the RNC next week, if Hurricane Gustav gets the Gulf Coast.

I don't know if this is a good thing, as they cynically claimed. Liberals are truly unaware of just how solid the Republican coalition (including 9/11 Dems) perceive Bush to be.

We'll see.

Brian Doyle said...

I seem to recollect that Alaska is the largest state. Did I take that out of context? Did the revisionaries change things?

I think the revisionaries may be using population or economic output as the measure of size rather than land mass, not being morons.

Balfegor said...

Though you guys happily gave us G.W., so... I guess experience really only matters to you when you're talking about a democrat.

Yes. You sound like you think Bush's 6 years in high executive office prepared him extremely well for the Presidency.

I'm not sure this argument plays out quite the way you think.

EnigmatiCore said...

"Let's just arrange this family... randomly."

Wow. Devious. Who would have thought to put the shorter in the front and the tallest in the back with mom in the center? Only someone trying to make a good picture.

Those snakes.

Anonymous said...

Mrs. Whatsit-
OK that makes a lot more sense.

I really don't see disaffected Hillary voters going for McCain now because of the Palin choice...

Choice being the ironic word there.

vbspurs said...

Balfegor, I don't know from Col. Tigh (my bf watches BG though), but that guy certainly looks like Senator McCain. :)

McCain also looks like:

Nikita Kruschchev
Ike Eisenhower

;)

john said...

Palladian -

Shouldn't Titus (the real one) also be involved in this conversation regarding the Palin family photo? I'm sure he will join in as soon as he is done in the bathroom.

Peter V. Bella said...

Doyle said...
If you mean she has more executive experience, that seems like a pretty weak point

Not Simon's first. Certainly not his last.



Executive experience:
Obama 0
Biden 0
Hillary 0
Total 0

Palin 2yrs. + mayoral experience

What was that again about experience? She has more than all the major Dems combined.

UWS guy said...

Seriously...all the conservative male posters just want to fuck sara palin. exactly how does that lend someone to pulling a lever for McCain in 08?

So the young and dumb blond from the secretary pool beats out all the older more experienced women in the republican party as the executive assistant to the President?

Wow...an old man picks a hot chick as his running mate? Mature experienced women everywhere should be outraged.

TmjUtah said...

I wonder if Mrs. Clinton has worked through all the ashtrays, lamps, and barstools in her immediate vicinity.

Bill's probably in another state by now.

Good pick, Senator M.

bearbee said...

TransCanada Gets Alaska Governor Palin's Approval for Pipeline

Palladian said...

"It was reported on NPR that Bush might skip the RNC next week, if Hurricane Gustav gets the Gulf Coast.

I don't know if this is a good thing, as they cynically claimed. Liberals are truly unaware of just how solid the Republican coalition (including 9/11 Dems) perceive Bush to be."

I guess it's because I'm not part of the Republican coalition, but I perceive Bush to be about as solid as a cloud of chlorine gas, and just as healthy to breathe. I wish he'd stay away from the Republican convention, with or without (hopefully without!) the hurricane.

Simon said...

Palladian said...
"I think our Democratic friends (and enemies) are a bit... scared."

They had what they thought was a great night with a handsome man, and now they're waking up and not only is their man nowhere to be seen, but they're feeling more than a little sore.

Peter V. Bella said...

Doyle said...
...not being morons.



Ahem, but if one is not going to be a moron, then one should be specific. Alaska is the largest state. Alaska is a state with a small population.

But of course, arguing with idiots is never productive.

john said...

uws guy said - Mature experienced women everywhere should be outraged.

Right, but Hillary got over it anyway and gave a gracious conciliatory speach at the Dem convention.

TmjUtah said...

"Mature experienced women everywhere should be outraged."

Moron.

She's got five kids, has had by my hasty count five succesful, diverse careers, and won her political spurs running against an entrenched incumbent AND the state party supporting him.

As a small government conservative who would champion individual liberties and restrain government interference in business and property rights.

SWEET pick.

She'll eat Biden alive, too. Go find some video of her on the stump or in execution of her duties.

Shucks, she looks great holding a FISH.

I've got a ticket I can vote for now.

Hasta!

Sloanasaurus said...

Rush is excited about Palin. This will really energize conservatives.

vbspurs said...

Screenshot of the Drudge Report announcing Palin as chosen Veep

Alan said...

I hope someone has briefed her on the difference between a scientific theory and Bible stories. Or this could get ugly.

I also hope she hasn't participated in an exorcism like that Jindal fellow.

Roger J. said...

Watching CNN in the office--they are reduced to using Obama talking points, but the scrolling down below is making her sound pretty good. Priceless.

UWS guy said...

Meg Whitman, Carly Fiorina, Kay Hutchinson...

but they're ugly and old and men don't like witches.

KLDAVIS said...

This is a subtle, brilliant choice, and once against shows the McCain camp getting inside the Obama camp's decision loop. For almost every criticism you can find for Palin can redirected at Obama. The decision will provoke more heat than some others would have, but better to suffer the slings and arrows toward the bottom of your ticket than the top.

UWS guy said...

Condolessa Rice??!

vbspurs said...

Rove is amazing. I was always prepared to dislike him, but his political instincts are overwhelming.

If you're listening to his commentary on the Palin pick, you're being schooled in politics.

(I have to say, for once, Krauthammer disappointed me earlier)

Buford Gooch said...

This whole idea that the Palin pick takes inexperience off the table is sort of silly. Palin is not at the top of the ticket. All the Repubs have to say is, "We have our ticket in the correct order. Experience at the top, lesser experience as VP."

UWS guy said...

LOL palin is a creationist!

Thanks for the link Alan.

Charlie Martin said...

He will make a wonderful First Lady.

Brian Doyle said...

Palin is not at the top of the ticket.

No, but given McCain's age people have to consider her fitness to be president.

Anonymous said...

I'm not sure this argument plays out quite the way you think.

ROFL! I agree, Balfegor. For example, it's true Joe Biden has 30 years Senatorial experience. One would think with all that experience, Joe might have learned something, but it seems he hasn't. He's relatively consistent, though. In being wrong. Consistently wrong on missile defense throughout his career. Consistently wrong about Iran throughout his career. Consistently wrong about Iraq throughout his career. The one thing he's been consistently right about throughout his career is looking after the private interests of credit card giants like MBNA. Another thing he's been consistent about is playing the role of Democratic Party hack. He has that down pat, never having challenged party orthodoxy in 30 years.

bearbee said...

uws guy said - Mature experienced women everywhere should be outraged

At 44 years old with 5 kids and 10 years in office (8 years mayor/2 yrs gov) makes her mature and experienced.

EnigmatiCore said...

"Executive experience:
Obama 0
Biden 0
Hillary 0
Total 0

Palin 2yrs. + mayoral experience

What was that again about experience? She has more than all the major Dems combined."

Add McCain to that list. He has none, either.

Host with the Most said...

12:10 ET am and the networks, unlike the coverage of Biden's day, have yet to go to the McCain news.

No bias there.

Meanwhile on CNN, John Roberts still keeps the pro-Biden, derogatory Palin questions going.

Rush Limbaugh just now: We're the tnes who have the babe on the ticket.


And, she has a Down's child that she refused to abort - when the majority(over 80% today)of Down's- verified "fetuses" are finished off before birth. (Which the abortion lobby denies actually happens, because to admit it would outrage too much of the American public.

vbspurs said...

McCain is on, and for the FIRST TIME EVER, I am truly happy to see him.

Oh man I am so excited!

MadisonMan said...

I think this is an excellent pick. I don't think any undecided is going to see the pick as a WTF moment and decide for Obama.

The debate will be interesting: I hope Biden doesn't get schooled by Rick Lazio.

And I will here enter bragging Uncle mode (totally off-topic, sorry), my nephew was just awarded this for work done re: Iraq.

Trumpit said...

Sloanasaurus is as backwards as it gets; I'm surprised he has a computer; I'm sure he HUNTS and pecks. Hunting is obsolete in the 21st century and people who do it are vicious, bloodthirsty, barbaric, and sick in the head. It is a 100% pre-feminist macho-son-of-a-bitch activity. May Bambi drop a deer turd on his head and give him rabies to go along with his syphillis.

Anonymous said...

YES! She made it on her own, a true feminist.

Brilliant move, brilliant.

YES!

Host with the Most said...

McCain out now 12:18 ET

AND CBS IS STILL STICKING WITH RACHAL RAY!

No bias there!

Martin Gale said...

This choice seems like the perfect ju-jitsu move:

1.) Stunning fresh faced contrast to the cranky old guy meme already taking hold.

2.) For the Dems, how do you challenge her obvious lack of experience without highlighting your own guy's? "Why when Sarah was merely a city councilor in Anchorage, Barack was coaching a PAL team in Chicago's South Side." Not exactly a stirring counterpoint.

3.) On the other hand, it cannot help but revive the stale experience question, and that will cut a Presidential candidate much more than a Vice-Presidential candidate. Advantage McCain.

4.) It won't win any Hillary women (she's too viscerally pro-life), but this choice solidifies the base like nobody's business and thereby narrows the yawning D vs. R enthusiasm gap.

5.) Puts ANWR back in play and highlights the Dems politically untenable position here. (McCain will have to cooperate by changing his position, look for him to change his position based on advice from his new VP.)

6.) Reinforces John McCain's maverick reputation.

7.) Alaska vs. Hawaii! Cool.

rhhardin said...

The question is can she replace Cheney.

America longs for intemperate remarks directed at the temperate.

former law student said...

Her pick enables a new kind of debate format, ticket vs. ticket:

First, Obama and Palin can go on the basketball court for a little one-on-one. Then the grandpas can debate each other.

vbspurs said...

What a reception. JOHN MCCAIN!

It's like Michigan v. Ohio State there! ;)

MadisonMan said...

And I forgot to add, she has a little deer-in-headlights look in that picture with her husband. Very endearing.

Revenant said...

I have to say this is the first truly good news I've heard so far this election. Palin seems like a great choice. Even if McCain loses, just putting her on the map for 2012 seems like a good step.

Host with the Most said...

Madison Man,

Congratulations to you and the family!

P_J said...

MM - Congrats to your nephew!

vbspurs said...

All my local networks covering it NOW. CBS did take a while longer. NBC, strangely, was the first.

vbspurs said...

Wow, MadMan, what a deep honour.

Thank you so much for your family's sacrifice, and congrats! :)

Brian Doyle said...

Nice, MM.

Bissage said...

(1) I admit it freely. There’s something very, very wrong with me wanting a vice-presidential candidate to put me over her knee, spank me, and tell me I’ve been a naughty, naughty boy.

(2) What will be Ms. Palin’s Secret Service code name?

(3) PEDANTRY ALERT: “Sour grapes” refers to the phenomenon by which people conjure up a lame rationalization for not wanting what they wanted but can't have. Link.

(4) Just saying.

(5) Have fun, all. Gotta go!

vbspurs said...

I am recording this on the DVD-R standalone recorder. This is historic man!

John Kindley said...

With this choice I'm beginning to rethink my thought that Obama would be the lesser of two evils. (Even though I know nothing about her except what Rush Limbaugh has pointed out -- she's a babe and is as far away from D.C. as you can get.) With her as V.P., McCain's extremely advanced age suddenly becomes an asset.

Damn, that was a terrible thing to say, wasn't it? But we're talking about politicians here.

vbspurs said...

(2) What will be Ms. Palin’s Secret Service code name?

Point Guard! ;)

Ciao Bissage, enjoy it!

VariableSpin said...

Ah, we see the theme now: "Shaking up Washington... fighting entrenched bureaucracies..."

Now there's an issue where she definitely has Obama beat in terms of experience.

Anonymous said...

RE: ANWR and offshore drilling. When the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors votes to support offshore drilling, one begins to glimpse the magnitude of the change in voter opinions on the subject.

jeff said...

"Hunting is obsolete in the 21st century and people who do it are vicious, bloodthirsty, barbaric, and sick in the head. It is a 100% pre-feminist macho-son-of-a-bitch activity. May Bambi drop a deer turd on his head and give him rabies to go along with his syphillis."

Ah, trumpit. Never seen a deer starve to death have you. I love you little tyrannical dipshits who want to dictate others beliefs yet yelp so loudly when others make moral judgments about your hog obsession.

Ruth Anne Adams said...

Sarah Barracuda was her high school nickname.

john said...

Trumpit - wow, you can really hurl the tofu. It hurts.

vbspurs said...

Women's suffrage

My neighbour, whose mum was a Jewish suffragette in NYC, probably just jumped out of her skin.

She told me it's Hillary, or no one.

GAME CHANGER!!!!

former law student said...

It won't win any Hillary women

Considering that many primaries were open primaries, I think many independent and Republican women voted for Hillary because they wanted to see a woman President, and were willing to overlook some of her policies in the process. Palin will likely attract these women.

vbspurs said...

NICE FANFARE!!!!!!!

vbspurs said...

She looks outstanding! I am so proud!

Irene said...

Oh! That manly husband of hers has one the "Iron Dog" race three times!

VariableSpin said...

Holy crap - no doubt about it. She is hot.

Henry said...

(2) What will be Ms. Palin’s Secret Service code name?

Barracuda.

She earned the nickname Sarah Barracuda and won Miss Congeniality both before the age of 21.

Sounds like a natural politician to me.

Host with the Most said...

Rush Limbaugh is completely on board.
"Brilliant choice"

Charlie Gibson: "A Down's Child, but she had the baby anyway."

TINA FEY will play her in the movie.

vbspurs said...

LOL, Host!

Shine that American flag pin, Sarah!

P Bain said...

The website has already been created: http://www.vpilif.com

Kyle said...

McCain totally needs a new sound guy for this big event. The feedback is driving me crazy!

vbspurs said...

Happy ANNIVERSARY TODD AND SARAH!

Wow, what a great day -- his birthday, their anniversary.

Anonymous said...

fighting entrenched bureaucracies

Obama mentioned something about reforming the bureacracy in his speech last night. The most heavily unionized sectors in American society today are government bureacracies. Given the heavy reliance of the Democratic Party on union funding and organization of campaigns, what are the odds he'd actually do anything about it? OTOH, Palin actually cancelled the Bridge to Nowhere project early in her administration. While Obama talked about doing something about "politics as usual" but voted to carry on as usual in the US Senate, Palin did something about it.

Anonymous said...

It is a 100% pre-feminist macho-son-of-a-bitch activity.

Actually, it is called self-reliance.

Meat eaters have two choices. Kill your own, or pay someone else to do the killing for you.

I prefer the former.

Revenant said...

That's awesome about your nephew, MadisonMan. What sort of work does he do over there?

Zachary Sire said...

Ok I was truly moved for her when she came out. What a great moment.

BUT...WTF!

Why is McCain standing next to her like that. It's like he keeping guard or something.

GO AWAY McCain and let her stand up there by herself. Weird.

vbspurs said...

Sarah just mentioned that Track enlisted in the Army on 9/11/2007.

She hasn't even mentioned her baby, Trig, and his circumstances.

This election is OVER.

bearbee said...

Oct 15 2007 Palin interview with Charlie Rose starting at about 36 minutes.

Christy said...

I began to cry when she and her family walked out. How silly is that? Just count me as another Hillary voter exited about Palin. And I thought I was about as far from a gender issues voter as a girl can be.

Mortimer Brezny said...

Hmm. Palin is not ready for prime time.

Mortimer Brezny said...

Dude, she's talking about being mayor of 8k people. This is a joke. Ethics Commissioner in Alaska? Come on. I like her. But she is not ready for prime time. This is like a parody of a Presidential campaign.

Anonymous said...

That's awesome about your nephew, MadisonMan.

I agree.

Bushman of the Kohlrabi said...

It's true. She is hot. I wish she would let her hair down though...

vbspurs said...

She's the face of America, Mort.

I'm not sure people understand just how much this gal is resonating with Conservatives right now. LGF is off the hook with emotion.

Anonymous said...

Well, judging from the speed of the comments here, I would say that this pick is generating buzz.

Also, it is really foolish for Obama supporters to talk about experience. Every time you do that, you are implicitly bringing attention to your candidate's lack of experience and credentials. You may wish to disagree, but that's the fact.

Anonymous said...

She probably does let her hair down. Just not for you.

Revenant said...

Considering that many primaries were open primaries, I think many independent and Republican women voted for Hillary because they wanted to see a woman President, and were willing to overlook some of her policies in the process. Palin will likely attract these women.

I'm just guessing, but she seems like she would appeal more to younger (40 and below) women than Hillary did. Hillary had the "President's wife" thing going for her, but Palin has more of a "beats the boys at their own game" thing going on.

She IS pro-life, but then again so are a lot of women, even ones who are otherwise strongly feminist.

Godot said...

Elliott said...

It makes no sense to focus the nation's attention on Alaska's politics ... These are the things Palin will be tainted with no matter how much she did or did not reform the system.

Bring it on. Palin made her reputation fighting corruption in Alaskan politics. And being a Republican didn't get you a pass from Palin.

On the other hand, we have Biden with a son who earns $100,000's of lobbying for businesses that his father regulates. That's some change you can believe in huh? Serious change.

Or Obama who lives in a deeply discounted house compliments of a convicted felon and noted slum lord.

Maybe Chris Dodd can make the case against Palin. As long as the press continues to ignore the special mortgage rates he received from companies he was supposed to regulate.

Or Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid, Charlie Rangel, or William Jefferson. Let them make the case.

vbspurs said...

Craig Ferguson, who is outstandingly funny, called her look, "naughty librarian".

Bushman of the Kohlrabi said...

A guy can wish, can't he?

DaLawGiver said...

Hell, I want her as President!

former law student said...

One thing I really appreciate is her speaking voice. While it is a bit MIN-ne-so-TA, she is not shrieking into the microphone. Rather, she is speaking in a natural tone.

Host with the Most said...

THIS ELECTION IS SO ON

vbspurs said...

She's losing her voice now, though, FLS.

I did tell you guys to be prepared for her elongated Minnesota vowels. ;)

VariableSpin said...

She's clearly a good speaker however I think her speech is a bit stilted. It doesn't really flow.

Hire her a good speechwriter (say like David Axelrod) and she'd be electric.

vbspurs said...

VERY SAVVY!

Geraldine Ferraro. Hillary Clinton.

Hillary showed grace???? LOL. A diplomat too!

Anonymous said...

Also, it is really foolish for Obama supporters to talk about experience. Every time you do that, you are implicitly bringing attention to your candidate's lack of experience and credentials. You may wish to disagree, but that's the fact.

Seems like McCain is baiting Obama hoping The One will focus on the experience issue thus keeping it front and center throughout the campaign.

MadisonMan said...

This election is OVER.

That's either crazy talk, or wishful thinking. Beware the VP that gets more press than the person at the top of the ticket. (Today, of course, it's natural that she does) Will the chatter about a good pick eclipse what is said at the Convention? How could that be a good thing?

I began to cry when she and her family walked out. How silly is that?

When Kerry was here in '04, I saw my neighbor in tears (of joy, I think) at the concept of seeing him, and remember thinking What the Hell? All this emotion for a politician? So yes I obviously think it is very silly. Call me cold-hearted. :)

Thanks all for the good thoughts about the nephew. My sister is thrilled, as you might expect!

Peter Hoh said...

Is it just me without my glasses (and a crappy, 13 inch TV) but does Palin give off a Tine Fey vibe?

Hubba hubba.

Trumpit said...

"Ah, trumpit. Never seen a deer starve to death have you."

No, but I'd like to see you drown in a vat of deer blood. I won't shed a tear for you as you gurgle your way to eternity, you sadistic killer monster. I hope Palin trips on her 28-gauge Perazzi shotgun and shoots herself in her right foot. She needs a lesson in the morality of hunting and in divine retribution, just like what God did to big Dick Cheney and his turd hunting buddy, Harry. Next time God will have both their heads blown off. He gave them a warning, and they better heed it. Don't mess with God twice or he'll smite you real good.

former law student said...

Obama who lives in a deeply discounted house

I think for a house that was on the market for six months to a year, getting 15% off the asking price is reasonable. But maybe glen pays the sticker price for everything.

vbspurs said...

She has a good feel for timing. I like her a lot!

Revenant said...

Its hard to use that attack against Obama when McCain's choice is much less experienced

Two years as a governor trumps four years as a senator. Hell, it trumps fifty years as a senator. All senators need to know how to do is get elected and drone on C-Span.

Is there some way we can get McCain and Palin to switch places on the ticket?

mrs whatsit said...

Revenant said: She IS pro-life, but then again so are a lot of women, even ones who are otherwise strongly feminist.

QUite true. Also, she's pro-life in a way that's going to be particularly hard to attack. The standard charge against pro-lifers is that their true motivation is not the protection of life, but the desire to punish and control sexually active women. It's going to be tough to make that one stick against a mother of five who lived out her beliefs by knowingly having a baby with Down's Syndrome.

vbspurs said...

LOL! And I say I God Bless You!

That's okay, you're a sweetheart.

Wow, what is it with this music? It's Rocky??

vbspurs said...

Oh right! 1970s "Game is On" music!

Jose said...

She and and her husband are union members? I thought we hate unions.

The one black man in the audience is of course directly behind them.

She is a creationist. Lovely.

I like her though. She's cute and new and interesting.

John Mccain needed to move away from her while she spoke. That was her time in the spotlight and he was hovering over her.

Why don't we ever see the Mccain's black kid?

Peter Hoh said...

Uh-oh. McCain needs to learn not to lean over and kiss her like that. Shows too much neck wrinkle. Shudder.

Kirby Olson said...

It's wrong to objectify the Palin family. They are people, with souls. Souls are by definition eternal, and have no spatial boundary. Think about them as people, with souls, who honor God in their daily lives.

She's going to be a good pick for McCain. Two mavericks against a couple of old school Dems who think that whatever the left did in the 60s is still exciting and constitutes "change."

The mavericks are on the side of timelessness.

Sloanasaurus said...

I'm listening to Governor Palin speak. I am inspired. Wow!

This is going to be some election.

The Drill SGT said...

McCain has two sons in the military, no, Ruth Anne? :)

That's 3 in uni.


and Douglas McCain, adopted son and former Navy Carrier Pilot (256 landings) now with AA. (American Airlines, you sickos)

and of course Andrew McCain, adopted son is a VP and CFO at Hensley. Obviously, lots of bad blood between Carol's first kids and the second family.

Anonymous said...

She needs a lesson in the morality of hunting...

I'm pretty sure she understands the whole "eat what you kill" morality code.

vbspurs said...

The "Palin is a creationist" meme is spreading (sadly, being led through a conservative blog).

Is she? Show me links, quotes, something. Until then, it's hearsay.

She went to a Catholic school. That's all I know about her religious background.

SCHUMER, more sour grapes. Okay, it's not used correctly, Bissage. But evocative.

Anonymous said...

Trumpit -- You are a loon and there is really no point in talking to you. I do want to point out, though, that there are millions of hunters and they take their hunting very seriously. They vote on it. I'm not kidding.

A savvy politician will always be pro-hunting. It's simple math.

Christy said...

Love that she brings up Hillary's 18 million cracks in the glass ceiling.

Anchors are talking about how she came out of nowhere. Didn't she win the insta-poll mid-month? I remember voting for her. Does Team McCain think Insty represents his demographic?

Mortimer Brezny said...

She's the face of America, Mort.

I get it. I argued on this site weeks ago that McCain should pick Palin as a shrewd pick. ("Putting the vice in Vice President.")

The problem is that she really isn't ready for prime time. I understand the politics and the imagery and the point. But it's too cute by half for me. Steve Doocy on Fox News just said she has foreign policy experience because she's in Alaska, which is next to Russia. Too cute.

This is the equivalent of Obama picking Tim Kaine. Not ready for prime time, but young and all but guarantees a state and a consitituency and frames an issue favorably. I don't think it will have the impact expected. She's too small ball.

Maybe she'll grow on the trail. I do think she'll lose the VP debate, though.

Roberto said...

Mr. McCain just sealed the election for Obama/Biden.

Does anybody here actually believe this woman should be on heartbeat away from being President of the United States?

Does anybody here actually believe Americans would trust their future to someone so inexperienced in almost every aspect of government, international affairs, the economy...and hey...what about that War On Terrorism?

This choice is beyond the pale.

The Drill SGT said...

Congrats MM, I seriously mean that.

Even if your guy was a REMF, he was a deployed and good REMF :)

Cedarford said...

A little cold water, since besides the 1st black President, the identity politics players in the media have not been this excited about a "genius move showing how great America is", in all it's glorious diversity, since the thrilling choice of Geraldine Ferraro by President Walter Mondale.

Oh, Mondale lost? Pity.

Because Geraldine represented a District that had what is now 699,000 people for many years and had a thrilling biography and ethnic bona fides. Women fainted with news that their Geraldine was going to be VP, and all praised "Fritz" Mondale for his "game-changer" choice.

Since Obama and Palin started in politics the same year, 1996, some comparisons are bound to come up.

Palin, mayor of Wasilia, population 6,700 people and 4,000 dogs.
Obama, State Senator, representing 209,000 people.

Palin, governor for 1 1/2 years, representing 670,000 people.

Obama, US Senator for 4 years, representing 12,831,900 people.

================
If McCain was 60 and in excellent health instead of a two-time deadly cancer survivor and 72 - maybe I'd feel different.

Certainly it was reassuring that Reagan, in his 72+ year later dotage, and before that going down to a bullet and out for weeks with colon cancer surgery - had a backup in HW Bush with 25 years of executive experience in private industry, the CIA, and as Ambassador to China.

Now I think you see McCain afraid to appoint a "ready from day one" Republican because all of them are successful and wealthy and since he feared "class accusations" because he married into great wealth - he couldn't have anyone else on the ticket who had more than one house.

A big gamble.

1. Any health issues of fears of health issues with McCain and down goes the ticket.

2. Palin herself may find the "everywoman" biographical glow fade fast if she flubs and shows she is a complete babe out of the woods on foreign policy or the economy.

3. The PUMA Clintonistas may cheer, then start looking at her hardcore anti-abortion record, evangelicalism...and decide to vote for the eviler 2-penis ticket instead of the 1-penis ticket.

Anonymous said...

Here are some interesting photos of the next Vice President and the First Dude.

Todd.

A young Sarah and Todd.

Alaska gal.

Jose said...Why don't we ever see the Mccain's black kid?

Because you don't bother to
look .

And she's not black. Bridget was adopted as a baby from Bangladesh.

401kWire & MFWire said...

Just occurred to me: Alaska is the only state the borders Russia. Putin is her neighbor!

Terri said...

Okay, I officially have a girl crush on Sarah Palin. She is a better speaker than McCain..... We'll see if this 'too good to be true' image holds up. But I love her today. Enough to go over to donate some money to the campaign. I've officially boarded the election train for the first time in my life. I cannot believe this. Who would have thunk it?

Revenant said...

Will the chatter about a good pick eclipse what is said at the Convention? How could that be a good thing?

I think it must honestly be said that the Republicans don't have a lot of good news to discuss at the convention. They're basically going to be spending the time trying to make a silk purse out of a sow's ear. Their candidate's main appeal is the same thing the Democrats tried in '04: "Hey, at least he's not the other guy".

former law student said...

Trumpit, read this examination of the morality of hunting:

http://www.jamesswan.com/IDOH.html

Eli Blake said...

Although John McCain is to be commended for bringing the Republican party up to the point the Democratic party was 24 years ago by choosing a female running mate, his specific choice shows stunningly poor judgement.

You'd think that if John McCain picked a running mate who has served as a governor for less than twenty months, the least you could expect is that she would be scandal-free.

But the Republican-controlled Alaska legislature has hired a private investigator to look into evidence that Palin fired Alaska's public safety commissioner because he refused to fire her sister's ex-husband, who is a state trooper.

If the investigator concludes she did, this misuse of her office to settle a petty family squabble could be used as grounds for impeachment. No wonder Palin wants out of Juneau.

And to put the icing on the cake, the official report on it is due at the end of October, just in time for the general election.

How could John McCain screw up something this big, this badly? And what does that say about his judgement?

Robert said...

Michael I would far rather see that woman a heartbeat away from the Presidency than to see the (less experienced and less tough) Obama in it.

DaLawGiver said...

Mrs Smith Goes to Washington.

mrs whatsit said...

vbspurs, somewhere earlier today I saw a snippet of an interview with her in which she appeared at first to say that creationism should be taught alongside evolution in schools. Within a sentence or two, she clarified to say that she did not mean creationism should be a required part of the curriculum, but simply meant that if it came up, discussion shouldn't be forbidden. She also pointed out that her father was a science teacher who often talked about his views on evolution at home. When pressed to say what she believed, though, she wouldn't do it -- just said she had no idea how everything had come to be.

Now it's true that given the chance to disavow creationism, she didn't do it. But to call her a creationist on the basis of what she said in that clip -- if that's all it's based on, and I don't know whether that's all -- would be ludicrously unfair. Not that that would necessarily stop anybody.

vbspurs said...

Gotcha, Mort.

Another point I thought about when I first heard that Palin was in contention (about 4 months ago was):

If Palin is chosen, that means Hawaii AND Alaska are both making history in the American presidency at the same time. The last two States.

Another thing is that though Palin was born in Idaho, and isn't natively from Alaska, it still leaves only Biden as a "lower 48" American of the 4 people running.

Wow.

Anonymous said...

Does anybody here actually believe Americans would trust their future to someone so inexperienced in almost every aspect of government, international affairs, the economy...and hey...what about that War On Terrorism?

Enough about Obama already. What do you think about Palin?

Mortimer Brezny said...

Does anybody here actually believe this woman should be on heartbeat away from being President of the United States?

No. That's the problem. I mean, is PTA mom really going to work? She's a PTA mom? I just heard a woman on C-SPAN cite that as a reason. The next person, another woman, said this pick is crazy, undercuts McCain's criticism of Obama, Palin brings nothing to the table, and McCain is exaggerating her background to make her seem like a maverick who has accomplished much.

Who knows? People will take whatever facts they want to support whatever. But, seriously? Ready to be President? No way.

J said...

"I think this pick kind of neutralizes the "inexperience" card on both sides. Its hard to use that attack against Obama when McCain's choice is much less experienced"

I doubt that. More likely it will highlight the fact that putting Obama at the top of the ticket was insane. Also, as so many have pointed out, Palin's experience is actually applicable to the job. If I go to the hospital, I'd rather be treated by someone who's been a doctor for two years than someone who's been the corporate counsel for 30.

"Hollywood styles actresses for parts where they play timid microbiologists"

So Gillian Anderson will play her in the movie?

It should be fun to watch an attractive, self made woman in a debate with IQ Biden, the most insecure man in the senate.

Sprezzatura said...

Is it sexist to make fun of the fact that McCain brought up her position as a point guard during high school when he talked about the resume?

I'm not drawing any major conclusions yet, but that was a little odd. Is it some kind of trap? Why would they include that as a relevant factor for the VP? Is she going to try and beat BHO at b-ball?

vbspurs said...

Eli. That was classic.

Sorry, but the Troopergate Scandale Royale (lol) doesn't beat the plagiarism scandals, and the gaffes, etc. of Biden.

Trumpit said...

Why do you admire her for knowingly, willingly bringing a Down's baby into this world? That's asking for a life of pain and suffering. Most people aren't rich like she is and Uncle Sam ends up by picking up the tab for the special care and education a retarded child requires. You're all into higher taxes and additional burdens and sacrifices that all will bear for her selfish poor choice. She's a stupid selfish moron for not aborting her child. I only mean that in a kind and loving way. What kind of retarded monster would bring a retard into the world? I, for sure, wouldn't, and I'm smart, intelligent and moral like she obviously isn't.

Host with the Most said...

This is all about getting 2 groups: the conservative and especially evangelical base to turn out - which has proven will win the election, and independents.

Now throw in Hillary voters.

Rush is on board.

Dobson is on now board.

Rick Warren is on board.


This election is ON!

EnigmatiCore said...

Very impressive first look.

I'm leaning.

Best line of the speech- “A ship in harbor is safe but that’s not why it was built.”

But doesn't that undercut the argument that Obama is a risky choice?

chuck b. said...

I was so afraid it would be that awful Romney. The female candidates seemed too unlikely and outsider-y. I respect McCain even more now for picking Palin.

Her background as a reformer and/or whisleblower appeals to me very much. I will have to learn more about her.

Subjectively, I find her voice very listenable. I can't tolerate the elocution of very many politicians. Giuliani and McCain, perhaps. Everyone else gets muted, even Bill Clinton.

She seems moderate, or at least mainstream, on gay rights. That works for me. She's anti-choice and that's a little bone of contention, but she obviously comes with some moral authority on that subject. More than any male candidate, that's for sure.

In short, I am thrilled.

So this looks to be the second presidential election in which I vote Republican.

mrs whatsit said...

"Does anybody here actually believe Americans would trust their future to someone so inexperienced in almost every aspect of government, international affairs, the economy...and hey...what about that War On Terrorism?"

Um, Michael, isn't the rejoinder to this one painfully obvious?

EnigmatiCore said...

Oh, and DTL's "not very bright" comment looks especially sexist and baseless at this point. She is very eloquent.

Unknown said...

Well, I just maxed out our household's donation limit. And this despite the fact that we haven't watched an itch of the coverage on TV or listened on radio yet today. I was disappointed to see her get lost in the shuffle, and quite pleasantly surprised to see the buzz this morning.

Geraldine Ferraro is reportedly pleased with the pick. She oughta be. Palin is heads and shoulders above Ferraro.

Negatives? Sure, she's got 'em. But they're diddly squat compared to Obama's and Biden's.

Anonymous said...

I find it heroic that someone would choose to give birth to a child with Downs Syndrome, or any syndrome. I would make the same decision as a parent.

Trust me. This is not a winning argument for the left beyond a few urban areas.

Host with the Most said...

The liberal/Democrat mindset in America today:

From Trumpit above:

She's a stupid selfish moron for not aborting her child. I only mean that in a kind and loving way. What kind of retarded monster would bring a retard into the world? I, for sure, wouldn't, and I'm smart, intelligent and moral like she obviously isn't.

DaLawGiver said...

Down 9 to 10 bottom of the 10th, McCain hits a lead off triple to deep right field.

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