Palin is McCain's boldest gamble

Nice spin.

The Palin pick is sure to generate media coverage. It is deeply ironic that McCain's first exercise of executive leadership and judgement is to select the least qualified major party candidate in our nation's history.

The most important test of a vice president is their ability to lead the nation in the event the elected president dies or is incapacitated in office. Joe Biden passes this bar and Sarah Palin manifestly fails.

McCain passed up many better-qualified choices. This is a deeply cynical choice from a candidate who claims to put country first, yet chooses a running mate - someone a 'heartbeat away from the presidency' - for purely narrow, political reasons.

Exactly Pacific.

What I see from this is that both campaigns have now nullified a few of their attacks on the other:
- Inexperience... McCain can't claim that with a VP with no experience.
- Washington time... Obama can't claim that with Biden in DC for 36 years.
- Oil... both became open to a degree of off-shore drilling, and both are against ANWR drilling; Palin is for ANWR drilling, and may lead McCain to flip (from Fox).
- Military family... both VPs have sons in the military, and both are deploying.

Maybe now both campaigns will start focusing on the presidency instead of trying to tear each other down.

Pacific NW Mark

The Palin pick is sure to generate media coverage. It is deeply ironic that McCain's first exercise of executive leadership and judgement is to select the least qualified major party candidate in our nation's history.

How is this different from the Demorcatic party nominating the least qualified major party candidate for President?

I find picking Palin to be a bold gamble. Considering that John McCain has angered the most conservative Republican's picking an outsider as his running mate has got to have the hard line conservatives gnashing their teeth. Palin has an impressive resume and it can compete direcly with that of Barak Obama. With one exception, Palin has made a real difference.

Ben -

The difference is that Barack Obama has held a variety of elected positions - Illinois state senate and US senate - and Sarah Palin has been elected the mayor of a town of 7,000 people, and less time in the governorship of a small state than Obama has in the Senate. There is literally no comparison between the two in terms of experience.

Obama has been a nationally-known figure for years - Palin has been nationally known for less than 15 minutes (and her chief claim to fame - a less-than-flattering involvement in a messy divorce retaliation scandal - is certainly nothing to trumpet; she is still under investigation in the state of Alaska).

Through almost two years, Barack Obama campaigned and won the trust of Democrats, Republicans and Independents. He's demonstrated superior judgement to John McCain on Iraq, Pakistan, the economy and a host of other issues. He cemented his judgement credentials with the selection of Joe Biden.

In this light, McCain's choice isn't a testament to his sound judgement, but more a reflection of his known affinity for high-stakes gambling.

He has not demonstrated superior judgement, just a different conclusion to the facts. I am sorry, but I do not want Barack's Rebate (Spending Plan which redistributes wealth), Socialized medicine (Canada's system is failing and that is the model Barack wants to follow). Barack's accomplishments during his political career only seem to be feel good legislation, have you seen the results of some of the bills after he has left office?

Palin, has proven that she stands for what is right in this country, not what feels good.

Sarah Palin is a lot like McCain, she is one of those do as you please people you know those high stake gamblers.

This is bound to hurt McCain. What he did and why he did it is transparent and further detracts from his fading credibility.

I do not think it will hurt McCain at all. She is an honest woman that is not an insider. As far as he experience is concerned being a governer is much different than being a US Senator. US Senator you choose what you go over and you are 1 of 150. Being Governer you are the 1 that runs a state and makes the choices. Obama usually doesn't vote at all in the Senate sadly enough. He has all this drive but yet has not delivered anything to the Senate.
This is her resume
Political Experience:
Governor, Alaska, 2006-present
Former President, Alaska Conference of Mayors
Former Mayor/Manager, Wasilla City
Former Council Member, Wasilla City Council.

Organizations:
Member, Alaska Miners Association
Member, Alaska Outdoor Council
Member, Alaska Resource Development Council
Member, Chambers of Commerce (Various)
Member, Iditarod Parent-Teacher Association
Member, National Rifle Association
Member, Valley Hospital Association Board
Coach/Hockey Team Manager, Valley Youth Sports
Member, Youth Court Steering Committee
Former Member, American Management Association
Former Member, Salvation Army Board.

Caucuses/Non-Legislative Committees:
Chairman, Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, 2003-2004
Former Member, Alaska Municipal League Board
Chair, Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission
Vice Chair, National Governors Association Natural Resources Committee.

Here is Obama's who is running for President not VP

Political Experience:
Senator, United States Senate, 2005-present
Keynote Speaker, 2004 Democratic National Convention
Senator, Illinois State Senate, 1996-2004.

Organizations:
Center for Neighborhood and Technology
Chicago Annenberg Challenge
Cook County Bar
Cook County Bar Association Community Law Project
President, Harvard Law Review
Board Member, Joyce Foundation
Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law
Leadership for Quality Education
Board Member, Woods Fund of Chicago.

Here is McCains and I believe you will see a large difference here.

Education:
National War College, 1973-1974
BS, United States Naval Academy, 1958.

Professional Experience:
Senate Navy Liaison, 1977-1981
Captain, United States Navy, Vietnam, 1958-1981
Beer Distributor.

Political Experience:
Senator, United States Senate, Arizona, 1987-present
Primary Candidate, United States President, 2000
National Security Adviser, Dole/Kemp Presidential Campaign, 1996
Representative, United States House of Representatives, 1982-1986.

Organizations:
Member, American Dream Political Action Committee, 1997-present
Member, Council on Foreign Relations, 1997-present
Honorary Board Member, Hispanic Youth Foundation, 1997-present
Honorary Board Member, The Leonard Cheshire Foundation, 1997-present
Honorary Member, Advisory Council, National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts, 1997-present
Honorary Vice Chair, New Majority Council, 1997-present
Board of Trustees, Gallaudet University, 1995-present
Founding Member, Pacific Council on International Policy, University of South California, 1995-present
Chair, Board of Directors, International Republican Institute, 1992-present
Life Member, Navy League, 1987-present
Member, Air Force Sergeants Association
Member, The Alfalfa Club
Honorary Advisor Board, Arizona Black Chamber of Commerce
Honorary Co-Chair, Advisory Board of Directors, Arizona Cancer Research Foundation
Honorary Member, Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Complimentary Member, Association of the United States Army
Honorary Member, Barry Goldwater Foundation
Honorary Member, Fifty-Five Years and Up Incorporated
Honorary Member/Board of Regents, Francis Scott Key Foundation
Honorary Member, The John Goodwin Tower Center
Honorary Board Member, Kids Voting Arizona
Member, The Military Order of World Wars
Honorary Member, Mo Udall Foundation
Board of Directors, Nixon Center for Peace and Freedom
Member, Purple Heart Association
Member, The Retired Officers Association
Member, Sons of the Revolution in the State of Virginia
Member, United States Naval Academy Alumni Association
Member of Board of Visitors, United States Naval Academy
Honorary Member/Board of Directors/Council of Notables, United States-Spain Council
Member, Veterans of Foreign Wars
Member, Vietnam Veterans Association.

Caucuses/Non-Legislative Committees:
Environmental and Energy Study Conference
National Republican Senatorial Committee
Co-Chair, Porkbusters Coalition
Renewal Alliance
Senate Centrist Coalition
Senate Committee for American Indian College Fund
Senate Co-Chair, National Security Caucus
Senate Steering Committee
Senate Wilderness and Public Lands Caucus
Vietnam Veterans in Congress.

Please read the posts above if we would like to talk about experience and if you think it matters or not. Palin resume is more diverse than Obama's and has been on several more important boards than he has.

Governer as opposed to Senator

United States
See also: United States Governors
In the United States, the title governor refers to the chief executive of each state, not directly subordinate to the federal authorities, but the political and ceremonial head of the state.

The United States Constitution preserves the notion that the country is a federation of sovereign states, and that powers not specifically granted to the federal government are retained by the states - states are therefore not merely provinces or subdivisions of federal administration. State governments in the U.S. are therefore relatively powerful; each state has its own independent criminal and civil law codes, and each state manages its internal government.

The governor thus heads the executive branch in each state and, depending on the state, may have considerable control over government budgeting, the power of appointment of many officials (including many judges) and a considerable role in legislation. The governor may also have additional roles, such as that of Commander-in-Chief of the state's National Guard (when not federalized), and in many states the governor has partial or absolute power to commute or pardon a criminal sentence. U.S. Governors serve four-year terms.

In all states, the governor is directly elected, and in most cases has considerable practical powers, though this may be moderated by the state legislature and in some cases by other elected executive officials. They can veto state bills. In some cases legislatures can override a gubernatorial veto by a two-thirds vote, in others by three-fifths. In most states, whenever there is a sudden vacancy of one of the state's U.S. Senate seats, that state's governor appoints someone to fill the vacancy until a special election is held.

A state governor may give an annual State of the State Address in order to satisfy a constitutional stipulation that a governor must report annually, or in older constitutions described as being "from time to time," on the state or condition of a U.S. state. Governors of states may also perform ceremonial roles, such as greeting dignitaries, conferring state decorations, issuing symbolic proclamations or attending the state fair. The governor may also have an official residence.

President, Harvard Law Review

vs

Member, The Alfalfa Club, an exclusive Washington, D.C. social organization ?

you list an exclusive Washington, D.C. social organization as a qualification

tough choice.... hummm....

Hey just trying to put some facts up here reguardless of how it makes either candidate look. Obama's experience shows me that he is in the right place, writing legislature, which he usually does not even do. Looking at these two resumes I think we can see who is ready for this job, if it was your company I think we all know who we would choose but some how this man that has little accomplished is #1 on ur ticket he has never run anything besides being a community organizer.

and we have no 'organized community' in this country...

and a coach of a hockey team ?
...i guess that's important.....
if i remember correctlly , dumb'ya did owned a baseball team...

Is Obama a coach of anything? Has he ever owned a successful business? Has he ever fought for our country? What change has he brought to the senate? What legislation has he made to implement change? These are all of the boards Obama belongs to and it is slim list. He is not that much of an organizer or that involved in the community. Most of the things he belongs to are based on law, which is good but he should have more and done more. In the Senate he hardly votes or writes legislation and has never run anything to do with money his entire life.

Is Obama a coach of anything?

currently a very successful campaign but not sure why being a member of a cheyenne social club or being a hockey mom has to do with the traits of being a world leader.

Has he ever owned a successful business?

again didn't know "owning" a business was a trait of being president. i personally would want someone who actually knew something about own constitutional law and looking at the current "Sound Republican Leadership" we have in office now.... i'm not sure i want some one from the corp. world. more of a community activists / organizer seem more appropriate.

but if you want more of the mission accomplished,

more of the doing a heck of a job brownie,

more of the saddam has weapons of mass destruction,

more of the i dont know where Osama bin Laden is and i dont care,

more of the i dont know Jack Abramoff,

more of the toture,

more of the "if someome did something wrong", i mean "if someone did something
criminal", i mean "if someone is convicted"

more of the we'll be greated as liberators,

more of the its not my fault -> its someone else,

more of the $12,000,000,000 a month shipping out to iraq,

and if you want more war, a hundred years of it,

then its a slam dunk insane mc'same is your man.

Jessica, let me make this very simple for you. My husband had been deployed to Iraq three times in the past four years. My son is also about to be deployed. Our lives have been unbelievably and undeniably effected by foreign policy - as have the lives of tens of thousands of Americans who have lost family members on what could be the biggest foreign policy blunder in history.

Our foreign policy processes in the last 7+ years have resulted in our country's worst free-fall from international respect that ANY country has had happen in history. We NO LONGER have any kind of respect or bargaining weight on the international scene whatsoever. Now, as the world watches - one of our candidates could quite possibly put the future of the free world into the hands of Ms. Palin through default. Ms. Palin????

This is the most clear, clear, clear sign that McCain lacks the intelligent judgement.

Putin is rattling the nuclear war drums - he's probably laughing right now. If we end up toe to toe with Putin tell me please what insight, and most importantly what moral authority will this country rely on with Ms. Palin at the helm through default.

Clear understanding of foreign policy just might be the most important issue facing our next leader. I don't believe for even one second that McCain has shown the judgement that automatically awards him the crowning title of most convincing leader on the world. You can bet your bottom dollar that this whole mess will be perceived by world leaders as just another example of how truly far American has fallen from it's high perch of moral authority.

I'm sorry - my husband, my son and my family most certainly are not in support of this mess McCain would have us adopt as our idea of "change".

In addition my dear, this isn't playing well with women - ESPECIALLY mothers. We want out nation AND our children to be safe. This most certainly will lose McCain some serious support on the foreign policy front. I have this terrifying picture in my head of Ms. Palin sitting in the back of the "Straight Talk" bus with Rove's guys circled around her trying to cram history and foreign relations into her brain.

McCain has set women up for the most humiliating side show of all time. This isn't a step forward for women, it's a sacrifice. Odds are probably EXCELLENT that this will completely destroy McCain's bid for office. That will most certainly show that selecting a women in the future would be political suicide. This will erase, completely, any forward steps that Hilliary Clinton has made on our behalf. Truly sad. We all know Hillary Clinton - Sarah Palin is NO Hilliary Clinton.

The fact that McCain didn't thoroughly vett this young lady - will be a HUGE mistake, perhaps he should have met with her more than once - you think? Now the press will do it for us - Obama needs to say nothing, the press will eat her alive, and on the world stage no less.

God help us.

Phoenix Phed Up: "We all know Hillary Clinton - Sarah Palin is NO Hilliary Clinton."

Ms. Palin is my governor. I fully support her and am very thankful that not every woman is Hillary Clinton. Regardless of your political stance, the fact that she has been selected to a national ticket is still a step forward for women. Heaven help us if you truly believe that the ONLY political stance a woman could have mirrors that of HC.

My wife, mother, sister, aunt and daughter are THRILLED to see a woman closer to their views than Hillary making such progress.

Are you the sister? As a matter of interest, she has only been governor for 1 1/2 yrs and some of her own staff commented she hated it and was asked to resign so she would avoid impeachment. Is this true from your perspective or is there more 'troubled waters' ahead? Remember, if you are defending her, why? and why are so many angry with her? Is it true....the RNC has got involved and McCain is simply accommodating a horrible situation, while his base is bashing the flames from the ugly Alaskan political situation? Has this woman become a 'WOW' factor + a flame retardant for the Republican Party? Is there not a formidable case against her in Alaska and would like to leave that state? As a friend of Charlie Crist of FL, who lived in Alaska for 10 yrs. why doesn't he just state this?

Being in charge of something has much to do with being in charge of a country. I was stating that Obama has never been in charge of or ran anything. That was truly a copy and post from a neutral site and that is what they had put for all of the candidates. Obamas resume after ommiting these still is very very slim. My point being that he is not ready to run a country and is more of a legal entity and belongs in the Senate where he is writing legislation not running a country. He has no experience being in charge anywhere. Yes running a business or something and being involved in the community has a lot to do with being a president. He has not been very invloved with anything besides law and African American civil rights. His resume alone should tell you that he is not ready to be president. Although he is an amazing speaker how would he run a country.

It reads: "Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin has been chosen as Sen. John McCain's running mate, making her the first female Republican vice presidential nominee in history."

The health problem is still serious. Melanoma cancer is one of the worst kind of cancers anyone can have and stress can play a very important part in causing the cancer to spread or return. The current stress and serving in a stressful position such as the presidency, is not good for Sen. McCain. I had hope he would have taken that into consideration when choosing a running mate.

However, noone can tell what the future holds. Although I am an Obama supporter, it is a wonderful feeling to see change coming. Regardless of the outcome, Sen. Obama has brought change to the table. Unlike never before, politicians are willing to change the way they've been doing business. One way or the other, after January, 2008, I hope to see a Washington!

Out with the old and in with the new!

No it does not at all. He still has the experience to be President and that is the point. Obama does not have experience to be the President maybe VP but not President. Their ticket should be switched around and then it would be similair. Big difference between VP and Pres. He chose a woman who seems to be extremely moral and is young who knows what it is like to have a family. She seems to be middle class, I will look it up though, and would be able to balance McCain very nicely. She adds a new fire and point of view to McCain. I for one am exstatic to have this woman on the ticket. I think she offers a mothers and family view point to the ticket.

Well said Jessica !

Palin/Obama would be the dream ticket

Sure!!! I would buy that one.

hope that woman is more experienced at nursing than politics....oil...oil...oil...her husband and him should go hunting with that guy who shot his friend....whats his name??? GO OBAMA!!!!!

I think all of you should just do some research rather than shouting out whatever you would like to make up and assume. Whatever the change is that dems want this is not the way to go about it. Your attitudes are not change but more of the same do some research then come back to the site.

Governor Sarah Palin will bring "Sound Republican Credentials"
The governor is currently under not one, but TWO violations of ethics investigations stemming out of her abuse-of-power while being governor.
It seems her administration had made more than 20 calls, with at least one of those calls was caught on tape, to the department of public safety while pursuing a personal grudge against her brother-in-law.
Then apparently she had dismissed the state's top law enforcement official because of his refusal to fire a state trooper who just happens to be involved in a bitter custody battle with the governor's sister stemming from their 2005 divorce.
In her defense Governor Sarah Palin says "I have only now become aware of it..."
yep... "Sound Republican Credentials" from "Sound Republican Leadership"
of course not as sound as Sen.Ted Stevens, another repiglican from Alaska who has been indicted and charged With making false statements in "this other" corruption probe.

Not so fast. She has been vetted properly, but the press will do this after Gustav. Already she is under investigation, now there are rumors that she took trips with her daughter and the state paid. Not a big deal, everybody does it, but it is when you run on a platform of waste. And didn't she say she didn't even know what the VP does? Very irresponsible statement if you knew you were being considered.

Palin, stay at home and raise your daughter to not get pregnant

You're against fighting corruption, reducing our dependance on foreign oil, and giving government revue back to the taxpayers? These are all things she has actually DONE, not just talked about. as far as experience, she has had multiple executive positions, which gives her more experience than the whole Democratic ticket.

"she has had multiple executive positions, which gives her more experience than the whole Democratic ticket."

You sir get my vote for the most ridiculous comment on the Internet. You are exactly who this choice of VP was aimed towards. Palin was barely a teenager when Biden entered the senate. McCain's experience issue has completely went out the window this this choice.

same thought i was having...he may as well go figure out where his 7 houses really are!!!

Karina, read the lady's resume before you shoot off your foot. She has fought corruption, gave government revenue back to the people, was Mayor of a small town, and elected Governer of Alaska, which is no small feat in a land of Daniel Boone type men.

Neither Biden nor Obama can claim these accomplishments. The lady's biggest challange will be to break the "good ole boy" syndrome, because the ole boys feel their manhood will be at stake. GET OVER IT GUYS ! All of you sat on your a---s and did nothing for American people except give yourselves unearned payraises and take extended vacations.

Let us put aside the pre-conceived ideas and support a ticket that will put America back on its feet and working again ! obamas socialist programs will only keep us down !

The lady's biggest challange will be to break the "good ole boy" syndrome, because the ole boys feel their manhood will be at stake.

Did you notice the lull after she mentioned that during her speech? There were a few times where she made comments that go against the grain of the GOP's platform, and the crowd didn't seem to take too kindly to them.

Have any of you done your research at all. Age difference is now why people should not vote republican. Come on this is getting ridiculous.

hey old-wrinkly-lady-from-flordia...
She isn't fighting corruption, she is corruption...
The governor is currently under not one, but TWO violations of ethics investigations stemming out of her abuse-of-power while being governor. It seems her administration had made more than 20 calls, with at least one of those calls was caught on tape, to the department of public safety while pursuing a personal grudge against her brother-in-law. Then apparently she had dismissed the state's top law enforcement official because of his refusal to fire a state trooper who just happens to be involved in a bitter custody battle with the governor's sister stemming from their 2005 divorce.

These are both issues that still challenge my stance, but please be logical. How can you be anti-death penalty and pro-abortion at the same time? The logic, or lack thereof, is identical.

Easy. You take a life intentionally, have your day in court and found guilty by jury of your peers, you forfeit your life.

If you are an unborn viable baby - I'm not talking conception here, but actual viability which most science indicates occurs in the second trimester (philosophical/religious arguments aside) - you have the right to exist.

The difference is one of..dare I say..choice? Joe/Jane Killer made a conscious choice to destroy another life, not to mention cause severe pain and suffering to the victim's family. The unborn viable baby has no such choice - he/she is an innocent. I understand this turns on some pretty serious moral/ethical lines and opinions may vary. Just how I see it.

Pro/Anti death penalty is a tough choice... 'eye for an eye' and stoning are both mentioned in the bible. I don't see a huge deal with it either way, as I will never be murderer and therefore won't face it.

Life/Choice on the other hand (no such thing as pro-abortion) is truly legislating morality. Palin has a 5 month old son with Down Syndrome, because she carried her son to term. But what gives her the right to tell other women to do the same thing? I think non-cause abortion (not for rape, incest, or mother's health) is wrong, but if you disagree it's not my place to stop you.

The reason people feel they have the right to legislate it is based on exactly what you said. I think murder of children is wrong therefore it is my place to stop you.

I was a victim of rape which resulted in pregnancy....I CHOSE to have my baby. But I STRONGLY believe that it is NOT for ME to decide for another.

It is the most horrific, terrifying, emotional and life-altering issue I have EVER faced...but thank God I had the choice, and I have risen from the ashes. My son was adopted by a family sent straight from the heavens and is happy, healthy, well adjusted, educated and LOVED. We were recently reunited and is now a joyous part of my everyday life. My sons mother and I have a deep and profound connection. She is an angel.

I cringe everytime I see women, men and even children picketing anti-abortion. I want to scream at the top of my lungs to each and every one of them.......If you people feel this strongly about this unborn child then instead of standing out here on the street morally judging these women....take them into your homes and hearts....help them financially....offer them an alternative....offer to adopt their unborn children. If they then still choose to end their pregnancy....then that will be her decison, for her reasons and will be between her and HER GOD to work out.

God Bless All who are faced with this issue

Thank You myangledog,

Your story is in my heart, and I do agree with you on that point.

She would still be as qualified for president as Obama. Think about that.

You have a fair point but you might be accused of setting the bar a bit low. Dan Quale wouldn't be any worse than the current Vice-President but he was still quite bad... (Funny as all get out, true, but bad nonetheless.)

but can she spell potato! that's the real test for repiglicians vp's.

"repiglicians" Dude you really should not be commenting.

"repiglicians" refers to the entire Culture of Corruption which include names like Tom Delay, Ted Stevens, Duke Cunningham, Mark Foley, Larry Craig, Bob Ney, Scooter Libby and countless others who have recently been in the mainstream spot light, not to mention the Bush and Cheney breeds...

and it's my professional opinion that your mistaken ... i most certainly should be commenting...

now please, unless you have something of value to contribute, try not to interrupt me again or i'll be forced to use UPPERCASE on you.

Let's not forget Resko while we are naming names. Ooh UPPERCASE now I'm scared. And in my professional opinion you still have not contributed anything of value.

yo -> stillkickin...
you mean Tony Resko ? Good Point! wasn't he a co defendant with the rePIGlician fundraiser stuart levine back in 2006 ? something about wire fraud, bribery, money laundering, and extortion if i recall correctly.

And since we're on the subject resko, lets not fail to mention where he's lined the pockets of a lot of other rePIGlicians too.. including, but not limited to rePIGlicians governor jim edgar,
rePIGlicians governor george ryan, rePIGlicians mayor don stephens,

and don't forget the unselfish efforts in 2003 where, according to the chicago sun-times, he raised MEGAMILLIONS of dollars for rePIGlicians president bush.

again, thanks for mentioning him...

Hey no problem and thanks for acknowledging that your messiah is NO Different from any other politician. So by your own admission here Obama belongs in your "Culture of Corruption". Change, Change, Change, doesn't look so different when YOU actually look at the excuses you make for Obama. Now go lay down and stop bothering me with your drivel.

No time to lay down... larry flint offer big bucks for a copy of some "soft core porn flick" Palin supposedly made in her younger "beauty queen days"... gotta go, looking forward to chatting with ya later.

lol later ratatosk

The problem with the "Hillary's voters will go with McCain now for sure" theory is that most of Hillary's supporters agreed with Hillary Clinton on the issues. Palin is about as far from Hillary on the issues as it is possible to be.

Now I understand that Republicans typically hate running on issues, its all about personality and all, but a lot of people actually care about the issues.

The strategy was OK, but the execution faulty. If he wanted to get a Hillary voter magnet he probably would have been better off with someone like Olympia Snowe. She Republican and a woman but she is also a moderate - reasonably close to Hillary Clinton on a lot of issues.

?? why were you voting for hillary to begin with. was it because she was a female or because of what she stood for in her campaign? if it was because she was a female then by all means fall for mccain's pandering, but if it was for her beliefs and opinion on the issues then you should stay with obama. palin's opinion on the issues are so opposite clinton's that I can only assume that you would vote for mccain now because palin is a female on the ticket...Think about your decision and get all your facts so that you can make an educated decision in this election.

GBS, I don't know why you think republicans are only concerned with personality and stuff.
McCain certainly isn't a cult of personality.
We conservatives are very concerned with issues. We stand up for winning the war, support non-amnesty legislation on border security, point out that congress should do somethign about the social security debacle, support your right to own a gun, support your right to the money you own rather than the government's right to take it away and give it to someone else, support expanding drilling while also investing in alternative energy. (Yeah, it may take 10 years, but if we wait another 10 years to do it, then it will be 20 before we see any benefit.)

It seems the dems have been more interested in pushing personality. Look at your top 2 candidates. Obama certainly has an appealing personality and gives good speeches. Hillary is a well-connected Clinton.

But all the media hype has been about thier skin color and their gender and how historical the nomination process has been.

I was a Hillary suporter until she lose and started to really get nasty than I switch to Obama and I am still with Obama cause he has the people in mind and he said it is not about me it is about you that is what really hit the spot for me .

I am a 58 your old white woman from Pasquale Mississippi.

Keep in mind, he's taking away your money for you, too. If he'd not taking away your money, he's taking away you're kids' money or your grand kids' money...but he's doing it for us. That's like punishing us for our own good.

Taking it away from us (increased taxes) to pay for expanded entitelment programs (healthcare, pre-k education).
Let's not forget that social security is scheduled to go bankruptcy.
And we're already seeing medicare expenses increasing as the baby boomers are retiring.

Thank you Duane for injecting common sense into this conversation.

Thank you Dallas conservative for trying to make people understand the sociallist programs outlined by Obama.

She isn't running for President. She is running for VP... and she has about as much experience as Obama (although she has more to show for it).

No, Barack Obama has more experience in terms of total years in politics and he has national experience which Palin has None. Also I would argue that Barack Obama has achieved more in his time but that's another discussion, I guess.

Thank God she isn't a Hillary wannabe. What's the matter, can't stand to see a strong Republican woman? Gee, see how the knives come out. Hey, Obama supporters...you all yap about change, well McCain gave you a nice change as VP. You got Mr Insider Joe Biden. I love it...60 plus days of watching the Dems squirm dealing with a strong conservative woman...teehee..watch their hypocrisy show!

All of this 'ready on day one' sloganeering is getting a bit tiresome. Neither of the four presidential or vice-presidential candidates are read for office on 'day one'. Hillary Clinton would not be ready on day one. Heck, Bill wasn't ready on day one.

The presidency of a nation as large and powerful as the USA is a job like none other. None of the candidates have the combination of experience in governance, administration, legislation and foreign affairs to be ready on day one. None of these candidates have had to make quick decisions that can affect the lives of 300 million people.

So let's all give that 'ready on day' one slogan rest. It is tiresome and meaningless electioneering. After all, George W. Bush was still wasn't ready on day 1461 and he had been in office for 4 years.

Casey, you know what, I'll have you know that as an Obama supporter, I am in no way intimidated by Palin at all. So please put to rest your dems squirming fantasy.

Oh, I didn't know you spoke on behalf of the DNC. I apologize. I have dark hair, so if you have any questions about dark hair please let me know because I can speak on behalf of all brunettes.

I am a little confused on the "experience" issue with regard to Palin, Obama and even Hillary Clinton. I think that it would be good for all of us to remember that Hillary herself is a "1st" term Senator with only approximately 6 years of "legal" and elected government experience. As far as Obama is concerned, he is a 1st term senator from Illinois, with absolutely no executive experience whatsoever. Not even any experience running a small business. He does give a great speech however, as long as he is prepared and can see the teleprompter.

Sarah Palin may be young (3 years younger than Obama), but she has had business leadership experience in the real world, was able to be elected Governor in a state that probably has a high degree of male chauvinism because of the life styles and also continues to have a very high approval rating. As Governor, it appears that she has accomplished a great deal in Alaska in her less than 2 years, which is more than what can be said of the recently elected Democratically controlled Congress.

I heard parts of her speech this morning and she comes across to me as a person that is highly intelligent, quick on her feet and is not afraid of speaking without a teleprompter. We need someone who is a TRUE outsider to provide some balance to those in Washington who seem to have forgotten why they are there in the first place. Also, we can use some fresh ideas on how we can extricate ourselves from the massive overspending that we have become used to over the past several decades.

We have forgotten what it is to earn something and also that NOTHING is free regardless of what we are told. We have also been taught that we do not have to be responsible for our actions or choices (Current housing and lending problem), someone will pick up the tab and save us from ourselves.

The money for all of the new programs laid out by Obama and the Dems are going to have to be paid for by someone and there aren't enough "rich" people to soak that can cover the big wish list.

Form what Palin has done in Alaska by cutting spending and reducing corruption in her very short time as Governor, she has shown me that she "gets it". Too bad that there are few like her in government.

Sarah Palin has been a lifesaver in Alaska. As a resident, let me say that I wasn't sure who to vote for in the beginning. Now that Sarah Palin is on the ticket, my decision has been made.
Many people think, as comments have been made in this discussion, that Alaska is made of "Daniel Boone like people" and that is disgustingly untrue. Does Sarah Palin look like a Daniel Boone descendant to you? No. She is one amazing woman, I have met her and her family, and let me just say that she is the best choice for vice president. I am overly excited, and not just because she is a woman- but because she has come from Alaska, I know what she has accomplished and what she is about. She knows what it is like to be an average American and she will do everything she can in regards to us. I am proud to say my governor (and former mayor- yes she is from my town) is the candidate for Republican VP.

LOL!!! Sarah Palen has MORE experience than Hillary! So, If you were a true Hillary fan, you would know that!!!

A governor has much more experience in running a state than a community organizer turned Senator that has pretty much NO VOTED the entire time. He has been in the senate for a few years and to have so much drive he has done extremely little. He says he will get all of this change done but I do not see anything different in politics or the senate or the country in the last 2 years since he has been there. Palin has more experience running an entire state than Obama has gained passing legislation. He is more of a lawyer than anything else and should stay in legislation.

This is her resume
Political Experience:
Governor, Alaska, 2006-present
Former President, Alaska Conference of Mayors
Former Mayor/Manager, Wasilla City
Former Council Member, Wasilla City Council.

Organizations:
Member, Alaska Miners Association
Member, Alaska Outdoor Council
Member, Alaska Resource Development Council
Member, Chambers of Commerce (Various)
Member, Iditarod Parent-Teacher Association
Member, National Rifle Association
Member, Valley Hospital Association Board
Coach/Hockey Team Manager, Valley Youth Sports
Member, Youth Court Steering Committee
Former Member, American Management Association
Former Member, Salvation Army Board.

Caucuses/Non-Legislative Committees: Chairman, Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, 2003-2004
Former Member, Alaska Municipal League Board
Chair, Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission
Vice Chair, National Governors Association Natural Resources Committee.

lets see....

President, Harvard Law Review

and his vp pick of chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee

vs

a wrinkly old man who's a member an exclusive Washington, D.C. social club

and his vp pick of a hockey team coach...

what are you smoking ? give me some :)

Obama has barely anything or any association besides law that he is involved with. Seriously you are going to say that a man that has never run anything is ready to be the president. He has never governed an area or made important decisions, he has never been that involved with organizations in a community besides African American ones. He has been in the US Senate and has done nothing there. All this change he states he wants could have been started in the Senate by trying to pass legislation in a mostly Dem Senate. With that being said he has done slim to nothing. So where are his credentials besides knowing law that he should be president. He should be in the Senate where he belongs writing legislature not as president because he has never run anything. He has no managerial skills just law. He has never fought for our country or done anything for us.

She has just as much experience as Obama so I think if he can do it this completely moral woman could as well. She atleast has made some change. Obama No Vote's all the time. Hard to get the change you want when you do not even vote.

YOU BET SHE CAN AND WILL STAND UP TO THE PLATE IF NECESSARY !

I'm sorry Jessicaf, but I am sick an tired of your only agrument being that Palin has the same amount of experience as Obama. You, my dear need to look at the issues we face in this upcoming election. Palin is anti-gay, anti-pro choice, pro gun, doesn't support equal pay for equal work - sounds like an idiot to me. Oh yea, and she has a B.S. degree from the University of Idaho in Journalism (great credentials), and has lived in Alaska since she was an infant. This woman is out of touch with the American people. Take care of your child and leave the politics to people a little more knowledgable.

TravM,

Spoken like a true chauvinist Obama fan!

Here is Obama's experience
Political Experience:
Senator, United States Senate, 2005-present
Keynote Speaker, 2004 Democratic National Convention
Senator, Illinois State Senate, 1996-2004.

Organizations:
Center for Neighborhood and Technology
Chicago Annenberg Challenge
Cook County Bar
Cook County Bar Association Community Law Project
President, Harvard Law Review
Board Member, Joyce Foundation
Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law
Leadership for Quality Education
Board Member, Woods Fund of Chicago.

She is under McCain and although some of her views are more extreme she is not the President. She is the most moral on either ticket says what she believes and has no insiders in Washington, this is what makes her look good to me. Many people are not for the equal pay bill, it just places more law suits in small and large businesses. It is one of those laws that sounds good but in reality makes a mess in society. So many companies are getting sued for no reason at this point.

Agreed. It is pretty clear by both McCain and Palin speech writing that their only path left is to reach out and rally the uneducated masses. JUST LISTEN TO HIS ANNOUNCEMENT AND HER INTO. I'm sorry but they quite literally sound like they are talking to schoolchildren while throwing out fear-factor "Iran" as if only they can respond to such foregn threats and save this country. These people don't GET IT and neither do their listeners. Fortunately the last two elections were real close, the electoral map is changing and Team Obama GETS IT all of it. Good Lord!!! Nothing personal but I hope Biden feeds her to the bears. Ooops he can't "upset" women now can he. Clinton should shred her - how insulting.

No actually both of you are insulting. Uneducated masses? Please. Read Wisdomm's post real close if you are able, then tell us who is uneducated.

Well, McCain did suggest that his wife enter the biker beauty pageant... since she didn't, he needs a new model.

Jen, why do you automatically assume that this choice is to appease you? Does it not occur to any of you that the Republicans have considered that voters who have decided to choose Obama aren't going to change their mind no matter who is picked for VP? Therefore the choice is not for you, it is for Republicans and non-decideds. She has more executive experience than either Biden or Obama, she has a lot of credentials if you bother to research her.

JEN---do your research ! The lady has more executive experience than Biden and Obama combined !

Whatever McCains motives, he chose the right person for the VP slot.

At forty four years of age she has all this experience. BS! Wake up and smell the coffee! The GOP sucks out loud, or have you been on another planet the last eight years.

Mr. Kevin,

Barely more than a PTA president? Sarah Palin currently holds an executive office, Gov. of Alaska, something that Mr. Biden can not claim. His role in the senate should not be misrepresented as executive experience. Your lack of respect, or ignorance, about who Sarah is or what she has done while in public office is tremendous. I hope the rest of the American public can keep an open mind while they find out what a great leader Sarah is and will be.

* She can also put together coherent thoughts when a teleprompter goes out, (obama can't keep breathalyzer and inhalator straight unless it is written down for him).

Well said Jeremy !

Bet they are all liberals.

Or can think for themselves.

And they didn't drink the KoolAid!

If the liberals are shouting at how bad a choice he made, you can bet as a conservative that he made a good one.

What do our opponents mean when they apply to us the label "Liberal?"

If by "Liberal" they mean, as they want people to believe, someone who is soft in his policies abroad, who is against local government, and who is unconcerned with the taxpayer's dollar, then the record of this party and its members demonstrate that we are not that kind of "Liberal."

But if by a "Liberal" they mean someone who looks ahead and not behind, someone who welcomes new ideas without rigid reactions, someone who cares about the welfare of the people -- their health, their housing, their schools,
their jobs, their civil rights, and their civil liberties -- someone who believes we can break through the stalemate and suspicions that grip us in our policies abroad,

if that is what they mean by a "Liberal," then I'm proud to say I'm a "Liberal."

John F. Kennedy

God Bless You !

Look at how she has performed as governor, taking the bull (and her own corrupt party members) by the horns to bring change to the establishment. See how she has reduced government spending, fought against pok-barrel spending.
Now look at equally experienced (although only legislatively, not with executive responsibilities) Obama. Examine his fiscal policies and voting record of raising taxes.
Now research his involvement with Tony Rezko, William Ayers and the Weather Underground (a terrorist organization that has bombed dozens of locations in America including police stations and the pentagon...plus killed officers in a bank robbery).
I would say associating with Ayers should raise more red flags and is certainly worse judgement than selecting a compentent governor with an 80-90% approval rating by her constituents.

Dallas Conservative---I'm with you ! Long life to John McCain, but if the good Lord is willing Governor Palin will stand up to any challange. Her biggest challange of course is not giving handouts to the liberals who think they deserve it without working for it.

Let's hope Biden brings something of his own to say at the debate.

Biden better pack a big lunch. I don't think that he will be up to the task