Sarah Palin's convention speech: the reaction

Conservatives are swooning, liberals terrified - that's how I would sum up the media reaction to Sarah Palin's big moment in St Paul last night. Never mind that she told a fair few porkies - both about her own record and Barack Obama's - the young governor of Alaska issued a rallying cry to the conservative Republican base that will go down in the annals of the culture wars as one of the most energising opening salvos of recent times.

But will it win over wavering independents? I personally think not, as thinking moderates will, I believe, look beyond her charismatic delivery to positions that have little resonance with their own. And they may well be turned off by the divisive "It's us right-thinking Americans against those snooty East Coast almost-foreigners" tone of her speech. But I could be wrong. Only time - and perhaps the next round of polling - will tell.

A selection of views from the blogosphere - left and right:

Joe Klein, Swampland, Time:

"She delivered a brilliant speech. It was a classic Republican speech--written by Matthew Scully of the Bush speechwriting shop -- chock full of conservative populism, a cultural "torpedo" as Chris Mathews is saying as I write this, aimed directly at Barack and Michelle Obama. She was far more effective, using fewer words than the over-the-top Rudy Giuliani, in tearing down the Obama candidacy. There was not much substance -- issues don't matter, remember? -- and her description of Obama's policies, particularly his tax policies, was quite inaccurate. ... The speech also very effectively steered Palin away from her extremist views on social issues...and from her differences from McCain on almost every issue -- global warming, tax increases, pork -- except abortion. It will, obviously, be crucial for McCain and Biden to make clear the inaccuracies in her speech -- and her relentless mischaracterizations of Obama's positions, especially taxes."

Walter Shapiro, Salon.com:

"It will take more than a single speech convincingly read off a Teleprompter for the voters to ratify McCain's judgment in choosing the fledgling governor of Alaska as the first woman on a Republican national ticket. ...

"While the selection of the Alaksa governor may not be the gender-gap-closing masterstroke that Republicans initially hoped, it also is not looking like the politically impulsive disaster that the Democrats had envisioned. What Sarah Palin may have underscored on her big night on center stage is that, in the end, vice-presidential candidates are mostly political afterthoughts for the voters."

MyDD:

"We have met someone that we will be doing battle against for a decade or more. Seriously. I've never seen a woman, or a man for that matter, speak that way, prime time, national, convention, live, ever. She blows away Hillary Clinton. …
OK, so my guess. Come November, and Obama's glorious victory, Palin is who they pronounce as the '12 nominee against Obama. Either that, or Palin is Prez after McCain croaks on a pretzel from 2 years of the WH.
Palin captured the GOP's heart and flag tonight. She hit it 456 ft into deep right field, and way friggin outside the park. … Anyone that thinks McCain could have chosen better than Palin, among the GOP ranks, is on drugs.  Talk about a cultural war that's on again!"

Red State:

"Sarah Palin ... gave the speech of a lifetime, perhaps the best nationally broadcast political introduction in the convention history, and a knock out blow to the Obama-Biden campaign and their pals in the media.
"... She proved she's tough, she's a fighter, and yes, she can lead. Governor Sarah Palin could lead on day one. She is ready to be President. ... John McCain chose wisely.
"After tonight, it is clear the media's reaction to Sarah Palin was hyperbolic, false, and filled with the anger of a Democratic opposition just now recognizing what a threat Governor Palin is to their established order. Sarah Palin is the real deal."

The Campaign Spot, National Review Online:

"Tonight, we either saw a watershed in American politics, a tour de force, the most striking and graceful debut in our nation’s political life, and a national introduction that makes Barack Obama’s 2004 convention address look like small potatoes… or we saw what we wanted to see, and the country’s persuadable independents saw something else. I’m afraid to believe. If I’m wrong, I don’t really know what Americans want. I know conservatives are thrilled to pieces, and they ought to be. She knocked it out of the park. I don’t think she could have delivered that speech any better. Even if I hadn’t suggested a line, I would say that the speech hit almost every note just right. (Did the Obama fans feel this way? Is this what their exultation feels like? Wonderful. I’m glad they get to experience it too.)"

Talking Points Memo:

"If you didn't sense last night how deeply Sarah Palin channeled some of the country's deepest, most powerful currents of pent-up indignation and yearning, you don't sense the trouble we Democrats are in.
"Rhetorically, she was the anti-Obama. She was stirring precisely because she was so artless, matter-of fact, and "American" -- with no cadences or grand, historic resonances, but with plenty of mother wit and shrewdness. The two currents she tapped ... were riptides of deeply wounded pride and groping loyalty, a yearning for vindication of something that is not to be disparaged at all."

Comments

[Langx]

She had about 10 lies in her speech.

Once you listened to the words she said nothing that could help America.

Just more hate and name calling from the right.

It's all they got.

To bad we've got 40 million stupid people in this country

[radtop]

It was typical of the liberal media to emphasize that Palin delivered a speech not written by her and read off a teleprompter; as if Obama or Biden ever gave a speech on their own. In fact Biden's speech writers don't even come up with their own stuff.

[Mike, Washington State, USA]

The Dems wanted a Hurricane & they got it. She's called (Sarah) !!!!!

[Jose Abin]

Where's the beef?

I watched Ms. Palin's speech on C-Span to avoid pundit commentary. Afterwards I turned on the pundits at CNN and was amazed at how contrary their reactions were to mine.

Quite frankly Ms. Palin's so called speech was a compilation of snippets from Republican attack talking points. The speech lacked depth and most of all it was shallow without substance. I’m amazed at the lack of discussion about the issues that I feel we need to be addressed. Most of what was heard were unsubstantiated Republican clichés and distortions that after eight years have become nauseating. To see any positive light to Ms. Palin’s s to drown in a sea of ignorance.

As I watched her speech and the camera shots at the audience I could not help a feeling of contempt for such a pathetic and sad spectacle.

My conclusion is that the speech was insipid, trite and most of all petty.

[overnoyed]

To bad we've got 40 million stupid people in this country
Posted by: Langx | 04 September 2008 at 02:00 PM
.
.
.
.Yea - either that - or just one.

[IronJamesFlint]

I wish I could find a woman like her, she's awesome!

[Christie Walsh]

Finally, a female politician who working and stay home moms can relate to. Her anti abortion stance does not bother me because the congress and senate will never change Roe V Wade. Everything else she stands for is most women's struggle every day. She knows and has lived our plight. More importantly she does not look like a man in panty hose! This is something new for female politicians.

Where do I join the real woman's movement? Sign me up!

[LiberalsCaused9.11]

How ironic that the only real "Hope," not another Hussein platitude, is coming from the Right!

She changed hearts last night.
The American press won't report it, but the British press is. We HAVE a young candidate, and not one who is an elitist snob. She's human AND powerful.

[Rose]

I watched her speech last night and I am not swayed by her sarcastic, vicious pitbull attacks on Obama.

All African Americans should run for cover if this McCain-Pailin ticket get in. It just amazes me how people are so easily swayed by dicey rhetoric. There is great danger in putting people with intellectual limitations in positions that they are not ready for. Everyone should be able to figure out that a woman with five children....one just born with special needs can't serve two masters....she will have to make a choice.

[Enlightened]

Her job isn't to provide answers to the problems, that's John McCains as the next President. Her job is to show that she is willing to back him up on the solutions. She is #2 - not #1. She did that quite easily. The problem is that being a woman, the old double standard is being applied and for once, neither side can criticize this VP-in-waiting effectively because she does it ALL! She quite handily can tell them all to go blow because she has done it all and guess what she's NOT a feminista! Go Sarah! Go McCain!

[Davidson]

But she did not promise special government funding for either thin people or laterally-enabled people, or for people with short hair or people with long hair (or no hair), or for people living in towns with fewer than 18,600 people or people living in towns over 24,350, and all the rest. If only she had promised more free things to more people . . . .

[Ashley]

Actually RADTOP, Obama does write his own speeches. Palin did give a good speech. Low on substance, long on folksy. Perfect for the American public really. Chicken Soup for the Voter's Soul. Palin is just about everything that disturbs the rest of the world about America rolled into an attractive package. I used to think McCain was an honorable guy but I really don't think so any more. He's trying to wind up the religious right with this pick, thinking they'll put him into office, the way they did Bush in 2000. I think it will backfire this time. People long for something other than endless red/blue bickering. Aren't you?

[Never a Dem!]

Oh you must be talking about the 40 Mil stupid Democrats. Tree Huggin, loosers who care more for a blade of grass than a person! And obviously you weren't listening or do you have selective hearing. She did talk about helping America.
Republicans have been here since the beginning, when did the Donkey's come in to play? I have strong feeling Democrats are missing religion in their life and have been brain washed by their, so-called, Ivy League Colleges. They are out of touch with everyone but their own wierd following who are filling the pockets of the dumb Dems to get their way. I feel sorry for them, actually.

[Jack]

Woo! The libs are already making excuses for why McCain is going to win in 2 months!!

http://www.conservativeattackdog.com

[mc]

Sarah Palin has star quality, and she delivered the speech written for her by Scully with skill and verve. However, she said nothing about her religious feelings, which include a belief in the Rapture. Also, her sentiments in regard to important issues have yet to be heard.

So much time belittling Obama indicates the G.O.P. fear of the man - fear that is probably justified. For all the Republican cant about omitting comments in regard to family and children, Sarah Palin talked more
about them than any candidate in recent history. Hypocrisy, hypocrisy...but the woman would make an excellent actress!

[Cathy]

I simply don't think us "liberals" are scared
of Sarah Palin. I think the more appropriate
word is we are embarrassed. What hokum!

[MicroCapmaven]

Way to go Sarah! McCain didn't just pick her out of a hat, folks, as you will learn.

[TeePee]

The US treats politics like reality tv. Little wonder recent programmes like 'Palin's Promotion' fill anyone who cares about the future of this planet with cold disinterest.

[Nancy]

The telepromter wasn't working properly last night and she still delivered a great speech. She was working off a crumpled up draft of her speech.
Just shows that it was her speech and beliefs.
YOU GO GIRL!!

[naman]

"The speech lacked depth and most of all it was shallow without substance. I’m amazed at the lack of discussion about the issues that I feel we need to be addressed."

Funny, I can say the same thing about Obama and all of his posturing over the last few years! All he ever spouts is the same regurgitated, quasi-socialist Democrat spiel I've heard over the last two decades!!

I'm an Independent voter and all I can say is that I'm sold. Count my vote for McCain-Palin in November!!

[Unimpressed]

Palin's speech showed just how immature, and inexperienced she is. She delivered a speech that sounded as if she was running for student council president of Wasilla High. She may have fired up the "base" of the convention, but they needed something after 2 days of the most boring convention ever!

[tdub]

I thought it was all sizzle, no steak. With a large dose of bitterness on top. An utterly tasteless remark about Obama's community service was offensive to anyone who actually rolls up their sleeves to help people less fortunate than Ms. Palin. She essentially ignored speaking about the economy, the most important issue right now--could this be a paucity of ideas? She lied about Obama's tax proposal and she, of course, gave a big boost on the ever popular(?) pro-war, pro-rich, pro-big industry, anti-middle class themes.

It was preaching to the choir. When you look at th underside of her politics, it's even more conservative than McCain.

[Wij]

Too many on the left are (purposefully) missing the point. This was an acceptance speech at a political rally. Gov. Palin's speech was entirely on topic and appropriate for it's audience and purpose. It's purpose was to introduce herself to the people who will officially define the issues for her side in the campaign. (Platform committee)
In that context her speech was perfect

[Elena]

I think you underestimate the independents. From what I'm reading and hearing - Sarah has won them over.

[Julie]

After Sarah's speach last night, I decided to vote for the republican party for sure. My whole life I was raised a democrat. She is someone that can make a positive change.

[JOHN CHUCKMAN, TORONTO]

THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK: SARAH PALIN’S SPEECH

I’ve reassessed my view of Sarah Palin.

My first thought about her usefulness to John McCain was that she would be a draw for disaffected Hillary supporters in a close race, but then all I knew about Sarah was that she characterized herself as a soccer, or hockey, mom.

But already I’ve learned more about her than I ever would have wanted to know, and her simple, original description of herself proves disingenuous at best, and there is the proverbial snowball’s chance in hell of her appealing to Hillary supporters.

A dizzying jumble of images and anecdotes now clutters the Internet. There’s a picture of her in a bikini, with an American flag motif no less, holding a rifle, with a loony grin, poolside. There’s another picture in a black leather mini-skirt, high platform shoes, satiny blouse with revealing décolletage, standing at a bar with a wine glass. There’s the head-shot of her looking through the sight of a military weapon, a la Thatcher in her tank. Then there are the many carefully-posed pictures of her dressed demurely in family groupings, sentimental pictures as familiar to me as her flat Midwestern accent, a holdover from Idaho in her case, which just happens to be America’s favourite refuge for survivalists, private militias, and Aryan lunatics.

Then there are her statements about the bloody, illegal invasion of Iraq being “God’s will.” How would she know that? Because George Bush told her? Or does God personally whisper in her ear? If it’s God, I wonder when He (Sarah being a fundamentalist, it could not possibly be a She) takes the opportunity of speaking to her? When she’s poolside in a bikini, toting a gun, or dressed and scurrying out the door with the clan for Sunday school?

She supported Pat Buchanan, poster boy for everything that is wrong with America, in his Junior Brown Shirt march for the presidency in 2000. Before that, she was a card-carrying member of the Alaska Independence party, not exactly in keeping with Stars-and-Stripes bikinis, but definitely consistent with erratic behavior. There were denials about the Independence party, but the records are there, as is her signature.

She has five children, including her most recent, sadly afflicted with Down syndrome. In this day of certainty through tests, it does seem irresponsible to have such a child, which likely will be dependent on family and society for its entire life. Yes, her behaviour is consistent with her views on abortion – about which she once claimed she would not have an abortion even for a raped daughter – but is it sensible? Does such a decision reflect sound, realistic judgment? Our world today is full of such complex situations and judgments, not a world of simplistic rights or wrongs.

She is against gay marriage, against abortion, and against just about anything else you can find in the “anti” repertoire of religious predators along the lines of Jimmy Swaggert or Jerry Falwell. If she accepts war and mass killing as God’s will, why does she not extend that thinking to gay marriage or tests which help us prevent tragic outcomes from pregnancy?

She’s not much more consistent in her other behaviour and thinking. She’s big on commandments and rules, but that did not stop her from trying to have her brother-in-law dismissed from his job in the state police. Nor did it prevent her hacking into an opponent’s computer to get information to secure her election as mayor. And respect for proper procedures did not cause her a moment’s concern when she used paid lobbyists to land pork-barrel projects for her town.

Sarah is almost an American cartoon character, Daffy Duck waving his wings and flapping his beak madly off in all directions.

Her acceptance speech at the convention was certainly competently delivered, but what did it say? It was literally a set of one-liners, Rush Limbaugh barking away on the radio, without any sense of purpose or direction stated other than winning the election and “serving the people.” God, I would hate to be tasked with listing all the monstrous crimes committed in the name of “serving the people,” almost as many, surely, as those covered by “God’s will” in history.

Actually, there’s very little that is new about Sarah Palin. I’ve seen this act before. In tone and substance and attitude, Sarah is Newt Gingrich in drag. But then Newt was almost as irreligious as John McCain. Sarah, though, has a big fat hunk of old Bob Jones tossed in – after all, in the heady ‘60s, the old man had guards with automatic weapons at the gates of Bob Jones’ University - and that brings us to one of her main purposes in this campaign.

Sarah is there to speak to the born-again crowd, people who do not actually trust John McCain as being sympathetic to their views, and with good reason. Born-agains are roughly a fifth of the American population, and the Republicans never can win without their support. So we’ve gone from having the nuttier class of fundamentalists burrowing into every corner of America’s government under George Bush, affecting even the language used in literature at the Grand Canyon, to having one of their own placed “a heartbeat away” from the presidency, and this by a man whose heartbeat just might not last his term.

[C Smith]

She'll get on well with the Taliban. They are fundamentalist creationists too, and enjoy killing.

[solarplayer]

If I have to hear some liberal in the media, supposedly worried about John McCain dropping over dead before the end of his term one more time....Bad things can happen to any of us, at any time. Biden as the President.....yikes

[TC]

Boy are your panties in a wad! Hannah, be honest, you are in the tank for obama so why not be honest and say so! Get together with Alice Miles and you can have a good ole bitch fest!

[Bernie Harrison]

I am a strong Ron Paul supporter, but, after that speech, I have no choice but to vote for McCain and Palin. Anything, Anything, to keep Obama, the Marxist-Socialist tax and spend liberal out of office. Obama is a moron. Watch the gaffs he makes on You Tube. I'm sorry, but I cannot vote for a man who doesn't even know that there are not 58 states, but 50. What an idiot. If it weren't for Okra Winfrey, he wouldn't even be on the national scene. And of course the communist men who control the media over at CNN, MSNBC,NBC,ABC and CBS. What a sham this mans candidacy it. He's done. Oh, one more thing, lest we forget about Joe Biden. I've followed this mans career for more than 20 years, talk about a joke, doesn't get any funnier than that.

[Al]

Oh the horror! A politician using speechwriters and teleprompters! Scandalous!

Actually, the real problem is that Gov. Palin said things that made leftist elites uncomfortable, offended their delicate sensibilities, and disturbed their insular worldview. Things that appeal to the bitter masses who cling to our guns and religion. Things that linger uncomfortably in their elitist gut because they privately worry that they just might be true.

I just love reading liberal rants! It is always amazing how open-minded, accommodating, and tolerant the liberal left is of divergent opinions and viewpoints that differ from their own.

[zqll]

John Chuckman from Toronto says:

"She has five children, including her most recent, sadly afflicted with Down syndrome. In this day of certainty through tests, it does seem irresponsible to have such a child, which likely will be dependent on family and society for its entire life."

Down Syndrome children do develop very well emotionally, intellectually and physically. Many work for a living and can take care of themselves and compete in sports and enjoy life.

Unlike John Chuckman, they are intelligent enough to not support Hitlerian eugenics notions about those considered less than "perfect."

[BC]

I thought her speach went well, and - - contained as much content as most of Obama's do. Delivered nicely, and with as much or more enthusiasm as Obama's - - and more than Biden's?
I applaud McCain's selection, as it is totally uncovering the bias that many people have.
A. First Woman selected to be VP, yet the Feminists are against her?
B. A woman that every HUNTER is going to be forced to support?
C. And true Hillary supporters will need to support her, as a M/P win, will allow Hillary to run against in 2012?

I mean, ya got to love it as a tactical move, if nothing else. Paulin for VP, is just delicious high humor - - irregardless of her policies.

McCain can smile and laugh now - - cause this puts the game away.
Republicans. The party of diversity!

[Jon, Philadelphia]

Here's a 24 year old's view on her speech. My parents were immigrants to the U.S.A.,they're Muslim and they worked their butts off so I could go to school here, and I did.

Growing up, we've had just as much love for the foundations and promise of this country than anyone present in the RNC, DNC or any candidate, pundit, or right-wing, left-wing, Christian, Jew, Atheist, etc.

But what gets us extremely angry and frustrated is, especially the Republican party who does this, but Democrats are sometimes at fault as well, is mention that America was/is based on Christian or "family" values, capitalism,free trade and every other polarizing word both sides use to get our votes.

No, the United States of America is, was, and I hope when I have my family, will be, a union of peoples who work together to ensure that my religion, or yours, or his or hers does not affect or play a bias on how OUR government is run. Here's another, bigger point.

We were founded on the basis that we, as Americans, are the best compromisers on the planet. We can, if we hold true to our belief that it's what makes us great, have a gay family living next door to a pro-life christian family living next door to a muslim family living next door to a jewish family and so on, without hate or animosity, because we're all Americans, not Iranian, not Irish, not Cuban, not Chinese. American.

When Ms. Palin talks to a hall filled with a majority of like-minded people, though same with Obama, they're not talking to America, if they really want to see their country, go to the Chinatowns, go to the ghettos (God forbid they even mention), go to the inner city schools in New York, Chicago, LA, NY, Philadelphia, and Washington, and then after that, talk about what America's real problems are.

And finally, I hope to God that a majority of this country is open-minded enough to think outside of the U.S. because that's where our roots lie, on our ability to take examples from the world and either learn from them to not repeat mistakes or incorporate ideas into our own national identity, neither of which Sarah Palin demonstrated in her speech, and I truly believe, like true Republicans in their hearts believe that there was a LONG list of candidates much more revitalizing to the party than a 1.5 term governor.

Never mind the media coverage and the "3 am phone call" metaphor that we've bombarded with daily, but does anyone really think this woman could tour Europe, and visit Russia, sit with PM Putin or Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and talk about America's unstable relationship?

[Cimarron]

I'm an independent & she's starting to win me over.

Oh, and the teleprompter broke about half way through ........ but she carried on and didn't miss a beat, except that people that had the script noticed she was deviating from it.

Imagine if Obama's teleprompter ever broke ....... roflmao

[George]

One speech does not a candidate make. She has yet to hold a press conference where she takes questions from the press. She has yet to debate Sen. Biden. She has yet to show she knows where Iran is located (her running mate thinks it's next to Pakistan). She has yet to show she knows the differences between Sunnis and Shiites. She has yet to show she knows anything about the credit crisis. She has yet to answer questions about her husband's membership in the secessionist Alaska Independence Party (America, love it or leave it--remember that pithy slogan?). She has yet to answer questions about her lust for earmarks. She has yet to answer questions about being investigated for ethics violations. She has yet to explain how someone who failed utterly as a parent in keeping her daughter from having premarital sex while preaching abstinence as a mother and a politician can lead the nation by moral example.

There's a whole lotta time 'tween now and election day. Sarah Barracuda has plenty of time to meet the real barracudas in the American press.

[A Todd]

Palin has 'Star Quality'

That's it, the rest of what is written here is worthless. Why bother even trying to debate the whole thing when there are people out there who write things like that.

Only the US could fall in love with somebody in just one week and then write things like 'she's ready to be president', 'she's done it all'. This isn't a Shakespeare love story for crying out loud!

Please please please US...don't keep making the same mistake over and over again. You are broken and you need a change of direction - some can see that already.

I don't want to seeing e-mails with pictures of American's holding 'We're sorry' boards up again...so sad

[lawhite]

I'm amused by the Democrats saying her speech lacked substance! When did Obama give a speech with substance? We STILL don't know how he is going to tax all the rich for the billions more in dollars that his socialism will cost...we don't have enough rich folks for it all. ..guess who will pay the rest of it.
I think no matter what Palin said, it would not be good enough for the Obamanites. But it was good enough for me, an independent. And I think the Democrats are scared of her. So they create silly rumors (her 4-month-old is really her daughter's, who is 5-months pregnant????) and concentrate on her stand on abortion and tell us she should stay home and take care of the kids.
And you say she was "mean" to talk about Obama? Latest polls say 52% of the nation thinks Palin is getting a raw deal from the attacks from the media. Keep it up, Dems, and you will see the back lash.
The lady tells it like it is and is no light weight. I think she should be president.

[HappyHappyJoyJoy]

Leaving aside the already disproven "facts" and misrepresentations about Gov. Palin, there's an adage, Godwin's Law, that states that whoever brings up the Nazis (and by extension, the Taliban), has sunk so deeply into personal attacks that there's nowhere to go, and has therefor forfeited the argument.

The basis for most of these remarks seem to stem from her religion. If one actually examines her track record to determine how much of a threat she is, one would have to come away with the impression that she is no fanatic about it, and manages to separate her personal beliefs from her constitutional duties -- a real breath of fresh air in politics.

To be fair, if one examines Palin's religion, the personal application of it, and the respect she gives her state's constitution, then all of the above should be examined -- from Obama's side.

Obama's church, the one he has attended for around twenty years, was married in, has given tens of thousands of dollars to, and in which he has had his children baptized, preaches black liberation theology. Look it up and determine if you'd care for a leader who gives it credence. Obama, unlike Palin, has no personal executive track record, and so we have no idea how much the BLT message would influence his actions. Also, we know from his Supreme Court preferences that he holds the view that the US Constitution, the contract between the federal government and the governed, is actually a "living document," that is to say, whatever is useful at the time.

So, who is the candidate really to be feared? I'm not religious at all and don't share Palin's views on creationism and gays, but I'll take my chances with McCain/Palin, thank you very much.

[Chris]

Oh my, just listen to the hate and vitriol and lies spread by the leftist nazis posting on this story. Shes a Taliban, Blacks must run for cover, she didnt write her own speech(lol Obama didnt write his own speech). Its wonderful, its beautiful it shows absolute fear in the weasels of hate on the left here in the USA. They hate Washington outsiders, they loather motherhood and mothers, they hate the fact that she hails from a small town. She is their greatest fear and the GOP's brightest light.

[Niki]

As a former Hillary Supporter - let me tell you...Sarah Rocks! Hillary rolled over to the media pressure and Obama's scare tactics!

Second - Obama DOESN'T write his speeches and he can't speak without a teleprompter. Sarah's teleprompter went out and she handled it so well that no one could even tell!

She proved to me that she is a leader and she's right. Obama has had 11 years in office and for all the "hope and change" he has promised over the years he hasn't lead any change! He's too busy promoting his rock star image and campaigning then leading and actually doing something for the people!

Obama wants health care - why hasn't he written a bill for healthcare? He's had 11 years. He wants to create jobs? Why hasn't Obama done anything to help generate jobs in Illinois? Illinois was the 4th worse in the nation for job growth during the 8 years Obama was in the state senate. (Don't believe me, google poverty and Illinois and look at the poverty report)

Dem's are very scared now because Sarah pointed out all of Obama's flaws to 37 million viewers! Ask yourself, what has Obama done to prove that he can be a leader when push comes to shove? If another 9/11 happens what is Obama going to do? Say "present" ? Obama is not a leader and Sarah made that more than clear!

[Feckman]

What is it about this country?!

From a Texas cowboy to an Alaskan hockey mom -- what is it about Americans that make them want someone "just like me" in the White House? Personally, I don't want someone just like me. I want someone better than me. Smarter than me. More experienced than me. More worldly than me.

Shame on anyone who buys into this trite political garbage after eight years of someone "just like me" running our country's liberties, economy, environment and international standing into the ground.

[j williams]

I'm definitely scared of Palin. By choosing her, McCain has inadvertently hastened his own demise in the party. If she gets into the white house, the United States is going to be a theocracy by 2012, with creationism being taught in schools, women not having the right to vote, and America being bankrupt, if Palin's recklessness with the town budget in Alaska is anything to go by.

[Roy]

"To bad we've got 40 million stupid people in this country - Posted by: Langx"

That attitude is why your guy doesn't get the votes, genius.

[atheling]

Poor Feckman.

You should move to a country where they have a monarchy whose boots you can lick if you don't want someone "like" yourself.

You don't belong in a republic.

[Andris Heks]

Palin's views belong to the 18th, not to the
21st century.

[melanie]

Isnt it funny how the left always says its wrong ? but lefties didnt hillary herself say he was full of hot air?? she sure did and she should know ,Palin will give better than she gets and she will be loved by all she is just great ,and so down to earth ,and at the end of the day who in their right mind would put a muslim in charge of nukes ?? there is no such thing as born a muslim and now a christian they dont allow religion change.GO PALIN""SOMEONE GENUINE AT LAST!!

[melanie]

And all Africans should remember it was the republicans who abolished slavery .

[MELANIE]

The one thing you have got to love is drill baby drill !!!sure sounds a lot better than these stupid green fanatics that lie to steal your taxes ,save the world ,oh yeah from what you radical morons ? no one can predict the future ,and no one can change the weather you morons.DRILL BABY DRILL !!GET THAT OIL AND GAS.What a fresh change from the pollywaffle democrats .GO PALIN!!

[Mr Tim]

I just want to know if Sen.Obama signed for the 'Selective Service',when he turned 18..as required by 'Federal Law'....and where...any takers

[J. Bond]

She's intelligent, strong, successful; a powerhouse. At 44, she's the Vice Presidential nominee of the largest economy on earth. Tell me, what are YOUR accomplishments?

[Dan, University of York]

I was blown away by Sarah Palin's speech! Initially I thought her selection was a cynical token gesture by McCain to try and capture disillusioned Hillary supporters, but after that Tour de Force, I can see she is anything BUT token! She easily gave the best speech of either convention, and the proof is that the next day the left wing media launched a visceral and unjustified attack on her like a bunch of vampires flinching away from a newly opened window of light. You know you are doing good when they do that, because if she wasnt a threat they wouldnt bother!

As for her personal views, whether someone is pro-life or pro-choice, the reality of the federal system, and the case of Roe vs. Wade, means that it is actually immaterial what the leaders of America think about abortion because the laws governing it are very unlikely to change. But what you do get from examining her views on abortion is a sense of her being a true conviction politician. And boy does she have the courage of her convictions! She was told a month into her pregnancy that she would give birth to a child with down syndrome, and she still stuck to her beliefs and didnt take the easy way out. Instead she decided to dedicate herself to caring for that child for the rest of her life. I'm generally pro-choice, but I'm humbled by the courage, compassion and conviction of this woman.

As for her attacks on Obama, that is the job of a VP candidate! To essentially be the person who has the presidential candidate’s back and she signaled she knew her role when she said "What’s the difference between a hockey mom and a pitbull? Lipstick!" Not only did she act completely appropriately in terms of her role, the things she criticized about Obama were legitimate criticisms! The left can howl all they want but the fact is : He hasnt run anything! My father by sheer virtue of running his company has more executive experience than him! Despite this unashamedly biased article by Hannah Strange, in the normally impartial and level headed Times, the fact is Obama didnt author one single bit of legislation, and the one piece of legislation authored by someone else which he happened to support (cited by Strange as proof of his great legislating record) frankly is pathetic! I think you will find that Obama has abstained from almost more votes than he has backed and or rejected combined! Maybe it was because he was too busy writing 'The Audacity of Hope', whilst all along the people who elected him were audaciously hoping that he would actually DO SOMETHING!

Palin summed up the difference between Obama and McCain very succinctly - “Some men dedicate change, to their careers, and some men dedicate their careers to change”. Actions speak louder than words and whilst Obama undoubtedly has many gilded and eloquent words for voters he has few deeds to his name. I hope that this fact will make American voters chose substance over style and vote McCain-Palin in November 2008.

Dan, London

[MPC]

With all due respect to the more leftist-minded here, Obama had his chance to seal the deal and failed. We were plenty nice to the guy, and still is an appealing young candidate in many ways, but found a big problem. The positive change America wanted to see turned out to be that the old cultural-liberal far left, that bitter bunch sitting opposite the hardcore believers on the right, was the heart of the Obama candidacy.

McCain on the other hand always was and always will be John McCain. People, I for one, admire him for being loyal first and foremost to his sense (not always correct mind you) of virtue. He isn't of the politicized left or right, and it is too evident to smear away. I don't appreciate the Democrats for doing it either, cause they're just "more of the same" now.

Palin for her matter also has a bit of an exceptional persona, she's from a different background as a cultural conservative gun-toting type, but is not your bread and butter Republican by any means. She appeals in the same way that Obama does. People like her are leader material.

[Pat from Texas]

Not so fast -

Palin's job tonight was to introduce herself. Tell people where she stands. What she is about. She doesn't make policy for the party. I would be ridiculous for her to do so.
To lay out the party - and more important, his own position - is McCain's job tonight.
(last night now).

In Alaska, she hasn't tried to make the fundamentalists (which I am not) an official branch of the government.

If she has tried to get some books out of the schools, perhaps we should ask about the books? Are they revisionist? Do they teach that America has caused all the misery in the world as the leftist Dems and leftist universities would like?

Do you mean universities don't do that? Ward Churchill knows better - he made a pile of Colorado University money doing it.

Do the books that citizens object to, teach kindergarden children about homosexuaity - sex education? Moral relativism? That is a parent's prerogative in their own time.

It is no government's right to teach my children religious values.

Local populations should have some control over the curriculum of their school - not the leftist branch of the NEA.

Perhaps we should not be so hasty to believe the leftist press.

[Just Bill]

Yes, we're all morons on the right, here in the USA. Palin is a clueless rube in a skirt. Please underestimate us again and Obama will join the ranks of Kerry, Gore, Dukakis, et.al. come November.

[Republic First]

Wow J Williams, you are an idiot! A theocracy, what? You must be some kind of crazy left winger.

First of all if you know anything about the American government is that the Pres. and Vice Pres. are the executives, not the legislatures. They do not create the laws they either sign the bill into a law or veto, plus also running certain bureaucracies and the like. Now I don't know where you're looking but the last time I checked the Senate and House are both controlled by the Democrats, hmm, they are going to allow a theocracy that you state? Like I said idiot, but then again that is the problem with a lot of people in this country. They look at the Pres. to be the leader and yes they are, but at the same time they do not create laws, although they can have laws passed in congress that are sponsored, but create? No. This is part of my problem with the whole spiel of electing a Pres. it has become somewhat of a popularity contest, especially in recent times, no wonder why the Presidency has gained so much in power compared to the other two branches.

Now is it possible that President could be turned dictator? Absolutely. All one needs to look at is the past for that answer (do I need to mention Rome - Republic turned Empire, or Nazi Germany - Democracy turned Dictatorship and many other such examples). Could this happen in 4 years, possibly, but highly unlikely, we would need multiple catastrophes that caused a near collapse of the country. This would include the collapse of both the parties as well, but like I said highly unlikely, so, J Williams I do not know exactly what your point is, but do try to back up your claim that a Theocracy and the other such things would occur, the same thing could be said with Obama too...

Oh by the way, Sarah Palin is the perfect choice for Sen. McCain, I said since day one, that he needs someone young and also popular, well Sarah is definitely young. Popular and a good fighter? Possibly, but we'll find that out with the debates with Joe Biden, I can't wait. Also it seems perfect to choose a women, it is definitely a political move, but isn't that what politics is about, check out Obama's choice.

[A Lilley]

As an Alaskan, I have the advantage of knowing a bit more about Palin than the general US public.
I did not vote for Palin for Governor of Alaska, but if given another opportunity I would. You'll figure it out if you sit down, be quiet and watch long enough. Sarah Palin is a force to be reckoned with. She has done a lot for Alaska and most Alaskans I have talked to had two reactions to the news of her nomination:
1. NO! we need her here...and then
2. WOW! maybe the country needs her more.
But hey, if you all decide you don't want Sarah Palin in office - we will definitely be wanting her back in the Alaska Governors Mansion.
PS - undecided no more - I will support McCain/Palin for president.

[jo]

Ok.....here's a scenario.....she's prolife...what if she gets pregnant while in office?

With those who endorse her I'm totally reminded of the story...'The Emporeror's New Clothes'. The Republicans are spinning with how wonderful she is...and those who don't dare to think for themselves are the mindless subjects . If they win I'll seriously consider becoming Canadian.

[Mike]

Sarah Palin was reading the teleprompter, my 6 year old daughter can do that. She is currently reading Foreign Relations for Dummies, and Idiots Guide to Economics. Seriously, she is standing out there mocking a Harvard Educated Lawyer, a man who has taught the Constitutions and a US and state senator as a community organizer. She went to university of Idaho, a tier 3 school, majoring in communication, so she picks on Obama's actual strength and makes a fool out of herself and her zombie followers. Being from california, I guess you don't need qualification to run for office anymore, after all we voted for Arnold the muscle head. I guess we never learn.

[Linda Gray]

I missed the speech...working midnights, TV prime time is my sleep time, so I don't have the influence & hype of the media to tarnish my views. Her speech was an "acceptance speech", not her plan for America. After much research, Palin has won my vote. Her integrity, her non partisan attack on ethics violations in her own state, her efforts to cut costs are clearly actions, not empty promises or teleprompted words. She has a proven track record of constituant approval as governor ...her personal beliefs appear to never have affected her constitutional duties, she hasn't the power or ability, even as vice president, to one handedly overturn Roe vs. Wade...so what's everyone so scared of? That maybe, for once, she's really what she appears to be and will truly make an effort to work for the people, by the people? Damn...I hope so.

[British Boy]

John McCain is 72. not perfect health. if he should die in next 4 years then Sarah Palin will be in the most powerful position in the world. what does ahe understand about international affairs? cant imagine her in complex talks with world leaders about all the problems we face.If she thinks it was "Gods will" to go into Iraq then the world should be in fear at the thought of MrsPalin as President of America. world war 3 on the way.she is intellectually unable to make rational decisions.Red neck apple pie and mom is not enough in a dangerous world. Vote McCain and Palin and start to fear..

[George]

As an English 21 year-old, I can honestly say I find Sarah Palin the most terrifying woman (no - person) in the world today. The fact is not only that, with a pack of half-truths, a love for guns, and a few artful snaps of her mothering her Downs Syndrome baby (fat chance of HIM getting much attention if she's veep), she can sway so many people. It's what this says about America, and the likely outcome of the elections. You are morons - each and every one of you - if you allow this woman anywhere near significant political office. Keep her in Alaska, out of society's way. If you honestly think homophobia, creationism, and thinly-veiled racism are the way forward, then go for it. But you can hardly complain when the next 9/11 comes along and the world is suddenly reluctant to help.
Please, America, make the right decision. Send this crusty old Nazi (and John McCain) out into the hinterland, and welcome someone who has the sort of integrity you need as a country. I don't doubt Palin has integrity; I also don't doubt that it's not the courage in her convictions that scares me, but the convictions themselves.

[john millan]

I am amused that no one is pointing out that Gov. Palin has equal or more experience than Obama (who has NO executive experience) and who is an ardent political ally of convicted communist domestic US terrorist, William Ayers, who bombed the US Capitol and the NYC Police HQ in 1971. This thug now says he is only sorry that he didn't set off more bombs. As a retired reserve soldier who served in Iraq, as a retired lower-48 cop (NC) and now as an Alaska Police Chief, I KNOW what kind of leader Sarah Palin is. She fought big oil interests and politics (and won!), she crushed the old political power structure of the Alaska Republicans and she is a champion of working people; she gave us each $1200.00 in state fuel rebates from the AK oil dividends. That is why she has an 80% approval, rating, making her the most popular Governor in the USA. I can also note that she does not want to surrender to Islamic fascists like Obama does, though he was finally forced to admit he was wrong on the "surge" in Iraq. Why did he take 6 months to admit he was wrong? Why did he usge Georgia to use "restaint" as it was being invaded? He is a lackluster dullard and an inexperienced stooge of the radical left, a nefarious bunch dedicated to the fall of western society. If a woman is not a radical, lesbian, marxist atheist, the liberal media cricifies her!

Yeah, go Sarah ! She's just like us !!

Unless we reserve the right to make informed decisions about our bodies and personal circumstances.

Or don't feel like framing our every decision by an antiquated anti-Semetic book which was never intended to be interpreted literally anyway.

Or don't think the right to shoot random animals with high powered rifles should take priority over the right to feel protected from school shootings.

Or place decency, compassion, and commitment to personal value ahead of sexual orientation when allocating rights within society.

Or seek to find a philosohical compromise between spiritual belief and scientific fact.

Sarah Palin: the candidate who's just like you......as long as you don't dare disagree with her.

[John Small]

The Chinese government is packed with engineering and science graduates, the Russian government has similarly bright people. Yet the US might elect a VP who thinks the world was created 6,000 years ago and wants the children of America to think like her. McCain has an itchy trigger finger and thinks bombing people is the way to do things. Palin thinks that invading Iraq was "doing God's plan". They're a pair of nut jobs.

The best thing that could happen is that the US would have another civil war but this time let the redneck states leave the union. That way the rest of the world would have an intelligent educated US to deal with, and the dimbo parts could be isolated.

[John]

I think that Palin is the best choise that the republicans could make but I dont think that she can persuade the female voters who haven't still make a choise.
In my opinion nothing can now change the win of Barack Obama. He is very popular, with fresh new ideas and he can change america for the best!

[Brett]

Chris, I hate to burst your bubble but Nazis weren't exactly leftists. Melanie, are you suggesting all African Americans should vote eternally Republic because they abolished slavery? And I take it only Christians should be put in charge of "nukes"?
Some of these comments make you question the intelligence of the average American voter. Palin made her speech about nothing, only a few days ago and already everybody loves her? What does she stand for? You're all sheep!
Democracy in action? Very scary indeed.

[Jon D Omaha, NE]

I think it's so very funny how scared the Dems are acting. It just goes to show how good a choice McCain made when he picked her.

When Obama supporters start to say how she won't have time to be a mother to five children and fulfill the office of VP I start to wonder just how honest they've been all these years about wanting woman's rights. Seriously, you honestly think a woman can't have children and work a difficult job? Perhaps you think she should be washing the dishes or something eh?

[SN]

If you're voting for McCain people let's remember it's another 4 years of Bush. So if you're content with you're vote for Bush in the last 2 elections than McCain is your guy. Make the same mistake you did in 2000 and 2004. When McCain picked Palin, I thank him, because now I am definately voting for Obama. We're not afraid of Palin it's just a ridiculous choice on every possible issue, but she'll get her 60 days of fame. She also should stop parading her pregnant daughter's boyfriend to these events to show how moral they are...NOT. He is obviously being exploited for her political gain. Obama/Biden 08.

[Lynai]

"She has five children, including her most recent, sadly afflicted with Down syndrome. In this day of certainty through tests, it does seem irresponsible to have such a child, which likely will be dependent on family and society for its entire life. "

OMG, I can see the party of Eugenics is alive and well on the liberal left.

Is it any wonder that average, decent Americans reject what the left offers..if there is any doubt, read the above quote, given to us by the bloviating poster John Chuckman.

[peter c]

Palin's speech made my skin crawl- she's plainly a nutter and a dangerous one at that-all sensible Americans will reject her mindless ravings with any luck

[Feckman]

You know what they say, Atheling -- first-class people surround themselves with first-class people. Second-class people surround themselves with third-class people.

What I *really* don't want is someone like "you".

[Jeff]

It's about time that conservatives unite and stand up to the liberal racist known as Obama. The democrat party has been trying to divide this country for years, and thanks to the liberal presses attacks on Palin,it will be stopped again. Thank you to all of the Move on dot Org liberals for uniting the Republican base

[joe ullman]

you know, speeches are speeches, they can motivate or alienate. You are all missing the point. The content of the speech was good/bad/indifferent. The issue is body language. The conviction she demonstrated. most people can't even give a powerpoint to their colleagues without wetting their pants. If you couldn't see the determination and fire and zeal in her delivery and her eyes, and the set of her jaw, then you weren't looking. That's what the speech showed. I am an East Coast elite - I have 3 college degrees from Duke, Rutgers, and George Washingont, plus post doc training at one Ivy, just in case I need to rub elbows with the Kennedy's, Gores, or Kerry's. And a good resume doesn't make a good leader. Leadership, character, conviction make a great leader. So whatever you think of her speech, she's a grass roots real person who lacks the false prerequisites of the intelligentsia. And if she's half as good as she came off, she'll be light years better than her peers or competitors, including McCain and Biden. If McCain buys the farm the day after inauguration, guess what - she's going to have advisors, a Cabinet, and former leaders to utilize. She'll be an executive, not a King or Queen.
And lay off the Teleprompter bit already. We know that. You don't run an 11 billion dollar state and take out corrupt crony's in a state like Alaska by depending on others to write your scripts.

[joe ullman]

there's a remark in this blog about what disturbs the rest of the world about American's. And of course, liberal democrats are desperately trying to win the approval of that world. Qaddafi, Putin, Chavez, Castro, etc.
The world is better off because of us, like it or not. The entire pacific is better off because of our presence, both in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. The free-est and most progressive socities are all borne of the American-British axis. Singapore, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Canada, US, Britain. The former soviet satellite states - from Lithuania to Croatia - embrace America (and hate the Brits, BTW, esp. Croatia) because they know their new found liberty is due to us. The 100 million who were slaughtered during the 20th century by Stalinist/Leninist communists and their useful idiots owe their demise to the "hate America" crowd that festers in pockets in Europe. Interesting that the French elected a Pro Bush, partially jewish anti immigrant leader. Italy as well. Africa suffers not because of the US, but because of European imperialism and Soviet colonization. The middle east likewise is mired in post WWII nazi admiration. Because of our internal decay, American hegemony may well be over, and as an isolationist, maybe good riddance, but it will be to the detriment of you - the Europeans, the America haters. Wanna see how its gonna go? Ask a Georgian....get medical treatment in Saudi arabia. Try to express feminist, pro gay views in an Islamic society.
So don't patronize us by suggesting a Yale Grad or U. Idaho "hockey mom" is some sort of effete moron or cowboy.

[Jeff Perren]

"To bad we've got 40 million stupid people in this country"

Yes, and they voted either for Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton over the past year.

[Anne]

As an independent American voter who tries to see all sides of an issue, I found John McCain's choice of Sarah Palin as his vice-president to be disturbing on many levels. In my lifetime, I have seen two vice-presidents become presidents and it is not improbable that Sarah Palin could become president. John McCain is 72 years old a cancer survivor and that raises his risk of dying or being unable to serve out his term of office. I do not feel that Sarah Palin is qualified to become vice-presidency on a number of levels. There are many highly qualified Republican women who John McCain could have selected and who would be qualified to serve as President. What puzzles me is why did John McCain choose Ms. Palin rather then those female candidates. I understand why Obama chose Joe Biden over Hillary Clinton and his choice of a candidate has the experience to be president.

Although I would love to see a woman as President or Vice-President, I do not any idealogue to become president or vice-president. Idealogues fail to see all sides of an issues because it would clash with their rigid view. For instance in the area of abortion, an idealogue sees all abortion as evil and can not see that forcing a woman or girl (in the case of a teenager or pre-teen) to follow through on a pregnancy resulting from a rape/incest could be emotionally traumatic. Or, if a woman is carrying a baby who either dies before birth or will live less then 12 hours & could jeopardize her life or ability to have more children is wrong. An idealogue sees issues as either one way or the another and this is not the way to solve problems. And, in my 56 years of life, I've seen too many idealogues who have one standard for themselves and another standard for others. This appears to be the case for Sarah Palin. She doesn't believe in earmarks in the federal budget yet seeks millions of dollars for her town in earmark funds. She anti-abortion and anti-family planning funding for teenagers. Why? Because she's an idealogue who believes that unmarried woman should not be sexually active, she limits their ability to prevent pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases. I prefer someone who understands that their is always multiple ways of solving problems and who is willing to include differing opinions in problem-solving.

So, as a woman with strong religious views, I'm going to vote for two men who I feel at least will act in a pragmatic manner.

[Boston JOe]

There are some powerful subtleties going on in this American election.

I think Obama is overly insulated by his lieutenants and followers, reinforced by the sycophantic media, leaving he and his campaign somewhat politically blind.

Obama is over-confident to the extreme. Obama and his followers believe their own press, and have long-assumed that they've already won the election. Basically, they live in an echo chamber among a homogeneity of audience, both input and out.

This combination of political blindness and over-confidence lead to the huge, and quite possibly fatal, blunder not to pick Hillary as the VP. Clinton earned that spot by winning 50% of the vote and almost the nomination herself. If there were indeed 58 states, as Obama has claimed (he's going to be President :), Hillary would have overtaken him. Obama foolishly torched 1/2 his party.

By selecting Biden (omg), Obama actually selected Palin for McCain. Hillary for VP would have prevented Palin being chosen.

Obama is over-exposed to the American people. We're sick of his uplifted nose and messianic treatment by his cult.

Palin is a fascinatingly new, unique and charismatic figure. Our insatiable craving for celebrity is going to induce Palin Mania. While the politically-motivated media will smear, there will be increasingly positive tabloid and TV coverage for the Saracuda.

It's also possible that the Obama campaign is getting fatigued. It's been the longest and hardest fought campain in history already. All those months where McCain took it easy may make a difference.

Palin's career path is littered with the corpses of those that underestimated her. From what I've read and heard, I don't think she's ever failed at anything.

In 2 months, Palin Mania should just about peak. I expect an 8-10 point victory for McCain.

[Richard]

I am a "former" GOPer turned independent, since my party has drifted away. As pathetic as this race was until a few days ago, I was resigned to not even bothering to vote this election. WOW! I see in Palin an energetic "everyperson" who may finally shake things up in Washington. The fact that she's a she, a mom of not only a special needs child but a deployed Army soldier, a proven reformer unafraid to take on her own party are all positives in my book. But best of all, I see her as complimenting McCain - as his experience and influence will bolster her - making a powerful executive team. I haven't bought into the "Change" promised by the Democrats, since they have failed to tell me HOW they will change things. Hurricane Katrina brought CHANGE to the Gulf Coast, where I live. Yeah, I can pretty much live without undefined change... But REFORM, now that's a different story. Reform is something I can believe in and support. Reform is something I will buy.

I *WILL* be voting in this General Election, and the lever I pull will say "McCain - Palin."

[Nancy Blakely]

"To bad we've got 40 million stupid people in this country"

Your comment suggests there are 40,000,001.

[MICHAEL]

Perhaps, as an English reader I might apologize to Americans for the contributions to two of our ignorant young bigots 'British Boy' and 'George'. We have a lot of them I am sorry to say.

The entire electoral process so far, through the emergence of candidates in the primaries, and the conventions has been
a thrilling and totally absorbing spectacle, and there is more excitement to come. Well done America! Very well done! And as usual, showing the rest of the world what real democracy looks like, and how it behaves.
Did our two ignorant young bigots by chance notice how our neighbours in France were choosing the leader of their major opposition
party during the Republican Convention? Were they inspired by the rather grubby procedures by which our own PM was chosen? Are they thrilled and involved in the present attempts to unseat him.

Two outstanding candidates have emerged from the American process, and maybe two outstanding VP nominees -though Biden still has something to prove.

Whoever wins, you will have a president to be proud of, but of the process itself you may already be proud, and justly say to other democracies -beat that!

[anna]

Palin or Biden? Scary VP a heartbeat away from the presidency? It's sure not Palin.

[John K]

Palin is wonderful. She's the kind of woman that really scares liberals:

*Intelligent
*Successfull
*Aggressive
*Conservative
*Beautiful

She's exactly ehat Hillary isn't!

[Brenda]

Two things: Sen Obama no longer owns the WOW factor ... Sarah does.

and two: This woman will appeal to millions of women across the country ... and she has accomplished everything she has without piggy-backing on her husband's career.

Hillary must be in shock over this.

[Andrea Green]

Why haven't people learned that the republicans have nothing to offer but more of the same,they talk about family values.But whose family values? Doesn't family values value the family by providing for the basic needs of the family like job security, instead of job lay offs or outsourcing of jobs overseas to slave labor, doesn't family values mean mom and dad can keep a roof over their head and not lose the house, doesn't family values mean medical care especially for children, doesn't family values mean education for our youth and opportunity, doesn't family values mean helping our elderly and disabled? Doesn't family values mean helping our troops get health care and benefits they need. What do the republicans call family values?Just going to church? (Not that that is a bad thing. ) But these issues that confront families can rip them apart. What ideas do the republicans have in terms of turning the economy around? If the best they can do is attack the democrats, they must not be very innovative, or perhaps don't have any ideas to offer in the first place. Makes you want to think.Why on earth would people vote for more of the same and listen to the dead- end hollow rhetoric of the republican candidates

[Andrea Green]

To Anne , you make some intelligent comments about seeing more than one side to an issue. That is part of the problem with the republicans, it is either their way or no way at all.

[Andrea Green]

I will be voting too in the election, and pull the lever for Obama /Biden. There is no way we can withstand another eight years of more of the same.... rhetoric,policy or other wise. Why on earth would someone vote for more war, more deficit ,lack of ingenuity and a failing economy? Makes you wonder about people and what their priorities are.

[Andrea Green]

Welcome to the new wild west, the problem with many people who vote is they do not see the larger picture,like how McCain and his Bush like policies will affect our country.It is Bush deja vu. Do people ever learn? And for those who call themselves pro-lifers why are you so gung ho to start more wars with other countries who have not threatened us or have even provoked an attack and send more of our young people to go off and fight wars for the oligarchy and the necons.Isn't all human life precious? We went to war with Iraq for totally the wrong reason and on false evidence of WMDS. Meanwhile our troops and our vets languish without healthcare and have a hard time getting benefits. Why is it that America should equate everything with violence or see that as the solution to every problem we encounter with other countries?They don't live by our standards or our rules. And why expect them to?Sure I beleive we need a military to deal with real threats but going to war with any country who doesn't agree with our way of living or follow our way isn't the answer.The world is as it is. We think we have to run their affairs instead of ours.Meanwhile what is going on here at home? Let's look at that. The news isn't encouraging when you hear of major layoffs, or people losing their homes. What are the real issues and who is going to pay for the wars and more wars that McCain has promised us? Not the rich. Big corporations thrive on the war machine., because they stand to make alot of wealth in countries that are under our thumb so to speak.We are more like the Germans and Japanese during WW2 ,seeking to impose our will on the rest of the world.Do people learn from the past? We will see. But the world isn't going to accomodate us just because we happen to be a super power and have the muscle to show it.

[RC]

When the Republicans win again in November we'll have the same astonished Libs wondering how they "lost". Of course they won't admit defeat because they are incapable of this. Insane theories will be made and bloggers will spew more horrible lies. Just read the comments in virtually every story and you hear from some of the most disgusting people on the planet but people who actually believe what the Republicans are saying are "stupid", "racist", "rednecks", etc. Talk about the pot calling the kettle black.

[Nancy]

Sarah Palin does not represent my ideal political leader. I am offended to think that McCain would assume she does. There were plenty of other, more qualified female politicians out there, so why he chose this redneck one is way beyond me.

[Naimad]

If McCain-Palin attracts the conservatives and those who lean more to the conservative side they win the election. Moderates are overrated. By definition, they are spineless fence sitters. One other thing, the only "stupid" people out of the 40 million that watched Sarah were the ones that didn't realize she was eating their lunch.

[Bob]

I've read a dozen or more quotes from Sarah's speach reposted by people on the web, hundreds of times. Can anyone even remember one line from Obama's?

2'nd point. When Hillary knew she was losing the primary, she finally went on the Fox show O'Reilly. Obama has now done the same thing. He is pretty much toast, or burnt toast as we like to say.

[EllenO]

The great fun is watching the left misunderstand the right - and the right once again get the measure of the left.

The left's marvelous hubris causes them to underestimate time and again the smart people on the right.

The fatuous comment above about '40 million stupid people' is a classic example. The left's logic is impeccable: only stupid people cannot see the sense of the leftist approach therefore right wingers 'must' be stupid.

[Sorta Seattle]

Wow. The content of this article is far surpassed by the comments. Love the contrast of views and the sense that independents and disaffected Republicans are being strongly pulled to the McCain-Palin ticket. Excellent analysis of the Obama campaign by several savvy posters, as well as seeming shallowness and cluelessness by pro-Obama posters. Gertrude Stein could have been speaking about Obama and his followers (rather than Oakland) when she said: "There's no there there".

[Mike]

So far in these nominations we've experienced biased news coverage that supports Obamas campaign on both sides of the 'pond'. Reading the UK or US papers like the New York Times all I see is Obama-mania with what looks like religious fever over the second coming of our Lord. I have asked many sane individuals where did that man come from, what has he done, what is he going to do but their responses are all the same & lame, he is for change but what change we don't know. In Britain we saw what happens when a second rate savior appears with change and Tony Blair has been a disaster for the country along with his vindictive & spiteful running mate Gordon Brown. McCain couldn't have chosen better in Sarah Palin as it has wrong footed the Obama campaign at a stroke. Its beautiful to see the vicious lefty liberals trapped like rabbits in the headlights as they resort to futile character assassination out of desperation. Even that has failed miserably and backfired as who cares about Palins pregnant daughter or that she had her sack of s*** brother in law fired. Obama seems to have gone to ground and done a 'Gordon Brown' hiding away from the media, lost for words & no strategy left since Palin appeared. Barack Hussein Obama has nothing left to counter Palins appeal to the American voters and his heritage being educated as a Muslim in Indonesia must raise concerns among many Americans. But that apart, its his record or lack of that should condemn him at the voting booths.

[kkruse]

Why are people who aren't even American even commenting about Sarah Palin? It's none of your business. We'll elect who we want-don't worry about it. I don't recall us preaching to you who to elect or not elect.
And Englishman George- I'd rather my cat be president than anyone you would pick. If Sarah Palin is the most terrifying person in the world to you, that tells me all I need to know about you.

[Daniel]

Sarah Palin will probably lose the election, but is the number one candidate for Republican playmate of the year. Most of the sex scandals in the past eight years have involved Republicans. Now we have a candidate loosly referred to as "The Babe". The Babe herself is under scrutiny for infidelity. The way things are going this may really put her over the top. What is with these republican horndogs that are willing to risk an election, just so they can gawk at The Babe. We have seen John Mccains wandering eyes as the Babe introduced herself. Rush Limbaugh calls her The Babe. Is this an election or an erection. They brag about her tv ratings, but i would say that Angelina and Brad doing a live nude interview on Larry King would be off the charts. Larry will be wearing his suspenders of course. Let's just hope the next 60 days will be about the important issues confronting Americans and not what the Babe or Cindy were wearing and how hot they looked. Sarah Palin may not be the first woman vice president, but she may become the first centerfold for The National Review

[Daniel]

Sarah Palin will probably lose the election, but is the number one candidate for Republican playmate of the year. Most of the sex scandals in the past eight years have involved Republicans. Now we have a candidate loosly referred to as "The Babe". The Babe herself is under scrutiny for infidelity. The way things are going this may really put her over the top. What is with these republican horndogs that are willing to risk an election, just so they can gawk at The Babe. We have seen John Mccains wandering eyes as the Babe introduced herself. Rush Limbaugh calls her The Babe. Is this an election or an erection. They brag about her tv ratings, but i would say that Angelina and Brad doing a live nude interview on Larry King would be off the charts. Larry will be wearing his suspenders of course. Let's just hope the next 60 days will be about the important issues confronting Americans and not what the Babe or Cindy were wearing and how hot they looked. Sarah Palin may not be the first woman vice president, but she may become the first centerfold for The National Review

[Rudolph]

I do hope that evangelists get what they want and McCain/Palin win. The world is far too heavily populated and we really need someone in charge who is capable of losing his temper and pushing that red button to initiate WW3 and do a nice big cull.

Armageddon is the only way to go with McCain sending nukes to China and Russia, & them responding with a barrage of their own that would desirably reduce the world’s population to about a dozen. Kinda like Sodom and Gomorah but on a much bigger scale. The evangelicals, after being saved by getting wafted into space by God, can then all be wafted back to earth & peace will reign forever in a world governed by only Christians with Jesus descending to rule over them.

What could be more desirable than that?

It is also logical that Sarah is correct in her belief that the earth is only 6,000 years old. The reason why there are no dinosaurs now is that they were obviously far too big to fit on Noah’s boat, and even if he could have fitted them onboard they would have eaten all the other critters very quickly.

Also what purpose do wolves and polar bears serve except eating all the salmon and mooses. Shoot them all I say!

Go Sarah/John!

[Matt from (outside) Dallas]

As a Liberal who likes to compromise, I think that there are multiple positive and negative qualities to Sarah Palin. The good news is that she has in fact saved Alaska millions by passing a bill reducing wasteful spending. She has fought corruption. She has show willingness to compromise with Democrats and Liberals to get things done. She could be worse in that respect.

However, Palin raises multiple questions, and has told many blatant lies and use "truth loopholes." A quote from her speech "... I said 'thanks but no thanks to the bridge to nowhere..." This is actually too literal to be true. She said "thanks" and took the $453 million earmark, and said "no thanks" to doing anything with it. She has little political education, is the governor of a state with 1 person per square mile for as long as Obama has been campaigning, and was a mayor of a small town, half the size of mine, and I don't even know who my Mayor is. She rarely talks foreign policy or economy, and she has no foreign policy experience or opinions or even speeches to boast. I don't want her a heartbeat away from the presidency.