First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Stewart, Bethesda, MD — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:37:38 GMT

PANIC ...PANIC .. PANIC ... PANIC ....
The obama camp and msnbc and some at cnn are in PANIC mood because Sarah Palin can connect to middle America, white working class, working moms and independent. Look for olbermann, matthews, shuster, larry king, anderson cooper, andrea michelle and the entire msnbc network to start giving primetime spots to nay sayers and critics of Sarah Palin and report it as BREAKING NEWS.

Push back hard on them Mccain/Palin PLEASE because now they see obama/biden losing to Mccain/Palin.
I supported Hillary during the primaries and saw what these sc@#@ bags at these network did to her, so PUSH BACK.

PUSH BACK HARD. GOOD PICK MCCAIN

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

BJ, CA — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:38:08 GMT

Somethings are better left not talked about, but this a low watermark for the GOP..
Shock and Awe turned to what and who?...
I do know what someone's been given real bad judgment on this
one and just who that is I can only guess...
It's a desperate throw of the dice. Well, do the republicans want a VP in training?
Do we vote for some one we have no idea how it will shape Americas future?...domestically
and abroad..?
McKneeJerk seems to be only showing a distal regard of centering the country needs and policies into some sort of weak gesture to pander for voter support outside the GOP...
Or is this a grand gesture to show he needs youth and womanhood on his side?
In any event, voters took 2 years to understand Barack Obama's political views...and with only two months until election day., a lot of ground needs to be made up by Gov. Palin..
It's not a matter if John McCain likes her.
It's a matter of will the trust of the nation be prepared to have a lose cannon one heart beat away from their future.
It seems most of the issues within the GOP are not issues..they just desperately (by hook or by crook) must do anything to get your attention and your vote.
Well quite frankly, I have issues of unemployment and retirement and health care and housing and children's education and budgeting that far out weigh if some one was able to cleanup some crooks in their over affluent state government.
John McCain runs his campaign more like an incumbent.
Let's hope and pray that never really happens...

Obama/Biden'08

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0808/12997_Page2.html

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

goodwin, arizona — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:38:20 GMT

If you want to know about McCain's pick to be a heartbeat from the Presidency you should read this .... it even has a picture of her hometown where she got the majority if here political experience.

http://mudflats.wordpress.com/2008/08/29/what-is-mccain-thinking-one-alaskans-perspective/

After you read this ask yourself if John McCain really puts his country first!!!!

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Nashville_fan — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:40:59 GMT

"The good news for McCain: Palin will have low bars for every moment she's on center stage (her speech yesterday, her convention speech on Wednesday, and her debate with Biden). "
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
The fact that the media is trying to prop this INSANE pick up is more proof the that the bar for the media is set pretty darn low too.

Sarah Palin has NO foreign policy experience.

ZERO.

How did you forget to mention that Chuck? It's like appointing a high school graduate as a college president because she was student council president.

Ridiculous.

The fact that the media is not stating this OBVIOUS fact and questioning John McCain's sanity is proof enough that the media is bought and paid for.

So much for Country First.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

jb — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:42:00 GMT

She's a "reformer" who's currently under investigation in Alaska! how come NO ONE on any of the networks ever mention that?!

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Jerry Carrier Lakeville, MN — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:43:28 GMT

OMG! Shelly from Northern Exposure is McCain’s pick for Vice President? What was he thinking?

Jerry Carrier, Lakeville

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

AC, Boston — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:43:36 GMT

Obama and the democrats will do well to ignore Palin(but keep an eye on her) and continue focusing on Mccain. The VP pick is a Trojan horse and the democrats will do well to remember that. Infact, they should praise her to high heavens and talk about her kids, her few accomplishments etc. If she is a mistake ( like I think some people are suspecting), once she opens her mouth on the trail, it will show.
Again Democrats leave her be. Let Rebublicans talk her up instead.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

cg, MO — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:45:24 GMT

John McCain's judgment has once again come up sorely lacking. I wouldn't leave my grandchildren with a sitter I had met one time. Please don't insult our intelligence! Country first? John McCain does not even give its citizens the courtesy of a VP pick that has passed the test of time and earned our trust and confidence. Mrs. Palin sounds like a fine woman but voters deserve the courtesy of time to become comfortable with an individual who could be a heartbeat away from the presidency. We have two months to get to know Mrs. Palin. McCain and Biden have been on the political stage for years, we feel we know them well. Furthermore, we have been getting to know Barack for several years and have had the opportunity to know him through his speeches, books, interviews, debates and news coverage. For the first time in my life, I'm voting democratic in a state or national election.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

katiec Pekin, IL — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:46:58 GMT

Mccain has put the future of our country in
jeprody in his vp pick.
This is not a poker game or a beauty contest.
For the sake of pandering, postering and
manipulating he has picked a person who has
absolutely no qualifications to lead our country.
This is further proof that he has no idea
what is required and needed to make our
country as great, safe and prosperous as it
once was.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Looking for answers — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:47:27 GMT

Palin has "experience" is what everyone says. Does that mean being the Mayor of a town of less than 8,000, when she was Mayor, that any Mayor can run? Oh yea she is also the Gov. of a state (less than 2 years - not 2 years) that is smaller than many major cities in the rest of America and has surplus because of oil revenue for its budget and hand out to all its citizens. Mayors I know of towns less than 8,000 are caring about local issues i.e. pot holes, trash,... it is a beauty contest.

She "worked across party lines" - Palin has a Republican Senate and House to work with. Thsi is not tough to get your agenda completed.

Where is the experience? Where is the meat?

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

jim gr — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:47:59 GMT

In an interview she did not think enough about the Iraq war to have an opinion, and John McCain had only met her once before deciding on the pick..America could not be this stupid, could they?

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Michael — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:48:47 GMT

Sen. McCain pick of Gov. Palin shows that their campaign was desperate by picking a VP based on politics and not on substance. Their goal is to try win over some, if not all, of the disgruntled Dems who are still upset about Sen. Clinton losing the primary, as well as looking to pick up rural voters in battleground states that are not sold on Sen. Obama. It may work, as long as the focus is on the Gov. and not the issues.

Because Gov. Palin is still a supporter of the Bush/McCain policies that have gotten this nation in deep debt, fought a war that should have never been fought and whose domestic policies are a failure. So there is no reason to think that voting for Sen. McCain just because Gov. Palin is on the ticket is going to change anything, policy wise.

If women in this country take offense that Sen. Biden or that female Democratic surrogates come out swinging hard against Gov. Palin during the debate, they should remember that politics is a contact sport and if they want to be treated as equals in the work place then they need to realize that hard attacks from your opponent come with the territory.

As Vince Dooley said, "If you want to run with the Big Dogs, you got to get off the porch."

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

thats a fact jack — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:48:47 GMT

pure political grandstanding, all fluff and no substance but then thats the rethugnutz for ya.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

AC , Boston — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:49:24 GMT

Nashville Fan,
I normally enjoy your posts especcially during the primaries. However, falling into the trap of setting the bar low is indeed a trap. Again let Republicans talk her up and yes even the Media. If she is for real it will show. If not................well she will crash and burn. People should not let themselves make this another Bush 'phenomenon' where the bar for his intelligence and substance was set low such that any small glimmer of intelligence was hailed as a breakthrough, better-than-expected nonsense.
Again Mccain IS the issue not this woman.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

lea — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:49:31 GMT

A mother of five who believes life is precious before birth but fodder after 19 to keep the war machinery 'happy'?
What kind of mother are we talking about?

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

insulted — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:51:13 GMT

Is Palin's infant son really hers or is he in fact her daughters. The woman at 7 months showed no signs of pregnancy. We have 3 children and after the 1st my wife coundnt get anywhere close to 7 months without showing big time. Couple that with her teenage daughter out for months with an extended case of mono.

http://www.reddit.com/comments/6f3nq/coverup_alaska_gov_palin_r_announced

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Chandra Brown, Waldo, Fl — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:54:03 GMT

Are we as women so shallow that any woman will do? I understand why McCain picked Palin. However, the dems did that first with Geraldine in the 80's. It's nice to see that the repub's are finally getting on board. Again she is not Hillary.

For those of us who would have voted for Hillary, the only thing she and Palin have in common are pantsuits. She will make the choice for the rest of us. She is willing the help the repub's take away our voice. I am so sorry about her child being born with downs syndrome, but she at least made the CHOICE to have her child. If she and John get in office WE will have no choice. And thought I personally am against abortion I am just as concerned with the millions of children that are already born and not getting the food, education and health care that they need.

Yes, Hillary left 18 million cracks in the glass. DON'T GET CUT BY JUST ANOTHER PRETTY FACE.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Joe Marine — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:54:57 GMT

BUSH-IT BUSH-IT BUSH-IT. I call BUSH-IT. (USE IT ALL YOU WANT) This is just another "Gas Tax Holiday" in disguise. Which never happen by the way. My wife, sisters, female cousins, dauhters, and female coworkers see right through this. Johnny no ones going to drink this Kool-aid unless they're as lost as you are. She has some good values but she is NO Hillary Clinton and if you kick the bucket I can't see leaving the jighest position in the FREE WORLD to an Alaskan beauty queen that called the most qualified woman "BITTER" just a few months ago. Thanks but no thanks. I call BUSH-IT. You've really lost you mind "my friend."

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

maksim Tsionskiy Hollywood FL — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:55:14 GMT

Stewart, Bethesda, MD
dude, you never supported Clinton, Clinton has real credentials. Palin has nothing, 1 1/2 of governor and mayer, which is under investigation for abuse of power. She was met once by Mccain. Mccain is totally opposite of Clinton. How can you support hillary and vote against her in general, because she is democrat and she is campains with Obama now. I figured since you guy, you probably racist. You wouldn't vote for black guy. People don't give me that bull that you supported clinton and now you going to vote for Mccain. you never was for clinton. Clinton values are totally different then Mccain. if you too blind to see that then you got problems, if you don't want to vote for Obama stay home, don't go and put this country in worst condition by puting Mcbush in power

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

CD - Irvine — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:55:42 GMT

"has made a tremendous first impression" are you kidding?? I listened to her acceptance speech and thought it would be a great stump speech for local city council BUT VP of the United States NO WAY - NO HOW - NO PALIN!
She doesn't think global warming is man made - opposes abortion EVEN in cases of rape and incest - no knowledge of foreign policy. Come on, she'd eaten alive in Wshington.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Brenda, Knoxville TN — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:55:54 GMT

The Palin pick absolutely ENRAGES me!!!

As a loyal Clinton supporter who has been torn between voting for Obama and McCain, I can tell you that this transparent pick of a wholly unqualified woman . . . because she is young and pretty . . . has only solidified my decision to throw my full support behind Obama

How often have we women in the workplace seen an older, more qualified woman passed over for promotion while a younger, prettier woman by the male powers that be??? Are the Republicans so desperate that they think this completely unqualified pretty face will fool us??? She is literally a beauty queen? Are you freaking kidding me???

And to add insult to injury, the positions that she supports are 100% against womens rights. She opposes abortion even in the case of rape and incest!!!

McCain has been pushing how important experience is for over a year, and now he expects us to forget that and support a VP pick, WHO HE ONLY MET ONCE BEFORE YESTERDAY, just because she's a woman?? The Republicans have finally lost it . . . they've been listening to their own propaganda for so long that they actually think Americans are as stupid and gullible as they think we are.

John McCain has shown his poor judgment and just how reckless he is with this pick . . . it will cost him the election . . . and frankly, I think he deserves to lose it at this point!!!

Shame on you John McCain . . shame on you George Bush . . . shame on you Republican party

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Jean Wilkinson, Burleson, Texas — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:56:22 GMT

I am very pleased with Sarah, she is what this country has been needing and looking for, she is not swell headed (like Barack) he comes across to me as one that is looking only for personal acclaim and back patting, No substance!! How can he pay for all the great things he proposes, remember, "the president can only propose, Congress controls the nations purse strings"
Neither party wants line item veto, but it is the only thing that can keep out pork pork and more waste pork.
That is whay Sharah is important, she has already shaved off some of the waste and corruption in AK. lets let her do the same in DC, good for MCCain for his forsight and courage,,, we need him, now, not tomorrow.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

California Independent — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:57:18 GMT

We know that as governor she is already under investigation for abuse of power (in less than two years)which makes her a true republican. So, is it her Miss Congeniality title that has prepared Sarah Palin to be the leader of the Free World. As an indepedent who voted for Hillary, Obama has my full and financial support.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

John, OH — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 15:59:52 GMT

Interesting that Palin called Hillary "whinning" about her expereince with her race. Is that what women want?

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

el, ocean shores, wash — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:00:04 GMT

Well McCain obviously has decided that division is the best politics and has chosen to let this country once again argue about the small things that divide us instead of the big ones that affect our lives like the economy, war, and global warming not to mention perhaps the continuation of life as we know it... thanks John for letting us know just how important you think these things are>I AM WRITING OBAMA ANOTHER CHECK RIGHT NOW!!!

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Luanne — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:01:03 GMT

SNL will eat her alive.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Tackman San Diego,CA — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:01:12 GMT

Sarah Palin is surely a wonderful person--intelligent, attractive, energetic, excellent family story, exudes everything that social and fiscal conservatives hold dear. She would be an excellent pick for John McCain's...PRESS SECRETARY! She could finally use that journalism degree.

Obama wisely released his standards for a VP in advance: 1. Must be able to credibly step in as President, 2. Must be willing to challenge him on major decisions (how refreshing is that?), 3. Must be a strong partner in governing our country. What were John McCain's VP standards? His choice makes them either ignored or laughable. As a former Republican (until W took us down the path to disaster), I can only imagine how current Republicans must feel about this election being thrown away. Even if you climb into John McCain's head and imagine that he could win, he's throwing his party under the bus if you play this out. He won't serve more than one term, then what happens in 2012? The GOP runs Sarah Palin against...Hillary Clinton. The GOP wouldn't stand a chance--talk about "palin" in comparison! How can McCain NOT see this? Clearly, he's just desperate to win now and nothing else matters.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

sue, ohio — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:01:13 GMT

McCains VP pick illustrates once again that he is approaching this election as a Game Show. WE the American people deserve better.
Can McCain really tell us that he feels Palin is ready to be POTUS? get real

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Ed, 1SG, Retired Peoria, IL — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:01:17 GMT

John McCain just doesn't get it.

In 1992 it was "It's the economy stupid"

In 2008 it is "It's the issues stupid"

Does McCain really believe that women will vote for a woman regardless of where she stands on the issues?

Does McCain really believe he picked the best person for the job?

He doesn't get it. His choice is insulting to the many well-qualified women who have worked a lot longer and a lot harder. If Sara Palin wasn't an young, attractive woman, I doubt that he would have considered her.

She is not ready to sit a heart-beat away from a potential 72 year old caner surviving president.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Truthteller — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:02:33 GMT

UH OH she is "Only heartbeat " from being Pres. HMmmm but she has more Experience than Obama who WILL BE that heartbeat. Talk about frightening.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Michael, Anchorage — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:04:12 GMT

Karl Rove on the VP Choice:

"I think he's going to make an intensely political choice, not a governing choice...He's going to view this through the prism of a candidate, not through the prism of president; that is to say, he's going to pick somebody that he thinks will on the margin help him in a state like Indiana or Missouri or Virginia. He's not going to be thinking big and broad about the responsibilities of president."

-Said Karl Rove, anticipating Obama would select Gov Tim Kaine as his VP

"With all due respect again to Governor Kaine, he's been a governor for three years, he's been able but undistinguished. I don't think people could really name a big, important thing that he's done. He was mayor of the 105th largest city in America. So if he were to pick Governor Kaine, it would be an intensely political choice where he said, `You know what? I'm really not, first and foremost, concerned with, is this person capable of being president of the United States? What I'm concerned about is, can he bring me the electoral votes of the state of Virginia, the 13 electoral votes in Virginia?'"

So if Kaine was a horrible choice that would put politics ahead of the good of the nation, what does this say about the Palin selection? Less experinece than Kaine (3 yrs gov vs less than 2), gov of a smaller state, mayor of a smaller city than Kaine (Richmond, VA vs Wasilla, AK), etc.

Rove says so himself, McCain made a political, rather than a governing choice.

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/08/10/ftn/main4336134.shtml

Posted by: kreuz_missile | August 29, 2008 7:23 PM

Now, to her "stopping the Bridge to nowhere":

The Flip:

"We here in Alaska, our administration, we cancelled the bridge to nowhere, we know that, that earmark was not in Alaska's or the nation's best interest." CNBC 7/31/08

The Flop:

"People across the nation struggle with the idea of building a bridge because they’ve been under these misperceptions about the bridge and the purpose,' said Palin, who described the link as the Ketchikan area’s potential for expansion and growth.

Palin said Alaska’s congressional delegation worked hard to obtain funding for the bridge as part of a package deal and that she 'would not stand in the way of the progress toward that bridge.'"
Ketchikan Daily News 8/8/06

"Part of my agenda is making sure that Southeast is heard. That your projects are important. That we go to bat for Southeast when we’re up against federal influences that aren’t in the best interest of Southeast.'

She cited the widespread negative attention focused on the Gravina Island crossing project. 'We need to come to the defense of Southeast Alaska when proposals are on the table like the bridge and not allow the spinmeisters to turn this project or any other into something that’s so negative,' Palin said."
Ketchikan Daily News 9/28/06

And beyond all that, after prouly proclaiing she stood up to the Bridge to Nowhere, SHE STILL KEPT THE MONEY!

So who is Sarah Palin, and what do we know about her experience?

The Frontiersman; Editorial: Palin Doesn’t Grasp the Truth (2/7/97)

“The mayor’s administration has been one of contradiction, controversy and discord. While she will blame everyone but herself, we see mostly Sarah at the center of the problem.”

“Palin promised to change the status quo, but at every turn we find hints of cronyism and political maneuvering. We see a woman who has long-since surrendered her ideals to a political machine.”

“Mayor Palin fails to have a firm grasp of something very simple: the truth.”

The biggest problem, Palin isn't Quayle in a skirt, she is Dubya in a skirt.

- A governor who brought Democrats and Republicans together to work through issues for the state.

- A governor who passes herself off as a new kind of conservative, fed up with the politics of the past.

- A governor who claims to be a change agent simply because she's not from Washington, no other explanation needed.

- A governor with no foreign policy experience besides being geographically near another country.

- A governor with no military experience besides the National Guard (hey, McCain put that one in play).

- She is unmoved by science.

- She doesn't take criticsm well and blames those around her when things go wrong.

- She has never been known as one to reflect on issues or to have an inquisitive mind.

The big differences between Bush and Palin? Palin in MORE a movement conservative than Dubya was, and has less experience than he did. Yet this is the kind of "Change" McCain envisions for the country.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

PBrown — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:05:15 GMT

John McCain is playing Russian Roulette with the Security of the American People

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Kim E Scottsdale AZ — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:05:36 GMT

You are so right Joe Marine. I am a middle aged, Independent FEMALE in ARIZONA and me and my girlfriends say it's BUSH-IT as well(Love the term.) How dare you McCain!!!??!??! We now see that you are onnly trying to win this race for one term and you are trying to use us to do it. We are intelligent and strong and we are also a moving force in this race. Were VOTING OBAMA BIDEN. NO WAY NO HOW NO PANDER

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

pjscott — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:06:51 GMT

Needless to say that I was suprise and disappointed about Mc Cain pick. I was really hoping for Mitt Romney.
In my opinion John McCain proves that he lacks the judgement to make necessary decision for our country. Experience doesn't mean anything if you lack the necessary judgement to make the right decisions. He made a quick decision based off of the true statements that were made from the Democratic Convention. He barely knows her and was she even vetted? I'm sorry but I don't trust McCain or Palin.

As a mother, I'm totally disappointed at the mere fact that as a mother especially with a new born that you basically won't be there to care for him. Oh thats right, you have a nannie. -NOT IMPRESSED.

I'm a working mom myself however my children come first. If my child had DS, I would be there to care for him. No one else.

Furthermore Mc Cain states that Obama doesn't experience (which is debatable) and then goes and PICK a VP with little if any experience. Just because she is women doesn't mean she'll get my vote. Nor does she stands for all of women rights.

So I must say along with Hilary. No Way No How NO MCCAIN. After 8 longs years of Republicians in the white house, ENOUGH!

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Gloria — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:07:15 GMT

Ask yourselves this question People

If something happened to John McCain today could she take over tomorrow?

If something happened to Barack Obama today could Joe Biden take over tomorrow?

The Answer is there and it is simple

I can not believe John McCain has selected the PTA for his VP

Are you kidding me?

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Garden Party, NC — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:08:48 GMT

Against a woman's right to choose, "creationism" should be taught in the public schools, global warming is just a myth, has no clue about Iraq, drill for oil any and everywhere. Sorry, Sarah. I don't think so. This 56 year old Independent female ain't buying it.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Curt — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:08:59 GMT

Why was the McCain Black daughter excluded from People Magazine Cover.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Frank Gonzlez, Omaha, Nebraska — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:10:31 GMT

This is pure speculation, but I eagerly await Colin Powell's endorsement of Barack Obama as a result of the Palin pick. This is a serious time for serious policy leaders. If the Obama campaign is half as smart as they appear to be, they are on the phones now with an impending announcement by Powell and other Republican party foreign policy heavyweights, asking for their support.

Palin's appeal to social conservatives is genuine, but I can't imagine the establishment, policy-minded Republican Party will support this decision.

I don't want to get into arguments about the experience question. First, McCain just put all of those off the table. Second, if it does come up, Obama just ran for a year and half, scrutinized all the way for his command of issues. He knows his stuff by now, or he wouldn't be the candidate.

I wish Tim Russert were here for the cross examination that Palin would have gone through on MTP. Get to it, Tom. Either show her talents or demonstrate the problems this causes.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

formerly of NY — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:12:21 GMT

Sen. McCain has shown himself to be every bit as cynical about politics and voters as his earlier "celebrity" and "Moses" ads. He will cut off his nose to spite his face. Instead of BOLDLY daring to stare down the conservative wing of his party and choose someone he's comfortable with, he has decided to pick a relatively inexperienced governor of Alaska whom he barely knows. She sounds like a very capable and strong-willed individual, but not someone with an interest in national politics or foreign policy. Does Sen. McCain really think she is the equal of someone like Sen. Clinton or Sen. Bailey Hutchinson, or does he think voters won't see any difference? Does he really think Gov. Palin's "experience" is equal to Sen. Obama's, or does he really think that this election is about symbolism. There is war on two fronts, a fragile economy, an environment that cannot be renewed if it's not taken care of now....and those are what are on voters' minds. John McCain either doesn't know this, or, cynically, doesn't care.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Nancy, Asheville NC — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:12:36 GMT

While it is admirable for John McCain to want to select a woman, this particular choice seems politically motivated and unfair to the very electorate he intended to impress, and to Gov. Palin.

She was only elected by 48% of the vote which amounted to only 114,000 votes in her gubnatorial election. She only won by 5,000 votes. There are no published interviews containing positions on the serious national and state issues facing us now giving us any insight into her positions on Iraq, national security, economics, the mortgage and banking crises,healthcare, immigration. What we do know seems to be anchored in a conservative ideology and is limited to abortion, gun control, same-sex marriage, drilling in ANWRAR. Her gutsy, folksy, and "go-gettum" approach to ethics reform and populists themes are attractive, but they alone do not prepare this candidate for the complex problems we face nationally. The fact that McCain is abandoning his experience and national security priorities, while touting that she has 16 years of experience which includes her PTA election is really eyebrow-raising. The fact that he had only met her one time before offering her the number 2 position is disconcerting. We are now having this talented but ill-prepared woman shoved down our throats in the last 2 mos. of the election with no opportunity to evaluate her positions. Intense scrutiny will surely bring accusations of sexism intended to fuel the anger that lingers from the primary season. With John McCain being 72, she truly is a heartbeat away.

Though criticized for also lacking in experience, Obama has given the nation ample opportunity to become familiar with his bio, ideology, and record. His executive and fiscal management skills have been scrutinized with the execution of his successful and widely reported on campaign. He has been regularly updated on national security issues and has sought the advice of advisors from different perspectives. He won the votes of 18 million people. We have not had this opportunity with Gov. Palin.

This move by McCain easily leaves the impression that winning is more of a priority to him now then previous arguments for experience. With his biggest theme being national security, the electorate will nervously be preoccupied with his health. This decision illuminates the questions of his judgment.
Sarah Palin has not met the "commander-in-chief" threshold. Qualified, talented, Republican women today must be scratching their heads at this choice.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

sotiredofignorance — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:12:46 GMT

So if I am to understand this correctly, Senator McCain has asked a woman to be VP, and the woman in question had to ask a journalist what the VP does?

Incredible.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Peter S Conover, Newport, VT — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:13:02 GMT

"McCain and Biden have been on the political stage for years" (cg, MO)

We know what Obama and Biden and yes, McCain say their dreams are and what they WILL DO. But talk is cheap. Except for a stint as squadron commander (McCain), only Palin has actually run anything, however short it has been.

I am going to vote for a manager, not a talker.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Bryce, MT — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:13:05 GMT

Obama should be very happy with his decision to give the Clintons such a large role in the convention. If Hillary is ready to campaign fully for Obama they need to send her out to go on the offensive against the Palin pick. Her line should sound something like 'Palin thinks if she is elected VP it will shatter the glass ceiling, however if she is elected she will seal that ceiling with concrete with the policy views that she holds. Her views will set women back another 20 years at least and her inexperience and lack of knowledge of the issues that face the nation will make it harder for women to reach high office.' The Obama camp should be very careful not to dismiss Palin, but Hillary should go on the attack. Palin is for everything Hillary is against and will destroy all of the things that Hillary has done to improve the lives of the American people (women and men).

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Gorefan — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:13:26 GMT

Some are describing her as Dan Quayle in a dress (because of her lack of experience), others as a female Alberto Gonzales (because of the hiring and firing scandal), but I see her as the female TOM EAGLETON.
I see it playing out like this: After the convention, the press will descend on her and McCain with questions about the firing of state employee for personal reasons, and then they will ask about the budget deficit she left as mayor of Wasilla. It will be a constant barrage and distraction from the message of the campaign. Next the National Enquirer will run stories about her not be the mother of the infant baby. Finally, after several weeks of agony for the Republicans, Gov. Palin will announce that she is withdrawing her name from the Republican ticket. The McCain campaign will accept the resignation, and McCain will hold a press conference to denounce the media as "agents of titillation" only concerned with scandals which increase their ratings. He will blame the democrats and entrenched political establishment for practicing the "politics of destruction" for driving a "good decent woman, mother of five, and mother of soldier currently in Iraq, from public service." but he will save his sharpest criticism for his own Republican party and the social conservatives who use "narrowly defined litmus tests" to eliminate perfectly qualified candidates who fail those tests. He will say that the only litmus test that he will apply is whether the candidate is ready to be President of the United States. Several days later, no longer under the constraints of a nominating convention, he will pick his real choice, his friend, his soul mate Joe Lieberman to be his running mate. He will also announce that like his hero Teddy Roosevelt, if elected he will not seek a second term.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Yoly, Portland, Oregon — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:13:39 GMT

Palin endorsers should ask themselves: "If I were a Republican and Obama picked someone like Palin, what would I think? What would I say?" As a democrat, if Obama had picked Palin, I would think he was out of his mind and I'd vote for someone else. If the executive experience of McDonalds qualifies you nowdays, we're at a real low point.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Yoly, Portland, Oregon — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:14:58 GMT

Comparing Obama's experience with Palin's is an insult to the intelligence. He has Constitutional Law experience. She is a small-potatoes "executive" with a journalism degree from podunk Idaho and had to ask what the Vice President office does.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Andy, Reston, Va — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:15:07 GMT

Woah, what about this investigation?

Her character is under fire in her home state and we are faced with making the choice of voting her in as VP. Its starting to look as the republicans think allegations of dishonest practice is an actual qualification for nomination.

Im tired of dishonest people in DC and dont want to add another alleged dishonest person. Im afraid Im going to have to chain my vote from Republican to independant

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Lydia, Durham — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:15:59 GMT

Just curious about the daughter pregnancy cover-up rumors. Anything on the blogs or these other outlets about the subject? After looking at how thin she was just before giving birth and the whole story about leaving the conference in Dallas sounded pretty suspicious to some. Are there more family entanglements other than troopergate?

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

BJ, CA — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:16:32 GMT

This VP pick is "Pale in" comparison to Joe Biden

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Yoly, Portland, Oregon — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:16:39 GMT

What I'd like to know is who all those botoxed, stepford wife looking women are who are fawning at the camera in support of Palin on the news discussions? Man, they are not only stupid, they're rude.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Virginia from Maine — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:16:47 GMT

I cannot believe that a woman would even think about being on the ticket with someone who has repeatedly shown his contempt for women.
Also, remember it is Mr. McCain who will be president not Ms. Palin. That thought gives me nightmares!!

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Lydia, Durham — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:17:04 GMT

Palin has been governor for a year and has basically done nothing. Governor of Alaska is a part time job, it’s pretty boring and quiet up there . . . Palin is not a conservative (fiscally, at least) and that Sarah is not ethical (remember - she’s the only sitting governor under investigation for abuse of power in the Republic); Palin, with her track record of calling people she doesn’t like, “haters,” and “dumbass,” and giggling like a school girl when, on a radio show, the DJ’s called a cancer-surviving grandmother she doesn’t like a “bitch” and a “cancer,” and no, Palin hasn’t run the “open, honest and transparent” government she touts. In fact there are over 1,000 emails she doesn’t want to release (sources say it’s because they’ll paint the clear picture of how petty and vindictive she is). The status of the emails is most heading to court. So, no. Sarah Palin isn’t the paragon of virtue she’s being touted as. She’s not the reformist. She’s not ethical and honest and open and transparent.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Rainey Cap, Orlando Fl. — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:17:13 GMT

Well, McCain couldn't have picked a better choice. She is fresh and new, not old Washington, and she doesn't claim to be anything she is not. She has more experience than Obama in making executive decisions and he wants to be President, she is not running for Presedent people? So, if McCain God forbid should die, guess what, Palin would have about the same foreign policy ecperience as Obama! WOW what a comparison. At least she is not trying to convince us to make her our comander and cheif now is she?

FYI- Obama is 50% Caucasian, 43.75% Arabic and only 12.5% Afro-American. His beloved Grandmother is still getting up at 5:00 AM doing her daily SALAT!

He is a MUSLIM you fools! For 31 yrs. until his wife made him change his religion to run for office!

WAKE UP! HIS NAME IS ARABIC! He is not BLACK!

His biggest supporter is one of the richest women in the country OPRAH! Whoo Hoo, like she's not prejudiced. She is too worried about spending all her money on "Her African Girls" than to be worried about her own country where we have starving people on the streets!

Wake up and vote smart!

RC in FL.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

McCain for Change — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:18:01 GMT

The media is desperate now, they have seen Obamas thunder taken away. MSNBC is in Chaos, and Obamas Diss of Palin just got thrown back in his face.. See you guys at McCains inauguration

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

nadeem — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:18:05 GMT

Dan Quale in a dress

McCain needs a brain transplant, what lousy judgement. With his help putting someone with so litte experience a heartbeat away. Nuts simply nuts.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Deb, South Bend< INC — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:18:22 GMT

Hello - Palin wants to teach creationism to your children. She wants to push religion down your children's throats; brain wash them. That is not the choice of the state/government. Please wake up, don't put people like this in the White House

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Austin, Boyertown pa — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:18:25 GMT

doesn't believe in global warming, wants to drill in ANWR, 110% pro-life, 100% pro-gun, supported Buchanan in 2000 - enough said

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Tyson, Montgomery, AL — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:19:57 GMT

Am I the only one who thinks these supposed ex-Clinton supporters aren't what they claim to be? If I was a betting man, I would put a whole lot of money on about 90% of the "didn't get Clinton, so I'm going with McCain" voters being solid Republican voters all along. Who in their right mind would vote in their own worst interests out of what amounts to spite? Why did Clinton almost win the nomination? Because she's damn good at what she does! Why did Palin get the VP spot? Because she is a woman. That's not feminism at work. It's a gimmick and a slap in the face to all of the women of the world who have had to climb to the top.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Alfred E. Newman, Mary's Igloo, AK — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:20:26 GMT

Ok, John, really funny sick joke. Now tell us who it really is? Boris, Natasha, Rocky, Bullwinkle? Funny guy you are John. You must of cracked them up on the carrier.

What? Me Worry!

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Kim — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:20:29 GMT

Senator McCain is lucky he does not get the intense coverage that Senator Obama does. If he did, his Campaign would be in deep trouble.

Senator McCain has said that social security is a disgrace and wants to privatize it and gamble with all of our futures. Senator McCain wants each of our 50 states to set their own fuel efficiency standards; apparently, he fails to realize this is a nightmare for automobile manufacturing and would lead to higher priced cars.

Senator McCain wants to tax our employer provided insurance benefit as a tax and gives us a meager tax "credit" in return-- tax "credit" is not $$$ in our pockets; a tax "credit" simply lowers our income tax rate slightly and maybe saves us $300-$500 in taxes which is not even remotely equal to the value of good employer provided insurance.

Senator McCain mistakenly believes that Iraq borders Afghanistan and has difficulty differentiating between Sunni and Shi'a.

Senator McCain said on national television that EVERYTHING-- including payroll tax increases -- would be on the table for social security reform. But, the very next day, his Campaign told us all that the candidate (Senator McCain) does not speak for his own Campaign and there will be no new taxes. So, actually deciphering WHAT Senator McCain will do is very difficult since I cannot trust what I hear out of his own mouth.

No, Senator McCain should be careful for what he wishes. Should the press start intensely covering his Campaign like they now do Senator Obama's, he would find himself in trouble.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

markymark, MA — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:22:15 GMT

So desperate to avoid picking Romney, and knowing that he can't pick a pro choicer, and worrying that Pawlenty looked too safe a choice, McCain has taken a massive gamble. Almost like picking a name out of the hat, picked after 2 conversations, how can McCain seriously sell this as the best choice he could have made?

But I think she will be yesterdays story by the end of the week. I think McCain is gambling that independent women will vote for a woman, simply because she is a woman. I think women are more intelligent than that, and once the Obama campaign hits McCain as 'more of the same' on the issues, the symbolism of this will fail. I think as a choice, this will have excited plenty of GOPers, and a few days before the convention, thats no bad thing, but the excitement will be beginnning to fade and Gustav will be in the headlines by Monday.

I wonder what that guy who made the video praying for rain in Denver is thinking right about now?

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Logan, IA — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:22:19 GMT

Why should the bar be set so low for her? She is in a position to ascend to the highest office in the land, she should be able to speak intelligently on matters both foreign and domestic, and be able to tell us how she will deal with sitting across the table from Russia and Iran.
On another note, I watch Chris Matthews last nite and he had one of those uneducated PUMA's on, what a fool she was, she actually said Palin was a moderate! Can you believe that Sara Palin "A MODERATE". These are the type of Hillary people that will vote for McCain, thankfully there are not many of them.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Lydia, Durham — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:22:21 GMT

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Maria Hopgood — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:23:07 GMT

This pick sholud be insulting to all Democratic women of this country. I wouldn't vote for her just because she has the same body parts I have. This woman is extreme right in her views. Even Limbaugh loves her. This was a political move by McCain and it should backfire.This VP pick is anti-abortion,anti-gay, anti-conservation,anti stem cell research and pro guns. She doesn't even believe in that global warming is real and man made and she does not believe in evolution. SHe is too far right to be VP.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Mykidsmom, Los Angeles, CA — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:23:40 GMT

I wonder how the stay at home "soccer moms" will feel about Ms. Palin's willingness to leave her four month old baby to hit the campaign trail at a time when he needs her most? I am the mother of a nine year old with autism and I set aside my career ambitions to give my child the time and attention he needed to help overcome the formidable obstacles he faces. I have been both a stay at home mom and a working mom and I have nothing against working mothers but I wonder if Ms. Palin is in a bit of denial about what it really takes to raise a child with disabilities and how that squares with campaigning and the duties of a VP.

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Yellow Dog in NJ, New Jersey — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:25:28 GMT

Just curious, how will she have time to campaign if Cheney has to train her on how to manage the chasms of executive power he has created?

Personally, I feel more threatened by Diebold in this election!

First thoughts: Palin's pros and cons

Jan, Grand Rapids MI — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:25:28 GMT

Palin cut funding for Museums so that their was money for a hockey rink. Now I understand why she is a "hockey Mom". However, us in the other part of America believe that Museums and other cultural institutions including parks are vital to education.