First thoughts: The show must go on

Chuck, NY — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:02:32 GMT

I’ll say what everyone is thinking… Barbie doll Sarah Palin is the worst excuse of a Vice Presidential nominee I have ever witnessed. Period! Hey John, it’s bad enough when you insult our intelligence on your own, but why did you have to bring her into this? If this is any indication of your ‘judgment’, then I say you lose that argument hands down. Do you really expect us to vote for ‘Barbie’ knowing she is a heartbeat away from the presidency? I hope every DEM and Obama supporter attacks you on this until Election Day and in terms Annie Oakley Palin would understand…fire for effect.

After 28 years of demonizing by wing-nuts, neo-cons, Limbaugh et al, I not only want to beat the GOP, I want to demoralize them.

First thoughts: The show must go on

John Simmons, CA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:03:03 GMT

ANCHORAGE, Alaska - Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, the GOP vice presidential candidate, is being represented by an attorney in the investigation into the firing of her public safety commissioner.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/cvn_palin_troopergate

McCain you Dope as a Republican you gave this Election away.....Ohhhh well!

First thoughts: The show must go on

Pat, Boston, MA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:03:41 GMT

It’s nice to see the GOP exploiting Gov. Palin’s daughter’s pregnancy this morning. So typical when they have nothing intelligent to speak of.

Some bloggers went over the deep end this weekend. Have you looked lately at what the right wing bloggers did to Barack & Michelle? Did anyone in the GOP stand up against it? Did they stand up for what the right wing did to Senator Kerry? Did they ever defend President Carter?

No. They never do.

Yet I saw many, many democrats yesterday demanding certain bloggers to stop their nonsense about stupid rumors. And I’m happy to say, Senator Obama was one of them who asked that it stop. Which was the right thing to do. Did Pat Buchanan stand up against the lies and smears against Senator Obama? Did anyone in the MSM do it besides Keith and Rachel? No.

We have freedom of speech in this country. Sometimes we go too far - democrats, republicans & independents. It’s the internet for crying out loud. It is up to us as citizens to speak up and denounce it when we see it.

The question really is about Senator McCain. Does it not occur to him that we are fighting 2 wars? Does it not occur to him that he is 72 years old, and not 52 years old? He’s not even 62 years old.

He wanted to “shake up” the election? Perhaps if he had picked someone with a great deal more experience, and who was respected, he would have succeeded.

However, as we have all learned, the GOP isn’t about governing. It’s about distracting the American people from real issues. They do it every single election. And now they’re using Gov. Palin’s daughter. It is really despicable. She is a child herself.

Pat Buchanan, you were in government at very high levels. Joe Scarborough, you were a Congressman. I expected more. But you’re both real good at exploitation. No different than some of the blogging we witnessed over the weekend, none of whom I don't believe served in Congress or served in the White House in any capacity.

All you two are at this point are two GOP spin masters. No substance. Which is no different than what we have seen these last 8 years from the Bush Administration.

And John McCain’s selection of Governor Palin is appalling. Simply appalling.

First thoughts: The show must go on

twocanpete — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:05:06 GMT

It' going to be a show alright. A complete circus. Troopergate, Babygate, Bridgegate, ect. Learn more athttp://twocanpete.blogspot.com/

First thoughts: The show must go on

Shari, 48 yr old full-time mom, Hudson, MA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:08:18 GMT

Yes. Bristol Palin's pregnancy is pertinent to the national conversation. Her mother's new celebrity has made it public. Was the girl supposed to go into hiding to have the baby the way it's been done in the past? For years we've had to put up with conservatives forcing their version of moral values into the laws running our country and our lives. When the self-righteous fail to live up to their ideology, it's "just life"? Where's the congratulations to Jamie Lynn Spears on her teenage pregnancy and marriage? All we heard was how immoral she and her family was and how her hit show Zoey 101 should be cancelled because she was a bad role model for kids.
Personally, I want my tax money back from the Abstinence Only mandated education that has wasted millions of dollars and invaded the privacy of my family's decision making. Teach kids about responsible birth control and not to feel shame about what is a natural part of life. Thank God girls still have the right to make the decision to have the baby or not. If John McCain and Sarah Palin get into the White House, you can kiss that right good-bye.

First thoughts: The show must go on

the Pajama Pundit — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:09:52 GMT

It seems to me that, even if you take out the personal and family questions relating to Gov. Palin (which is a good idea) that there are still a ton of lingering questions about her as a governor and, more importantly as a vice president. I think the vetting has JUST begun...

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: The show must go on

SDunn — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:10:08 GMT

Excuse me, but Obama answered a question that was brought up by Anderson Cooper. Anderson was trying to compare Obama's experience with Palin's bringing up that Palin had 1 1/2 years of executive experience. Obama did not voluntarily bring up any comparision between him and Palin. Anderson did not bring up the fact that McCain has 0 executive experience and is at the top of HIS ticket. Obama answered brilliantly because he has been running the Obama machine for the same amount of time Palin has been governor and he has more staff and a significantly higher budget.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Pat Huntington NY — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:11:21 GMT

Palin could be the worst VP pick since Dan Quayle! Under ethics violation investigation for abuse of power, preggo teen daughter, creationist, global warming denier, anti abortion under all circumstances even to save a mother's life, fanatical gun lover, way too anti gay, would drill for oil in a cemetary if she could, former beauty queen contestant, hasn't governed/represented more than 1 million people in her lifetime, has a drunk for a husband, I could go on. And this, when McCain's VP pick is more important since she would be closer than a heartbeat away from presidency due to McCain's old age and health risks. Finally, how could we expect someone like her, a mother of 5 with a new born, to handle the stresses of the White House, and raise this tormented family at the same time?

McCain...what a disaster!

Obama/Biden

First thoughts: The show must go on

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:13:08 GMT

First Read: "When the campaign decided to surprise the world with Sarah Palin, it had to know it was buying a massive spin job."

The spin so far hasn't been very effective. All weekend long I've seen interviews with surrogates, in which a journalist would ask questions about her knowledge of, for instance, foreign affairs and get responses about how she's the mother of a soldier head to Iraq.

How many interviews have we seen in which the interviewer wasn't flustered by the incompleteness of the answer, but actually downright amused?

I'm sure the McCain surrogates will get better, but you can tell they right now aren't prepared to defend this pick convincingly, and you can also tell by their facial expressions and general demeanor they fully know it.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Judge — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:13:09 GMT

Sure, Palin doesn't have a lot of experience, but she's running to be McCain's apprentice. Obama's running for the top spot.
******************************************************
I pick Obama's judgement over McCain's experience anyday.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Mr Eko — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:13:52 GMT

So in John McCain's first presidential decision, he: 1) lets someone else tell him what to do, and 2) ends up picking someone with LESS experience than the man he's been criticizing for not having enough.

John McCain wants to win votes so badly, that he has decided to choose as his possible replacement someone who is grossly unqualified to lead this country. Does that sound like McCain put country or politics first?

First thoughts: The show must go on

pedestrian — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:14:02 GMT

"...Palin worked for a 527 group organized by Ted Stevens, who is now facing trial on corruption charges..."

She didn't just WORK for the 527, she signed the corporation papers as one of three directors.

First thoughts: The show must go on

farah — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:14:27 GMT

I take issue with your comment that Obama does not have executive experience. I agree that this campaign has proven that Obama has leadership skills and has managed the campaign exceedingly well. Yes Palin is running to be second fiddle but WHAT IF MCCAIN DIES ON FEB 1, 2009. Sorry for shouting but no one seems to get this.

First thoughts: The show must go on

BJ, CA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:15:52 GMT

Biden will blast the "GOPVP" to Hello and Back
Gov.Palin your about to meet the Smokin' Joe Biden..

Obama/Biden'08

First thoughts: The show must go on

sbv creswell, oregon — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:16:13 GMT

it is looking more like monica goodling all over again. in picking gov. palin as his surprise(and well vetted?)vp choice, sen. mccain has shown his lack of respect for the office itself, should he be elected president, but also the american people. of months of criticizing sen.obama for his lack of experience, and joking about his age and the disinformation about possibly running for only one term, he has picked a person with no national security experience whatsoever. in doing so, unlike his campaign slogan of putting "america first," he has decided to shore up his base, which is fine; but let's have some honesty from the "straight talker."

First thoughts: The show must go on

joe — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:16:20 GMT

Check this out. Pretty damning: http://suchandrika.files.wordpress.com/2008/09/sarahpalintrigmyspace1.jpg

First thoughts: The show must go on

From DailyKos, Philadelphia, PA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:16:55 GMT

Recapping Palin's Secession Scandal
by georgia10
Tue Sep 02, 2008 at 08:54:06 AM EST
If you spent yesterday at a Labor Day picnic rather than at the computer, you missed the story that broke here regarding Sarah Palin's 1990s membership in the Alaskan Independence Party (AIP).

Note I said Independence not Independent. It's not just an "independent" party--it is a party whose explicit goal is to have a vote on Alaskan independence.

So, without further ado, what we know so far (all the information, and much, much more can be found here, here, here, and here):

As user Liz Arnett first informed us yesterday morning, the AIP is a political party in Alaska whose motto is "Alaska First." It's goal is to have a vote on Alaska's state status so that Alaskans may decide whether the state should secede, become a territory, become a commonwealth, or remain a state.
The AIP has what most Americans would qualify as radical views on the relationship between the federal government and Alaska, including a belief that the federal government should be dissolved if gun rights are ever abolished or curtailed, a belief that the federal government is in breach of the Constitution, and complete opposition to environmental regulations and public ownership of Alaskan land.
Yesterday night, it was is confirmed that Sarah Palin and her husband were members of the AIP at least in 1994. Indeed, Palin reportedly attended the AIP convention.
In 2007, the Vice Chairman of the AIP, Dexter Clark, not only referenced Palin's membership, but also said that since she joined the GOP, "she is pretty well sympathetic to her former membership." Clark also goes on to discuss the need to "infiltrate" the major parties.
In 2008, Palin recorded a message for the AIP's annual convention, stating that Alaska has "a great promise to be a self-sufficient state" and encouraging them to "keep up the good work."

First thoughts: The show must go on

Kim W, Virginia Beach, VA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:17:51 GMT

I'm not concerned that her daughter is pregnant, though the hypocrisy of her "abstinence only" education is staggering..

I am more concerned with all the dirt about her dirty politics that is surfacing about her.

The McCain camp can complain all they want about this coverage of her. But he picked her knowing there would be speculation o'plenty. I don't know if he knew how much dirty laundry she had or cared..

This coverage of her pales in comparison to what Obama has gone through with the fake emails, attack ads, accusations.

So..McCain camp and GOP..Grab a straw and suck it up!! You started the mudslinging..Only difference is most of these stories about Palin are TRUE.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:18:56 GMT

Also, I've seen the McCain surrogates try to compare Palin to Obama, in terms of experience and readiness.

Well, I happen to have a pretty good memory. Not great, but pretty good. I remember December 2006 well. That month, we all were wondering who from either party was going to run for president.

On the Democratic side, most of the attention was focused on Clinton, who was the pre-frontrunner, especially with Warner's announcement he wasn't running.

But everyone also had a little attention on Obama. Would he or wouldn't he?

The funny thing is I don't remember anyone asking that question about Palin on the Republican side.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Susan W., Fort Atkinson, WI — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:19:21 GMT

While you may consider Obama's running of his campaign to Palin's experience as Governor a stretch, I don't. I have making this point for a long time. He has run a campaign that includes many more staff and volunteers than the population of Alaska. He has started this organization from scratch, and has raised and wisely spent an enormous amount of money, and kept the entire operation running smoothly. This is executive experience, and coincidentally has been for the same amount of time as Palin's term in office. In addition he has received more votes than the 115,000 that elected her as Governor.

First thoughts: The show must go on

James, Michigan — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:19:27 GMT

What would Republicans have said if Obama had a 17 year old daughter who had gotten pregnant?

The issue of Palin's daughter being pregnant is more about values and teaching within the Palin house. Did this occur because the parents aren't around enough to spend time with their daughter. Is this because of teaching abstinence (which survey shows does not work). Are the two children really in love and wanting to get married or is this a forced marriage which will end in divorce and put another child on welfare.

Can someone please explain why Palin has more experience than my local mayor, the mayor of a major city,... Does this mean that the mayor of Detroit is ready to be President? (Detroit borders and foreign country, his Police force is almost as large as the Alaskan National Guard and involved in more action, his budget is bigger than Alaska, he is under investigation as is Palin,...)

First thoughts: The show must go on

Eric, Salinas, CA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:19:52 GMT

So funny that "Adulterer" McCain must now go on defense to explain his clueless decision to pick the worst possible running mate he could have ever picked. If this is the kind of decision making we can expect from "Dunce" McCain then we can't afford to have this mental midget to control our future and fate.

It still comes down to how incompetent this "Airhead" Palin is. She's so for abstinence only sex education and she utterly failed to keep her teenage daughter from getting pregnant at too early an age. We taxpayers can thank her for yet another Welfare Mommy we'll have to support. She has proven that when it comes to reproduction she's no more intelligent than a female dog. Yeah female dogs can pump out the pups without a thought and so can "Airhead" Palin. She's the perfect reason why we need intellient sex education, responsible family planning and birth control and to protect a woman's right to choose if she wants a baby or an abortion.

Anyone who believes in creationism should never be allowed to hold public office nor should they be allowed to vote. Anyone ignorant enough to think that The Flintstones was a documentary instead of a cartoon to entertain kids is not intelligent enough to vote or run for office. We have one such idiot in the White Houzse now and just look how he's screwed everything up so badly.

Only Obama/Biden will bring repsonsible birth control and family planning back to the White House and protect a woman's right to choose.

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: The show must go on

The Real Truth!!! — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:20:10 GMT

Okay, Here's the Real Truth!!!
1) The storm is the reason for the delay but, NOT for the reasons they gave. They have never, ever cared about the people of New Orleans because they never rebuilded that city and it past issues it within the last 3 years.

2) No one wants to hear Mr. Bush's mouth about how well the country is doing.

3) Many of the Repug Senators and Reps whose seats are up for grabs will not be attending.

4) Many of the Republicans will not be attending (because they are upset at those the V.P. choice).

5) The many problems of the V.P.

6) And last.....It hard to beat what was delivered last week by a very classy group of people....

And some says she better than Senator Obama..... Okay, if they won ...you would have to hope that Senator Mc Cain makes it through the term with his 3 wars....Because if he doesn't, guess who will be managing your country along with her already busy schedule.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Class Warrior, D.C. — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:20:11 GMT

The vetting process SHOULD be examined by the press AND commented on by the Obama team, if only his surrogates. Mcinsane jumped to this woman at someone's (who's I wonder? Some powerful Man-In-The-Shadows?)urging, and and said "full speed ahead, damn the vetting process." What he got was what he got. I find it disgusting but not particularly surprising that McCain, who has sold out nearly all his former principles in the past few years in his overarching ambitio to be president, should also betray the American people by choosing someone who, if McThusalah drops dead, will be COMPLETELY out of her depth as President. He's leaving us defenceless in the hands of an unexperienced neophite. It's unforgivable.
I could care less if his daughter got knocked up, only in that it is a result of Palin's public policy that "abstinence only" classes be taught in schools. Tenns like to have sex, and their hormones are more powerful than some teacher or preacher'swords. So when that happens, and they know nothing about ways to prevent pregnancy, they get...you guessed it, PREGNANT. And if they DON'T have the support of a loving family, don't have money to have and raise the kid, don't have other essentials, they may decided the best course is...you guesed it, an ABORTION. Sorry, Gov. Palin, nature has its own truths, and some of them are damn harsh.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Nj — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:20:21 GMT

He went from one extreme to the other
NICE

This is how he would Govern people
SCARY

First thoughts: The show must go on

JRyanCantonOh — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:20:59 GMT

Moreso than Babygate and Troopergate this NEW revelation about Sarah Palin's admitted longtime Membership and Recent Speech to the -

AIP- that's the ALASKAN INDEPENDENCE PARTY - who's main goal is to SUCCEED from the 'lower' 48.

This is boardeline treason and far more important than the continuing Baby Drama you be the judge-
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/9/1/4231/18477/878/581881

First thoughts: The show must go on

MB — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:21:13 GMT

News Flash! This just in from a FLY who was on the wall when McCain and Steve Schmidt decided on Palin a week ago today: - Schmidt: "Sir, we are tanking with our right wing base. We need a real hard-liner for VP." - McCain: "Did you know I was a POW?" - Schmidt: "Yes sir, but the VP pick - we need a Pat Buchanan type, red meat person." - McCain: - "Ah, red meat, I love to BBQ." - Schmidt: "Yes sir, we also need to try to get all of those angry Hillary backers to come over to our side." - McCain: "Didn't Hillary get the nomination?" - Schmidt: " Um, no sir, Obama won. But, sir, I talked to my mentor, Karl Rove, and he has the PERFECT solution. Sarah Palin." - McCain: "Sarah who?" - Schmidt: "Sarah Palin, the new Alaska governor." - McCain: "But we need someone from the U.S." - Schmidt: "Alaska IS part of the U.S." - McCain: "Oh, right. Guess I had a 'senior moment' there. Ha!" - Schmidt: - "Anyway, sir, how about Palin? We'll put out the word that you two are 'Soulmates' which will really please our right wingers. And women ALWAYS vote for other women so she'll get all of those angry HRC voters, too." - McCain: "I see - it's a TWOFER! We get the base AND the broads! Brilliant!" - Schmidt: "But we have to move fast, sir. No time for vetting. We have a short window here. So you call Palin, and we'll arrange a quickie meeting." - McCain: "A quickie? Oh, no, no, I don't think Cindy would approve. Have I told you about my time as a POW?" And the rest is history....

First thoughts: The show must go on

sotiredofignorance — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:21:18 GMT

The selection of Sarah Palin as VP should bring scrutiny to John McCain's judgment. No rational argument can be made that this woman is ready for national exposure.

We have already had Bush "going with his gut" to make decisions and look at the mess we are in. We don't need to do that with McCain as well.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Gary from Dallas — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:21:20 GMT

Don't agree with your (Chuck's) comment on the relevancy of the Obama campaign as experience. As an independant voter, there are limited things that I can watch in real time, and how campaigns are run is a fairly major one.

In 2004, Kerry's campaign scared me off of strong support for him - he seemed uncomfortable with the level of consistency and organization needed, and the decisions that he made were at times erratic. The past two years, I've marvelled at Obama's campaign - the choices that he made in leadership, the calculations financially, the consistency in presentation and direction. As a businessman, I'm hugely impressed.

Obama has run that campaign for essentially as long as Palin has "run" Alaska - and if we look at the results of her tenure, than I most certainly want to look at the results of his.

First thoughts: The show must go on

matt — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:21:37 GMT

The GOP and McCain handled the convention very well. It doesn't erase Katrina, but at least McCain and his campaign showed an ability to think on their feet in being able to pare down yesterday's schedule.

http://www.political-buzz.com/

First thoughts: The show must go on

ron, newport beach, california — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:21:41 GMT

List of famous teenage parents
Tag it:?*At the age of 13, Lady Margaret Beaufort gave birth to her only child, who later became Henry VII of England.
*At the age of 18, William Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway. Their first child, Susannah, was born within six months.
*Sacagawea, translator and guide to Lewis and Clark, gave birth to her son, Jean Baptiste Charbonneau, while on expedition, and traveled with him to the Pacific Ocean and back. Although Sacagawea's exact birth date is unknown, she was probably 17 or 18 at the time of the birth.
*In 1917, 17-year-old Kamala Nehru gave birth to her daughter, Indira (later prime minister of India).
*Child actress tuned diplomat Shirley Temple was 19 when she gave birth to her first child, Linda Susan, in 1948.
*Maya Angelou, an American poet, memoirist, actress and an important figure in the American Civil Rights Movement became pregnant at the age of 16 and gave birth to her son, Guy Johnson, who also became a poet later in life.
*Country singer Loretta Lynn had four children in her teens and was a grandmother at 29.
*Oprah Winfrey gave birth at the age of 14 to a baby who died in hospital weeks after it was born. Oprah has said, "I would tell no one until I felt safe enough to share my dark past,” Oprah said in the February issue of O magazine. “The years I was sexually abused, from age 10 to 14, my resulting promiscuity as a teenager, and finally, at 14, my becoming pregnant".
*Author Beverly D'Onofrio, whose autobiography Riding in Cars with Boys was adapted into the 2001 film of the same name, was 15 years old when she gave birth to her son Jason in 1961.
*Linda Lee Cadwell, wife of Bruce Lee, gave birth to her son Brandon shortly before her 20th birthday in 1965.
*Anna Nicole Smith had her first child, Daniel, when she was 18.
*Pop singer Marcia Hines, who later became a judge on Australian Idol, was 17 when she gave birth to her daughter Dohnyale "Deni" Hines in 1970.
*Bollywood actress Dimple Kapadia gave birth to her daughter Twinkle Khanna in 1974, at the age of 17.
*Australian actress Carla Bonner, best known for her role as Stephanie Hoyland in the hit soap Neighbours, was 18 when she gave birth to her first son Harley in 1991.
*Manju Warrier, Malayalam actress and wife of the actor Dileep, was 19 when she gave birth to her first daughter Meenakshi in 1999.
*Pop singer Fantasia Barrino, winner of American Idol 2004, was 17 when she gave birth to a daughter named Zion Quari' in 2001; in 2005 she released a controversial song about single motherhood entitled Baby Mama.
*Taylor Hanson, a member of the pop band Hanson, was 19 when his 18-year-old wife Natalie gave birth to their first child, a son named Jordan Ezra, in 2002.
*Singer and actress Solange Knowles was 18 when she gave birth to her first child, Daniel Julez Smith Junior, in 2004.
*Yulia Volkova, of the controversial Russian pop band t.A.T.u., was 19 when she gave birth to her daughter Viktoria Pavlovna in 2004; she had spoken publicly about having an abortion the year before.
*Asia Nitollano, who joined the pop group The Pussycat Dolls after winning a reality tv show, was 17 when she gave birth to her daughter in 2005.
*Oscar-nominated actress Keisha Castle-Hughes was 17 when she gave birth to her first child, a girl named Felicity-Amore, in 2007.

First thoughts: The show must go on

ge`pa — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:21:52 GMT

maccain had no bonding time with Palin. he only met her once. you can tell he is not comfortable with her by that wiered look on his face, and the way he Gawks at her when he is standing with her. she has no experience except being mayor of a small town and gov. for a year & a half. "she is no Hillary Clinton."

First thoughts: The show must go on

62 white female for Obama — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:22:55 GMT

It's about time First Read addressed the issues regarding Palin. I think they should also report that, when asked, Palin said she really hadn't thought much about the war in Iraq. Do we want a VP (who would be more likely to become President than any other ever has) who hasn't really thought about a war that is costing thousands of American lives?

First thoughts: The show must go on

Kate, Boise, Idaho — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:23:12 GMT

Does McCain himself have any "executive" experience?

Just askin'.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Tina — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:23:14 GMT

Heard on MSNBC this morning on Morning Joe that John McCain WANTED Joe Lieberman for his VP. He HAD MADE UP HIS MIND and told his advisors last Sunday, August 24, that Lieberman was his pick. BUT - CHARLIE BLACK, his top aide, said oh no,no,no, the GOP convention would BLOW UP! So what did the MAVERICK MCCAIN do? Did he STAND UP TO CHARLIE BLACK and STICK BY HIS GUNS???? No, he caved and made a hasty pick of Palin. HOW can we expect McCain to stand up to world leaders if he CAN'T EVEN STAND UP TO A POLITICAL ADVISOR???

First thoughts: The show must go on

Gretchen — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:23:37 GMT

I think you're missing the biggest story: Palin was a member of an Alaska secessionist group. Either she was a member out of political expediency or she actually wanted Alaska to leave the United States. Neither looks good.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Brendan D, Niles, IL — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:23:47 GMT

I don't know that it's "fair and balanced" to say that Liebs is in the "VP bullpen." I somehow don't see McCain is the McGovern type, which would mean that Palin is no Eagleton. But still... After Biden's selection, the news was all positive for Obama; the news has not been so for McCain. In fact, it has seemed more to drive home the point that McCain is allowing Obama to drive this election. And Obama is, in turn, making the election about McCain. McCain even gave Obama more talking points with this than he would've with a pick like Romney or Huckabee.

Let's face it: the Palin pick was a desperate attempt by McCain to pull in the base of the GOP. To do so, McCain sacrificed a whole bunch of independents who were still considering him. Biden puts people at ease with Obama; can the same be said about Palin for McCain?

First thoughts: The show must go on

jmp, northern MN — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:23:58 GMT

****** Palin's 'executive experience'.... ********

She was a mayor (of a town the size of some high schools)...yes. But the 'managing' of this tiny kingdom was done by a city administrator...after Palin was nearly recalled.

A CITY ADMINISTRATOR!!!!!!

As a governor, she's been there just 18 months....That's not doing as much 'administrating' as it is doing plain old training. (And she took a trip to Kuwait right after she became governor??? Really???? It had nothing at all to do with her job. The National Guard does not operate under the governor when they're called to overseas duty.)

*******Obama trumps her GREATLY in legislative experience and in foreign policy...And as far as administrative experience, the management of his campaign has been more than adequate to convince most Americans.

******Palin's lack of legislative and international experience are NOT 'made up for' by her thin administrative resume.

***********

First thoughts: The show must go on

Diane from Illinois — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:24:19 GMT

Palin is a huge problem for the GOP...if John McCain WASN'T enough! I predict she will withdraw from the ticket in a few weeks (I also predicted Wes Clark would be the VP pick, so take it for what my predictions are worth!) :) Intelligent woman will see through this GOP pandering and NOT rally behind Palin. Even the Republican doctors where I work are saying they think McCain has Alzhemiers because of the Palin pick! Did MCFossil just hand the keys to the White House to Obama????? Obama/Biden '08

First thoughts: The show must go on

David St Louis MO — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:24:32 GMT

The media discuss that it is up to Palin to show her strength now and could win or loose it for McCain. BUT what happens if McCain has health issues or continues his less than 100% campaigning time (taking weekends off) then the media will ask the right questions - is Palin ready to be President on day one or day two? What is her experience with a real crisis? What has been her biggest crisis as Mayor or Govenor?

First thoughts: The show must go on

MK,MO — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:24:38 GMT

Before the good republicans break their arms patting themselves on the back about the fact there has not been any terrorist attacks since 911 they should realize that it was their fascist cowboy diplomacy that caused 911 in the first place.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Jill mother of 4 — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:24:41 GMT

If Paliin hadn't tried to keep secrets from us we would not be upset. McCain people need to quit whinning because us bloggers are telling the truth. Palin has tried to much her views on the Alaskan and now the American people.
If we follow the McCain surrogotes, Palin has more experience than John McCain. WOW she has run a state for 18 month. She was still getting started the last 18 months makes of breaks a governor.
I still cant believe as a mother she had put her family especially her daughter thru all this for her career. NO REAL MOTHER would do this to their kids.

First thoughts: The show must go on

MK,MO — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:24:44 GMT

First thoughts: The show must go on

Palin vetting. Where was Obama's vetting? — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:26:02 GMT

what a bunch of bull on this criticism of Palin's vetting. WHERE WAS THE MEDIA ON OBAMA'S VETTING? Dare say, had that been done instead of the media swooning and slobbering all over him, he would NOT be the nominee today.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Yiannis, Baltimore — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:26:04 GMT

JAKE TRAPPER AND BEN SMITH REPORT

Sarah Palin was a member of the Alaska Secessioist party

First read refuses to cover it?

First thoughts: The show must go on

mexed, san antonio, texas — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:26:40 GMT

Tonight they will put back on their Republican hats. That = rah, rah, 4 more years of bad management, lies, bully tactics, poor international relations, worse economy, and continuing stories about a vice president who few know, is not wildly popular in her home state, does not know what a VP does or is for, has no international experience and does not even have a passport, and is the one who would be president when John McCain's health dies or his dementia grows unhideable. His VP choice clearly signals how he makes decisions. More wars? More gut decisions? Welcome to 4 more years of cowboy government.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Sean Whitworth Atlanta, GA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:27:34 GMT

why is the MSM not covering the Ron Paul convention in St. Paul. We heard endless discussion about the rift that was not a rift in the Democratic party, but the Republicans actually are having duel conventions and noone is talking about it!

First thoughts: The show must go on

Suburban Mom paying attention, IL — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:29:25 GMT

Keep going, keep going, you're almost there...

Good work so far, gang. But we're still waiting for the big one- Palin's previous membership in the AIP. This group's mission is reportedly to work for the secession of Alaska from the U.S. The founder (Joseph Vogler) is reported to be buried in Canada because he REFUSED to be buried under the American flag!

Doesn't sound like a "Country First" approach to me.

And could someone remind Joe Scar that his initial (honest) reaction to the Palin pick was exactly right. He spent the weekend getting his Republican-shill talking points down- and is now 180 degress away from where he was last week- but our memories are far better than some of those in the GOP leadership. Very disappointing, Joe- you should have stayed with your gut on this one.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Peter, Denver CO — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:30:04 GMT

Does John McCain have the judgement to be commander in chief?

First thoughts: The show must go on

John McCain — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:30:22 GMT

Where are the stories of hockey mom rasising taxes to build a hockey rink that still is costing the government?

First thoughts: The show must go on

Brian, Cedar Hill, TX — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:30:41 GMT

Palin's only qualification's are being a typical republican under a current investigation and a corrupt liar to her folks back home. McShame doesn't know sqwat about this chick - I guess he should just "lay back and enjoy it" though. What a party!

First thoughts: The show must go on

Peas in Pod — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:31:11 GMT

Wow, looks like Palin has Obama's lack of experience AND his knack for shady contacts. Good thing they're not in the same party; half the country would die of laughter.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Amy B Portland, ME — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:31:22 GMT

What amazes me is that it appears McCain learned nothing from watching Hillary lose her primary. She ran on a "its time for a woman President" platform, and won older women voters, but she didn't make a dent in the youth vote. So McCain turns around and chooses a woman for VP, with half the gravitas and name recognition of Hillary, and he thinks that's going to help him, how? Fire up the conservatives and the evangelicals, I guess, but were they ever in danger of supporting the Democrats? I am really, and truly, perplexed.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Michelle Zee — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:32:38 GMT

Of course, the show must go on. Last time McCain and Bush was sharing McCain's birthday cake. This time the same group of party goers are celebrated while we have ravished towns; nothing new...the same old don't care politicians as before.

What vetting process? The republicans are all on the same "nothing" message. The same code of silence of lies that brought us IRAQ. These people must not be trusted!

First thoughts: The show must go on

Telegraph, London, UK — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:32:58 GMT

From the very respected British broadsheet paper the Telegraph :

------------------------

John McCain's running mate Sarah Palin was in Alaskan independence party
Sarah Palin, the Republican vice-presidential candidate, was once a member of the Alaskan Independence Party, its officials have said.

By Jon Swaine
Last Updated: 3:22PM BST 02 Sep 2008

News of Mrs Palin's former membership comes as the latest in a string of potentially embarrassing disclosures about her past.

The party has lobbied since the 1970s for the right to hold a referendum on whether Alaska should secede from the United States. Its motto, "Alaska First", contrasts sharply with the John McCain campaign slogan: "Country First."

It seeks "the complete repatriation of the public lands, held by the federal government, to the state and people of Alaska" and aims to be "self-sufficient" by using profits from Alaskan oil and gas resources. It claims that the vote held in 1958 which led to Alaska becoming the 49th state of the US was corrupt and did not offer a proper choice.

While it is thought that Mrs Palin officially left the party to become a Republican in 1996, she recorded an address for its convention earlier this year in which she said: "I share your party's vision of upholding the constitution of our great state" and told members to "keep up the good work".

Lynette Clark, the chairman of the Alaskan Independence Party (AIP), confirmed to ABC News that Mrs Palin and her husband Todd had both been both members and attended at least one party convention.

"When she joined the party our platform was right under her nose," Mrs Clark said. "I can't understand why in God's name she has aligned herself with a candidate who opposes the development of our republic and Alaska's resource wealth," she added.

In a video recorded at this year's party convention, Dexter Clark, the party's vice chairman, can be seen telling delegates: "The situation is completely out of hand, the decay of the federal government is totally complete."

He tells them that in order to propagate AIP policy they "should infiltrate" mainstream parties. "Whichever party in that area [in which] you can get something done, get into that political party, even though it does have its problems," he says.

The latest disclosure is likely to add to concerns among some Republicans that Mrs Palin was not adequately vetted before being asked to become Mr McCain's vice-presidential candidate.

On Monday the campaign added another dramatic twist to the race for the presidency when it said that Bristol, Mrs Palin’s 17-year-old daughter, was pregnant and would marry the father.

Opponents of the Republican Governor have unearthed more potentially embarrassing details from her past.

Developments in the "Troopergate" scandal, in which Mrs Palin denies using her role as Governor of Alaska to take revenge on her state trooper brother-in-law by having him sacked after his divorce from her sister, appear to challenge her version of events. An investigation into the incident is set to report back five days before the election.

In an interview last month, when still unlikely that she would be offered her role by Mr McCain, Mrs Palin dismissed the job of vice-president, saying that she couldn't understand what it would involve day to day.

When asked in another interview for her thoughts on America's involvement in the Iraq war, Mr McCain's continued support for which is a key plank of the Republican campaign, Mrs Palin said: "I've been so focused on state government, I haven't really focused much on the war in Iraq."

And Mrs Palin has also been criticised for her behaviour on a radio talk show in January. While being interviewed about her feud with Lyda Green, the Alaskan state senate leader, Mrs Palin laughed when her interviewer described cancer sufferer Senator Green as a "cancer".

---------------------------

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/uselection2008/johnmccain/2667214/John-McCains-running-mate-Sarah-Palin-was-in-Alaskan-independence-party.html

First thoughts: The show must go on

stephen missouri — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:33:57 GMT

You mean the charade must go on? I see no maverick, no judgement from McCain. And now we know that his choice is nothing more than a Cheney-like politician who do not believe the laws of the land are to be respected...this is a person that think Alaska should not be part of the USA??? Why would I want someone with such a view to represent me?

McCain accusses people of lacking patriotism, her is one who lies about the bridge to nowhere and now we find out she supports 527s, supports a group advocating for Alaska independence, pay lobbysts, where is the reformer?? But just like McCain she blows with the win...now i know she is Mccain's soulmate...they both lack judgement, temperament to lead, and will pander to anyone with a vote...

This is not leadership you can count on...No Way, No How, No McCain. ENOUGH!!!!!!!

First thoughts: The show must go on

McCain Palin 08 — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:34:36 GMT

weekly straw poll ending Sep 1 on another major blog.
573,222 votes
McCain 62-Obama 38
Votes counted by state; McCain wins all states

As noted before, this is not a scientific poll but Obama's followers are supposed to be more likely to use internet. So why can'the ever capture this poll? This poll has consistently since Jun showed McCain with an almost 2-1 lead EVERY week.

First thoughts: The show must go on

David Anders so excited by Sarah — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:35:26 GMT

The repubs didnt even need a convention after picking Sarah Palin. This race is over, ive never seen women and men this excited over a candidate. America loves a person that will stand up to the politicians, and this woman has done it better than anyone in American History. The cream always rises to the top.

I dont think doing karaoke of Matin Luther King is going to work anymore. Sorry Obama.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Sally, CA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:35:41 GMT

"Sure, Palin doesn't have a lot
of experience but she's running to be
McCain's apprentice."
You forgot to add "who could be President on Day 2, heaven forbid;"
or add "the way Cheney was an apprentice for Bush, and the way Agnew was for Nixon;"
or add "as the Constitution says of the VP role;"
or add "who won't know Congress to help move important legislation."
Of course, you were in a rush, writing these First Read things...

First thoughts: The show must go on

American Voter — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:37:10 GMT

Joe Scarborough should be reprimanded. When is what he says actually news? It is a 3 hour editoral commentary on what Joe thinks. He talks over his guests especially if he thinks they won't agree with him.

He ought to be embarrassed that just this morning not only did he play the race card against Obama saying if he was not black he would not be he Dem candidate for President. He also had th gall to make the claim as if it was truth that just because the Gulf Coast Govs are Republicas they somehow better manage crisis and natural disaster. Several points he left out: one - Gustav was a category 1 when it hit land; Katrina a category 5; (2) the Bush cronies were set up as good old boys watching out for each other - screw the one state that has a Dem governor (I remember hearing Joe's stupid arguements at the time Katrina hit); and (3) Perhaps, just perhaps, emergency response protocol was learned from all of the tragedy of Katrina.

Joe spews hateful, racist, GOP talking points for 3 hours every day. MSNBC/NBC should evaluate their use of air waves.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Clara Kansas City, MO — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:37:13 GMT

from my phone,
my husband is adament that Palin"s daughter"s situation is fair game because Palin has made an issue of her platform and belief system that abstinence is a viable alternative to birth control or sex eduacation. one more Republican hypocrisy to chink the armour. Hope and prayer are really not birth control. And forcing kids to marry to publicly "validate" their sexcapades is just plain backwards.
Yes, I see Palin as setting back women and our issues. I don"t perceive this "ultimate" promotion of an unqulified candidate as progress, it is just slapping lipstick on the pig. Once again a woman is willing to be objectified in the name of progress. It is really embarassing.

Further, how dare McCain treat so cavalierly the well being of 300 + million Americans. A pundit last week said it best when he said he and his wife had planned far more thouroughly when creating wills for their children.

McCain has jumped the shark and should be required to undergo psychological eval, he is not fit to lead. period.

First thoughts: The show must go on

John Brazil — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:37:28 GMT

Govern Palin brings a "three's company" kind of charm to the Ticket. That's not any more sexist to say that, then it is to say the "Governator" is a stud. Sex-appeal is an old staple of campaigning.

HOWEVER: THIS is what the republicans think "leadership" means? Probably, she was and is the right governor for her state; and probably she is like anyone else who has ever achieved a certain degree of power: she is tempted to use it on occasions, probably even abuse it.

Such a staunch family values politician, but, alas, like many of the morally-superior republican leaders, she seems a little chalenged about delivering on that supposed moral superiority, herself. Please, refrain from telling others how to order their houses, until your's in order.

This "Country-First" ticket would do well to remember that our country was founded on the belief of separation of the government and ANY religion. If Gov. Palin wants to teach evangelical theories in sciences classes, is she advocating Muslim, Buddhist, Ba´hai, Animist theories as well?

Finally I admire some of the things she has (apparently) accomplished for her state in her short time in office, and the fact that she is feminine and beatiful but knows how to handle herself in an untamed environment. But I think it's a disservice to her and to Americans to suggest that we put a 2nd lieutenant (regardless of how talented) into a vacancy requiring a general.

First thoughts: The show must go on

AP from IL — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:38:19 GMT

After a brief session of Morning Joe today, I was ready to tear out my hair when Pat Buchanan stridently hyped Palin's experience by saying that she was the Govenor of the largest state in the union. Last time I checked, you governed people not empty space and the entire population of Alaska does not add up to any major US city.
Joe was equally annoying (as usual)when he said the press would drive votes to McCain if they continued to pile on Palin. He said this was historically proven that the public hates the media and does the opposite of what they say. Well, if that is the case then how did Gore and Kerry lose because both were attacked repeatedly by the press.
I swear, if I were sitting in Mika's seat, these guys would not be getting away with all their BS.

First thoughts: The show must go on

sbv creswell, oregon — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:38:31 GMT

the vetting process: dear chuck, first a state senator for eight years, and then a us senator on the foreign affairs committee and numerous other committees and subcommittees compared to a first term governor? but let's talk executive experience: you seemed to be rather derisive of sen. obama's comments last night on cnn. i would say, and i have heard you say, what a well tuned and well run campaign sen. obama has. i do not know alaska's governing style, some governors, i.e. texas with bush, are more figure heads than administrative directors. sen. obama has managed 100's if not 1000s of "employees" and managed many millions of dollars in budget. sen. mccain has shown a lack of respect for the american people, not only for the lack of vetting - from personal life(probably not important)to bridge to nowhere, earmarks, ted stevens support and alaskan succession. john mccain has shown he is a typical pol and the MSM needs to get over the john mccain of 2000.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Watch This! — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:39:52 GMT

Oh, this is RICH. Morning Joe AND Buchanan are against having Palin on the ticket:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CTbsbeY5k5k

You need to hear what they say in defense of Barrack's experience over Palin's. Pass this on!

First thoughts: The show must go on

Cindy Lou, TX — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:40:23 GMT

...it's that she's taken the focus off of Obama. It seems like it’s been a month -- though it's been just a few days -- that the RNC or McCain hasn't had a sustained attack on the Illinois Democrat. As we've learned this summer, when this campaign is about Obama, the race is a lot closer than when it's not about him. And right now, thanks to Palin, it's not about him....
**************************************************
The MSM made the race about Obama, not the other way around. The MSM is the gatekeeper.

McCain should have been careful about what he asked for. Now he's getting it. McCain was whining about Obama getting too much MSM attention. Now let's see how he withstands the kind of MSM attention Obama has been getting FOR MONTHS. (What the MSM is doing now is MILD compared to what would have happened to Obama. McCain is being handled with sensitivity and kid gloves compared to Obama.)

First thoughts: The show must go on

Ordinary voter — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:05:36 GMT

Monegan told the Anchorage Daily News, ‘For the record, no one ever said fire Wooten. Not the governor. Not Todd. Not any of the other staff.

Facts trump implying. If this is Obama, we would be moving on.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Smith, AZ — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:08:13 GMT

The Person That I know:
1. McCain forgot how many houses he has.
2. McCain only started vetting Sarah Oakub within hours before announcing the hoice, hence "good judgment".
3. McCain told me he doesn't understand the economy, yet he calls Obama "out of touch".
4. McCain told me that 'experience' was his campaign slogan, but he chose the most inexperienced VP (compare her small 9,000-person town mayorship and 2-year governorship of Alaska with Obama's 8-year position as a state Senate of a larger area with over 200,000 people and now a U.S. Senator).
5. McCain told us that we should put country first, but he put an inexperienced VP ahead of America's security (this great nation requires a great elader who has national security and foreign policy credentials or a VP who has those credentials).
6. McCain told me he is a maverick, but I found out he votes with Bush 90% of the time.
That is the McCain I know....

First thoughts: The show must go on

Elise Denton, TX — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:08:24 GMT

Palin is in way over her head. She can't win what it took Hillary years to earn. And even if you spin that her experience is greater than Obama's, at least he's had eighteen months to prove that he can handle a massive 50 state strategy and a multi-million dollar budget. Not to mention that he faced the Clinton machine and survived quite nicely.

What could Palin possible accomplish before Nov. 4 to prove to Americans that she is ready to handle the Oval Office?

That's right. Nothing.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Bruce Boudreau — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:08:46 GMT

Time magazine is reporting that Palin became mayor on a platform of right-wing wedge issues, including abortion and gun-owners right. This in a town 6,500!

Most disturbingly, Time also reports that Palin pressured the town librarian to ban books that her supporters found offensive. It is frightening to think that someone this self-righteous could be a heartbreak away from the vast power of the presidency.

The media must do its job and continue to do the vetting of Palin that the McCain campaign failed to do. The American people cannot make a reasoned decision without the media doing its job.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Paul Hoffman — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:09:40 GMT

Sen. McCain's choice of Gov. Palin, and the ensuing attacks on her family, is receiving so much negativism in the "Mainstream Media" that I am compelled to ask "Why". Surely, the display of favoritism for Sen. Obama at Mile High by Cable News' top show hosts, gives many of us Independants a reason to pause and relook "bias" in this political battle. The Republicans, as seen even in Gov. Palin's family matters, are being the point of attack of the majority of the media. Fair or unfair??? As an Independant, I have never been witness to such partisism in my 50 years. It is a sad statement on the information receives today by yesterday's fair media senders.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Todd, NC — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:10:47 GMT

I must say that it is enjoyable to sit back and watch the republicans squirm these days since the VP pick was announced. Once you get past the talking points.. It is awful hard to speak to well any issues from their perspective. I mean if you just think back to how all the republicans sounded during the DNC and how they sound now its strikingly different.. The things they criticized Obama for choosing his words careful.. now they have to think about EVERY thing they say regarding Sarah Palin.. I beleive once all they real vetting has been completed and the american public has labeled her it will be tooo late for spin and P.R. because there was two months worth of issues from Sarah Palin introductory speech.. Even though the repubs have silenced her in a sense after she was booed for the hillary references... Lets see just briefly:

1. I told washington thanks but no thanks on the bridge to no where...
what a laugher since the only reason she closed the project was because the funding was very slow to come in.. but its funny how the taxpayers money was never returned to the trust once she closed the project.. (this is an earmark that mccain opposes right?)

I don't even need to elaborate beyond that we can break down her political view based on earmarks that she CLAIMED to be against and that McCain is staunchly against.. So you see the personal and/or character issues don't have to be at the top of the news each day.. but it does brings mccain JUDGEMENT in the big spotlight...In a negative way..

First thoughts: The show must go on

Indie Woman in Denver — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:13:49 GMT

"Also, did Obama on CNN last night really attempt to blunt Palin's experience credentials by comparing his management of the presidential campaign to Palin's tenure as Wasilla mayor? That seemed like a stretch and probably only reminds folks of how little executive experience Obama has. Sure, Palin doesn't have a lot of experience, but she's running to be McCain's apprentice. Obama's running for the top spot."
==============
I think the way Obama runs his campaign IS executive experience (whether it's enough is another question). Based on the emails coming out of Hillary's campaign (and I was for Hillary before I was for Barack), she didn't make the necessary decisions that might have made the difference between winning and losing the Dem primary. And Barack's good decisions include his choice of VP (yea Biden!).

First thoughts: The show must go on

Jen,MI — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:16:33 GMT

The show will go on and so will the VP questions.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Don - Dayton, OH — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:17:22 GMT

I have come to the conclusion that a vote for McCain in 2008 is a vote for Clinton in 2012. Think about it. If McCain wins this election, he'll serve his 4-year term, and then, Sarah Palin will run against Hillary Clinton. Think about it.....if McCain wins this year, we are pretty much guaranteed a female president in 2012. Sounds good to me! We were on the right track this time around, until Obama cut in line. I hope voters start to see Obama for what he really is....an inexperienced, pompous first-term senator who will promise the moon just to get elected.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Bud Ferrell, Waynesboro, Va. — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:18:15 GMT

What do the purists want Sarah Palin to do? Do they want her to wear a scarlet lettered sign promclaiming her to be the grandmother of an illigitimate child?

C'mon folks. This happens to people in all social tiers. She is to be praised, not scorned, for outing her daughter's indescretion. It wasn't Sarah's fault!

In fact, I'm going to vote for her and McCain for that reason. Yes, I'm upset that it's even an issue.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Mark Gentry — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:24:24 GMT

No one else has said it - so I'll say it. We are so sorry that a hurricane was threatening Louisiana - but the delay in the convention is not about the weather - it's about the chaos in the republican party over a. its VP choice. b. its lack of personalities showing up to speak (thanks Arnie). c. its attempt to elect someone with virtually the same staff, the staff ideas, the same tricks as the current republican administration.
The delay in the convention is strictly to try to regroup and turn this trainwreck around.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Atlanta — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:29:13 GMT

Personally I don't care about any of these items about Palin. She seems to me just lieka regular person. Her in the VP slot and her life experiences will provide Palin a unique perspective in this position that America has not seen in a long time. She is just like the majority of us. Goes to work to try and earn a living and then when she is not working tries to spend time with family. I have nto toally made up my mind on her yet, but my intial thoughts are she is exactly what this country needs in a Vice President.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Yvonne — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:29:44 GMT

Obama was talking about executive experience. And given that he's run a half-billion dollar enterprise for two years with ruthless efficiency certainly qualifies as executive experience, don't you think? Much more than being the part-time mayor of a town with a $12 million budget.

He's right.

First thoughts: The show must go on

atd — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:29:49 GMT

I dispute the idea that if Wooten is a bad egg, as he seems to be, then someohow her abuse of power is ok. This is why we have courts where all sides are heard and money/political power are not supposed to matter. You don't take matters into your own hands. No paid public servant is supposed to use their power to get an advantage. I had a crazy ex and I had to go through legal channels. The Palins should too.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Blue Collar Bob — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:34:42 GMT

To Don from Dayton - on the right track -- for what? A female President? If that is your only criteria then yes, have a blast, vote for McCain. I ntend to use my vote to better the future for my son. I see nothing in Sen. Obama that is pompous, and all of his promises come with a call for commitments from the people as well. I welcome the challenge.

Too bad the right to vote doesn't come with its own vetting process.

First thoughts: The show must go on

TJK, Hunt Valley, MD — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:35:37 GMT

Why the Palin Pregnancy Matters?

1.Indication of poor parenting?
2.Lack of supervision?
3.Her choice or no choice?
4.Lack of tolerance/support for teenagers who choose abortion or contraception
5.Privacy police from conservatives—gays, birth control, abortion, marriage
6.Implications of McCain campaign competence or incompetence
7.Implications of judgment/leadership. Do we need another Brownie or Harriet?
8.Was law broken—adult impregnating minor?
9.Was father vetted by parents?
10.Choice or mistake? Blessing or penalty?
11.Old enough to decide for self or forced into these life changing consequences for political gain?
12. Some of these wouldn't be pertinent if the Republicans weren't always proclaiming what private choices everyone should make in their own lives. If people want to ban abortion then this is fair game. If people want to deny choices to others then this is fair game.

First thoughts: The show must go on

NO Obama 'N Biden — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:38:05 GMT

“The buck stops here!”
-President Harry Truman in 1948

"Answering that question with specificity, you know, is above my pay grade."
-Presidential candidate Barack Obama in 2008.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Hmm — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:39:03 GMT

PALIN WAS PART OF AIP WHICH IS A GROUP THAT WANTS ALASKA TO SECEDE ... ALASKA FIRST! MAYBE THIS EXPLAINS WHY SHE DIDN'T WANT TO GIVE BIRTH IN TEXAS AND FLEW ALL THE WAY BACK TO ALASKA

First thoughts: The show must go on

Steeler Love — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:39:26 GMT

Indie Woman: I think the way Obama runs his campaign IS executive experience

Really? Obama's not even running the campaign, Axelrod is. I guess Obama has "thought about being President" for a long time. But that's like saying I've thought about playing QB for the Pittsburgh Steelers for a long time, therefore I'm qualified to do so. Needless to say, neither is true.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:40:07 GMT

Chuckie T:
Obama was answering allegations that Governor Palin had more executive experience than he did. The comparison of her being mayor of Wasilla to his running of a powerful campaign for the presidency was more than apt. He was simply pointing out that her executive experience was negligeable. The only executive experience that either Obama or McCain have had involves the running of their respective campaigns and we all know which campaign has always purred like a fine tuned example of automotive execellence and which campaign has sputtered like it's always ready to run out of gas. This last selection process that produced a much flawed and inexperienced Governor of Alaska and doesn't suggest much good about the executive fortitude of a potential McCain presidency.

I guess you can get rankled about anything if you try hard enough but Obama continues to make perfectly logical arguments.
Obama '08

First thoughts: The show must go on

John Mehan, San Francisco, CA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:40:41 GMT

Let's face it, Palin is a disaster; and so is John McCain.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Man-sized Safe, Portland, Texas — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:43:08 GMT

The Republican talking points on Palin-comparison-to-Biden seems to be that she is a great choice because she is a regular person with regular challenges. Maybe I'm off a little, but after the last eight years, I sorta want a President who is smarter than me.

First thoughts: The show must go on

John Cobb CA — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:10:16 GMT

The real question for the GOP is whether they would nominate Palin for PRESIDENT if John McInsane was not able to run.

I'm sure the Dems would go with Biden and he would pick Hillary for VEEP.

First thoughts: The show must go on

New Independent — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:11:43 GMT

Shari, 48 yr old full-time mom, Hudson, MA - Well said, Shari!!! I turned around to my daughter this weekend, and said, well, at least she had the right to make a decision! Something her mom wants to take away from us!

First thoughts: The show must go on

John Blaser, Palatine, Illinois — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:17:04 GMT

My messages never get posted, but you heard it here first: Palin will withdraw her name today and Mitt Romney's name will be placed in nomination for VP.

First thoughts: The show must go on

No Way No How No McCain — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:17:24 GMT

* The news that Palin once backed the Bridge to Nowhere went national.

* It emerged that Palin has links to the bizarro Alaska Independence Party, which harbors the goal of seceding from the union that McCain and Palin seek to lead.

* The news broke that as governor, Palin relied on an earmark system she now opposes. Taken along with the Bridge to Nowhere stuff, this threatens to undercut her reformist image, something that was key to her selection as McCain's Veep candidate.

* The news broke that Palin's 17-year-old daughter became pregnant out of wedlock at a time when the conservative base had finally started rallying behind McCain's candidacy.

* Barely moments after McCain advisers put out word that McCain had known of Bristol Palin's pregnancy, the Anchorage Daily News revealed that Palin's own spokesperson hadn't known about it only two days ago.

* A senior McCain adviser at the Republican convention was forced into the rather embarrassing position of arguing that McCain had known about the pregnancy "last week" -- without saying what day last week he knew about it.

* It came out that Republican lawyers are up in Alaska vetting Palin -- now, more than 72 hours after it was announced that she'd been picked.

* Palin lawyered up in relation to the trooper-gate probe in Alaska -- a move that ensures far more serious attention to the story from the major news orgs.

What else will come out today? After all, there are still six hours left until September 2nd...

First thoughts: The show must go on

Dorothy, Illinois — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:18:43 GMT

Was the McCain Campaign aware that a Democratic Alaska State Senator is going to release findings of the investigation into "Troopergate" in October, just weeks before the election? We can assume that this report will not reflect positively on Gov Palin and will probably bring negative publicity for the campaign to handle. Do they really want to be in the position of having to defend their VP candidate just weeks before the election? Wouldn't they rather be using that time to a) stress Senator McCain's strong points or b) attack Senator Obama's positions on the issues?

I just don't think they really thought this whole thing through very carefully, and that in itself, is cause for concern about Senator McCain's judgement.

First thoughts: The show must go on

mccain palin 08 — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:22:07 GMT

I still cant believe as a mother she had put her family especially her daughter thru all this for her career. NO REAL MOTHER would do this to their kids.

Jill mother of 4 (Sent Tuesday, September 02, 2008 10:24 AM)

Jill, and what would any REAL FATHER do? Why is Obama trying to be President with two children at home. I guess shame on him. AND, SHAME ON YOU FOR BEING SEXIST!

First thoughts: The show must go on

Carl — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:23:29 GMT

John McCain is a rash decision maker. He does not have the temperment to be president. If you go back through the years with this guy, there are so many things he has done wrong and then tells us he's made a mistake and he needs to be redeemed. He often cites redemption as important to him - he should, he has needed a lot of it.

He's definitely an American hero, but he has made a mockery of himself the last few months and he deserves the electoral thrashing he is about to get, I will not feel sorry for him. I feel sorry for Palin, she is not the right choice for any number of reasons, and McCain's judgement is in serious question that he would nominate her to be one step from the white house when he knew so little about her. It is just plain reckless and should not go unpunished. Republicans should demand she is removed.

First thoughts: The show must go on

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:23:33 GMT

McCain's pick for VP, Sarah Palin, is the greatest gift Democrats have received in years.

I had no idea John McCain was so generous! Is he also going to wave a white flag at the convention? He might as well.

I find it astonishing that McCain's campaign machine declared her "fully vetted" and yet, not one official in the State of Alaska was asked anything by the vetting team.

Sometimes, the truth is just too painful for McCain to admit, apparently...

This campaign promises to be MOST entertaining. The Republicans are losing it... getting outright bizarre. My, how the mighty have fallen!

First thoughts: The show must go on

Mel — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:24:09 GMT

Oops -- you are right - Obama made a mistake comparing his campaign to Palin's mayoral experience. He needs to avoid falling into the trap the Republicans have set here - he needs to avoid comparing his experience to Palin's, the Obama campaign has been arguing that judgment - not experience, is the essential Qualification. And Palin has not demonstrated any better judgment than McCain.

And Palin is not even in the same stratosphere where QUALIFICATIONS are concerned - seriously, to suggest that her resume is even close to as impressive as Obama's is laughable on its face.

Finally, Obama is competing with MCCAIN - NOT Palin...and he is a much better leader than McCain - the only relevent mention of Palin is how her selection reflects on McCain's JUDGMENT.

First thoughts: The show must go on

Okmulgee Ok — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:25:48 GMT

Why is there so much outrage about the media printing and talking about Gov. Palin's daughter. You did not seem to find the tv spot attacking Obama's two children run by the McCain campaign offensive.