Top Alaska Republicans puzzled by Palin pick.
By on Aug 30th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
Top Alaska Republicans puzzled by Palin pick.
The Anchorage Daily News reports that the state’s leading Republicans are expressing shock and bewilderment over John McCain’s selection of their governor as his running mate:
State Senate President Lyda Green said she thought it was a joke when someone called her at 6 a.m. to give her the news.
“She’s not prepared to be governor. How can she be prepared to be vice president or president?” said Green, a Republican from Palin’s hometown of Wasilla. “Look at what she’s done to this state. What would she do to the nation?” [...]
State House Speaker John Harris, a Republican from Valdez, was astonished at the news. He didn’t want to get into the issue of her qualifications.
“She’s old enough,” Harris said. “She’s a U.S. citizen.”
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Apparently the Goopers were not informed thier party just played the Gender card.
Obama/Biden
August 30th, 2008 at 1:23 pmWhat would she do to the nation?
In all fairness, as incompetent and unqualified she might be, I highly doubt she could do as much damage as Bush & Co, those incompetent, warmongering, oil-grabbing idiots...
August 30th, 2008 at 1:25 pm“She’s old enough,” Harris said. “She’s a U.S. citizen.”
- - And most importantly to the McCain campaign, she has a uterus.
August 30th, 2008 at 1:25 pmNow here's a quote for the echo chamber!
“Look at what she’s done to this state. What would she do to the nation?”
August 30th, 2008 at 1:29 pm"In all fairness, as incompetent and unqualified she might be, I highly doubt she could do as much damage as Bush & Co, those incompetent, warmongering, oil-grabbing idiots…" Come on now . . . We've had 8 years of one idiot former governor running the country as a figure head puppet and look where we are now. What would Ms. Congeniality do but more of the same?
August 30th, 2008 at 1:33 pmShe tries to kill moose.
McCain/Palin '08 = Boris & Natasha '08.
August 30th, 2008 at 1:33 pmMcCain sent out the word , I want a self-admitted pot smoking , moose killing, Pat Buchanan Candidate supporting , Creationist, under investigation for abuse of Power in Alaska, expert in Foreign Policy because " Alaska is near Russia " VP - BINGO !
August 30th, 2008 at 1:34 pmIt sounds like Palin has been at odds with her own party and agrees with Democrats on the issues that prompted the criticisms highlighted in this thread.
August 30th, 2008 at 1:38 pmbackup Says:
It sounds like Palin has been at odds with her own party and agrees with Democrats on the issues that prompted the criticisms highlighted in this thread.
____________
And it's STILL a ridiculous, embarrassing choice on McStain's part.
For Dog's sake, Palin has openly admitted she doesn't even know what the VEEP's job is. McStain's own spokesperson said she knew nothing about Palin.
What did the GOOP do, throw darts at a board?
August 30th, 2008 at 1:42 pmOne might expect the home team to be excited about her call up to the big leagues...
August 30th, 2008 at 1:46 pmWhat did the GOOP do, throw darts at a board?
No, they selected the only Female from the party that said Yes I will be happy to go down with the ship.
August 30th, 2008 at 1:46 pmShe's getting dissed by her own repugs. Not a bad sign in some circles.
August 30th, 2008 at 1:46 pmCred, she needs all she can get...
I wonder if this will convince RHF to vote for her, cause she's just like Senator Clinton. What? She's not? Oh.
August 30th, 2008 at 1:47 pmJust wondering... that picture at the top... is that her w/ KKKarl???
Ya know, a big, fat cutthroat that finally got caught?
August 30th, 2008 at 1:48 pmGregor Samsa Says: In all fairness, as incompetent and unqualified she might be, I highly doubt she could do as much damage as Bush & Co, those incompetent, warmongering, oil-grabbing idiots…
Unfortunately, that mindset got Bush elected.
Compared to Palin, Bush is a moderate. And Bush is no moderate He is an ignorant, loony-tune, far-right-wing religious nut who went into office to make his friends rich.
He never really tried to do anything about the wedge issues, and considering he has had a conservative Supreme Court, who appointed him to his position, he could have done a lot of damage to abortion-rights.
I think that if anything happened to McCain, Palin would make us miss Bush. And I NEVER thought I'd think that anyone could be worse than Bush...
August 30th, 2008 at 1:52 pmAlaska has been sitting in the "undecided" column for weeks now, too close to call.
Doesn't sound like the Palin pick will automatically put all three electoral votes in the Red column, now does it?
PEACE
August 30th, 2008 at 1:52 pmHere's an idea Thinkprogress - stop posting about her - you are playing into their hands. Just a thought.
August 30th, 2008 at 1:53 pmExclusive: Chief Fired by Palin Speaks Out
The July firing of Alaska Public Safety Commissioner Walter Monegan by Gov. Sarah Palin, who was announced as John McCain's running mate on Friday, has unearthed a stream of soap-opera-like details about Palin, her husband, her family and top state appointees. The controversy has also cut against Palin's reputation for holding an ethical line and standing up to colleagues in the Republican Party over matters of principle.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/washingtonpostinvestigations/2008/08/exclusive_chief_fired_by_palin.html
August 30th, 2008 at 1:53 pm“She’s old enough,” Harris said. “She’s a U.S. citizen.”
Now there's a glowing testimonial if I ever heard one.
As to the question of whether McCain could have picked a less-qualified person to be his running mate, the answer is obviously, "Yes. He could have picked Ruch Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, or Bill O'Reilly as his running mate."
I still want to know who is really the mother of that last baby. Palin, or her daughter?
August 30th, 2008 at 1:53 pmunbelievable Says:
I think that if anything happened to McCain, Palin would make us miss Bush. And I NEVER thought I’d think that anyone could be worse than Bush…
I'll do you one better - I NEVER thought anyone could be worse than Reagan!
PEACE
August 30th, 2008 at 1:55 pmspencers mom Says: Doesn’t sound like the Palin pick will automatically put all three electoral votes in the Red column, now does it?
With the Bob Barr factor, I think it's even worse for McCain on a state-by-state basis. It's why the MSM is ignoring Barr, he's got more than double the support of both Nader and McKinney combined - which is probably even more ampliied in the red states...
A truck passed me on the highway yesterday with Obama stickers covering the backside. It was the second Obama fan I noticed that day, and compared to ZERO McCain displays. I live in Georgia.
August 30th, 2008 at 1:58 pmfromthevalleyofdeath Says: Here’s an idea Thinkprogress - stop posting about her - you are playing into their hands. Just a thought.
Nice try troll, but we liberals believe in sharing knowledge and educating people on the facts.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:00 pmPalin's radical views make herr dubyah look main stream.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:02 pmRepublic. We have to see how Palin pans out as a VP choice. It will be interesting.
I think some of the factors in her selection were that she's a woman. Some (not many) women that were interesting in Clinton might cross to a McCain/Palin ticket. A small portion of 18 million could turn an election.
She's a maverick. She has (albeit brief) political career in Alaska where she has opposed her own party and worked with Democrats. She has fought corruption and pork projects. Opposed oil companies and supported drilling. That's appealing to many.
And most importantly, for McCain, she is the darling of a previously uninterested core of the base - evangelicals.
Her creationist ideals and hard line on abortion will probably prove detrimental, but she will rally the base. McCain needs that if he wants to win.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:03 pmbackedup says:
Her creationist ideals...
Strange way to phrase the fact that she want mythology in science class.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:09 pmA Presidential candidate who can barely remember his own name and a Veep without a national identity? If the GOP isn't throwing the election they sure are doing a great job of making it appear that way.
I think it's safe to say that the only function of the McSpin campaign is to keep the psycochristians in the fold so the neocons can continue to use them in the future when, they hope, the moderate majority will have forgotten the utterly shameful Bush Administration and, once again, become complacent. And, if enough people vote for the "white guy", they will actually hand over the reins of power to a duo which is more dangerous than the criminals we have now.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:09 pmAnti-science, anti-choice, pro-murder, and anti-intellect is not being a maverick...it's being a radical status quo reich-winger
August 30th, 2008 at 2:10 pmRiddle me this oh wise one. Would she have been picked if she were a man with the exact same qualifications?
August 30th, 2008 at 2:12 pmbackup Says: I think some of the factors in her selection were that she’s a woman. Some (not many) women that were interesting in Clinton might cross to a McCain/Palin ticket. A small portion of 18 million could turn an election.
Those who supported Hillary, such as my 64 year old mother (her typical die-hard supporter), supported Hillary NOT because she is a woman, but because of the platform on which she ran.
You see, my mother was one of those women from a generation without equal rights, so she fought for equality for the sake of her daughter (me). Like my mother, I may not have equal rights, but unlike my mother, I have closer to equal rights.
Hillary Clinton represents the ideals for which my mother and her generation fought. Sarah Palin actually represents an oppression of those ideals. In November, my Hillary supporting mother will be voting for the person who upholds the same ideals as she shares with Hillary Clinton - Barack Obama.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:12 pmRiddle me this oh wise one. Would she have been picked if she were a man with the exact same qualifications?
And why no statements of any sort from Mr. Gov. Palin?
Or do most republican men allow others to use their wives as punching bags?
August 30th, 2008 at 2:15 pmNo B-kup. Anyone who sees her evangelicalism as a plus has already decided that Obama is a Muslim, or the Antichrist. But, a few may go to a third party or stay home rather than vote for a woman. And I can't believe that any rational person would confuse her with Hillary. All they have in common is gender.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:15 pmBackup,
You forgot about the right-wing members who will not vote for a woman.
Hey Pete, how's the ol aquarium spouting?
August 30th, 2008 at 2:16 pmbackup Says:
I think some of the factors in her selection were that she’s a woman. Some (not many) women that were interesting in Clinton might cross to a McCain/Palin ticket. A small portion of 18 million could turn an election.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
You must have a low opinion of women if you think they are so shallow that they would vote for any woman offered up as president or vice president, just because that candidate is a woman. I'm guessing John McCain has that view.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:16 pmbackup Says:
Republic. We have to see how Palin pans out as a VP choice. It will be interesting...
__________
Do yourself a favor... stop digging... her own party is upset over the choice.
Shi-ite, man, even her own fellow Alaskan GOOPers don't get it.
I doubt McStain actually made the pick. But then, John didn't even decide what his own platform would be. And when he does voice an opinion, his handlers immediatel poo-poo and say, don't listen to him.
It appears that neither of them know much about the other and you actually think this is good? And she openly admitted, she has no idea what the job entails.
The hole you're standing in is only getting deeper and deeper, and none us are going to help you when the time comes. For your own sake, stop digging.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:18 pmWayne. It seems pretty inconceivable that you could fake a pregnancy while your the governor of a state, but anythings possible. (I also initially didn't believe that Edwards could attempt an affair while he was running for president). Maybe there's something to the story. It would, however, seem coincidental that Dow syndrome effects older mothers (Palin 44) and the baby could be someone elses.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:18 pmWayne A. Schneider Says:
You must have a low opinion of women if you think they are so shallow that they would vote for any woman...
__________
Clearly, Wayne... the entire GOOP does.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:19 pmA well used uterus. Don't these christo-cultists know we have an over population of humans on earth? Or do they just not realize what caused pregnancy?
August 30th, 2008 at 2:19 pm24. backup Says:
... She’s a maverick....
______
A maverick is just a cow that's too stupid to go home. Ask any rancher.
She's an old-school Robertson/Falwell fundie -- nothing more.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:21 pmExactly, Wayne, exactly.
As much as many Dem women love Hillary, a lot of them still voted for Obama because he was making a hell of a lot more sense.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:21 pmThe Republic of Stupidity Says:
I doubt McStain actually made the pick. But then, John didn’t even decide what his own platform would be. And when he does voice an opinion, his handlers immediatel poo-poo and say, don’t listen to him.
Let's watch and see who leaves the bus next. That'll probably be the Roveito who convinced McCain of Palin's political advantages.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:24 pmbackup Says: It would, however, seem coincidental that Dow syndrome effects older mothers (Palin 44) and the baby could be someone elses.
While the risks for Down's Syndrome increase in women over 40, it is not unlikely for a younger woman to give birth to a Down's Syndrome child.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Down_syndrome#Incidence
August 30th, 2008 at 2:24 pmThe aquarium, and it's inhabitants, are fine Keith. It was a filter fitting rather than a tank seal, but it was lucky I was sitting here when it let loose! I would not have enjoyed dealing with 60 gallons of salt water.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:25 pmShe’s a maverick. She has (albeit brief) political career in Alaska where she has opposed her own party and worked with Democrats.
~backup
Sara Palin, a maverick because she has worked with the political opposition? And I used to think that trying to reach a compromise and reach a concensus was, you know, what competent politicians do. Don't even get me started on corruption.
I guess your comment goes to show how really low the bar was set during the Bush terms.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:25 pmcomon backup, would she have been picked if she were a man with the exact same qualifications?
Because if you answer no then you must understand that nothing else about her matters at all and that this is the most blatent display of unadulterated sexism that we have ever seen in the political arena.
It boils down to her one and only value being that she is a she and that mccain has no issue with expoiting that in a desperate last ditch effort to save his campaign.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:25 pmRepublic, I could be standing in a deep hole. But, do me a favor, tune into the Republican convention when she speaks and see how upset Republicans are with the choice.
There are other problems with Palin, but the idea that she won't excite Republics to
turn out, might be a miscalculation. And the republicans that you see upset with her, are those that she opposed in Alaska. She's upset a fraction of a percent, by doing what the majority wants in their politicians - crossing party lines when it makes sense and fighting corruption and pork barrel politics.
I'll agree to disagree, but the convention will shed some light on this debate.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:26 pmB.S, you vile reich-wingers will defend Satan if he had an (R) after his name. You vile scum have no individual thought. You obey like good little sheeple....always.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:28 pmjb Says: Don’t these christo-cultists know we have an over population of humans on earth?
As someone who lives in the Bible Belt, I can tell you that they hold firm to the biblical line that tells them to go forth an multiply, despite the fact that it was written by desert-dwelling goat herders over a century ago...
There's some idiot who divided the gross square acreage of Texas by the world population and concluded that the entire planet could live on an acre each in Texas. Nevermind terrain, water supply, waste disposal, trees and other forms of life, a means to exit-enter your acre, access to food, gas, hospitals, jobs, etc.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:28 pmHere's an interesting take from an Alaskan if you're in the mood for more reading. Comes complete with a picture of "downtown" Wasilla, too, and describes Wasilla as "Alaska's Bible Belt":
http://mudflats.wordpress.com/2008/08/29/what-is-mccain-thinking-one-alaskans-perspective/
PEACE
August 30th, 2008 at 2:29 pmbackup,
I'm simply asking a question a lot of Alaskans are asking. The circumstances surrounding her alleged pregnancy leave people scratching their heads. Her water broke, so she got on a plane for ten hours and flew back to Alaska? Nobody close to her in her government knew she was pregnant until a month before she allegedly gave birth? (They didn't think she was because she didn't look the least bit pregnant, but I agree that some women are just like that.) Then there's the family photo (I am unsure of the date it was taken) in which it looks more like her daughter is pregnant than she is. (The key word is "looks".) Her daughter was out of school for several months, supposedly due to mono. (Maybe she got more than just a "kissing disease".)
But you know what? Cheney may have tried to set a precedent, but the public is going to want to see her medical records - ALL of them. That should settle the matter once and for all, assuming they haven't been busy "cleaning up her record", like Bush's handlers did with his ANG records.
As for me, I want to see proof that the baby really is hers and not her daughters, which is much more plausible to me.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:32 pmI think Gov. Palin was selected because she is the "Darling of the Religious Right." The fact that she is a woman is coincidental.
The fact that Sen. McCain is having trouble getting the "Values Voters" on Board, says a lot about his situation.
These people are the foot soldiers necessary to get voters out for McCain.
I'm willing to bet that most of the trolls at this site got involved in politics because they oppose Abortions, first and foremost.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:33 pmFred Says: Because if you answer no then you must understand that nothing else about her matters at all and that this is the most blatent display of unadulterated sexism that we have ever seen in the political arena.
What offends me the most is what he's doing to the women's movement. We've made giant strides in being seen as intelligent, competent and credible. To put someone like Sarah Palin into a position that could have been much better filled by more competent woman is a HUGE steop backward. It's saying gender, not quality matters, when we're trying to get people to stop looking at gender (or skin color, sexual-orientation, etc.)in the first place!
Hillary Clinton needs to call her out.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:33 pmNot to mention the ammunition to protect your acre from your capitalist neighbors.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:33 pmbackup Says: But, do me a favor, tune into the Republican convention when she speaks and see how upset Republicans are with the choice.
Don't have to, they are already b!tching about her on the blogs.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:34 pmFred, she would most probably not have been picked if she were a man.
Would Obama's message be as compelling if he were white?
The country is evolving to where we see women and minorities more clearly as potential leaders. That is a wonderful thing, because it increases our pool of choices for leadership. This can't be overstated.
Obama is appealing to me, in part, because he is black. That's okay. It's part of the equation. Palin is appealing to me, in part, because she is a woman. Both candidates broaden the playing field. That's not something we should oppose.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:34 pm45. backup Says:
... the convention will shed some light on this debate.
_____
Haw. No, really -- haw.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:35 pmAnd, to be serious for a moment, we can't allow anyone who Believes a magical force will fix their mistakes anywhere near the Presidency. Once was too many.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:35 pmWillfull ignorance or do you really believe that things like this have not gone on for mellinia, especially in family's and societies that use shame and harh judgment with each other.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:37 pmIt sounds like Palin has been at odds with her own party and agrees with Democrats on the issues that prompted the criticisms highlighted in this thread.
-Backup
Name the issues.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:37 pmMan, woman, dog or cow pie...I'll never vote for a Creationist.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:38 pmbackup Says: Would Obama’s message be as compelling if he were white?
Yes. It's why people still quote about JFK today.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:38 pmNice try troll, but we liberals believe in sharing knowledge and educating people on the facts.
Uh, I'm a liberal - I'm pointing out that the more we talk about her, the more we distract from Obama. Once again, we are letting the Republicans control the conversation.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:38 pmbackup Says:
Would Obama’s message be as compelling if he were white?
August 30th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
Absolutely, YES! I would vote for Obama regardless of his skin color. I care more about what he says and has done than what he looks like.
You may not believe me when I say this, but my wife and I look at Obama and see a young, charasmatic United States Senator running for President. The fact that he's black is just incidental.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:39 pmShe has never been a POW.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:40 pmbackup Says:
Republic, I could be standing in a deep hole. But, do me a favor, tune into the Republican convention when she speaks and see how upset Republicans are with the choice.
______________
backdown, yer in so deep at this point that all we can see any more is the top of yer head... words that Larry Craig has no doubt heard many a time in the past...
There were empty seats yesterday at the Road to the Convention for McStain's big announcement, thrown at the appropriately named Nutter Center, about "the lovely Sarah"... and they were giving the tickets away FOR FREE.
But no doubt Ms Palin will wow the GOOPers in the Swimsuit and Evening Gown Competitions...
August 30th, 2008 at 2:40 pm56. pete Says:
_____
Waddya mean?? MY Imaginary Friend is named Stripey -- and HE sez Gawd is a lame-ass poser.
Then again, Stripey has him some supernatural gin, once in a while ....
August 30th, 2008 at 2:40 pmNat, if you read the blockquote above my post in #8, it will answer your question. It's from the link in first line of this thread.
The local republicans in Alaska aren't happy with Palin because she's opposed them.
Take another look at it.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:41 pmIt seems pretty inconceivable that you could fake a pregnancy while your the governor of a state,
-Backup
No one knew she was pregnant until seven months into the "pregnancy" when she announced it.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:41 pmAbsolutly, why would you try to imply that his color would be anything but a detriment in American politics today.
If he were white he would be much further ahead than he is. The racist still use bugaboo fear and smear tacktics on him that would not apply if he were white. You know the n word and muslim.....try again and please try to challenge us for a change. You are getting to be weak sauce.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:42 pmFred Says:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
backup Says:
Wayne. It seems pretty inconceivable that you could fake a pregnancy while your the governor of a state,
Willfull ignorance or do you really believe that things like this have not gone on for mellinia, especially in family’s and societies that use shame and harh judgment with each other.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
Fred,
Personally, I think this is exactly what happened with the so-called "virgin birth." Joseph and Mary had sex. Mary got pregnant. (Maybe they thought then that you couldn't get pregnant the first time.) They denied they had pre-marital sex, and years after Jesus died it was decided that his birth was a holy miracle.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:42 pmbackup Says:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fred, she would most probably not have been picked if she were a man.
Would Obama’s message be as compelling if he were white?
The country is evolving to where we see women and minorities more clearly as potential leaders. That is a wonderful thing, because it increases our pool of choices for leadership. This can’t be overstated.
Obama is appealing to me, in part, because he is black. That’s okay. It’s part of the equation. Palin is appealing to me, in part, because she is a woman. Both candidates broaden the playing field. That’s not something we should oppose.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
What "field" , does Palin exactly "broaden" ?
She is an anti-enviromental , anti-choice , anti-science religious nutball ; she SHRINKS the playing field and makes women appear as narrow-minded and unintelligent as the males in the GOP.........
August 30th, 2008 at 2:43 pmfromthevalleyofdeath Says: Uh, I’m a liberal - I’m pointing out that the more we talk about her, the more we distract from Obama. Once again, we are letting the Republicans control the conversation.
Oh, sorry...
I just think that we can't afford to not expse her (like we didn't expose the Bush Regime in the last two elections).
We'll get back to Obama once this issue has played out (very soon I imagine). There are still two months to go, Obama's speech was watched by more people than the Olympic opening games (which was apparently a record-breaking crowd for Olympic viewership), and people are still crowing about it.
I actually think this helps Obama. His experience parallel's Abraham Lincolns. Hers, well, parallels that Canadian mountie cartoon character who hangs out with Bullwinkle.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:44 pmWayne. I believe you and applaud you for your objectivity. But if you take the line of reasoning that someone's physical characteristics shouldn't be considered at all, why to you see Obama as 'young' in your post. And why should it be relevant?
August 30th, 2008 at 2:44 pmNat, if you read the blockquote above my post in #8, it will answer your question. It’s from the link in first line of this thread.
So, she was in favor of tax increases on oil companies. I wonder what her position is now with big oil funding McCain's campaign?
August 30th, 2008 at 2:45 pmbackup Says:
Both candidates broaden the playing field. That’s not something we should oppose.
____________
This so weird... it's like the GOOP is desperately trying to frame this as Obama Vs Palin now... is McStain no longer the GOOP candidate for POTUS? 'Course, even Johnny said yesterday that she's "ready to be the President"...
Is this McStain's way of admitting his candidacy really is a farce?
If the Palin trial balloon doesn't pop immediately and manages to float at all, will McStain be stepping down soon?
And if Palin makes it to the WH, would she appoint her brother to the Ministry of Silly Walks?
August 30th, 2008 at 2:46 pmahh backup=boomhower
August 30th, 2008 at 2:47 pmunbelievable Says:
Hillary Clinton needs to call her out.
You are absolutely correct! This situation is tailor-made for Hillary. If Obama or Biden go after her on any of her myriad shortfalls, it will be on endless loop on the MSM.
But if Hillary, who has already been used by McCain in his ads, makes a great ad that just slaps down the idea that any of her supporters would or should consider Palin as an option, that would have the necessary effect without any blow back.
We'll see. I trust that Obama and his team will weigh all options and make the right play.
PEACE
August 30th, 2008 at 2:47 pmWayne A. Schneider Says: Personally, I think this is exactly what happened with the so-called “virgin birth.”
I read that the word 'maiden' was mistranslated from Greek to Hebrew as 'virgin', which is why the NT Gospels don't reference a virgin in their so-called 'prophecies'.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:48 pmIf the GOP manages to steal another election , will Palin insist that the Flintstones be referred to as a documentary show instead of a cartoon ?
August 30th, 2008 at 2:49 pmB-kup. Don't you realize how stupid that is? "She wouldn't have been chosen if she weren't a woman but she is so she's appealing".
If we want to survive, as a nation, we need super-qualified people in our government. And the fact that the GOP could even suggest that McCain/Palin is worthy of consideration shows that they are done as a viable party.
I could think of half a hundred women who are better qualified than Ms. Palin, but, none of them are evangelicons so the GOP wouldn't consider them. And they are probably smart enough to realize that being McCain's running mate will end the national political career of whoever takes it on.
Regardless. The GOP has just further demonstrated that they are unfit to shape national policy because they, frankly, depend on ignorant "bleeps" to preserve a antiquated, bankrupt, message. And until they abandon that message and the ignorant "bleeps" who spout it? They have nothing to say to me.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:51 pmspencers mom Says: This situation is tailor-made for Hillary. If Obama or Biden go after her on any of her myriad shortfalls, it will be on endless loop on the MSM.
Exactly! Essentially, they opened the door to whatever criticism they provoke from Hillary.
No way. No how. No Palin.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:52 pmunbelievable Says:
No way. No how. No Palin.
____________
But... but... 9/11!!! 9/11!!! POW!!! POW!!!
Uh.. Clinton did her too! Clinton did her too!!!
August 30th, 2008 at 2:54 pmObama, or his campaign, needs to use Political Judo on Gov. Palin.
Get her to respond on the record about creationism in science class , stem cell research, roe v. wade, the morning after pill, taking the bible literally, etc.
If she toes the line, the mainstream voters will react negatively.
If she fudges her answers, the religious right will be less likely to vote for McCain.
Lets use the WEDGE against the republicans for a change.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:55 pmbackup Says:
Wayne. I believe you and applaud you for your objectivity. But if you take the line of reasoning that someone’s physical characteristics shouldn’t be considered at all, why to you see Obama as ‘young’ in your post. And why should it be relevant?
August 30th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
First of all, don't change what I said. I never said that "someone's physical characteristics shouldn't be considered at all." You're putting words in my mouth. Stop doing that.
Secondly, we see a "young" man because he is a young man. In fact, he's younger than me! This will be the first time I cast my presidential elector vote for someone younger than I am. (Some day, when they amend the constitution to abolish the electoral college in favor of the popular vote, I'll be able to actually vote for president.) I also never said that his youth was "relevant" to anything. You added that.
Please, I'm asking you to quote me on what I wrote, not what you imagined I might have meant by it.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:56 pmThe Republic of Stupidity Says: But… but… 9/11!!! 9/11!!! POW!!! POW!!!
I think that particular little boy king cried wolf one too many times :)
If anyone is afraid right now, it's the GOP.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:59 pmspencers mom,
I agree. Tearing apart Sarah Palin is a job best assigned to Hillary Clinton. Go get her, Hil!
August 30th, 2008 at 3:01 pm"Please, I’m asking you to quote me on what I wrote, not what you imagined I might have meant by it".
That's asking a lot. Elements of the Right tend to avoid that exercise because it may lead to careful examination of what the people they defend actually do and say.
August 30th, 2008 at 3:02 pmunbelievable Says:
If anyone is afraid right now, it’s the GOOP.
_____________
This whole affair has such a bitter stench of desperation about it...
BUT...
Ms Palin will definitely win the Swimsuit Competition hands down...
August 30th, 2008 at 3:02 pmThe Republic of Stupidity Says: Ms Palin will definitely win the Swimsuit Competition hands down
Thanks, I just got a visual of Joe Biden in a speedo...
August 30th, 2008 at 3:05 pmunbelievable Says:
Thanks, I just got a visual of Joe Biden in a speedo…
__________
Sorry about that... I suggest going to the sink and immediately scrubbing your eyes w/ Brillo pads, then rinse and repeat.. until you pass out from the pain.
Also... no solid foods for at least 24 hrs...
August 30th, 2008 at 3:10 pmBadger Says:
Obama, or his campaign, needs to use Political Judo on Gov. Palin.
Get her to respond on the record about creationism in science class , stem cell research, roe v. wade, the morning after pill, taking the bible literally, etc.
Lets use the WEDGE against the republicans for a change.
She's also big on home schooling, so I'd like to hear her take on school vouchers, as well as all forms of birth control. She's a big Fundie, so how does that jive with her being a working mother, with her husband on leave from him job? Where does she stand on universal healthcare? SCHIP?
I'd add that these questions would be perfect coming from Hillary! While it allows the "See? She should have been Obama's VP!" it gets Palin on the record without the "mean boys" going after her.
PEACE
August 30th, 2008 at 3:11 pmpete Says:
That’s asking a lot. Elements of the Right tend to avoid that exercise because it may lead to careful examination of what the people they defend actually do and say.
August 30th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
It's also what they do in the MSM. They don't wait to get reaction to a speech, they immediately talk about how the speech will play to certain audiences (without asking any of them, mind you), not how it actually plays out. Then, rather than compare their prediction to reality, they move on to speculate how the next political story "will play out."
August 30th, 2008 at 3:16 pmWayne. Did not mean to offend you. It was not your line of reasoning that physical characteristics like color or gender should matter, but Fred's. But, I assumed we were all in one big debate. I said that 'if you take the line of reasoning' not 'if you take your line of reasoning'...
I doubt that with the rarity of down syndrome in young mother's that the baby is Palin's daughter's, but it's possible.
I'm also not so sure that Biden wouldn't look good in a speedo.
August 30th, 2008 at 3:24 pmbackup Says:
Fred, she would most probably not have been picked if she were a man.
Would Obama’s message be as compelling if he were white?
After floating this turd out there, you try and backpedal by saying that you applaud the expansion of the pool of viable candidates to include women and minorities. Very slick.
I guess that actual substance and values behind the wide mass appeal of Obama is just a "bonus" to the "black factor," in your view. That is pretty sad, and seems to be a subtle defense for your own psyche to downplay the fact that the majority of people are turning away from the policies of the party you favor and defend.
Trying to slough it off because people think Obama is appealing simply because it is "cool" he is black is asinine.
August 30th, 2008 at 3:25 pmGood afternoon (EST), trolls.
This site is called Thinkprogress.org. We shouldn't have to explain this to even moderately-educated Americans, but the site is going to post information about a potential (bleh) veep antithetical to progress -- just as they do all other figures of the like.
Your stupidity has caused you to mistake our quest for knowledge for fear.
Sure, the unknown can be initial fear. But you see all of that research TP has done on the candidate? It has effectively thrown out the window any chance of propelling McCain's campaign. The volume of the postings within a short time span is fitting, given that she's running for the #2 U.S. spot. And did I mention, she's antithetical to progress?
And the sites you visit? Well, they're busy posting inquires as to whether taxpayer dollars are used to fund Ed Kennedy's treatment.
August 30th, 2008 at 3:25 pmActually, backup, you very much implied that it was my own "line of reasoning." It wasn't. So I do not accept the premise of your question.
August 30th, 2008 at 3:26 pmBecause Obama is young and black, he brings different experience to the table than if he were old and white. And because Palin is female, she brings different experience than if she were male.
Progressives have been champions of the importance of diversity. They should not abandon that cause for temporary convenience in the opposition to Palin's selection.
August 30th, 2008 at 3:28 pmTrolls, a question. How can you expect the McCain campaign not to take a hit if Palin is found to have acted unethically in her ex-brother-in-law's firing, before election day?
August 30th, 2008 at 3:30 pmbackup Says:
I doubt that with the rarity of down syndrome in young mother’s that the baby is Palin’s daughter’s, but it’s possible.
I’m also not so sure that Biden wouldn’t look good in a speedo.
Alright, here's another little deft troll move put on by backedup...you subtly take a dig at Palin's (possibly) pregnant daughter with the Biden "speedo" remark. Here's how:
You intimate your "stat" (cite please) about young mothers and Down's syndrome to downplay Bristol looking possibly pregnant, and then through in the Biden/speedo reference to link a "bad" body type with the possibly pregnant young woman.
Saying that the appearance of early pregnancy in her figure is more or less just paunch as unappealing as Biden sporting a thong is pretty lame.
August 30th, 2008 at 3:30 pmbackup Says:
Progressives have been champions of the importance of diversity. They should not abandon that cause for temporary convenience in the opposition to Palin’s selection.
You ultimate tool, you just don't get it.
The fact that Progressives CHAMPION diversity lets this argument even happen. By being able to openly criticize a woman running for the VP of the United States based on her CREDENTIALS AND POLITICAL VIEWS is supporting the cause of diversity. The how she even conceivably could have reached the point where she is now under such scrutiny is because of the PROGRESSION of EQUAL RIGHTS, brought to you by PROGRESSIVES.
You nimrod.
You absolute nimrod.
August 30th, 2008 at 3:34 pmunbelievable Says:
I actually think this helps Obama. His experience parallel’s Abraham Lincolns. Hers, well, parallels that Canadian Mountie cartoon character who hangs out with Bullwinkle.
August 30th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Don't you mean Dudley Doright's Sweet Nell.
August 30th, 2008 at 3:41 pm>It sounds like Palin has been at odds with her own party
sounds like b#lshit to me.. i'll read the fine print myself..remember, mr. "i voted with dumbya 95 percent of the time " claims to be a maverick, and claims to have supported a GI bill he tried to kill by writing his own competing bill with less generous benefits.
my guess, if Palin truly "championed" this 500 million dollar tax increase on Big Oil it was because she did it to torpedo a Billion dollar tax increase someone else proposed...
August 30th, 2008 at 3:43 pmdid you backup?
August 30th, 2008 at 3:44 pmTweedster. I agree that it was a progressive movement that has enabled the opportunity of today's women. That's why I'm perplexed when progressives argue that using her gender as a factor in her selection is objectionable.
In the Democratic primary, I for one thought that Obama being black and Clinton being female were important and encouraging.
The basis of affirmative action, for example, seems to be that if we give some favorable consideration to those candidates that are minorities and women, that those groups, in leadership positions, will help influence a more diverse and a better society.
To now charge that the choice of Palin on the basis of her gender is objectionable, doesn't seem to follow that progressive argument.
Again, attacking here on the issues makes more sense to me.
August 30th, 2008 at 3:51 pm"She’s not prepared to be governor. How can she be prepared to be vice president or president?”
This from her own party!! Amazing - mostly because of its honesty.
August 30th, 2008 at 3:59 pmThe basis of affirmative action, for example, seems to be that if we give some favorable consideration to those candidates that are minorities and women, that those groups, in leadership positions, will help influence a more diverse and a better society.
Don't be such a silly tit, backup. The basis of affirmative action is that one's race or gender should not be a disadvantage. We can't afford to ignore excellence because of prejudice. "Favorable consideration" has nothing to do with it and is, in fact, the fabrication of stupid, greedy, white guys who are afraid to compete on a level playing surface. And suggesting that a flawed candidate like Ms. Palin should be given "favorable consideration" because of gender is the antithesis of what reasonable people hope to accomplish in the name of equality.
August 30th, 2008 at 4:05 pmbackup Says:
Again, attacking here on the issues makes more sense to me.
____________
Good lord, you're pathetic.
Obama's skin color wasn't the reason he won the nomination. He won IN SPITE of that because he ran a better campaign. And he did campaign, for months, in front of real, live voters, in state after state...
Palin, on the other hand, WAS apparently chosen STRICTLY on a gender a basis and in an apparently very calculated, cynical attempt to garner votes for that reason alone. She didn't WIN anything... she was selected behind closed doors.
She has openly stated she has no idea what the VEEP does.
She and her presumptive boss barely know each other. I, for one, don't believe McStain made this choice after carefully reviewing his options. I don't think HE made the choice, period.
THOSE are the real issues, you disingenuous fraud. Oh, BTW, ditch the bow tie... it's so... "George Will"...
And once again, you're trying to frame this as Obama Vs Palin... Why? because McStain is starting to come across more and more like a decrepit, inept old man?
August 30th, 2008 at 4:07 pmbackup Says:
That’s why I’m perplexed when progressives argue that using her gender as a factor in her selection is objectionable.
August 30th, 2008 at 3:51 pm
You really don't get it, do you? I'll try to explain.
take away the fact that Palin is a woman, and what have you got? A running mate who was a controversial mayor of a small Alaskan town (about 5,000), has served as governor for less than two years, and has already stirred controversy over the alleged attempts to have an ex-husband of a family member fiored from his state job. Add to this the candidate's views on a variety of subjects that run contrary to what Americans want and you're looking at someone who is clearly unfit to be president (and, therefore, vice president.)
The only possible reason why McCain would choose Palin is because she is a woman. And that alone is not a valid reason to choose someone. If she were qualified and a woman (or minority), then so much the better. But if the ONLY reason to pick her is that she's a woman, then that is not a good enough reason to pick her. That would be a great disservice to our country.
August 30th, 2008 at 4:07 pmTRoS, she's in favor of aerial shooting of wolves and of letting polar bears die off. We have to team up against this insanity.
August 30th, 2008 at 4:13 pmIt's pretty obvious someone else forced this choice (Rove?) -- McCain & Palin had only met once before! Talk about unknown factor! It's laughable to think McCain criticized Obama because supposedly people don't know enough about him -- McCain doesn't even know this woman, and she doesn't even know what a VP does. Astonishing how inept the McCain followers are.
August 30th, 2008 at 4:14 pmBut is there some sneaky Repub underlying plot here? (Let's face it, there often is.) Bring on the McCain (so old he can't remember how many houses he has, what car he drives) / Palin (What is a VP? Yup, yup, I'm ready to be president! Gobal warming is a farce. Evolution is garbage) ticket. Then Bush/Cheney find a way to freak out the base (war on Iran??) and they say, we must continue in power, McCain/Palin can't hack it!! Sure, it sounds paranoid, but the Repubs have manipulated, deceived, & smeared facts before to gain power. Frankly, they are capable of any cheat to get in. They did it twice before.
I saw that Shayne, and I agree...
(close-up of paws being shaked...)
August 30th, 2008 at 4:18 pmTRoS,
Aren't you glad to see Shayne sticking up for polar bears? :)
August 30th, 2008 at 4:24 pmpete. how's it going. It sounds like if you question why a minority gets admitted to college over someone white, or a female run business gets a contract that could have gone to a male run business; you're a 'stupid, greedy white guy'. But, if you question why McCain picks a female VP, you're progressive.
Attacking the issues makes more sense.
August 30th, 2008 at 4:35 pmWhere, exactly, are her approval ratings coming from? KKKarl and Rush's butts?
August 30th, 2008 at 4:38 pmbackup Says:
Attacking the issues makes more sense.
__________
I've been doing it all day here and you refuse to answer anything directly.
Typical. Troll. Behavior... BTW, love the bow tie...
August 30th, 2008 at 4:48 pmWayne A. Schneider Says:
TRoS,
Aren’t you glad to see Shayne sticking up for polar bears? :)
____________
Well... we'll just have to make sure this isn't some sort of wolf trick...
August 30th, 2008 at 4:49 pmbackup Says:
pete. how’s it going. It sounds like if you question why a minority gets admitted to college over someone white, or a female run business gets a contract that could have gone to a male run business; you’re a ’stupid, greedy white guy’. But, if you question why McCain picks a female VP, you’re progressive.
Attacking the issues makes more sense.
SO what relevant issues does Palin have expertise in to lend herself as a good cnadidate for VP?
I'm talking the MAIN issues here - namely, the war or Terra, and the economy. Fringe stuff - wedge issue appeal - doesn't count if you're talking about a legitimate reason for her candidacy.
August 30th, 2008 at 4:51 pmWayne. I see what you are saying, but I think you are wrong.
At first blush, it's easy to see that McCain picked Palin, because she's a woman, as a contrast to Obama bypassing Clinton.
The fact that Palin is a woman was a factor. But not the main one. All along, McCain has had trouble with the base. The only reason he got the nomination was that primary evangelical votes were split between Romney and Huckabee. Conservatives complained loudly when Liebermann and Ridge (pro-choice) candidates were floated.
The Democrats are united behind Obama. We saw it at the convention. McCain risked apathy at his convention unless he could excite those in the party that actually show up. Evangelicals. They are elated. I think it will be evident at the convention. They do make a difference.
I could be wrong about Palin. It could be a flash in the pan and an embarrassment for McCain throughout the rest of the campaign.
But, although she lacks the experience, she embodies conservativism. Conservativism many don't see in McCain.
Her husband works in oil. She's a cheerleader for drilling. She's a radical pro-lifer, who walks the walk. She has a lot of kids. Her son is going to Iraq. She is preceived to be fighting corruption. And besides the trooper gate (and the pregnancy conspiracy), she seems relatively scandal free.
I really believe this is less about her being a woman and more about placating the conservatives that the campaign feared might stay home.
August 30th, 2008 at 4:53 pmThe question that is so painfully obvious is why would McCain pick THIS woman. N
ot just that he picked A woman.
Your argument is reducing her even further, since you don't care to distinguish that THIS woman is NOT QUALIFIED and has only even met McCain TWICE, and simply hang your hat on the fact that she IS a woman.
Moron.
August 30th, 2008 at 4:53 pmbackedup
At first blush, it’s easy to see that McCain picked Palin, because she’s a woman, as a contrast to Obama bypassing Clinton.
Another little slinky, slimey and FALSE guilt-by-association ploy by backuptroll.
The whole bypassing, snubbing, disrespecting Hilary Clinton thing perpetrated by dinks like you is MORE of a disrespect to Hilary as a woman than what you try to imply.
Ever think she decided that she would better serve her country in the Senate and decided she really didn't want to be a Vice President?
You stink.
August 30th, 2008 at 4:57 pmjb Says:
She has never been a POW.
`````````````````````````````````````
Heh...but she was a MOW.
Mayor
August 30th, 2008 at 4:57 pmOf
Wassila
A candidate who is 72 years old who selects an inexperienced 43 year old running mate who was a mayor of a tiny town and the governor of a State with 6.7% unemployment just flat out shows piss poor judgement. Swing voters will see this glaring weakness and vote for Obama/Biden.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:01 pmbackup Says:
Palin is a woman was a factor. But not the main one.
_____________
Riiiiiiiiiiiight... keep telling yourself that.
_____________
But, although she lacks the experience, she embodies conservativism.
_____________
Riiiiiiiiiiight... Creationism s/b taught as Science... that's not conservatism. That's ridiculous.
But... she will win the swimsuit competition hands down...
Love the bow tie...
August 30th, 2008 at 5:02 pmbackedup says -
Her husband works in oil. She’s a cheerleader for drilling. She’s a radical pro-lifer, who walks the walk. She has a lot of kids. Her son is going to Iraq. She is preceived to be fighting corruption. And besides the trooper gate (and the pregnancy conspiracy), she seems relatively scandal free.
Thanks, you answered my question. Which answers the question that Progressives raise - namely that outside of pandering to women AND the Conservative fringe, why is Palin the pick?
Don't try to turn it on its head here.
McCain could have pandered to the far-right with another candidate but chose Palin SIMPLY BECAUSE SHE IS A WOMAN who happens to help him also PANDER TO THE FAR RIGHT.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:03 pmTweedster. She is very knowledgeable about drilling in ANWAR. Although many here probably disagree, with the high cost of gas, many Americans are beginning to support more domestic oil exploration.
She has been selling the idea of drilling ANWAR for a while and is convincing on the benefits, the ability to drill ecologically responsibly, and the national need to do it. She also promotes concurrent policies to explore alternative energy.
On the energy issue, she's strong.
She has mixed it up with republicans in Alaska. And worked with state democrats in successfully passing legislation that seems to be more Alaskan citizen friendly than pro-business.
I don't support tampering with Roe v. Wade. I think that would be a mistake. But, I don't think progressives should discount those conservatives that share Palin's pro-life stance. She's seems a poster child for that constituency. Although, I concede that her hard line will turn off many women.
I think there's more than just the tiara. But, we'll see.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:03 pmbackup -
your posts have the shading of a well digested turd - but a turd nonetheless.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:04 pmI forgot to add the gun issue. Apparently, she's a lifetime NRA member and the media has been splashing the pictures of her shooting that rifle every hour.
Progressives don't see it, but that's going to motivate the gun advocates.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:11 pmbackup Says:
Tweedster. She is very knowledgeable about drilling in ANWAR. Although many here probably disagree, with the high cost of gas, many Americans are beginning to support more domestic oil exploration.
She has been selling the idea of drilling ANWAR for a while and is convincing on the benefits, the ability to drill ecologically responsibly, and the national need to do it. She also promotes concurrent policies to explore alternative energy.
On the energy issue, she’s strong.
OK. We'll brush aside the inherent fallacy that you try and promote with the whole linkage of increased drilling PERMITS being available, NOT immediate results mind you, and lowering gas prices NOW.
Her overall energy policy doesn't seem to differentiate from McCain's. What is her energy POLICY again?
Aside from that, you named FRINGE issues that the MAJORITY of American's AREN'T concerned about. Since the economic benefits of ANWR won't turn the tide on gas prices NOW or a year from now, or five years from now.
Palin was picked simply BECAUSE SHE I A WOMAN, ANY WOMAN, THAT THE REPUGS CAN TROT OUT TO IMPRESS THE FAR RIGHT AND USE THE SAME CRITICISMS OF PROGRESSIVE'S QUESTIONING OF HER CANDIDACY BY CLAIMING WE SHOULDN"T FOCUS ON THEY FACT THEY BLATANTLY PICKED HER BECAUSE SHE I A WOMAN, NOT BECAUSE OF HER CREDENTIALS AS A GOVERNOR OR MAYOR.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:12 pmAll I can say is thank you Insane McCain for using poor judgement once again! For allowing your huge ego to get in the way of sound judgement. To let your little man syndrome force you to pick someone that you can bully around. Thank you for insulting the women of America! And thank you for giving OBAMA/BIDEN this purdy little gift!
August 30th, 2008 at 5:15 pmbackup Says:
I think there’s more than just the tiara. But, we’ll see.
___________
Riiiiiiiiiiight... there's that firm, unshakable belief in a flat earth... and that overwhelming 2nd place finish in the 1984 Ms Alaska Beauty Pageant... and her in-depth knowledge of what the VEEP does, and her long-term relationship w/ McStain... and her depth of knowledge on what has happened in Iraq...
So many good reasons...
Love the bow tie...
August 30th, 2008 at 5:21 pmThe reichwingers keep harping on drilling in ANWR but they ignore the National Petroleum Reserve which is just west of ANWR, is closer to the Alaskan pipeline and has as much oil as ANWR? I heard democratic congressman Welsch of Vermont state that it has already been drilled and than capped by one of the oil companies. Hmmm now why would an oil company just cap a well that they know will produce oil?????
August 30th, 2008 at 5:21 pmI'm well backup. Thanx for asking.
I do attack the issues. Ms. Palin's only apparent credentials are as a representative of a group I affectionately call psycochristians. That's an automatic "deal-breaker".
Personally, I wouldn't consider her to run the town she came from, much less as a representative of the United States. And I will do everything within my limited power to prevent legitimizing a delusional worldview. And I will show no mercy based on gender, race, or even mental infirmity.
It's long past time, as much of the world has already figured out, to put aside childish fantasies and magical miracles. We, as a species, MUST use every bit of human wisdom to build a world which will continue to maintain our civilization. Evangelicons seem unable to accept that fact.
(NOTE: I admire Sen. Obama as a man of Faith with the wisdom to realize that imposing his Faith on another is wrong. Ms. Palin has proved to be the opposite.)
August 30th, 2008 at 5:21 pmTweedster. I try to concede to some of your point. She was picked in part, because she's a woman.
But, she is a governor with an 80% approval rating. A brief record of popular accomplishments in Alaska. Strong pro-life credentials. Lifetime member of the NRA. Intimate knowledge of domestic drilling issues. Opposition to pork barrel projects and fighting corruption.
When you say she was picked solely because she's a women, you're ignoring those points.
If McCain picked Elizabeth Hassleback, I would find your charge much more credible. I concede that Palin was picked, in part, because she's a women. But, to dismiss Palin's conservative credentials could lead to an underestimation of her potential to motivate Republicans to the polls. McCain probably can't do that.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:24 pmpete Says:
It’s long past time, as much of the world has already figured out, to put aside childish fantasies and magical miracles. We, as a species, MUST use every bit of human wisdom to build a world which will continue to maintain our civilization. Evangelicons seem unable to accept that fact.
Not unable, pete, unwilling. The Evangelicals believe we are close to the End of Days, and they don't really care what happens to those of us who they claim will be "left behind". As far as they're concerned, that's our problem. So they aren't even least bit interested in preservng a world for future habitation by humans, because the way they see it, only sinners will be around to use it.
Did I mention also that they're batshit insane?
August 30th, 2008 at 5:26 pmpete. I'm agnostic and totally in line with your view that creationists are delusional.
I have serious reservations about Palin if she believes that the world was created in six days, 6,000 years ago.
We have evolved to a place where our ideas about faith should be, if not more rational, at least more tolerant.
Although some of Palin's characteristics appeal to me, a serious belief in creationism, that close to the white house, would also be a deal breaker for me.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:30 pmbackup,
I'm sure there are male Republicans who can meet all the other qualifications you mentioned. Palin was chosen purely to appeal to Hillary Clinton supporters, which was a stupid move because Hillary Clinton supporters will not vote for a pro-life, pro-gun, pro-drilling candidate. McCain (or whoever actually made the selection on his behalf) chose Palin because they think women in this country are more concerned with voting for a woman than they are with voting with someone who believes in the same things they do. They will find out in November how badly wrong they were.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:30 pmWayne A. Schneider Says:
They will find out in November how badly wrong they were.
__________
They'll know by Monday morning, if not already, Wayne. Jack McCafferty said he got 11,000 emails in the first hr after the news came out... and many, many of them were not flattering to the choice.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:40 pmWayne. Maybe you're right. But, think about this. You're informed and objective and pick your candidates based on there political stances.
Be honest. Not every America is that conscientious. A huge majority of Clinton supporters will vote for Obama. But what if 5% of Hillary voters switch to McCain because they want a woman on the ticket. That's nearly a million votes. Could have made a difference in '04. Would have definitely made a difference in '00.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:45 pmTRoS,
Should make the Sunday morning talk shows interesting.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:46 pmbackup Says:
Tweedster. I try to concede to some of your point. She was picked in part, because she’s a woman.
But, she is a governor with an 80% approval rating. A brief record of popular accomplishments in Alaska. Strong pro-life credentials. Lifetime member of the NRA. Intimate knowledge of domestic drilling issues. Opposition to pork barrel projects and fighting corruption.
When you say she was picked solely because she’s a women, you’re ignoring those points.
The thing is, I'm NOT ignoring the hollowness of being touted as a POPULAR candidate when your 80% approval rating is based on a state with a population less than VERMONT'S.
And the DEPTH of her other ACCOMPLISHMENTS is very questionable, given her LACK OF EXPERIENCE.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:49 pmWould've, could've, should've, backup. You're grasping now in an effort to defend his indefensible pick. I agree that too many voters are ill-informed (which explains why Bush got so many votes in '04), but I think it says something about a candidate who decides to take advantage of that fact and try to pull one over on the voters. Palin is UNFIT to be president (just as you and I are unfit). Choosing this particular unqualified woman is an insult to women across the country. He could have done better, but he didn't. But he'll have several years to think about it as he sits on one of his many front porches, sipping a nice cold Bud. Or twelve.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:51 pmbackup Says:
Wayne. Maybe you’re right. But, think about this. You’re informed and objective and pick your candidates based on there political stances.
Be honest. Not every America is that conscientious. A huge majority of Clinton supporters will vote for Obama. But what if 5% of Hillary voters switch to McCain because they want a woman on the ticket. That’s nearly a million votes. Could have made a difference in ‘04. Would have definitely made a difference in ‘00.
Thanks for finally illustrating that she was ONLY pikced BECAUSE she is A WOMAN.
And also for illustrating the cover tactic of any pending election fruad on the part of the Republicans.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:51 pmA huge majority of Clinton supporters will vote for Obama. But what if 5% of Hillary voters switch to McCain because they want a woman on the ticket.
I think that the number who actually follow that logic will be in the hundreds. At most. People who are angry because they can't fill their gas-tank won't vote against their personal interests because of an accident of birth.
August 30th, 2008 at 5:51 pmTweedster. the 5% of Clinton voters is part of the reason. You're dismissing appeal to evangelicals that I think is the bigger picture (and they traditionally haven't clammered for female candidates).
But again, we'll see. You may be right.
Additionally, it's obviously to soon to mean much, but this Rasmussen poll (today) doesn't really signal Palin as a ridiculous choice or horribly offensive to insulted women voters.
http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/election_20082/2008_presidential_election/palin_makes_good_first_impression_is_viewed_more_favorably_than_biden
August 30th, 2008 at 6:03 pmpete. The people that can't fill their gas tanks are going to find Palin interesting.
BTW, I wanted you to know that I watched almost all of the three part series of the british documentary about creating the necessary illusions to get the support for military action in the U.S. (It been a few months, I forgot the name of it).
It was very interesting and reminded me of Noam Chomsky's manufacturing consent.
Thanks for the tip.
August 30th, 2008 at 6:13 pmbackup Says:
I am David Brooks.
August 30th, 2008 at 6:16 pmbackup Says:
pete. The people that can’t fill their gas tanks are going to find Palin interesting.
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No doubt they'll gladly sit back and patiently wait the 10 years it will take for off-shore and/or ANWAR drilling to come on line! Hmmm, wonder how much of a difference THAT'LL make at the ole gas pump!
Nice bow tie... is George Will your hero?
August 30th, 2008 at 6:19 pmI'm glad you enjoyed the documentary, b-kup. I made no claims about the interpretation, just the interest of an outside point of view. And one must admit, in hindsight, that the pitch for war was a slick piece of salesmanship even if the motives were altruistic.
And... I have yet to hear a "drill hear/drill now" argument that will lower gas prices Today. Conservation is the only realistic plan for the short term. Though I know it's not possible for many people, I will make it through the month on one tank of gas and it has not impacted my standard of living.
Perhaps my small faith in the American voter is misplaced? However, I don't think a significant number of people will overlook the failings of McCain/Palin. Neither is worthy of representing our nation and I think that fact will only become more apparent with time.
August 30th, 2008 at 7:59 pmhttp://mudflats.wordpress.com/2008/08/29/what-is-mccain-thinking-one-alaskans-perspective/ I highly suggest that all of you take a little visit to this site...seen from an Alaskan perspective.
August 30th, 2008 at 8:51 pm