The Vice Presidential debates

[Peshkwe]

This Thursday we'll see who makes for the best comedy skit later on.

Will Palin bubble?

Will Biden babble?

Who do you think will survive to the end without a major screw up?

[Leo Lakio]

Vice Admiral James Bond Stockdale. (Yes, that was his real name...)

[Ron Whitfield]

I don't know what to expect from Palin, other than more of her nails on a chalkboard skreech, but I won't be surprised if Biden at least somehow, if not blatantly, manages to screw it up. It's his to blow, and I can't think of anyone more suited for the opportunity.

Palin can be a forceful orator, especially to a blindly partisan crowd already giddy of her being 'just like them', (fill in the blank...), and not caring about the truth/facts.

[GregLee]

Who do you think will survive to the end without a major screw up?
Biden. We know he can be his own worst enemy, but his gaffes have come during extemporaneous remarks in the past -- not a factor here. He'll be doubly cautious, and I think he'll do well.

[matapule]

McCain and Palin, both appeared on CBS Evening News with Couric. I guess that McCain felt he had to go on with Palin to set HIS record straight. Palin continues to muddle things right before McCain's eyes. I can almost see McCain wanting to reach over and strangle Palin. It is an interesting segment and you can watch it here (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/09/29/mccain-palin-joint-interv_n_130412.html).

I will be watching the VP debate this week. It should be one for the history books. I think Palin will do "okay" and the Rep's will claim victory. I think she has been coached to stay on her talking points, but as a result will sound repetitive and wooden. This will allow the Dem's to claim victory.

[Vanguard]

Vice Admiral James Bond Stockdale. (Yes, that was his real name...)

:D

I see your Vice Admiral James Bond Stockdale and raise you Rear Admiral Al Calavicci (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al_Calavicci)!

[Leo Lakio]

Hah - nice reference! But was Calavicci ever in a Veep debate? I picked Stockdale because of Peshkwe's "best comedy skit" comment. I don't know any comedian who could ever top his "performance."

[Peshkwe]

Here's Stockdale on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6n5OQVzVVQ&feature=related

Yeah it'll be hard to match that debate crash and burn....but I really think the kids can reach for that bar!

[Peshkwe]

Keeping with the theme of comedy (black included) and other weirdness, I ran across this rumor about Biden:

http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/09/24/biden-dropping-out-rumor-thrives-on-internet/

The story line goes as follows: John McCain's selection of Palin has generated so much interest in the Republican ticket that Obama needs to make a radical move to regain momentum. So in the days after the vice presidential candidates debate in Missouri, Biden will bow out, citing "health problems" (Biden underwent surgery in 1988 to repair two brain aneurysms). Enter Clinton.

Furthermore, the story goes, any damage the gaffe-prone Biden does during the debate will be erased by his abrupt exit.

It sounds like a job for Fight the Smears, the Web site the Obama campaign set up to quash damaging Internet rumors. But Fight the Smears hasn't touched this one, perhaps out of fear that it would only further a wild rumor. The Obama campaign has not commented on it, other than to say that Biden's medical records will be released soon.

Snopes.com, a site devoted to picking apart online rumors and urban legends, has labeled the status of the claim "undetermined." Several online discussion boards have been loaded up with denials.



Another on the rumor:

http://www.bloggernews.net/117854


Now if Palin bombs at the debates, will the quiet calls for her stepping down become a roar? Hey...she's got the excuse of 'family issues' to do it with.

If they both bow out, will the two parties play musical chairs to fill the position?

[Frankie's Market]

McCain and Palin, both appeared on CBS Evening News with Couric. I guess that McCain felt he had to go on with Palin to set HIS record straight. Palin continues to muddle things right before McCain's eyes. I can almost see McCain wanting to reach over and strangle Palin. It is an interesting segment and you can watch it here (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/09/29/mccain-palin-joint-interv_n_130412.html).

Frankly, it would have been better for Palin not to interview at all than to come back with John McCain holding her hand. As bad as that first interview with Couric was, Palin looked pathetic having to rely on McCain to play interference for her. This lady aspires to be a heartbeat away from the Presidency? God help us if that happens!

I will be watching the VP debate this week. It should be one for the history books. I think Palin will do "okay" and the Rep's will claim victory. I think she has been coached to stay on her talking points, but as a result will sound repetitive and wooden. This will allow the Dem's to claim victory.

I see people here speculating about how this veep debate will turn out,.... but with no consideration or analysis about the "third" person in the debate, moderator Gwen Ifill.

Anyone who's seen Ifill's interviews knows that she is no lightweight. Like her PBS colleague (Jim Lehrer), she probably will ask the candidates to better articulate themselves if she thinks that they are giving an overly general or evasive response to her questions. If all Palin has at her disposal are superficial talking points (like what was apparently the case in her interviews with Gibson, Hannity, and Couric), this debate could end up being the longest 90 minutes of her life.

[Peshkwe]

It could be nasty, there could be evisceration.......

and with a broken ankle....Gwen is NOT gonna be in the mood to be tidy about it.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/washington/2008/09/gwen-ifill-to-p.html

[Frankie's Market]

It could be nasty, there could be evisceration.......

and with a broken ankle....Gwen is NOT gonna be in the mood to be tidy about it.

Right. Palin and Biden had better be prepared to answer some very tough questions on,..... health care. ;)

[LikaNui]

I'm really looking forward to this, and I'm going to just curl up in a big stuffed armchair with a bowl of popcorn and prepare to be entertained, no matter what happens.
And anyway, the Vice President position has always been greatly over-rated. I say we just get rid of it and instead let the President hire an Administrative Assistant.


:p

[LikaNui]

Apparently Sarah Palin has spent the last four full days holed up and prepping with her debate coaches, and will do the same for the next two full days until the debate actually happens.
IF McCain was president but out of action, Sarah wouldn't have six days to prepare a response to any dire situation; she'd have maybe six minutes.
If she was really qualified to be VP she clearly wouldn't need six full days of coaching for a simple debate.
Sheesh. :rolleyes:

[tutusue]

As mentioned in another thread, I had a chick lunch today and as it turned out all of us are not fans of McCain/Palin. All of us also admitted to being apolitical but very concerned about this election. The other thing we talked about was how, if WE can see Palin's shortcomings and dire lack of qualifications, why the h3!! can't everyone else, esp. knowledgeable politicians?!!! A VP nominee shouldn't need to have an extended, albeit crash, course in how to debate and how to answer. I can understand briefings but, come on, Palin's confined, sequestered and in lock down. An appropriate vetting process would've turned up whether or not Palin's beliefs were in alignment with McCains. It's just so dang clear that she's, in no way, shape or form, qualified to be 2nd in charge much less, God help us all, commander in chief.

It's so bloody obvious...

[Ron Whitfield]

Come on, girl, SHE'S ONE OF US!

[Walkoff Balk]

Hah - nice reference! But was Calavicci ever in a Veep debate? I picked Stockdale because of Peshkwe's "best comedy skit" comment. I don't know any comedian who could ever top his "performance."
I thought he was misunderstood when he said, "Who am I, Why am I here?" He was probably making an opening joke and not the rantings of an old guy losing his mind.

[Leo Lakio]

I thought he was misunderstood when he said, "Who am I, Why am I here?" He was probably making an opening joke and not the rantings of an old guy losing his mind.You're absolutely right. He was commenting on his being a relative unknown and a third-party candidate. But his ongoing performance changed the tone of those statements.

I still have the video of "The Comedy Channel" covering it, with running comedic commentary. As the debate progressed, the commentators said they couldn't do anything to make Stockdale's performance funnier than it was, so they just let him continue without interruption.

[tutusue]

Come on, girl, SHE'S ONE OF US!
Anatomically, (well, not you Ron!) but that's where any similarities end!

[Peshkwe]

My Gov...Jennie-G is working with Biden to get him into shape the next few days too.

http://blog.mlive.com/capitolchronicles/2008/09/jennifer_granholm_beats_up_joe.html

Gov. Jennifer Granholm left after the Barack Obama rally in on Detroit Sunday to knock Democratic vice presidential nominee Joe Biden around in Wilmington for four days before Thursday's vice presidential debate.

"I want to beat him up a little bit, so he does well," she told CNN.

Granholm flew with Biden to Delaware on Sunday, Biden spokesman David Wade said. She's the perfect person to play the role of Sarah Palin, he added.

"Joe Biden asked Governor Granholm to consider taking such a prominent leadership role heading into Thursday's debate because she's a Governor who knows how to tackle tough challenges, she shares his roots in law enforcement, and she's a heck of a debater," Wade said.

Many parallels have been drawn between the two governors as being attractive ex-beauty queen sports moms, although Granholm's educational qualifications and political experience dwarf Palin's.

[Frankie's Market]

My Gov...Jennie-G is working with Biden to get him into shape the next few days too.

While I'm sure mock debates with Michigan's governor is helpful, Biden was more than prepared for his matchup with Palin. Remember. He's had more than a dozen debates with Hillary. ;)

[Ron Whitfield]

...where she's been before asked what newspapers she reads for her info, she reponds "um, all of them", but yet can't offer up any Supreme Court ruling other than RvW, the most famous one - www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRuBdW0yBUY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRuBdW0yBUY)

[Peshkwe]

While I'm sure mock debates with Michigan's governor is helpful, Biden was more than prepared for his matchup with Palin. Remember. He's had more than a dozen debates with Hillary. ;)


Well she's not bad looking, maybe she's making sure Biden doesn't get McCain's problem:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sq7xMGcuKK0&feature=related

[matapule]

Well she's not bad looking, maybe she's making sure Biden doesn't get McCain's problem:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sq7xMGcuKK0&feature=related

God's going to make McCain go blind if he doesn't stop staring at Palin's.......uh......errrr........assets.

And what's with McCain stroking his ring finger? A little too much Viagra? I bet he couldn't wait to evaculate the stage.http://www.abestweb.com/smilies/cheerleader.gifhttp://www.abestweb.com/smilies/elephant.gif

[tutusue]

[...]I bet he couldn't wait to evaculate the stage.http://www.abestweb.com/smilies/cheerleader.gifhttp://www.abestweb.com/smilies/elephant.gif
Rim shot! :D

[Walkoff Balk]

I bet he couldn't wait to evaculate the stage.http://www.abestweb.com/smilies/cheerleader.gifhttp://www.abestweb.com/smilies/elephant.gif
Booo! Change the QB! We need to score!

[matapule]

Booo! Change the QB! We need to score!

Okay, all you McCain rooters. Give me a "C"..........Give me a...........(oh nevermind).

[matapule]

Thursday dawns sunny and warm and matapule and uaifi are excited about the VP debates later today. Uaifi is making plans for a little debate party. We are going over to a neighbors house to watch the spectacle. Uaifi is chilling a bottle of wine and planning some pupus. The time just can't pass fast enough.

Well this IS the big shew for the belch and buckshot crowd in Alaska. This is the time for their gal to shine with her Bullwinkle the Moose breathing helium impersonation. Moderator asks, "Governor Palin, what did you have for breakfast this morning?" To which Palin responds, "Is this one of those trap door questions with Gotcha Journalism? I had all of'm. People think we're backward up there. But we're a microcosm of the USA. We eat mooseburgers just like everyone else." McCain runs on stage yelling, "No she didn't mean that. I was a prisoner in Viet Nam!" Y'betcha!

[Frankie's Market]

No matter how well or how poorly Sarah Palin performs in the debate tonight, the GOP spinmeisters will say that it was all the fault of,....... the moderator?

http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/10/02/lemonade-lemons-palin-turn-moderator-bias-advantage/

Of course, if the McCain campaign thought that Ifill was in the tank for Obama because of her book, then why did they agree to have her as the moderator for the VP debate in August when her book (Breakthrough) was announced on Amazon in July?

As I said, conservative pundits will almost certainly cry "foul!" against Ifill, if the debate turns out to be anything but favorable for Gov. Palin. They're entitled to their spin. But I think they also need to be careful and to watch the tone of their attack. McCain and all his spokespeople and surrogates especially need to be careful to hone in their criticisms on Ifill's performance as a moderator and not let it cross over into personal attacks. Otherwise, their rhetoric could be interpreted as having a racial component to it.

[LikaNui]

From CNN.com just now:


How interested are you in today's vice presidential debate?

Very... 56%... 173,195

Somewhat... 24%... 74,597

Not at all... 20%... 61,499

Total Votes: 309,291


I'm thinking the ratings are gonna be HOT.

[Ron Whitfield]

http://news.yahoo.com/s/politico/14220

You go girl!

As in, go away!

[Leo Lakio]

I'm thinking the ratings are gonna be HOT.
I'm thinking I'll tune in to the leadership debate in Canada tonight...

[Frankie's Market]

Gov. Lingle was just interviewed by MSNBC's Chris Matthews on Hardball. Basically, she just parroted the GOP talking points about Sarah Palin needing to be Sarah Palin at the debate and how Obama plans to raise taxes on everyone. *sigh!*

You think that Dingle Lingle will get the message if someone tosses a gift-wrapped shovel into the front lawn of Washington Place?

[TATTRAT]

Everyone get your Palin Bingo cards for tonight!!!!

http://www.palinbingo.com/

[tutusue]

Everyone get your Palin Bingo cards for tonight!!!!

http://www.palinbingo.com/
That's hysterical. I just printed mine! :D

[TATTRAT]

When I put "tonight" I guess for HI, I meant THIS AFTERNOON!

Get the Palin Bingo Cards, some pupus and make bingo into a happy hour drinking game! Well, that would be my plan if I was there:D

[tutusue]

When I put "tonight" I guess for HI, I meant THIS AFTERNOON!

Get the Palin Bingo Cards, some pupus and make bingo into a happy hour drinking game! Well, that would be my plan if I was there:D
For most the 3pm debate takes place during work time. In the office, I wonder how many soda cans will contain something other than soda?! ;)

[Kelly0040]

oh man, it's a real tossup between cards 2 and 3...I cant decide if I want the card with "Gee" or "Gosh" rofl this is great

[matapule]

Outrageous! http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/1231.gif I just printed out all 4. Everybody gets a card. Hour and a half to go. What the heck, let's open the wine now!

[Ron Whitfield]

The only way you can lose is if McCain/Palin win.

[LikaNui]

Less than half an hour into the debate, and I'm getting real tired of seeing the top of Sarah Palin's head. Whenever it's Biden's turn to speak, Sarah spends the whole time staring down at the crib notes on her lectern, and every time the camera cuts to her all we see is the top of her head.
In counterpoint, every time Sarah speaks, Biden is shown looking at her and listening.
I wish they would've banned them from having notes.

[Kelly0040]

I JUST WON ON CARD 4 WOOT - L line!

goin for the media black out ooooooooooooooooooooooo

[zztype]

http://election.twitter.com/topic?t=VP+Debate

Watch running commentary while watching debate on cnn.com

Heehee!

[TATTRAT]

she has yet to answer anything, she is dodging everything.

An if she says "well, let me say this" one more time...............

For real, she is SO out of her league.

[Kelly0040]

I think she just made a Linda Lingle reference. oo MAVERICK!

[TATTRAT]

though she did a weeeeee bit better then I thought she would...she just really is NOT the one I want being second in command.

So much dodging, so much babble...I dunno...she seems very out of her league.

[tutusue]

she has yet to answer anything, she is dodging everything.

An if she says "well, let me say this" one more time...............

For real, she is SO out of her league.
That was amazing to watch. When Palin didn't have an answer she managed to divert the subject toward Alaska's energy sources! She was obviously coached on how and when to do that! Yes, she's totally out of her league but I don't think she became SNL fodder, altho' SNL will still manage to find something, I'm sure. Can't wait! :D

ETA: Yes, Palin did make a Lingle reference. And, dang, I missed 2 Palinbingos by one each!

[Ron Whitfield]

She spent most of her time answering the questions she wished she had been asked instead of addressing the real questions, simply sticking to her programmed talking points all too much.

But, she was good at it, however shallow.

I think she broke the bank on mentioning 'maverick', at least 2 dozen times. Lie enuf times and maybe it'll become truth.
You could have had a bingo card full of nothing but MAVERICK and been a winner fast.

[LikaNui]

This CNN poll is only minutes old; it'll be interesting to see if these numbers hold up:


Who fared better in the vice presidential debate?

Sen. Joe Biden... 76%... 2,088

Gov. Sarah Palin... 22%... 601

Neither... 2%... 66

Total Votes: 2,755

[Ron Whitfield]

McCain has pulled his campaign troops out of Michigan. Victim of the economy collapse.
Only 49 to go.

[LikaNui]

CNN poll update:

Who fared better in the vice presidential debate?

(4:51pm)Sen. Joe Biden... 76%... 2,088
(5:14pm)Sen. Joe Biden... 73%... 52,692

(4:51pm)Gov. Sarah Palin... 22%... 601
(5:14pm)Gov. Sarah Palin... 24%... 17,525

(4:51pm)Neither... 2%... 66
(5:14pm)Neither... 3%... 2,085

(4:51pm)Total Votes: 2,755
(5:14pm)Total Votes: 72,302

[timkona]

Bullwinkle the Moose breathing helium

That's big funny. :D So is Palin Bingo.

Somebody nailed it when they said "She's just one of us." All of us here are exactly as qualified as Palin, when viewed intellectually...... it's a murderers row (HT regulars) of likely vice presidents, who are certainly brighter than Ms. Palin. From that perspective, it really gives you hope that the average joe might just have a shot.

And that automatically becomes a great reason to elect her. Washington DC NEEDS somebody who is just a little LESS smart than all the self proclaimed experts currently running the asylum up there. Give me a break. Some of these Senators, Representives, Cabinet Members, et al... think they are God's gift to intellect. I refer to McCain, Obama, and Biden collectively here.

I mean, come on, Bush is an idiot. We all agree on that. But at least Palin brings a little hometown common sense to the fray. And that is what Washington DC needs very badly.

[Ron Whitfield]

No man, we don't make things better by making them worse.

This country is going down the toilet and we don't need somebody constantly hitting the handle in a hynotic daze staring at the water swirling around.

[tutusue]

[I][...]All of us here are exactly as qualified as Palin, when viewed intellectually......
Ok...does that mean "all of us here" are qualified to be VP? Can you imagine ME in Palin's place? You?
[...]But at least Palin brings a little hometown common sense to the fray. And that is what Washington DC needs very badly.
Oooooh...I totally agree that DC can use a "little hometown common sense". But do you really believe Palin is qualified to be commander in chief should that situation occur? I mean...REALLY?

[GregLee]

All of us here are exactly as qualified as Palin, when viewed intellectually......
You flatter yourself. Ever been mayor? Ever been a governor? Ever had the courage to oppose the leaders of your party? Think you could hold your own against Joe Biden in a debate? I wouldn't have thought so, but maybe you've hid your light under a bushel.

[matapule]

It is late where I live, and I've had a bit too much vino, but bear with me for my analysis of the VP debate.

*This debate was much more entertaining than the Presidential debate. I was bored at times during the Pres. debate.

*Palin did much better than I thought she would, but she did not look Presidential.

*Biden did much, much better than I thought he would. He looked very Presidential. (for the record, I have been a big supporter of Biden).

*Palin came across as warm and friendly. McCain came across as an anal oriface (I hope I don't get censored), refusing to look at or acknowledge Obama.

*Biden came across as warm and friendly and genuine and confident. Obama came across as a nice guy but too obsequious to McCain.

*Palin refused to answer the questions that didn't fit within her talking points

*Biden lost me when he was talking about some of his Senate experience and details of negotiations on bills.

*Biden came across as articulate and well spoken.

*Palin uses slang, something I would expect in a conversation with a teenager. Her voice and accent are annoying.

*I was very surprised that Biden became choked up when talking about whether his son might survive the auto accident. That is what my Doctor of Psychology daughter would say showed his feminine side. This is something that a woman might do but generally not a man. Biden scored BIG points with me on showing some emotion, that he is a person with feelings. How do you all feel?

*In my opinion, Palin made a MAJOR gaffe tonight when she said she supported equal rights for same sex couples...which is Obama/Biden's position but not McCain's. She was not coached on that point and she was caught off guard. I think she said something that she really doesn't believe in. This is going to hurt her with her base, the extremist, fundamentalist, Christians. I believe this is going to haunt her in the next couple of weeks. Let's see if this point doesn't come up again and again in future interviews. This is a major problem for McCain.

*Palin made a second gaffe when she said, "How long have I been at this? What 5 weeks?" Sarah, Sarah, Sarah never emphasize your lack of experience. The McCain campaign must be furious, all that preparation and then she says something really dumb like that. I predict THAT will show up on SNL!

*The debate did not damage McCain's campaign, but it did not help it either.

*I watched the debate on CNN. They had an "uncommitted" audience in Ohio scoring the debate. The women liked Biden better, the men liked Palin's......uh.......errr.......assets. Men are all alike! Overall, they gave a slight edge to Biden, but that is not like a national poll.

*Ifill did an adequate job, but I feel Lehrer was more in charge.

*We had no Bingo's on any of the four cards, but card #4 came closest.

All in all a great evening with a lot of entertainment. Obama and McCain could learn a few things from these two.

[matapule]

Can you imagine ME in Palin's place?

Tutu, without being gratuitous, you have shown me more wisdom than Palin. Do I think you are qualified to be VP? I doubt it. Do I think that Palin is qualified to be VP? Definitely not.

[tutusue]

[...]
*This debate was much more entertaining than the Presidential debate. I was bored at times during the Pres. debate.
Wine and Palinbingo cards helped that! :D
*Palin did much better than I thought she would, but she did not look Presidential.[...]
No argument from me!
*Palin came across as warm and friendly. McCain came across as an anal oriface (I hope I don't get censored), refusing to look at or acknowledge Obama.
Again...no argument!
*Biden came across as warm and friendly and genuine and confident. Obama came across as a nice guy but too obsequious to McCain.

Need to look up the word "obsequious".............:eek:
*Palin refused to answer the questions that didn't fit within her talking points [...]
Yep...amazing to watch her twist those questions. It was obvious.
*Palin uses slang, something I would expect in a conversation with a teenager. Her voice and accent are annoying.
For me, she was just too folksy or, maybe, local...akin to, say, Mufi slipping into a little pidgin in a similar situation. It just doesn't work in a VP debate.
*I was very surprised that Biden became choked up when talking about whether his son might survive the auto accident. That is what my Doctor of Psychology daughter would say showed his feminine side. This is something that a woman might do but generally not a man. Biden scored BIG points with me on showing some emotion, that he is a person with feelings. How do you all feel?[...]
The lump in Biden's throat caused a lump in my throat. That's how I know it was sincere. I got the feeling that lump was also a surprise to Biden. Points, indeed.
*I watched the debate on CNN. They had an "uncommitted" audience in Ohio scoring the debate. The women liked Biden better, the men liked Palin's......uh.......errr.......assets. Men are all alike! Overall, they gave a slight edge to Biden, but that is not like a national poll.
I saw the debate as a draw as Palin was such an underdog going in.
*Ifill did an adequate job, but I feel Lehrer was more in charge.
Ifill broke her foot a coupla days ago and was wheelchair bound. Dunno if this impacted her tonight or not.
*We had no Bingo's on any of the four cards, but card #4 came closest.[...]
I had card #3 and came very close in 2 rows! That dang thing made the debate fun for me!
Tutu, without being gratuitous, you have shown me more wisdom than Palin. Do I think you are qualified to be VP? I doubt it. Do I think that Palin is qualified to be VP? Definitely not.
Flattery will get you everywhere, matapule! :D

[Walkoff Balk]

Sarah Palin can claim moral victory by keeping it closer than the point spread by not commiting turnovers.

[Frankie's Market]

I mean, come on, Bush is an idiot. We all agree on that. But at least Palin brings a little hometown common sense to the fray. And that is what Washington DC needs very badly.

I dunno 'bout the "common sense" part. What I do know is this. Both Bush 43 and Palin know how to conduct campaigns, relate to Joe Six Pack, and win votes. Whether it be at the local, state, or national levels, they know how to charm people, even while knowing little else (including oh-so-insignificant things like actual governing).

Former White House press secretary Scott McLellan described the Bush Presidency perfectly: a perpetual campaign. Whatever you want to say about him (idiot, liar, incompetent, etc), he was good at politicking and doing whatever it took to get elected, whether it be for the office of Texas Governor and President. Problem was, once he got into office, he had no clue as to how to govern.

I get the same feeling from Palin. She knows what it takes to win, like injecting the hot-button issue of abortion to the debate, even though it had practically nothing to do with the mayorship of Wasilla. By skillfully campaigning and using her populist charm and charisma, she was able to defeat the incumbent mayor. Problem was, she didn't have the skills or the knowledge to oversee the day-to-day running of a town, even if it was for a community of only a few thousand. Things went so bad for her that within a few months of getting elected, she was nearly recalled from office. It was only after she appointed a deputy administrator that she was able to straighten out the mess she had created.

Only time will tell if Palin's ability as a chief executive and administrator will catch up to her skills as a campaigner. She may have had an 80% approval rating as governor from voters in Alaska, but that high figure was due largely in part to a $1200 per resident tax refund. Assuming the McCain/Palin ticket runs aground, we'll see what Palin's approval rating from Alaskans is like in a couple of years.

[cynsaligia]

palin's performance was akin to your typical beauty queen's during the question portion of the competition. she rarely answered the question she was asked, and instead of ending with the magic words, "world peace!" she would cry out, "energy!" and "maverick!" all the while grinning, wide-eyed and vaseline-toothed, at us as if we were so stupid, and such a performance were all we fools required for us to relent and give her the sparkling crown, satin sash, and fragrant bouquet of roses.

[Adri]

Gotta agree with cynsaligia. I am disappointed that the moderator let Palin get away with not answering the questions so much of the time. She didn't even pretend to be trying to answer the questions. It seemed to me that Palin had preprinted talking points and she was just pretty much randomly spurting them out whenever it was her turn to talk. Some are saying Palin "won" this debate...because she didn't collapse? She didn't stand there and say I dunno (which would have been more honest). She's a glib talker, but that was never the issue. Someone has been working with her on her tics though. I didn't see her lick her lips when she was unsure or didn't know how to answer, which I think she was doing before this debate.

[TuNnL]

Palin refused to answer the questions that didn't fit within her talking pointsEveryone has a different take on what stood out to them in the debate, but clearly, matapule’s observation here is the consensus. Frankly, I feel the biggest thing that needs to change in Washington, is lawmakers’ honesty, or lack thereof, with the American public. “Crooks and liars” is a catchphrase that has been synonymous with politicians as long as I can remember.

If Palin can’t even answer a simple question, or two, or three, can we honestly count on her to be straight with Joe American when it really matters? My first reaction was the one put forth by Adri, but by the end of the debate, I felt the moderator gave Palin just enough rope to hang herself. Just enough discretion to show the country that when the going gets tough, Palin’s first instinct is to change the subject. :rolleyes:

[matapule]

What is it with Palin's coquettish winking (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCunBErZZJE&eurl=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/10/02/sarah-palin-has-an-eyelas_n_131442.html) at the audience and camera? Is that Presidential? I suppose those Middle East potentates would love that stuff. Maybe she just wanted to show that "girls wanna have fun." Or maybe it was code for "the joke's on you." Maybe Palin's girlish and flirtacious charm worked on the electorate in Alaska, but it doesn't work on me. Like totally high school, y'betcha.

[LikaNui]

I agree with most of the replies above, and will add that I think Biden was too gentle with her. He obviously didn't want to be seen as a bully, but still, he could've done better at calling Palin out when she waffled her answers.
And like I wrote when the debate first started, watch it again and see how Palin's head is always down looking at her crib notes while Biden is talking.
The final numbers I saw on the CNN poll this morning were:

Who fared better in the vice presidential debate?

(4:51pm)Sen. Joe Biden... 76%... 2,088
(5:14pm)Sen. Joe Biden... 73%... 52,692
(8:30am)Sen. Joe Biden... 66%... 367,851

(4:51pm)Gov. Sarah Palin... 22%... 601
(5:14pm)Gov. Sarah Palin... 24%... 17,525
(8:30am)Gov. Sarah Palin... 28%... 157,204

(4:51pm)Neither... 2%... 66
(5:14pm)Neither... 3%... 2,085
(8:30am)Neither... 5%... 30,472

(4:51pm)Total Votes: 2,755
(5:14pm)Total Votes: 72,302
(8:30am)Total Votes: 555,527

[buzz1941]

Palin talks like Ned Flanders.

[Frankie's Market]

I agree with most of the replies above, and will add that I think Biden was too gentle with her. He obviously didn't want to be seen as a bully, but still, he could've done better at calling Palin out when she waffled her answers.

He refrained from directly attacking/criticizing Palin. Instead, he went on the attack against McCain numerous times, which I think was very smart. This strategy allowed viewers to walk away from the debate thinking that Biden's points were hard-hitting, but at the same time, not bullying or demeaning of his counterpart on stage. It was a fine line that Biden had to walk last night. Just as Gov. Palin was not going to leave this debate convincing people that she had a greater grasp and mastery of foreign policy over her opponent, Sen. Biden was likewise not going to beat the former Miss Wasilla when it came to being photogenic on the camera and charming the audience. So Sarah Palin was able to get away with launching a few zingers and the "Say it ain't so, Joe" stuff. But rather than stoop down to her level, Biden was disciplined enough to more gently and maturely refute some of the drivel that Palin was spewing forth from her mouth. Telling the moderator that "facts matter," Biden was able to expose to the audience just how little Palin knew about the differences between the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq without mocking or insulting his opponent. That is the true sign of a politician who has mastered the art of debating.

[sinjin]

Spot on Frankie.

[LikaNui]

I agree with ya, Frankie. I didn't mean that he should've flagrantly attacked her, just that there were a few occasions when I thought he could've been a wee bit more firm.
Anyway, I saw that the ratings for last night were 42% higher than for the Obama-McCain debate.
Also, Tina Fey is gonna do it on SNL again tomorrow... with Queen Latifah playing the part of the moderator. :p

[AlohaKine]

Sarah Palin won. Her personality is funky and cool.

[matapule]

Sarah Palin won. Her personality is funky and cool.

Yes, you represent 28% of the populace and god bless you. Care for another cup of Kool Aid?

[Ron Whitfield]

Try glib and snarky.
They both did about as best they could, but she lost it, big time.

[TATTRAT]

Sarah Palin won. Her personality is funky and cool.

Unfortunately, funky and cool are not what I am looking for for a VP.

Not to start anything negative, but did you listen to her? Her "Funky and Cool" translates to me as bobbing and weaving. Her "I am one of y'all", and "main street" mentality are good for LOCAL elections, but on a national platform, she cheapens her party.

saying she won is like a kid coming home with a D on a report card, and claiming a victory.

just my $.02

[tutusue]

Unfortunately, funky and cool are not what I am looking for for a VP.[...]
Amen and hallelujah! ;)

[buzz1941]

She'd be great on QVC. If she could shake the tmesis.

Okely dokely! Oh, good golly, if that doesn't put the shaz in shazam!

[timkona]

Palin kicked his ass. Complete with a wink. Everybody expected her to bomb.

Instead, my wife says "She's just like me. Look, she even has kids. And they struggled once. And she's 44. And she's a working mother. And she's cute like me too. I might vote for McCain because of her. She winked at the camera. Can you believe that? She's just like me. I would have winked."

Palin did not have to 'win', to win. She merely had to hold her own, and show a regular look to America. I'd say she did that.

Ask any woman tomorrow..........

Would you consider yourself more like Hillary or more like Palin?

It's game over.

glurg :cool:

PS - Greg, I ran for council. Did not win. Made some enemies. But I did it.

[TATTRAT]

So I guess it is completely acceptable to start a debate by saying " I am not gonna an-seer qwestions tha way you want, or R used to..."

If sex were NOT an issue, and only written/readable transcripts were available, would people really think she is capable?

Once again...VP material? She can play the whole Wall street v. main street, but main street seems to not like her....

Oh, FWIW
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e382/TATTRAT/rollinsforpresidentcopy.jpg

[Walkoff Balk]

"Nudge, Nudge"
"Wink, Wink"
Say No More.

[Adri]

Palin kicked his ass. Complete with a wink. Everybody expected her to bomb.

Instead, my wife says "She's just like me. Look, she even has kids. And they struggled once. And she's 44. And she's a working mother. And she's cute like me too. I might vote for McCain because of her. She winked at the camera. Can you believe that? She's just like me. I would have winked."

Palin did not have to 'win', to win. She merely had to hold her own, and show a regular look to America. I'd say she did that.

Ask any woman tomorrow..........

Would you consider yourself more like Hillary or more like Palin?

It's game over.

glurg :cool:

PS - Greg, I ran for council. Did not win. Made some enemies. But I did it.


I'm a woman and you can ask me today. The Hillary vs. Palin choice is a false paradigm (and really, shouldn't that be more like Biden or more like Palin? or, to be more precise, more able to relate to and understand and agree with Biden or Palin?). Just because I don't consider myself to be just like Hillary does not mean that it's "game over" As a female, I would have loved for Palin to actually kick ass in holding her own based upon her own knowledge and intelligence rather than cheapening it up with a cutesy performance and clumsy attempts at slight of hand.

Moderator Ifill asks Palin about deregulation and Wall Street running wild. Palin: "Deregulation? hmmm. Oh! Look! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's a maverick! Two of us mavericks in fact!"

[Adri]

A relative who lives in Alaska emailed me a Palin debate chart. I tracked it down to the blog of the person who created the chart.

Do not clicky the link if you are easily offended. Fair warning.

http://adennak.com/blog/wordpress/?p=92#comments

[Kaukura]

Governor Palin proved to us that she is truly the maverick that she and John Mc Cain promote themselves to be. She had a refreshing ease about her and in my opinion, really connected with the American people. She was pretty darned good (I loved her sense of style in speaking), plus a little winking never hurt anybody. She's an inspiration for women, and a fresh new face vs. the old boy network in Washington. I kept watching reactions on her performance last night and was impressed how much the public was cheering her on. I think people are jealous of her, seeing how she has risen from Mayor to Governor and now VP candidate. I expect her to be around for years. I think it's going to be tough for many to choose between her and the Junior Senator from Illinois.

[Frankie's Market]

Palin kicked his ass. Complete with a wink. Everybody expected her to bomb.

Instead, my wife says "She's just like me. Look, she even has kids. And they struggled once. And she's 44. And she's a working mother. And she's cute like me too. I might vote for McCain because of her. She winked at the camera. Can you believe that? She's just like me. I would have winked."

Palin did not have to 'win', to win. She merely had to hold her own, and show a regular look to America. I'd say she did that.

Held her own in the debate? I would be inclined to agree with you,..... if I saw the debate on TV with the volume muted. :rolleyes:

She didn't hold her own. She just got through the debate being able to speak in complete, comprehensible sentences, which is more than what she was able to manage with Katie Couric. Of course, those sentences mostly consisted of campaign talking points, slogans, platitudes, and folksy phrases instead of direct answers to Gwen Ifill's questions. But never mind that. That she managed to get through the night without spouting off gibberish was considered a grand success for Palin in this debate for the nation's vice-presidency. I repeat folks. For this nation's vice-presidency. *Sigh!* I swear, the bar of expectation for ASUH's debates were higher when I was an undergrad at Manoa. I'm dead serious!

The only people I see telling everybody what a great night Palin had were McCain spokespeople and surrogates who had to do it to protect their political futures. But when it comes to Republicans I personally know who have no ties with the McCain/Palin ticket, all of them have admitted to me how embarrassed they are with the idea of the Alaska governor being a standard bearer of their party. I don't blame them. How can Palin be taken seriously as a "conservative," if the only Supreme Court case that came up in her mind as something she disagreed with was Roe v. Wade? Don't get me wrong. I didn't expect her to have the names of the cases memorized, but you would think that a self-respecting conservative would at least have mentioned the well-known decisions that banned prayer in public schools (1963), gave Miranda rights to arrested suspects (1966), or cited the decision that struck down the Child Pornography Prevention Act (2002). But Palin couldn't come up with any of that or something similar, in response to a spontaneous question from Katie Couric? It makes one wonder if Palin considers conservatism as just some kind of superficial campaigning trademark or brand name instead of a serious political ideology.

[TuNnL]

I swear, the bar of expectation for ASUH's debates were higher when I was an undergrad at Manoa. I'm dead serious!I don’t know if you’re showing your age, or I just happened to be absent during those (http://www.kaleo.org/home/index.cfm?event=displayArticlePrinterFriendly&uStory_id=0069be89-98da-488c-b713-6182616b2a78) particular exchanges. Then again 99.999999% of Honolulu residents aren’t even present for a City Council meeting or legislative hearing, so we stopped setting an example for the younger generation a long time ago. :(

[Frankie's Market]

I don’t know if you’re showing your age, or I just happened to be absent during those (http://www.kaleo.org/home/index.cfm?event=displayArticlePrinterFriendly&uStory_id=0069be89-98da-488c-b713-6182616b2a78) particular exchanges.

Showing my age? Let's just put it this way. When I was a student there, Ka Leo was not on the internet.

Then again 99.999999% of Honolulu residents aren’t even present for a City Council meeting or legislative hearing, so we stopped setting an example for the younger generation a long time ago. :(

Thirty years ago, do you think the % of Honolulu residents attending City Council or State Legislative hearings and sessions in person were signficantly higher? I doubt it. There were a higher % of voter participation, but that's not the same. (At least today, the city and state lawmaking proceedings are televised on public access cable channels, which wasn't the case prior to the mid-1980s.)

But I don't see what any of that has to do with what I was talking about previously: i.e. the drastic lowering of public expectations for candidates seeking out the top 2 executive positions of this country.

[matapule]

Governor Palin proved to us that she is truly the maverick that she and John Mc Cain promote themselves to be. She had a refreshing ease about her and in my opinion, really connected with the American people. She was pretty darned good (I loved her sense of style in speaking), plus a little winking never hurt anybody.

And this speaks volumes about how we got 8 years of W, an economy on the brink of collapse, a war we cannot win, and a national image that is tarnished in the world community. Oh, wait, you were just being facetious.

[cynsaligia]

Instead, my wife says "She's just like me. Look, she even has kids. And they struggled once. And she's 44. And she's a working mother. And she's cute like me too. I might vote for McCain because of her. She winked at the camera. Can you believe that? She's just like me. I would have winked."


and that's exactly the kind of woman i'd figure would deign to marry someone like you.


Ask any woman tomorrow..........

Would you consider yourself more like Hillary or more like Palin?

It's game over.

glurg :cool:


i'm the kind of woman, given a job interview (which the race for candidacy is), who leans on actual knowledge and expertise versus winking (also known as "shooting starbursts" (http://corner.nationalreview.com/post/?q=NDYzMGFiNjQ0MWRjNmI0ZTlkYjgwZTExMjA3MWNiZTk=)) and cutesy nonsensical homily-espousing to earn the job.

gee, i guess that makes me more like hillary. but we knew that already.

A relative who lives in Alaska emailed me a Palin debate chart. I tracked it down to the blog of the person who created the chart.

Do not clicky the link if you are easily offended. Fair warning.

http://adennak.com/blog/wordpress/?p=92#comments

and for the english majors and other word-lovers of HT, slate.com diagrams sarah palin's "sentences" (http://slate.com/id/2201158/) and prints her "poetry," (http://www.slate.com/id/2201342/) including this lovely gem:


"On the Bailout"

Ultimately,
What the bailout does
Is help those who are concerned
About the health care reform
That is needed
To help shore up our economy,
Helping the—
It's got to be all about job creation, too.

Shoring up our economy
And putting it back on the right track.
So health care reform
And reducing taxes
And reining in spending
Has got to accompany tax reductions
And tax relief for Americans.
And trade.

We've got to see trade
As opportunity
Not as a competitive, scary thing.
But one in five jobs
Being created in the trade sector today,
We've got to look at that
As more opportunity.
All those things.

[timkona]

Don't be a bitch, please. Or perhaps you don't have children. Figures. Hard to be cute with a face like a boot. Better homily than homely. ;)

Claiming liberalism and knowledge at the same time has got to be cognitive dissonance.

[cynsaligia]

Don't be a bitch, please. Or perhaps you don't have children. Figures. Hard to be cute with a face like a boot. Better homily than homely. ;)

Claiming liberalism and knowledge at the same time has got to be cognitive dissonance.

tim, it's such a simple task to bait you into a gotcha moment. and predictably, just like palin, you retreat into falsehoods and your impotent, borrowed talking points as defense.

*lol*

[Ron Whitfield]

Not since W has there been such a 'funny' one been pulled on America.

The bar has been set so low by the republicans you'd have to take The Journey To The Center Of The Earth get get under it.

[matapule]

The bar has been set so low by the republicans you'd have to take The Journey To The Center Of The Earth get get under it.

Every time I see Palin, I think of the Limbo Song, "How low can you go?"

[Adri]

Governor Palin proved to us that she is truly the maverick that she and John Mc Cain promote themselves to be. She had a refreshing ease about her and in my opinion, really connected with the American people. She was pretty darned good (I loved her sense of style in speaking), plus a little winking never hurt anybody. She's an inspiration for women, and a fresh new face vs. the old boy network in Washington. I kept watching reactions on her performance last night and was impressed how much the public was cheering her on. I think people are jealous of her, seeing how she has risen from Mayor to Governor and now VP candidate. I expect her to be around for years. I think it's going to be tough for many to choose between her and the Junior Senator from Illinois.

I can just imagine her winking at Congress and foreign leaders trying to cute them in agreeing with her on something.

Interesting that you say the choice is between her and Obama. I was reading a listserv discussion about whether Palin makes McCain irrelevant because she overshadows him so much.

[Frankie's Market]

Governor Palin proved to us that she is truly the maverick that she and John Mc Cain promote themselves to be.

Am I the only one chuckling at that statement? Promoting themselves as mavericks. Maverick is a label that other people are supposed to give to you.

McCain and Palin calling themselves mavericks is like the nerdiest kid in school insisting that all his classmates call him "phat dude." Sorry, it don't work that way.

[Leo Lakio]

I can just imagine her winking at Congress and foreign leaders trying to cute them in agreeing with her on something.I'm beginning to think that our country has become so f'ed up that it just might work. After W, that behavior just might gain back some friends. Sure beats having Cheney doing the winking. (Brrrrr!!!)

[Peshkwe]

Palin kicked his ass. Complete with a wink. Everybody expected her to bomb.

Instead, my wife says "She's just like me. Look, she even has kids. And they struggled once. And she's 44. And she's a working mother. And she's cute like me too. I might vote for McCain because of her. She winked at the camera. Can you believe that? She's just like me. I would have winked."

Palin did not have to 'win', to win. She merely had to hold her own, and show a regular look to America. I'd say she did that.

Ask any woman tomorrow..........

Would you consider yourself more like Hillary or more like Palin?

It's game over.

glurg :cool:

PS - Greg, I ran for council. Did not win. Made some enemies. But I did it.

Lessee...

I'm a woman, got kids, even got a special needs kid.

I wouldn't vote for the McCain/Palin ticket based on that alone.

The woman may be a decent mom, but in the political realm she's a parrot. Beautiful appearance, sleek and exotic looking compared to the dull feathers of what is currently there. But she's still a parrot and will parrot what the party tells her to say.

Maverick my arse, she's a trained pet.

[timkona]

I swear I must be the most quoted writer on HT. Might not be a good thing.

Judging by your posts Pesh, I would bet the farm that you are an exceptional Mommy. And would likely make a fine Vice Presidential candidate.

Leo almost tries to say it. But it scares him a little. Maybe this nation has been too long the hard ass. Reagan, Bush I, Clinton, Bush light....you gotta admit they all played the hard line quite often. No question that Biden and McCain are both like that.

I keep dreaming that the election is about 4 people. And you can elect whomever you choose for Pres. and VP. In my dream I choose McCain and Biden.

This is the toughest election ever for me.

[Adri]

I'm beginning to think that our country has become so f'ed up that it just might work. After W, that behavior just might gain back some friends. Sure beats having Cheney doing the winking. (Brrrrr!!!)


Huh. Well, I can't rightly disagree with you there, Leo Lakio. :D

[Peshkwe]

I swear I must be the most quoted writer on HT. Might not be a good thing.

Judging by your posts Pesh, I would bet the farm that you are an exceptional Mommy. And would likely make a fine Vice Presidential candidate.

Leo almost tries to say it. But it scares him a little. Maybe this nation has been too long the hard ass. Reagan, Bush I, Clinton, Bush light....you gotta admit they all played the hard line quite often. No question that Biden and McCain are both like that.

I keep dreaming that the election is about 4 people. And you can elect whomever you choose for Pres. and VP. In my dream I choose McCain and Biden.

This is the toughest election ever for me.

The problem is, from Ronnie Raygun on, the upper echelon has wanted to play at 'Roman Empire' and pretend to rule it all. Except they didn't have the balls to go for it with a strong heart, so they played at it...and in the mean times they screwed everything up royally.

Dang...just read The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire to see it layed right on out there for ya....shoots I'm waiting on the panem et circenses to rev up.

[Vanguard]

In my dream I choose McCain and Biden.

As long as we're dreaming, I choose Theodore Roosevelt.

[Peshkwe]

If anyone wants to go through em with a fine toothed comb....here are the debate transcripts:

http://edition.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/10/02/debate.transcript/

[timkona]

And I too, am currently reading The Age of Faith, a history book covering 325-1400. So many similarities between Modern America and the end of the Roman Empire.

Too many people on the 'dole.' Inept leadership. Corruption even at the most menial level. Erosion of a nationalistic ideal. Breakdown of basic morality and civility in the greater social circle. Small scale skirmishes amongst the folks. Burdonsome taxation and regulation that stifles business. Confusion of spirituality. Governmental inbreeding. Aye yai yai.

Biden and McCain cannot possibly save us from this morass. They are a product of the problematic schematic of things.

Obama and Palin might both be a little more level headed, from a common folks perspective.

Maybe I should evaluate this election from a purely AGE point of view. I'm totally ready for one of MY PEERS to attain leadership status.

[Peshkwe]

Only if all the old congress critters were somehow let out of the preserves to run free on the tundra...

And helicopters with scopes were affordable.

[TATTRAT]

And I too, am currently reading The Age of Faith, a history book covering 325-1400. So many similarities between Modern America and the end of the Roman Empire.

Too many people on the 'dole.' Inept leadership. Corruption even at the most menial level. Erosion of a nationalistic ideal. Breakdown of basic morality and civility in the greater social circle. Small scale skirmishes amongst the folks. Burdonsome taxation and regulation that stifles business. Confusion of spirituality. Governmental inbreeding.


Very interesting insight, and quite true.

and, another quote for timkona

[Vanguard]

VP Debates -- Saturday Night Live (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/10/04/tina-fey-as-sarah-palin-i_n_131964.html)

[Leo Lakio]

...shoots I'm waiting on the panem et circenses to rev up.This year's "rebate" checks + the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The comparisons to the declining empires of the past are spot on. We're already rolling down that slope, unstoppably. Once you accept that, you realize the only thing you can do is minimize the damage.

Just because the high days of the American Empire are over is not necessarily a bad thing. Look at how much credit we give the Roman Empire (and many others) for their contributions to history. And Rome still exists today.

[matapule]

Just because the high days of the American Empire are over is not necessarily a bad thing.

Leo, you are right. The USA of the 50's, 60's, and 70's is fini, kaput, mau, pau. It was nice while it lasted, but it is now coming to a screeching halt. In my opinion things are going to get worse, much worse.... and that is good. For those of us who are flexible and adaptable, it will allow us to reinvent ourselves, to emerge smarter and wiser. It is like a national Spring Cleaning. We'll throw out the superfluous and get back to the things that are most important. I welcome the challenge! I will survive and so can you(s). I find these times exciting and motivating. We can become better than we were. Do not be afraid. Join me in embarking on bold new frontiers.

[Peshkwe]

This year's "rebate" checks + the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The comparisons to the declining empires of the past are spot on. We're already rolling down that slope, unstoppably. Once you accept that, you realize the only thing you can do is minimize the damage.

Just because the high days of the American Empire are over is not necessarily a bad thing. Look at how much credit we give the Roman Empire (and many others) for their contributions to history. And Rome still exists today.

You nailed it! It's gonna rev up tho, just a matter of when and to what degree.

Just more and more makes me want to look into getting a trapper/furriers license for Michigan (had one in Virginia years ago). Gotta be able to get meat for the table, the girls are under age so they don't need a license for fishing yet. Maybe the river will freeze up good this year for fishing, last year's freeze was weird.

[joshuatree]

Looking from a different perspective, do any of you see Palin improving or not with each successive public speaking event? Would that indicate potential? Bush's one tracked mind and inability to learn from his previous mistakes is his downfall.

[tutusue]

This is almost as funny as SNL... (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/10/03/palin-on-fox-news-couric_n_131655.html)
Appearing on a friendlier news outlet, Gov. Sarah Palin said she was "annoyed" with the way Katie Couric handled their interview and complained that the CBS Evening News host failed to give her the opportunity to take a proverbial axe to Barack Obama.

In a portion of her sit-down with Fox News...
"ANNOYED"? I'm speechless! Do all annoyances turn her into a babbling Miss Teen So. Carolina?

Thank God for good ol', friendly Fox News to help set the record straight! :rolleyes:

[AlohaKine]

Yes, you represent 28% of the populace and god bless you. Care for another cup of Kool Aid?


I know, I know. We need a fake plastic VP totally out of touch with the common man.

Just like the train wreck we call a legislature. I can tell you that the "key" democrats won't even speak with you for 1 second unless you have money or influence. Their motto is "to hell with the common man". If you don't believe me, go try. And it's not a personality issue of a certain citizen, some non "key democrat" legislators are more then happy to listen to a common citizen's concerns.

[TuNnL]

I can tell you that the "key" democrats won't even speak with you for 1 second unless you have money or influence. Their motto is "to hell with the common man". If you don't believe me, go try. And it's not a personality issue of a certain citizen, some non "key democrat" legislators are more then happy to listen to a common citizen's concerns.Indeed I have tried, and I can tell you that a “key” democrat was the only one who helped me when I needed a helping hand. I was up against a behemoth state agency — the largest one we’ve got. You would think people would run for the highest hills, but no. One of the most powerful Dem representatives in the state stretched out his hand and said, “what can I do to help?” In contrast, the “non-key” legislators were the ones content to write me a letter saying “they didn’t have enough information” to get involved, or worse, a generic form-letter. :mad: I don’t consider myself a Dem or Republican. The closest party to my ideology is the Libertarian Party. They’ve done even less for me then the mostly worthless GOP. :rolleyes:

[matapule]

We need a fake plastic VP totally out of touch with the common man.

Palin is in touch with the common man? Let's see,
house = $550,000
annual income = $250,000
net worth = $1.2 million
vehicles = 17 (including snow mobiles, the average family in Alaska doesn't own a snow mobile)
airplanes = 1
children = 4 (parentage of 5th child still open to question)
income tax = didn't report $45,000 of per diem reimbursements
sports = shoots wolves from a helicopter

This represents the common man? Joe Biden represents the profile of the common man more closely than Palin. Biden is the least wealthy of the four candidates.

[sinjin]

"And finally, we would like to remind our audience that, due to the historically low expectations for Governer Palin, were she simply do an adequate job tonight, at no point cry, faint, run out of the building, or vomit, you should consider the debate a tie."

- QUEEN LATIFAH's lines from SNL.

Too true.:D

[Ron Whitfield]

She was really good, but should have slowly taken the Ifill thing 'over the top'.

...maverick...

[Adri]

Looking from a different perspective, do any of you see Palin improving or not with each successive public speaking event? Would that indicate potential? Bush's one tracked mind and inability to learn from his previous mistakes is his downfall.

I guess it depends on what you mean by "improving". It seems her most well received (at least by the Republicans) public speaking event was her acceptance of her nomination. Then she crashed with the Couric interview. She didn't seem to totally derail at the VP debate if you want to call that "improving"; however, neither did she answer most of the questions asked of her. Now she's running about speaking more smoothly, in a more polished manner but whether she's telling the truth depends, I guess, upon your own pov. If you are measuring by an ability to learn from prior mistakes, she hasn't been in the national public eye long enough, I think, to know that. She certainly seems to have learned how to dodge a question she doesn't want to answer. But she now has, at my last count, three investigations about whether she abused her power and/or position as Governor. Wonder if she'll learn from that.

[tutusue]

All 3 SNL Palin skits are HERE (http://www.hulu.com/saturday-night-live) as are the other election related skits. SNL is on such a roll! :D

[LikaNui]

I saved the last SNL skit onto DVR and watched it first thing Sunday morning. Queen Latifah rocked as host Gwen Ifill! At about the 7-minute mark of the skit, Tina Fey ends one statement with something about Ronald Reagan. Watch Queen Latifah's facial expressions. Priceless! :p