Palin unqualified to serve as vice president
Originally published Friday, August 29, 2008 at 2:10 p.m.
Updated Friday, August 29, 2008 at 7:14 p.m.
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Stumble It!Sarah Palin’s chief qualification for being elected governor of Alaska was that she was not Frank Murkowski.
He was at a low point when he took out ads saying “Maybe I should consider a personality transplant,” but his presence in the 2006 GOP primary helped her capture the nomination and go on to beat Tony Knowles.
She did not win because of her conservative credentials, her grasp of policy details or because of her track record as the mayor of Wasilla, an office she won in 1996 by collecting 617 votes.
National GOP spokesmen—including the VP also-rans—went on and on Friday about how Palin is to “the right” of John McCain, that she is an “economic conservative” and that she will attract supporters of Hillary Clinton to the Republican party.
She is an engaging and charming politician and I have nothing negative to say about her character, her tenacity or her service to our state.
I don't even have major concerns about her performance as governor. She is smart and excels in dealing with people one-on-one.
I like what she did on oil taxes and think her gas line plan may work in the long run, though that won’t be clear for years.
This is one of the most stunning news events in the history of Alaska.
However, in no way does her year-and-a-half as governor of Alaska qualify her to be vice president or president of the United States.
One of the strange things Friday was that so many commentators and politicians did not know how to pronounce her name and had no clue about what she has actually done in Alaska.
Some claimed that she has gotten a gas pipeline going after three decades of inaction, which is far from the truth, while others said she is the most popular governor in the nation, so she must be doing something right.
What the national pundits didn’t say was that Palin has served as governor of Alaska during a time of unprecedented oil wealth, which has helped preserve her popularity.
She has not had to make difficult budget and tax decisions of the sort that cost Murkowski at the polls.
Perhaps the strangest claim repeated endlessly on the news channels is that she has proven she can cut taxes and reduce the size of government in Alaska. She may have cut taxes as mayor of Wasilla, but that's not the same as cutting taxes as governor of Alaska, where there is no state income tax or sales tax to cut.
When he was governor, faced with a growing gap between oil income and expenses, Murkowski proposed a series of budget cuts and tax increases that—along with the selection of his daughter Lisa to replace him in the Senate—made him the most unpopular governor in Alaska history.
By contrast, record oil prices since her election have helped Palin avoid anything as sensitive as cutting off the Longevity Bonus or proposing a tire tax or wildlife viewing tax.
The comments from GOP politicians about how she championed budget cuts, reduced spending and “stood up” to Sen. Ted Stevens on the “bridge to nowhere” are a distortion. The Alaska budget is growing, not shrinking. To claim that the $1,200 payouts due to Alaskans in September have anything to do with restraining government growth, as McCain supporters are doing, is false.
It's true that she deserves credit for collecting much of the excess cash rolling into the state treasury. She championed a multi-billion-dollar oil tax increase, against great opposition from the oil industry and leading power brokers in the GOP, at a time when oil prices were rising and the previous tax law had become suspect.
The old law was at the center of the political corruption scandal that continues to ensnare politicians other than Palin.
The tax increase proposed by the governor and approved by the Legislature has temporarily taken all pressure off the state government to reduce spending.
With her selection by McCain, Palin will be subjected to intense scrutiny by the national news media for the first time. It will be unlike anything she has seen in Alaska.
I may be proven wrong, but the decision announced by McCain strikes me as reckless. She is not prepared to be the next president should something happen to McCain.
The main charge against Democrat Barack Obama is that he dose not have the track record to be president. The choice of Palin effectively removes that from the GOP arsenal.
Palin said Friday, in an exchange carried on CNN, that her 13 years as a member of the Wasilla City Council from 1992-96, mayor of Wasilla from 1996-2002 and governor for a year-and-a-half add up to “good experience” for the vice presidency.
McCain and Palin will have to prove that to the American people before November.
HALCRO: Blogger Andrew Halcro, the former state representative and 2006 candidate for governor, said: "McCain has put one of the least qualified politicians in the country a heartbeat away from the presidency."
"With Republicans on the verge of spending the next 40 years wandering in the desert because of their inability to manage government, McCain's choice highlights that he just doesn't get it," Halcro said.
BEGICH: U.S. Senate candidate Mark Begich responded to the Palin news this way with a prepared statement: “This is a proud day for the people of Alaska. Congratulations to Governor Palin for making history for women, our state and our country.”
OBAMA: Democratic Presidential Nominee Sen. Barack Obama and running mate Sen. Joe Biden released the following statement:
"We send our congratulations to Governor Sarah Palin and her family on her designation as the republican nominee for Vice President. It is yet another encouraging sign that old barriers are falling in our politics. While we obviously have differences over how best to lead this country forward Governor Palin is an admirable person and will add a compelling new voice to this campaign."
RESPONSES: The Web site thehill.com said "Democrats jumped at the opportunity to frame Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin (R) as inexperienced and unqualified minutes after John McCain announced the Alaska Republican will be his running mate."
The Web site quoted Obama spokesman Bill Burton as saying: "Today, John McCain put the former mayor of a town of 9,000 with zero foreign policy experience a heartbeat away from the presidency," Barack Obama spokesman Bill Burton said.
"Governor Palin shares John McCain's commitment to overturning Roe v. Wade, the agenda of Big Oil and continuing George Bush's failed economic policies — that's not the change we need, it's just more of the same," he said.
The Web site said Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) also issued a statement attacking Palin's inexperience, calling the pick "troubling."
"Certainly the choice of Palin puts to rest any argument about inexperience on the Democratic team and while Palin is a fine person, her lack of experience makes the thought of her assuming the presidency troubling," Schumer said.
Schumer added, "I particularly look forward to the Biden-Palin debate in Missouri."
YOUNG: Rep. Don Young said: "Congratulations to Governor Palin. This is an historic event for Alaska and the nation, and I will actively support the McCain-Palin ticket to be elected our next President and Vice-President.
STEVENS: Sen. Ted Stevens said: "It’s a great day for the nation and Alaskans. Governor Palin has proven herself as a bright, energetic leader for our State and will bring the same energy to the Vice Presidency. She will serve our country with distinction – the first Alaskan and first woman on the Republican ticket. I share in the pride of all Alaskans."
MURKOWSKI: Sen. Lisa Murkowski said:
“John McCain has taken a bold step today in choosing Gov. Sarah Palin as his vice presidential running mate. Gov. Palin has risen to every challenge she’s faced, and her choice is historic for Alaska and for the women of America. Sarah brings a great deal of excitement to the campaign and she makes Alaskans proud."
OUTSIDE COMMENT: Boston Globe columnist Joan Vennochi writes:
"McCain is treating women voters as if all they care about is gender. Views and experience don't matter. Elected in 2006, Palin is governor of a state with a population that is one-tenth the size of Massachusetts. Her prior political service was as mayor of a town of 5,700 people.
"What about Alaska is at all similar to the rest of the country? The Iditarod is fun, but it's not the answer to the country's infrastructure problems.
"McCain may believe the pick shores up his own credentials, demonstrating that he doesn't need a Joe Biden to buff up his resume.
"But given his age, voters need a special comfort level with McCain's running mate. If McCain wins, the next vice president would be a heartbeat away from a man in his seventies."
FACE TO FACE:A report on CNN suggests that McCain and Palin met in person for the first time at a conference in February and that the governor traveled to Flagstaff this week and met McCain a second time. The network said he told her that she was his choice for the ticket Thursday.
PALIN BOOK: This from the Associated Press.
NEW YORK (AP) _ John McCain's surprise choice of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin (PAY'-lin) as his running mate has given a biography of her the kind of boost that her Democratic counterpart, Joe Biden's memoir received when he joined the ticket.
The book titled "Sarah: How a Hockey Mom Turned Alaska's Political Establishment Upside Down," has jumped into the top 200 on Amazon.com, where shoppers now have to wait one to three weeks for shipment.
The book written by author Kaylene Johnson was released in April, and had sold out a small first printing of around 7,000 copies.
Publisher Kent Sturgis says a paperback version will be hurried out, with an expected printing of 50,000.
Sturgis tells The Associated Press that he was "happy as a clam even before today," but this is "unbelievable
OBAMA CALL:A Fox News reporter offers this account of Obama offering congratulations to Palin.
"At 4:50 p.m. EDT Obama called to congratulate Palin from his campaign bus. According to senior adviser Robert Gibbs, Obama told Palin she would be 'a terrific candidate and that he looked forward to seeing her on the campaign trail.' Gibbs also said Obama wished Palin 'good luck, but not too much luck.'"
ARNOLD: California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said, in an interview on KCRA-TV: "She has the strength to go and push back. She had the strength up there to fix the budget problem that they had, to reform the system and also to push back really hard on the bridge to nowhere. I think that she's cleaning up the mess up there and I think she has tremendous courage."
Community Discussion
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Dermot,
Who is qualified? A professional politician. When Stevens went to office he was an ambulance chaser and had never held a public position before. The same can be said for Young, a teacher in Fort Yukon. Let's look at Ernst Gruening, a doctor from New York City and probably the most effective politician this state ever saw. By the way he was sent here more or less as a punishment by the Roosevelt administration. Ask your brother Terry at UAF. I am just sitting here squirming until you enlighten me on who is qualified.
She will do just fine.
Washington needs a good shot of common sense and integrity.
Dermot Cole - You have certainly shown your true colors in slamming Governor Sarah Palin's nomination for Vice President of the United States of America! You have not held her hand, looked directly into her eyes, and talked to her on a personal, one on one basis.....I have! I am proud to say I supported her from day one in her candidancy for Governor of this great state. She has taken on the "good old boys network", the "big oil" consortium, and others. Her leadership and intelligence has faced down our corruption problems head on and shown she is truly there for us. I am happy and proud we can share her great attributes with the rest of the nation, though I am saddened we are losing her, one of the best Governors' Alaska has ever seen. May God Bless Governor Sarah Palin and God Bless the U.S.A.
I see that you don't like our Governor, eh Cole? Who would you have suggested? Oh, wait ... you don't like McCain either, so you don't really care, do you? As the other readers have written, she will do far better than your "expectations." And I bet there will be more who will agree with me.
Cole is super liberal, what did you expect? I am sure he is much more comfortable with a inexperienced rookie senator as president than a first term governor as VP, though of course a governor actually does lead government.
Ladd McBride: "You have not held her hand, looked directly into her eyes, and talked to her on a personal, one on one basis."
Is this really necessary to judge a person's credentials for the nation's second-highest office? Hand-holding?
Mr. McBride, most of us -- not just Mr. Cole -- have not had the intimacy with our political candidates you seem to have had. We have only the facts of her life and her experience to go on. Why do you find that insufficient?
The question that needs to be asked of Sarah:
John McCain took numerous trips (on a private jet to the Keating spread in the Bahamas) paid for by Chuck Keating. McCain did not disclose those gifts until he got caught in the Keating Five scandal- a scandal that cost US taxpayers billions.
Ted Stevens has been indicted on seven charges of doing the EXACT same thing that John McCain did- taking gifts and not disclosing them. So Gov. Palin, please explain how you are taking a position against corruption within the Republican party and the "Good Ole Boys Club"? Isn't John McCain- by his past actions- demonstrably part of the corruption problem?
A question that needs to be asked of Andy Halcro: Andy, aren't you just a sore loser? Got beat by a girl and it just kills you, right?
Sarah did give the best speech she has ever made this morning. She hit all the right points- a women, five kids, a union member husband. And of course, the son who is heading off to Iraq in the US Army.
But one thing is for sure. The national media will be on this like nothing we've ever seen before. It will not be a perfectly smooth ride for Sarah.
But then look at Obama's pick for VP- Biden, a proven plagiarist. Shouldn't that disqualify him? Hardly a word said in the media about that fiasco.
One common theme seems to come up when bashing Palin on her experience, or lack thereof, is that people don't believe she would make a good commander-in-chief. Those that tout this argument seem to be counting on McCain dying. Do they know something others don't? Are they planning an assassination?
All that aside and looking strictly at the argument of "inexperience", if it was a bad choice to use Palin as a "second fiddle" to the White House, how smart was it to put an inexperienced person up as "first fiddle"?
Obama has some experience in the Senate, working as part of a group. Palin has experience as Mayor and Governor, working as the executive commander. Since the argument is that neither person has adequate international or security experience, that topic is a wash. However, looking at leadership roles, Palin's experience exceeds that of Obama. Now what you are left with is evaluating whether you are willing to put someone with "no experience" directly into the President's seat or "possibly" into the President's seat.
Hmm....... Palin not qualified? Have you compared her political career to Obama? Maybe someone should do their homework... This morning I am very proud to call myself Alaskan and a Republican, I have always been proud of my country, this morning I got to see two true red,white and blue's stand up for what America will be! God Bless America!
can't believe you actually believe what Halcro says.
Mr. Cole thinks he gets to decide who is or is not qualified. Thank goodness we all get a vote on it.
Hardcore democrats seemed to have already attacked Palin and "shot their wad." Is that all there is; "lack of experience" and "a heartbeat away", as if Sen McCain is likely to not survive his term? Is that all there is to say against Sarah, that she is "small town, no time in service?"
You can bet Sen. McCain heavily vetted his short list...why do you think she was the choice?
Alaskans respect and care about Sarah and her family, because she cares and respects ours. Now, it is America's turn to get to know her.
glad we don't have to listen to Rockstar. She will do a fine job and no holds barred attitude will rock the nation. I for one think people out there should listen to alaskans and am damn proud to have one there. If you are afraid then do you have something to hide? if they listen to one Alaskan as Gov. Then let them listen to one as V.P. .. Right on and you go girl ,shake @&$t up. Peace!
Mr Cole, check your facts and innuendos. The Governor did not inherit a surplus to "ride a wave of excess cash". She was very instrumental in the increase to the State revenue through the ACES petroleum tax plan. Murkowski's PPT plan was not nearly as agressive on behalf of Alaska. Senator McCain's selection of our Governor has many implications on the National and State level. It is a great example of a very good executive decision by the Republican candidate. I can't say the same for the Democratic Nominee's choice of running mates.
I have argued the same point when Gov. Palin's name first came up as a possible VP candidate. You are right, she is probably not as qualified as the VP should be. But given that she is more qualified than the other party's presidential nominee, it's a moot point in this election.
Sarah has the exactly the same amount of experience as VP as Obama has as President.
Dermot...Spoken like a true LIBERAL working for a LIBERAL newspaper. The Newsminer must pay you good...You have been on that FEEDBAG for a long time.
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Sure good to see Mr. Cole sticking up for the good old boy network and tax and spend liberals that are on the verge of corrupting this country. Thank you for reiterating what most of us already knew about you Mr. Cole, you are for furthering the Socialist Agendas of the Democratic Party.
I have to agree with Murphy - what does it take to get experience? Maybe holding an office that puts you there? Would not being the Vice President under the tutelage of a senior statesman help to educate GOV (soon to be VP)Palin? Wouldn't the expertise of those that are trained in the State Dept help to educate GOV (soon to be VP) Palin?
There is a lot of rhetoric about not having experience and not knowing what is going on. Maybe its time to shake things up and bring in new and fresh ideas. Maybe its time we had someone who actually made changes.
Gov Palin isn't one of those lackys that holds millions of dollars from their fathers and ancestors. She comes from small town America. She has fought, clawed and won.
If her methods and policies were so bad, then why does she have an 80% approval rating?
It seems to me that there is a lot of jealousy going on by those who don't understand her.
I can be happy to remind my kids that they met such an outstanding, down to earth, hard working lady.
She is the type of role model that our kids can look up to. From being a "soccer, hockey mom" to Vice President of the United States of America - Now that is an American Dream
Let's not kid ourselves. McCain chose Palin because he is trying to get the votes of people who are upset that Clinton did not get the Democratic nomination. The hope--and clear insult--is that those voters who wanted to elect Clinton will be as happy to elect Palin, despite the fact that they are political opposites.
I think it is unfair to talk about McCain as though he is on his deathbed. He is old, yes, and there are risks, but the man is apparently healthy. However, we should still take a long, hard look at whether or not Palin is qualified for the second-in-command position in our nation. Let's not kid ourselves: we're not a major state, politically speaking. Palin has been the mayor of a small town and the governor of a minor state. Is that really the level of experience we want at the executive level of gov't (and, yes, I do think Obama is pushing it, but I think his credentials *are* stronger and his veep is a better pick overall)? Think hard. Think past Alaska: is this really the best person for the Vice Presidency? I don't think so.
I still don't agree with McCain's policies. I certainly don't agree with Palin's. If nothing else, well, this is now going to be an ever more interesting year.
Rockstar: Your derogatory comments are out of place. As is your assertion, "Are you really ready for Palin to be president?", you see, Sarah is the pretty one standing to the "old guy's" left (the right side of your t.v. screen). She is running for "Vice President" which is the position just under President, the old guy there is running for President.
It can be confusing, but don't worry, you'll get it.
Political Dominos of Alaska cont.
From the White House site today
Pres. Bush's congrats about Gov. Palin on White House site
The White House is energized and excited by this choice. President Bush called Governor Palin just before his meeting with President Kikwete of Tanzania. He said that the McCain-Palin ticket is very strong. He wished her good luck, told her that she will be a fantastic vice presidential candidate, and that he is looking forward to a great victory in November.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/...
From the White House site Prior to Pres. Bush stopover here on White House site.
Press Gaggle by Dana Perino Aug.1, 2008
Colony Hotel
Kennebunkport, Maine
Today Congress is going to leave Washington for another recess without taking any action to make our country more energy independent, in addition to refusing to allow a vote on energy legislation. It looks like they will also leave town without allowing votes on nominations for positions throughout the federal government regarding energy.
For example, although the Senate just spent two weeks debating a bill regarding the Commodities Future Trading Commission, one Senate Democrat has put a hold on three nominations to the Commission. Additionally, another Senate Democrat has a hold on our nominee to serve as the Deputy Secretary of Energy. And by holding up these nominations, Senate Democrats are putting more road blocks in the path of our ability to determine America's path to addressing our comprehensive energy needs.
These positions should be filled, and we would urge them to allow for there to be an up or down vote. And if the vote succeeds, great. And if they don't, then we will go back to the drawing board. But simply not voting should not be an option.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/...
From the White House site
Executive Order: Further Amendments to Executive Order 12333, United States Intelligence Activities
July 31, 2008
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/...
Reading the national blogs, one thing keeps coming up again and again...
There are lots of people across this country who will be very surprised by our Governor. And Democrats are doing themselves no good at setting the expectations bar so low.
Do I think she is the best candidate for VP in the Republican Party? No. But not for the reasons being talked about (her inexperience in political office). I seriously question her understanding of law, and the currently-investigated affair with her brother-in-law demonstrates a side of her that was careful kept from Alaska media during the gubernatorial election, a temper and vindictiveness that underscores the nickname "Barracuda".
But to suggest that our governor won't be able to debate and fight with "the big boys" in DC shows that the people saying that don't know her at all. She's stood up to - and beaten - Alaskan Republicans that had the rest of the national Republican party licking their boots - and made them like it.
McCain picked a woman, yes - but that isn't why he picked our Governor. He picked someone who unifies the Reagan coalition of social and fiscal conservatives, which was falling apart. He insulated himself from the "elitist" charge. He chose a person whose spouse is part-minority, a union member, and a small business owner.
McCain has gambled away the "experience" card in his deck. He may have picked up a Queen. With the expectation bar being set so low, Sarah Palin will easily jump way over it - which will cause people in the rest of the country, esp. women who claim to be "outraged" that McCain was being "insulting" by just picking any woman, to take a second look at her.
Sarah Palin is not Hillary Clinton. But she sure as heck is not Dan Quayle. To compare her is him risks having many, including ex-Hillary supporters, to judge her favorably and miss that her positions may not be in line with theirs.
If Palin is unqualified than so is Obama.
She has the best qualifications: she is an American.
She has integrity and stands behind her values and principles.
She has always been proud to an American.
What makes a lawyer with one term as Senator qualified to be President (chief executive and commander-in-chief)?
Palin is an Alaskan for Alaskans and now she can be an American for Americans. Is that not the root of our government "We the people" not you the citizens and us the politicians. I stand by our Alaskan Governor!
Snowbug, I agree with your statements 100%!!!!
Dermot, your article is nothing but sour grapes.
I see nothing in the US Constitution that would make Governor Palin not qualified to hold the Office of Vice President of the United States. Did I miss something?
I'm quite positive Obama is also an America, as is McCain and Biden. I think she needs to finish what she started here in Alaska, she really has yet to PROVE she can make tough decisions. Yes, she has tenacity. I think there were many more people much better qualified McCain could, and should have picked. Remember, Alaska is a SMALL state when it comes to our population and the majority of whom are in Anchorage. She hasn't done much for the Interior.
The VP has only two things to do according to the Constitution: A) Serve as President of the Senate, and break ties B) Wait for Pres to die, or be incapacitated.
It's unfortunate she was chosen NOT for her skills, but for her gender and age. It's known she and McCain barely know each other, and could very well not work well together. Her ideas could, and probably WILL be sidelined.
If anything, the GOP knows they probably won't get it this time around. But instead are preparing her, and themselves for a future election with her as the Presidential Candidate.
500,000 Alaskans vs. 300 Million Americans. We have less people than most cities in the US. Even small midwestern towns are bigger than Wasilla. Most states have SERIOUS economic problems, and not flush with cash like Alaska. And yeah, while we are protected up here.. the folks, where the majority of the electoral votes are NOT.
I'd like to see Ms. Palin finish cleaning up Alaska. She has ALOT more to do.
Congrats to Gov Palin! I for one absolutely love the idea and was hoping for it for quite some time. I trust Gov Palin much more than anyone else out there. She uses common sense and gets the job done. Her leadership has benefitted Alaska and I firmly believe she will be a great assett to the rest of the U.S.
Too funny.
Everything you people love about Palin, you hate about Obama.
It's beyond lame.
Have a great day!
Mr. Cole says he has no problem with Gov. Palin's character, and says she is smart, but believes her lack of experience makes her a poor choice as a vice-presidential running mate. So back up - if a person is smart, and has good character, will they not make reasonable and good choices? Well, our good governor did make a choice today - and that choice was to become the next Vice-President of our nation.
Regarding the experience question, what exactly do you need to be Vice-President? Does Mr. Cole know? He didn't list the qualifications. I don't know that there is a list. But this I know, many, much more qualified than Mr. Cole, have decided she does have the ability to be a great Vice-President.
For me, I've been very happy with her choices and progress in Alaska, and believe that will carry on to a National level. I would just hope Washington doesn't 'educate' her too much on how things are 'supposed' to be done. I would hope that her character would stand up to that great test. Indeed, I believe strength of character to be probably the greatest need for such a national post.
And what is her character? We know her dislike for pork spending. We know her commitment to us. We see her seek to follow her heart and rational thought regardless of party or special interests. We've seen her fight corruption in and out of government. In her mind everyone and everything is fair game if it violates common sense and the common good. Isn't this what is needed in Washington?
It was wonderful to see Sen. McCain present her this morning in Dayton, Ohio. I sat with my 8th grader watching it unfold. To see character valued in this great woman and family warmed my heart and hopefully my son's also. They represent what is best in America, and I hope they can stay Alaskan and reveal their character to our nation for at least the next four years.
saraha as vice prez NOW THATS FUNNY.....
now you now why she said vote no on 4
Let's see, how to you pronounce that? Wah!
She has more executive experience than Obama & Biden put together.
She holds her ground.
She's not a socialist like Obama.
She's not a "good-old-boy" like Biden.
A woman with a brain that can manage a family & career? Aren't only liberals allowed to stereotype like that?
But she's a CONSERVATIVE! Gasp! Like most Alaskans and most Americans. Imagine that.
I know Obama is for change. Palin changed a lot of things that no other governor was able to change.
Obama hasn’t said how he’s going to change America, but he has shown us. “Senate bill S 2433”. I don’t want the changes Obama has planned for us. I don’t want to be a European. Oops. Sorry that wasn’t right. The Europeans don’t give .7% of their gnp to the UN. (But they do give up their guns & sovereignty.)
Governor Palin has said that creationism should be taught along side evolution to our kids. That kind of factual ignorance should be nowhere near the White House.
My hats off to her. However; its not the right time, and they are just using her as "eye-candy." I myself would love to see her finish her term out first as our governor also.
I disagree, Dermot. Just look at where "experienced politicians" have gotten us today: record debts, deficits, trade imbalances, energy crisis, inflation, unconstitutional wars, a broken financial system, and a damaged currency.
On both Sarah Palin and Barak Obama's behalf, I can only say that "experienced politicians" are severely overrated.
Ladd McBride writes: "You have not held her hand, looked directly into her eyes, and talked to her on a personal, one on one basis." He seems to be offering this as a reason to support someone.
Hm, I seem to recall George W. looking into the eyes and soul of Vladamir Putin and liking what he saw. Perhaps this is not an accident. They both went on to invade other countries. (Sorry, couldn't resist pointing that out.)
Anyway, four of our last five presidents came came from various governors' mansions. One (Ronald Reagan) was a tremendous success, another (Bill Clinton) was successful in some areas and failed in others, and two (Jimmy Carter and George W. Bush) were catastrophic failures. None were fully prepared when they assumed office.
I'm not as skeptical about this as Dermot Cole, but I'm not swooning either. We'll see how she does on the national stage. I don't envy her for what she's about to be hit with. But she's proven time and again how tough she is.
Two things we can all agree on: this will be the most interesting election in decades, and Sarah Palin is nowhere near as creepy as Dick Cheney.
Mr. Cole, would you say George Washington lacked the experience to be the first President. Seems all the founding fathers really didn't have experience in this form of government, but did a pretty darn good job.
Senator McCain's only executive experience was as commander of a naval aviation squadron; Senators Obama and Biden have no executive experience. Governor Palin has been a mayor, a business owner, a state governor and has managed a household - more executive experience than the other three combined.
Senator Obama still has no international experience and he, not Joe Biden, is running for president. A president with no international experience is much more worrisome than a vice-president with that lack. And Governor Palin has probably spent more time in the Middle East, seeing the troops in harm's way, than has Obama.
My preference for vice president was Mitt Romney, followed by a Romney-Palin ticket in 2012 if McCain is unable to continue. But starting now as vice president will provide Gov. Palin an opportunity to learn before taking the top job.
The last two president's did not have any international experience as governors of Arkansas and Texas, which is probably why the nominees for both parties this year came out of the senate instead of a state house. If international experience is so critical, what happened to Bill Richardson?
Wally Hickel, as Interior Secretary, is the last Alaskan to have a national political presence in the executive branch.
Sarah Palin is an excellent representative for Alaska on that stage.
Is this the same Sarah Palin that was too inexperienced to win the Republican Primary? Then the general election? The same one that has brought back trust in our government, despite $4.30+ per gallon gas prices?
I want it noted for the record that I have never been against Obama due to 'lack of experience'. Maybe we should have Ted Stevens and Don Young as our president and VP, they have LOTS of experience. I just disagree with some of his policy ideas.
This will be a fun election to watch, that is for sure.
Palin for President 2012!
I will enjoy this election. McCain seems to think he can buy the Clinton women by this choice. I was on the phone to a political group office back on the East Coast, and already strong women politicians like Boxer who champion the women issues important to that group (choice, middle-class relief, Iraq) are pointing out that Palin is to the Right of McCain in almost all issues. McCain believes he can just snag their votes, that they will vote for any woman just to get a female in the White House. Another miscalculation from a person who sees his campaign running out of steam.
I wonder if the Mayor will support Sarah?
Dermot, to run for President of the United States of America requires that you are a natural-born citizen of this country, and are a minimum of 35 years old, and have lived in the US for a minimum of 14 years.
This is in Article II, Clause 5 of the Constitution.
The Framers thereof were farmers, merchants, etc.
Geo Washington hadn't any experience either.
Vat a country!!!
Amen, Mr. Cole. I don't always agree with you, but it's nice to see an Alaskan actually printing something remotely truthful. Even if it has caused people to slam you. But hey, there are worse things in life than being called "super liberal." I would wear that as a badge of honor.
I wouldn't.
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Demont: you mis-called this & have no idea what your neighbors think! remember the bumped sticker" ALASKA GIRLS KICK ASS"
I seem to recall our 16th President only having served a term in Congress (as a Representative and not a Senator, no less) and being considered one of the most capable leaders in History. Abraham Lincoln had minimal political experience and NO executive experience before becoming President of the U.S.
While Gov. Palin may not have the shrewdness of Pres. Lincoln, she certainly has the sound judgment, resolve, compassion and stamina that Americans desire in and demand from their leaders.
I have no concerns about her having to take the reigns if a President McCain becomes incapacitated.
Dermot,
She is much more qualified to be vice president than you are to analyze her selection. Being a governor of Alaska with it's transportation and energy issues, no matter how long, makes her more qualified for her potential position than reporting and editting for a bad daily that kisses big oil backside qualifies you for analyzing national politics. Stick to reporting on Kiwanis club events.
I think Dermot should stick to passing along thank-you's from grateful tourists and announcing bake sales.
If you think about it, what experience does Obama have? He's been running for president since he was elected to the senate. So is Dermot saying that a state legislator from Illinois is more qualified than a state goveror? So in essence, Dermot is saying that Alaskan's are too green and dumb to run for "real" political office. I fully expected that attitude from East Coast elitists, but not from one of our own.
Super Liberal makes me want to spew. Sarah will do just fine as she is true Alaskan unlike most of our liberal transplants on this blog. You folks realy should grab the next flight to Kalifornia.
Pat
Come on people, do you honestly believe Dermot Cole is a conservative Republican. I am sure the Cole brothers have made it very clear as to their political leanings over the years. Remember that experience does not equal ability. Who better than Alaskans have witness what has happened to the most experienced Republican Senator in the Senate.There are times that it is ability that is needed, not experience. Now will be the time to see if Palin has the ability to take on a national campaign.
Governor Palin has, as has been mentioned, more executive experience than Obama and Biden combined. She lacks in foreign policy experience, but is a quick study, apprenticed to a master.
As an enthusiastic student of history, I find myself brought back to the story of Harry S Truman. Truman was inexperienced in global matters when he was nominated as VP, except as a doughboy, and was a Missouri local yokel. FDR didn't even take the time to bring HST along. HST didn't even have knowledge of the Manhattan Project, and the atomic bomb, until he was actually the POTUS. American history has judged Truman favorably, as a strong and decisive commander, willing to make the tough decisions in order to save American lives.
Another famous American was thrust from a log cabin birth, through a failed business career, minor political experience to the ultimate national crisis, then the pantheon of American history. Man by the name of Lincoln.
I'm not suggesting that Governor Palin is capable of reaching a revered place in American history, but it is our history that sometimes common Americans, like Sarah Palin, are thrust into history, and rise to the occasion.
Although I admit my bias toward the Republicans, actually Senator Obama and Senator Biden also have that opportunity. History is funny, that way.
Hey Dermot, is there any reason that you and the rest of the Editorial Staff of the News-Whiner have not joined the staff of the Skanckorage Daily News?
"What about Alaska is at all similar to the rest of the country? The Iditarod is fun, but it's not the answer to the country's infrastructure problems."
Wow... Are we not US citizens as well?
"Today, John McCain put the former mayor of a town of 9,000 with zero foreign policy experience a heartbeat away from the presidency," Barack Obama spokesman Bill Burton said."
Maybe Washington needs what we've go here in AK, found in 'a town of 9,000' and other communities.
Wow, amazing. Everyone wants to support Gov. Palin, but what has she actually DONE for the state? Oh, yeah 1200 checks.
Is the Gas Pipeline even started yet?
Has she lowered Fuel and Heating costs?
What about the rise in food costs?
Reinstating programs that Murkowski cut as he was pandering to Big Oil?
Other than the 1200 dollar payoff, all she's done is had the guy fired who refused to fire her ex-brother in-law. Oh, and tell Sen. Stevens no thanks to for some projects.
Her experience as a Mayor! come on, it's a town of 9000 people, with only 15% voting. Remember, we're talking about the entire United States. a Town of 9000 down there is nothing.. it's a place you stop to use the bathroom and grab some food. Believe me, I grew up in one of those towns. Small Town Politics isn't about what you DO, it's who you know. Wait, that's Alaskan Politics as well. Most of what we call politicians up here in Alaskan wouldn't survive outside.
Funny how everyone calls her a beauty queen... She was Miss Wasilla, all 5 girls in town competing? Then, Miss Alaska runner up! Making All-State High School Band was a bigger deal if you're in a state like Pennsylvania, Illinois, or Kansas!
As I said before, McCain is just using her for her looks.. trying to win votes. She'll be a more "traditional" VP, the type like Truman... definitely not in the Loop on anything.
So. Draconian. Is the Democrat party "just using" Obama for his "looks" trying to win votes?
Sounds silly on either foot, if you ask me.
I hope that neither party is that shallow, or honestly thinks that America is that easily lead. I also hope that most Americans vote for reasons other than gender or ancestry.
draconianslacker, and you were the one writing on the outhouse walls and still writing the same as cole.
You go girl!
Dermot Cole's line of reasoning why Gov. Palin is not qualified to be either Vice-President or President (as a state Governor) is interesting. To be consistent in his reasoning, Mr. Cole would have to claim that another state Governor was not qualified to be President. I'll mention but two state Governors who ran for President, one was not elected and the other one did get elected. They are Gov. Thomas Dewey and Governor Woodrow Wilson. All of Mr. Cole's reasoning when applied makes it obvious that by Mr. Cole's logic, neither Dewey nor Wilson was qualified to be President. I doubt that Mr. Cole would agree that Woodrow Wilson was not qualified--after all, Woodrow Wilson was a DEMOCRAT! In point of fact, Mr. Cole's article was no so much a commentary, as it was a tantrum by a pathological Liberal.
Dermot, again thank you for laying out the facts!! It is interesting to see how people seemed to blow by your statements of respect and value for Palin and have just focused in on the brutal truth in your writings.
For starters, Obama finished magna cum laude at Harvard Law after finishing a poli si degree from Columbia and Sarah finished a BA in journalism on a beauty pageant scholarship. The same pageant she was awarded Miss Congeniality... so no wonder Lady McBride likes her... who doesn’t? She is Miss Congeniality... Do readers realize how difficult it is to finish magna cum laude at Harvard Law!!
This entire nomination is like a nurse working for a cardiology unit at the hospital for example... who has been assisting the cardiologist for a decade... wanting to become to start to perform his job duties. Sure the nurse has tons of hands on experience, understands the anatomy of the heart, has seen the cardiologist perform his/ her procedures thousands of times... but would you really feel safe letting a nurse perform a triple bypass on you? I want our leaders, to have a strong educational backbone to reinforce their political careers and I do not think a BA in journalism and some work with politics qualifies you for the vice presidency. Shoot if that was the case McCain should have chosen Katie Couric for the ticket!
Palin is doing a great job for the state of Alaska. This is her realm, her door step, her life, her people, our policies... our problems, our concerns... this is her element! I am very proud of her, but I feel she has bitten off a bit more than she will be able to chew with this nomination... and I wish her luck. I for one would never have the audacity to jump into a doctor’s shoes without formal education... even with years of hands on experience and I would be unjustly serving and treating my patients if I did. It is very important for each of us; to know our limits... hopefully Sarah knows hers!
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AKLOWN, that's refreshing! Thanks for sharing such an insightful thought!
Cole,
You are an old sourdough with no compassion for fresh ideas! Remember your words when she wins the nomination this coming November!
Canadian-Alaskan
Well, I have to say I have enjoyed reading your articles all these years and am (was) reading your book "Fairbanks," however I am so disapointed in your drival today after almost 99% of all who I have heard Friday and read posts tonight are PRO Palin - you are not. I hope you are proven wrong. And I think you may want to follow Kelly to the Lower 48 w/ a one-way ticket with Wooten and Monegan under each arm! I may have to hide the fact I am reading your book or give it to the Salvation Army - it's actually good, but now I am sick.
By the way, I have always been an extreme left Liberal,
however this time I know McCain/Palin are the right
choice for America. I am 46 only 2 years older than Sarah,
thus can sense her compassion and commitment to Alaska and
America!
Did you ever read the history of how Abraham Lincoln became president , the least likely of four . Palin or Obama each fit his description .
Wow, Dermot --
You must really hate the fact that people hold you accountable now with these blogs.....
And no response from you - very uncharacteristic!
I really did like your articles back when they were on the happenings around town and such - but it seems you are just getting old and bitter now....
As you look down your nose at us and scoff at our illiterate ways....remember - we are the readers...have you forgotten what true journalism was???
The following is a quote for a MA in Journalism.....maybe you should read it and think about if you still have what it takes...
"Is Journalism For You?
What is journalism?
Journalism is the timely reporting of events at the local, provincial, national and international levels. Reporting involves the gathering of information through interviewing and research, the results of which are turned into a fair and balanced story for publication or for television or radio broadcast. "
I guess you don't need to be fair and balanced and let the readers decide do you...since clearly you know better and we are but children to your whims
Dermot, sour grapes buddy, Sarah Palin, God Bless and keep you. You will be a huge asset for Alaska and America!!
Good to see, that you Dermot, that you have more faith in the leadership of Senator Barrack Hussein Obama!
Terry Donovan- You forgot one other governor turned president, Reagan.
I now deem suspect the books Dermot Cole has authored if I am to believe his slant on recent history and perceived qualifications for a candidate for public office are in line with his sentiments about our great Governor Sarah Palin. According to his logic Sarah should lower her standards to the level the democratic nominee for president has attained. I surmise if she believed that life does not begin till a baby can breathe on his/her own outside the womb and is wanted in this world then she would be worthy of higher office. If she was good friends with the Unabomber and had a man of the clothe as her mentor that condemned America on a regular basis and foments racism, then she would pass muster with Dermot. I suppose if she had a relative living in utter poverty and chose not to lend a hand then she would be qualified to hold office. But mostly if she was a part of Chicago thug politics then she would get rave reviews from the likes of Dermot, for Wasilla or Alaska is no training ground to be a heartbeat from the presidency.
I have no problems with her or this experience argument although I wish she was a little bit more libertarian. My problems are with McCain, there is no way in hell I could vote for him, no matter who he would have picked. I believe she in a way discredits herself by even being a part of his campaign. It would have been an even bolder move for her to have turned him down, stating that she was not interested in running with a liberal disguising himself as a conservative. Now if she was the one actually running for president I would vote for her.
Vote For Bob Barr if we really want solutions.
DC 4 Liberty
That headline is funny LOL
Yep, she is not qualified to serve as Vice President because she never served as Vice President of the USA before, nor served as President for that matter. And she is not a lawyer.
I guess I will have to vote for Senator McCain.