Since John McCain announced his choice of Sarah Palin as running mate, I've watched in both amazement and amusement as many Republicans have performed mental contortions in attempts to get on board with McCain's choice and support Palin. I almost feel sorry for them. Almost.
For one thing, we all know that if Palin was a Democrat and Obama had chosen her for his running mate, the Republicans would have been gleefully eviscerating her, making short work of her Jack of All Trades; Master of None resume. Her lackadaisical approach to her education, followed by a resume that is the profile of a capricious dilettante, would have been roundly and rightly criticized. She's a dabbler, not a dedicated public servant.
For another, if Sarah Palin had been Samuel Palin, the same would have occurred, regardless of which party "he" belonged to. A man whose resume implied the bearer as having the attention span of a hummingbird wouldn't have made it as far as governor, let alone to Vice Presidential nominee.
Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and also John McCain all have one thing in common. Their entire careers have been devoted to public service of one sort or another, and have been appropriate preparation for the high office they seek. Sarah Palin's has not. The fact that she's a woman shouldn't mean voters should grade her on the curve; that would be the worst form of sexism -- they certainly didn't cut Hillary Clinton any breaks. And I'm appalled that Republicans who claim to love their country and their party are allowing their party to be dumbed down in this fashion.
Thoughts?
2 comments:
Hi Libertine,
I saw your hello on Pat's shout box and clicked your name and came here that way.
I read your piece on the politicians running for office and was reminded that several of my neighbors who I have always regarded as smart folk are voting for the Republican ticket and walking home from the parade was reminded by them that I should vote for Sarah and I looked them square in the eye and replied with a straight face, "You betcha"!
It is often easier to say what you don't mean and go on home than to say what you mean and be bedeviled by people who think these are the greatest of economic times and the icebergs are not melting and the seas are healthier than ever.
Humbug.
Thanks for stopping by, Abe. Hope you and Patty are doing well and that Melissa, Audrey, and the cat are settling in nicely.
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