August 29, 2008
Posted: 03:10 PM ET

From
President Bush called Gov. Palin Friday to congratulate her.
President Bush called Gov. Palin Friday to congratulate her.

(CNN) — The White House is "energized" over John McCain's pick of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin for the No.2 spot on the Republican presidential ticket, White House press secretary Dana Perino told reporters Friday.

Perino also said President Bush phoned Palin earlier Friday morning to congratulate the Alaska Republican for being selected for the position.

President Bush believes the McCain-Palin ticket is "very strong," and he looks forward to a "great victory in November," Perino also said.

Filed under: John McCain • President Bush • Sarah Palin


Jim   August 29th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

I'm always amused when I read explanations of why Clinton supporters will now vote for McCain. It almost gets surrealistic when they try and justify voting for someone that embodies everything that Clinton opposed.

" My candidate didn't win the nomination so I am going to vote for an anti-choice, tax cut for the rich, pro war with everyone, spend and borrow Republican."

With supporters like those Clinton doesn't need any enemies…….

Steven   August 29th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Hold on Democrats, hold on-

Be careful what you say- She has no experience you say? Yet interestingly, she has more EXECUTIVE experience than your candidate for PRESIDENT! (Governor trumps senator) If I were you, I would avoid the whole, "she is so inexperienced" line; you may find it being sent right back at you. Who would you rather have an inexperienced VP or an inexperienced President?

Nick   August 29th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

I can't belive that those republicans dont see the hypocrisy behing the choice of Palin. After saying that Obama was too young, and not experienced enought, being on the national scene for only 4 years…Mcain choses a woman that has governed a state that is almost as populated as the suburb of pembroke pines near Miami! Talk about hypocricy. She will get owned by Biden at the vp debate. Just goes to show you what kind of bad judgment Mcain has…

Obama/Biden 08

ben   August 29th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Energized? The same way they were energized when they lied us into an invasion of a forign nation, and commited the bigest terror act in history by slaughtering over 100000 innocent Irakies , and blew limbs off of children?

KATHLEEN   August 29th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Let's hear it CNN. On the bottom of your screen, Putin says, Bush's
party instigated the Georgian war for Political attention for the
Upcoming Elections. Is that true. True story please!!!! Are the
Republicans '"do ANYTHING to win", like tactics being used to aggravate the Russian government and set fear in the Americans
hearts so that we will vote Republican.

It was on your screen on the bottom!!!!

danel   August 29th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Based on McCain's history about being a womanizer, Mrs. McCain should be worried.

Sarah Palin! really? come on!   August 29th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

The choosing of Sarah Palin, is eerily similar to Bush nominating Harried Myers for supreme court justice, both unqualified, unprepared, and not ready to deal with the attack dogs of national politics. Palin might have been able to get away with wining Alaska but then again its just Alaska nobody asks questions in Alaska. Once the attack machines get roaring we will see how much she really is like Harriet Myers and McCain, well this does not bode well for someone trying to shed the McBush stigma.

Truth Be Told   August 29th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

If Bush likes her…that definitely won't work! No Way! No How! No McCain….and DEFINITELY NO PALIN. McCain just picked his granddaughter for appearances sake. GO OBAMA!!!!

R.I.F.   August 29th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Bush likes her…

Enough said.

CC Atlanta   August 29th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

She's beautiful and feisty no doubt - but she's under ethics investigation for firing an official for not firing her brother in law - a state trooper no less - because of a custody dispute with Palin's sister.

The Snow Queen might be spicier than previously thought!

Ex-mod-GOP for Obama   August 29th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

This pick should spell doom for the McCain campaign when the American people call him out for pandering.

Marthaj   August 29th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

What a good choice. She had just as much experience, even more than, Obama and will be in the second spot to learn. If people will just look at Obama with open eyes this will be a slam dunk. Please look at what he says he will do and then look at the consequences. How will he pay for his programs? Don't kid yourselves, any one who makes any money will be paying new taxes out the wazoo and have nothing left to live on. Just look at the VA to see what national health care will do for you. Even my father-in-law on medicare couldn't get the medical supplies he needed because medicare denyed paying for what he needed. I have a friend dying in great pain because medicade won't pay for the only pain meds that work for her. Get a clue folks–there's no free lunch and we don't have enough rich people to pay for these programs, we will all pay big time and get nothing but big government bungling in return.

Chris   August 29th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

this was a great vp choice make no mistake about it and this coming from someone who is NO fan of McCain.

ANDY DAAS   August 29th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

To all the Hilary supporters Sarah is no Hilary on the contrary she
is quite the opposite and to vote Republican is like being a traitor.

john   August 29th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

McCain said Obama was not ready to lead because of inexperience. Now he chooses a person one step away who has no National experience of any kind. His maverick judgment is forefront and center and I have concluded he failed the most important judgment test. of this election season. What kind of maverick judgment might he make in a 3:am crisis or any other crisis. No one knows!

TheLeftNut   August 29th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

I'm married to a soccer mom. I love her very much and she's the greatest. But I wouldn't want to see her as President and I'm sure she wouldn't want to see me as President either.

Xavier, Saint Louis, Missouri   August 29th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

Who Cares!!!! The GOP, Bush & McCain are the biggest clowns in US History!

OBAMA/BIDEN '08

YES WE CAN!

george   August 29th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

"Who cares what Bush thinks about anything anymore ?" - well said, Bush better shut up, and it is he and his failed 8 years that will potentially cause Republicans to lose in November. Bush should be shamed himself, what a loser. The worst president ever, period…

Carol - Litchfield CT   August 29th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

I'll be voting for McCain Palin '08 We NEED A WOMAN to straighten out the government. 200 years + of men is way WRONG !

MIKE   August 29th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

I COULD TELL SHE IS NOT LIKE CHENEY AT LEAST CHENEY KNOWS WHAT A VP DOES B4 HE TOOK OFFICE…SHE DOES TOO RIGHT!!!

Dennis Philadelphia   August 29th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

If Bush is for it, the world is against it…

JB   August 29th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

Girl-Old-Party

jaguilar,md   August 29th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

WHAT JUDGEMENT!!! WHAT A JOKE PLEASE ! DO YOU SERIOUSLY THINK SHE'S A SOUND PICK FOR VP

judy, Wisconsin   August 29th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

Bush energized? That's funny. This is the scariest ticket I'ver ever seen in my 56 yrs. This lady was the mayer of a small town 3 yrs. ago. God help us all!

slidar   August 29th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

why would bush look forward to obama's great victory in november?

Tim, Seattle   August 29th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

The fake dems saying they were Hill supporters are liars. They are GOP'ers trying to fake switch of support.
Too late, REpubs, this isnt working. Sorry unity happened and spoiled your 'spoiler' posts pretending you are dems.
You have been sussed

PUMA is dead

So now we can tie Palin to supporting the reckless Bush agenda for 4 more yrears too! Cool. Thanks Bush!

Suzanne   August 29th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

McCain is nucking futs.

Bush is da king of da Nile

Palin is a pawn.

And I am a 40+, college eduated, white Republican woman from a RED state who is voting for Obama/Biden

Ledia   August 29th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Well Bush has a friend now, Palin. They both pronounce nuclear "nucular". Palin– more of the same.

Anne   August 29th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Same old same old. Big oil and Pro life. And he thinks this will win over people.

Rich in Seattle   August 29th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Bush shouldn't pull out the "Mission Accomplished" banner just yet. Just like with past Republican choices, this one is a desaster waiting to happen.

paul   August 29th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Do the opposite of whatever Bush thinks!

Rodham Democrat   August 29th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Hillary has to be the first woman elected on a presidential ticket.

Sarah Palin is an insult to HIllary's groundbreaking hard work! I was leaning toward McCain, but this just sealed the deal.

Hillary must be the first - period!

landi   August 29th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

For the 18 million hillary hardbacks who want to support mc cain go ahead cause there gonna be 18 million fresh budded new young voters who are gonna be sensible enough to vote barack

Jeb   August 29th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

I can't believe you Hillary supporters would even think of voting for Palin.
SHE IS NOT EVEN IN THE SAME LEAGUE AS HILLARY!

Jeremy Sun   August 29th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

No way. No how. No McCain.

Obama / Biden '08, Clinton / Obama '12

Rocky   August 29th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

Please campaign for her President Bush. Make sure you get in as many photo ops with McCain and Palin. Bring Dicky too.

You'll be doing us all a favor!

LLM from MD   August 29th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

SHE WAS THE MAYOR OF MAYBERRY!!!!!

Lee-- Dallas, TX   August 29th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

Amazing is a good word for her. Nobody I mean nobody outside of Alaska has heard her. Anyone remember Geraldine Ferraro & how well she did for Mondale? She is strongly anti-choice and anti-environmental protection, leading the way on the slaughter of Alaskan gray wolves.

Yes, she would bring some desperately needed brain power to the ticket and beauty, but she is not enough of an enticement for most of us. Last I heard, Americans are still overwhelmingly pro-choice, and her anti-environmentalism is not appealing. I will look forward to the photos of her gunning down wolves. Just Google Palin’s scandals; there’s plenty.

The American women of this nation will not fall for this… will they?

“No way, no how, no McCain.” (Thanks Hillary!!!)

Leper Colony of Pariah Hill   August 29th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

Ken August 29th, 2008 3:14 pm ET
I, among other Hillary Clinton supporters, will be voting for McCain/Palin!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Do you speak for all Hillary supporters?
More hot air from the Dodo birds.

rey   August 29th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

I love this pick-so many argue that Palin is in the ticket just to appeal to women voters-BUT wait-doesnt OBAMA appeal to african american voters-hmmm……and if african voters VOTE just so they can have history and disregard his inexperience-isnt that ironic. And a respond to your next thought-PALIN and BIDEN are just vice presidents and OBAMA and MCCAIN are running for the president office. Come on people-BOB MARLEY needs to come back and unite the people.

One Love, One Heart
Let's get together and feel all right

Nancy   August 29th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Just how stupid do you think the american people are? Especially women. Every woman voter should be angry to think that our government would try to put something this transparent out there and think they would get away with it. In Barack and Joe, you get what you see. No hat tricks; just good honest hard working people who treat you with respect and will do what's best for the country; and do it with energy and enthusiasm.

O8AMA

Tony   August 29th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

It's great to watch the Democrats reaction to McCain outfoxing Obama. McCain went and found a vice presidential candidate who's more qualified than you, Obama! Ha!!!!

C from Texas   August 29th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Great choice, A lady that knows how to run a State, AK of all states. she must be one tough Lady. More experience then anyone on the Dem ticket.

Great pick.

McCain/Palin '08

Looking forward to the convention. :)

Barbara   August 29th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

So much for the maverick and independent McCain…Palin is a complete right-winger.

Monica, Texas   August 29th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Let's see head of the PTA, hockey, Mayor of city of 6k, Gov. for 18 months, has not been vetted by the American people, unknown until today,…..and this happened to be a "man" ; Would he still been chosen? Of even acceptable as a VP? Think about it. As a woman I do not care as long as she is qualified by judgement or experience, this lady is a blank piece of paper. BTW no mentioned her educational background either……….

ket   August 29th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

political suicide for this country. this is a sham on the american people. the american people have just been called fools. ENOUGH!!!!!!!!!!!!

JoAnn in NYC   August 29th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

to lead this country. The fact that he is an African American is simply icing on their cake. For Gov. Palin to even suggest that she should get the votes of Hillary Clinton's supporters is an insult. Just because she is a woman does not mean she gets their votes.

Selected not elected   August 29th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

It has been downhill for the DEMS ever since most of us got Obama remorse and felt outrage over the anti-Hillary hate and bias.

So now we will see the Obama tank.

DNC- listen up- fair campaigns next time.
No sexism allowed. No favoritism shown, no disenfranchising the voters. No overlooking irregularities at caucus. No race baiting that splits the party.

Learn your lesson well.

Chrissy, Texas   August 29th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

As an ex-Democrat I am thrilled at McCain's VP choice. It doesn't matter about her experience because the Obama camp has been telling the American people that experience doesn't count to be president of the USA and he the "new" politics", if anyone is new it's Palin. Remember McCain does have the experience and he is running for president. I'm sure Palin will learn along the way. I'll be waiting to vote for Hillary in 2012! God bless America, Hillary and McCain/Palin………………………………………

PUMA'S let's get ready to work!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Patrick Belvin, Lake Stevens, WA   August 29th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

If McCain and Palin want to win the White House, they'd do best by taking no phone calls from George Bush!

Go Obiden!

Susan, PA   August 29th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

It doesnot matter for me who the VP is. I am voting against McCain.
I repent voting for Bush last two times.

By the way, what happened to McCain advertisement where he said that Hillary was not giving 2nd slot even after coming second in primary. What happened to Romney?
McCain can't use Women this time for his benefit.

NO WAY NO HOW NO McCAIN

ObamasTheOnlyChoice   August 29th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

someone said that Palin would fight big oil……are you freaking kidding me? Her husband WORKS for big oil!!!!!!! She wants to drill FOR oil in the Alaska wilderness…….this is FIGHTING big oil……fighting FOR big oil maybe…..

Wake up people, before its' too late…..

pam Eugene OR   August 29th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

This choice is as weak…if not weaker than Bush.
Congratulations President Obama. McCain's desperation has just cost him the election.

doob   August 29th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

Just goes to show you how "out of touch" GOP is.

Open Your 3rd Eye   August 29th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

BUSH IS GOING TO BE VERY DISAPPOINTED IN NOVEMBER. NO ONE IS FALLING FOR IT. TRY AGAIN.

CauseNEffect   August 29th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

Uh.. Why not Condi Rice? Kay Bailey Hutchinson? Elizabeth Dole?… PUMAs, you're getting played like Mario Brothers right now. If McCain gets into office, you really think this country will survive four more years? And after that, you think Hillary even stands a remote chance of winning? It simply won't happen, and you're playing with peoples' lives.

Steve   August 29th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

Sorry, McCain, you lost my vote. Romney was the right choice.

Obama   August 29th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Obama is a scam! Wake up America… You're getting taken for a ride! His brother lives in Africa in poverty, bought his house with a felon, friends with terrorists… You have to LET GO… was just a bad bad bad result of the primaries for democrats…

Brad   August 29th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Good luck, Goodnight McCain

Kjetil   August 29th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Why does so called Clinton supporters say they will vote for a candidate that are against what Clinton was for? That dont want woman to chose? That dont want to give folks healtcare? That dont want to stop the war in iraq?

I think its strange that a strong candidate like Romney was kicked away. I belive its because he was so much stronger than McCain and he dont like that kind of people around him. When he is so old that he dont even remember how many houses he have and have a temper like that we must ask why a woman that loved christan fendumentalist and nra. That praise death penalty and are against gay rights. Why is that a woman to give a chanse to be president?

Jack   August 29th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Don't let the door hit you on the way out!

JoAnn in NYC   August 29th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Senator McCain's naming of Gov. Palin as his choice for VP is not going to move Democrats to vote Republican, especially Hillary Clinton supporters. People, women in particular, did not support Senator Clinton because she is a woman, they supported her because they felt she was the right PERSON to lead this country. The fact that she is a woman is simply icing on their cake. Just as, the people who support Senator Obama feel that he's the right PERSON

Steve   August 29th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Ken: Your rationale makes no sense. How can a supporter of Hillary Clinton support the McCain/Palin ticket. As Hillary and Barrack said this week the election is not about them but about the issues that so impact our people. Didn't you listen this week to Hillary, Bill, Obama and many other. Me thinks you are really a Republican writing untrue words. OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Conservative   August 29th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

I am not going to vote for Obama because he lacks experience. I was thinking about voting for McCain, but I just never liked his position and now he picks this woman as his running mate. She has less experience than Obama. Any true conservatives, it's time to pick Bob Barr. I saw him on Glenn Beck last night and he was awesome. I looked at his positions and they are the same as mine. It's time for a real president like Bob Barr. If you are a true conservative, give him a look. You won't be disappointed.

Samsona   August 29th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

KEN - Did you not listen to Hillary's speech the other night/? In case you missed it - SHE DOESN'T WANT YOU TO VOTE FOR McCAIN!!!

Cleary, as she so astutely pointed out, you are one of those supporters who backed her for the novelty of a female president and not b/c of where she stood on the issues. Otherwise, there's no way you could, in good conscious, support McCain instead of Obama.

lovable liberal   August 29th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Duhbya's approval? Now that's a perfect indication of the quality of this choice. Duhbya has long experience making lousy choices for America, and he likes the Palin choice.

Scott L   August 29th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Palin runs an entire state. Obama voted present after 2 years in the senate being elected by having his opponents removed from the ballot.

Dems are digging a hole on this one. President McCain will get this country back on track and he has put everyone in Washington on notice that change is coming. This is why Barack and Joe are scared too because they represent the same dumb politics.

Funny how NOBODY is talking about Barack's speech last night. Brilliant chess move if you ask me…

Capt. Smash, Salt Lake City, Utah   August 29th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

McCain should have picked Condi if he wanted a women. He said he would put the country 1st. He put his own intrest 1st to try and when the election.

It shows McCain only cares about his own self-intrest not whats right for the country.

D&D   August 29th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

It's about time he comes out…where has he been anyway?

stacy   August 29th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Maybe soon Mrs. Palin can outrank Nancy Pelosi, I can only hope.

Chris, Middletown, CT   August 29th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Sometimes Bush needs to keep quiet….he should understand he isn't helping

kathy in ohio   August 29th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

In response to Senator Boxer from CA your right Hillary supports wont vote for McCain because of his VP choice we are simply just voting for McCain because of McCain quit analyzing us

Bama for Obama   August 29th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Well that's saying a lot.

…I hear her husband's in oil, what a surprise.

Ben   August 29th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

America needs able people and not this question of men or women!
There is no time to try to play with emotions..Americans aren't stupid. What happens to America should McCain kick the bucket due to poor health?..Palin isn't ready…and is the wrong person. There are so many better candidates ..Men and Women…why Palin? Is McCain worried about a strong VP bothering him and questioning his judgement? Is McCain power crazy thus running the whitehouse as a dictator?..Sad day for GOPs!…..McCain is likely to isolate Palin.

Concerned Citizen   August 29th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Of course they're energized!

Another oil VP who's under investigation. How could they not be energized? McCain chose a soccermom with sick kid(s) and has no clue of what a VP does. It's remarkable how the Republicans take Americans as gullible fools. If anything, this ticket is laughable, very funny.

Dennis   August 29th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Is anyone surprised he'd say this?

The Republicans I know are underwhelmed by this selection. None of them plan on not voting for McCain, but they feel a better selection could have been made.

For those accusing those of us that question the selection of Palin as being mysogonists, I think you are missing the point. It is not that McCain picked a woman, it is that he picked Palin when he clearly had better choices for a woman running mate that he could have made. If he had selected Senator Kay Bailey Hutchenson for instance, I wouldn't question her experience for a second. However, given that Senator McCain has made a mountain out of Senator Obama's perceived lack of experience, he has opened himself and her to these criticisms.

Ex-Republican for Obama   August 29th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

What an endorsement..the worse President in history makes his choice known. That should be all it takes coming from this man…

McCain: Bush's oval office boy toy.

memfisman   August 29th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Now, let's see. Bush has been right about so many things…global warming, tax cuts for the wealthy, illegal hiring practices at Justice, torture, outing CIA agents and pardoning crooks, et al, he must be right about this historic VP pick by John McCain. He is also right about "the great victory in November". It will be Obama's and America's, not Johnny McCain's.

James at 45   August 29th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Ha - just wait, Dems. Palin enjoys a 90% approval rating in Alaska, and, unlike Obama, who did nothing to clear out the rat's nest of corruption in Chicago, actually went out a slew some dragons in her state. Yes, let's bring the focus on "experience." It will only serve to highlight your lead dog's lack of the same.

anonymouys   August 29th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

hey get over it pumas this women will not be vp

Sarah   August 29th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

As endorsed by the head Clown of the current White House circus. How apropos!

Logic   August 29th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Who cares what Bush thinks about anything anymore ?

anonymouys   August 29th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

i will not be voting for mccain

Sandi AZ   August 29th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

If Bush thinks this is a good idea, then it really must be bad!!

Steve, Madison WI   August 29th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Maybe Bush should do some campaigning and photo ops with her!

E.C.Coleman   August 29th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Does a Female VP TRUMP a Female Speaker?????? We hope so!!!

Carl   August 29th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

As an African American, member of the Republican Party….I am disappionted in McCain. For months, he has been telling America that Obama is too inexperienced to handle the issues of this nation. What does he do, pick an unknown, Nationally inexoperienced person to be his 2nd in Command. Equally, if her husband is an employee of BP…what do you think the American People are going to think with the current price of Gas? If anyone is OUT of TOUCH WITH AMERICA…It's McCain I have no doubt about it now!!….Reps….sorry but you have just lost ANOTHER VOTE to OBAMA!!!!

McCain…do this country and party a great favor………RETIRE & GO FISHING!!!!!

Hari   August 29th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

She was Miss alaska and will energize Whitehouse.
huh!!!

What did McCain think.. This is an insult to Hillary if Mccain thinks this young lady from a 3-mule state can win over Clinton supporters.

Will in Richmond, VA   August 29th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

"Marty Pacino Chicago Il August 29th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

McCain/Palin 08 … Did you hear that? I think I hear a Regan style landslide incoming"

Dude…. what are you smoking?

If anything, this will cement a landslide for Obama. Basically the only real hammer McCain had against Obama was the experience argument. Now, he doesn't even have that! And he really hurts the perception of his own judgment. Now maybe over time, we will get to know Palin a bit better and she won't seem as bad, but this is not a move that will help him in the short term, and at best, it will keep him neutral in the long term.

Not a good move from McCain.

ladriver   August 29th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Since Bush has been so wrong on all of his other decisions, him saying this is a "very strong" ticket and is looking forward to a "great victory in November" just makes me feel so much better about it.

Mid-20s Republican   August 29th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

This is insulting. McCain seems to believe that women will vote for another woman SOLELY because she's a woman. Thanks. Thanks for NOT giving us the credit we deserve. We are capable of evaluating issues, experience, and ability without regard for gender or race just as effectively as any male. Bringing on a VP who is YOUNGER than Obama and MUCH LESS EXPERIENCED than Obama not only destroys whatever arguments against him we had left but it also insults half the population of this country. Palin may be a woman, but she's definitely not Hillary. Do you mean to tell me there are no qualified female republicans McCain could choose? This is a disgrace.

KG   August 29th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Gov Palin is a great choice. The fact that the Dems feel it necessary to attack her experience only highlights the fact that they have a Presidential candidate who is totally inexperienced and not ready to become Commander-in-Chief.

Jose - Texas   August 29th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

If the White House is exciting about McCain's pick for VP then that should tell us all - this is a disaster.

God forbid that something happens to McCain if President - We would be in trouble then. This is the only way to look at this selection. Nothing else matters.

A potential forthcoming disaster.

McCain has questionable judgement.   August 29th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

What a stupid choice. landslide victory for the strong Obama/Biden ticket 08.
We are fired up and ready to vote.

anonymouys   August 29th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

palin is nnot a good pick

obamaton   August 29th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

the Democrats maintain status quo in the GOB club.

The GOP however, has kicked to door open to one tough, smart lady!

McCain-Palin 2008

Rudy NYC   August 29th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

The "inexperience issue" is now officially a wash. Dead in the water. McCain just dropped his hole card—an ace—and got dealt a deuce, a wild card.

Womans right to choose   August 29th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Well, that clenches it for me…Bush has endorsed Sarah Palin.

oh and by the way, being a political figure of a small town is not much responsibility; being a governor of Alaska for less than 2 years is not something to brag about. (I've been to Alaska folks, there is NOTHING THERE)

lastly, the lady is PRO-LIFE. Just because she is a woman does not mean that THIS woman will vote for her. She does not share Hillary's viewpoints and she doesn't have the experience that Hillary does. Out of all the qualified women, McCain picked the LEAST qualified..that spells out PUPPET to me.

Hurricane Hagee   August 29th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

Big Oil loves Big Oil.Wonder how the Republican weatherman "John Hagee feels about?

Sherry, Atlanta   August 29th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

PLAY GAMES WITH THE AMERICAN PUBLIC. . .BUT DON'T PLAY GAMES WITH YOURSELF!

OBAMA/BIDEN '08-'12

Ed, FL   August 29th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Complex!!! Either Mccain is a genius or extremely stupid. I, as a polical junky, can barely recognize this woman face. I can't beleive a 73 year old guy runnig to be the comander in chief of the free world would pick a V.P far less experienced than his opponent against whom he is making the case is inexperienced. If he thinks with this woman he can pick up some Clinton supporter he is mistaken. I , as die hard Obama supporter since the beginning, can tell that there is no comparison between this woman and Hillary. This woman is too well underqualified.
CNN and all the national media do your job. Your job is too informed the public. This woman needs to be fully vetted.

Tony   August 29th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Bush thinks it's a good idea! That should speak volumes to all Americans that they are the WRONG CHOICE!

Sandy   August 29th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

I get it but it won't work. All this experience talk is void. WHO IS SHE? So what if she has an 80% approval in Alaska, WHO IS SHE? THIS WAS A JACK MOVE. All we know is that she has 4 children and been in office for 2 years. You can't say anything obout Obama without saying it about Palin. Bush go sit down! What do you know anyway?

Surrealist   August 29th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Oh…
Well he is the head of the Party so I guess he has earned the right to weigh in..

Not that it matters to anyone else.

Bob Indianapolis, IN   August 29th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Yeah, if Bush likes her, she's bound to greatness…look at his other fine choices the past eight years: Brownie, Rummy, Gonzo, Ashcroft, etc. WOW!

Tony   August 29th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

It NEVER fails to amazes me just how apathetic, ignorant, gullible, lazy and whiny Americans are.

So easily fooled and extremely easily led.

McCain picked Palin for one reason only. To try to get the Democrats who are still ticked off about Hillary not being the nominee, and the Independent women voters.

The vast majority of people in this country believe whatever they are told, go with the flavor of the day, follow the leader simply because it is easier than getting off the sofa, from in front of reality t.v. and finding out the facts.

Many will vote for McCain because 1) he picked a woman and 2) because some people just can't get over the fact that it was Obama, not Hillary. Simple as that!

Nevermind the FACT that Palin is only 44 (McCain has been slamming Obama from day one about being too young and INEXPERIENCED).

Such a hypocrite. Palin is not only younger and more inexperienced, but the mother of four children still at home, the youngest with Down Syndrome, who should they win, will be an absent parent much of the time. THAT IS A FACT! Unless Palin plans to bring them to her office everyday they will be raised by their father and nannies.

So much for McCain's FAMILY VALUES. So much for McCain's credibility on EXPERIENCE! Now EXPERIENCE can be completely taken off the table. It is NO LONGER an issue.

I fully intend to savor Biden's crushing her in the debates and Obama and the DEMS. throwiong his words right back at him showing anyone with any sense at all just how hypocritical this man is. Palin is so excited, as anyone would be, at being chosen that she can't even see she is a woman ebing used by the Republicans for political gain.

ASK YOURSELVES ONE QUESTION BEFORE YOU CAST YOUR VOTE. "If elected, should something happen to McCain while in office, do I really want a 44 year old with no real experience, outside of her home state of Alaska, running the country?"

THINK PEOPLE…..FOR A CHANGE!

LS   August 29th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

McCain's pick of this woman proves he doesn't have the stable mentality or decision making capability whatsoever.

We are a country at WARS and this woman labeled as the Commander In Chief after you kick-the-bucket, is an utter joke. I understand she's into oil, what was that about country first - McCain? MCCAIN - - YOU COULD NEVER AND WILL NEVER PROTRAY AN AMERICAN LEADER.

McCain REALLY doesn't get it, this election is not about gender, it's about THE ISSUES this country is facing.

NO Way, NO How, NO McCain, NO BUSH!

Obama/Biden - all the way to Washington !!

NorCal DM   August 29th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

For all you ignorant PUMAS, if you want Palin, then kiss your rights good bye. To all you women who are even remotely considering Palin, kiss your rights goodbye. She is a strong pro lifer who will make sure that McSame will choose equally conservative judges on the supreme court bench such as Scalia and the like. Kiss Roe V. Wade good bye. Consider that Gitmo will be a staple of American Culture for all minority detainees. Consider that Caplital Punshiment will be another American Cultural icon. She is a strong believer in capital punishment and torture. She wants to drill in ANWR, a wildlife refuge. she has less experience and poor judgement, something republicans were harping on when it came to Obama. Do not vote for the McCain Palin ticket, it will be a big mistake. Consider this, Hillary will run again after a successful two terms by Obama. She will be secretary of state in an Obama Administration. She will be in the white house.

Michael   August 29th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Obama/Biden = worst ticket in history.

McCain/Palin = the stuff that makes America great!

America IS Great! McCain/Palin 08!

ChicagoJosh   August 29th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

When Obama was running for Senate, after scandal knocked the Republican contender out of the debate, the state GOP nominated Alan Keys to take his place. Keys had no support, and wasn't even from Illinois, but he was black and a good speaker. This last ditch move blew up in the GOP's face when Obama won by 70 percent.

Now, as a last ditch move, McCain thinks all you need to get Hillary voters is to get another woman.

I don't know if its more of an insult to his supports who thought he made good judgements, or more of an insult to all women because he can't tell the difference between Palin and Hillary.

Just for entertainment sakes, I wish they'd let the Palin and Hillary debate. When Biden tears into Palin, they'll just call him sexist, and Palin will shed tears for sympathy votes.

James   August 29th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Bush knows how to use a phone??!!

tennisguypitt   August 29th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Okay… ANOTHER REASON TO NOT VOTE FOR MCBUSH!

Dem for unity   August 29th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

A failed Administration offering congrats. wow. gee thats just great.

LS   August 29th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

McCain's pick of this woman proves he doesn't have the stable mentality or decision making capability whatsoever.

We are a country at WARS and this woman labeled as the Commander In Chief after you kick-the-bucket, is an utter joke. I understand she's into oil, what was that about country first - McCain? MCCAIN - - YOU COULD NEVER AND WILL NEVER PROTRAY AN AMERICAN LEADER.

McCain REALLY doesn't get it, this election is not about gender, it's about THE ISSUES this country is facing.

NO Way, NO How, NO McCain.

Obama/Biden - all the way to Washington !!

Ken   August 29th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

I am one of the Hillary Clinton supporters that would rather vote for McCain/Palin than Obama.Biden.

Obama made his biggest mistake by choosing Biden instead of Hillary Clinton as his VP. That is going to be Obama's downfall, and he caused it himself.

Palin may not be a Hillary Clinton, but she is a Governor and she is truly not like Cheney, so for those that think that McCain is like Bush, this proves that McCain is his own master and I believe that what Obama did to Hillary Clinton, by not choosing her for his VP, is going to be his downfall.

I, among other Hillary Clinton supporters, will be voting for McCain/Palin!

Joe Idaho   August 29th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

maybe its just me but wouldnt the Govoner of Florida, or someone from one of the Mid-Western States be a better choice? what about Romney…. Well, the truth is; none of them would run with McCain! The Whitehouse is very happy, McCain will lose and Jeb Bush will start campagning in 2011…

Jim   August 29th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

I just laughed so hard! They're energized because oil company's probaby just filled their pockets with cash to buy alaska.

James Geiger   August 29th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

This goes to show alot, Bush would get energized over a dancing monkey…

Republicans retain power? You decide.   August 29th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

It's funny how Bush's own party doesn't want anything to do with him.

Former republican white man from california for Obama   August 29th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

HA HA HA HA HA HA HA Well Thank you Mr Bush If you agree with his choice as you two seem to agree on alot it goes to show just how poor John Mc Cains judgment really is!!! This is going to sink him in the polls. She will not bring on any hillary voters or women in general! she is on the wrong side of every single women issue and has less experience than any other women currently in office. You would have thought with the fine group of women to choose from he would have at least picked someone that has experience I mean some at least. But that is not what the radical right wants they do not want. With bush/Cheney the radical right lead by Cheney used Bush as there scape goat and lap dog. Now they want to use this poor women as John Mc Cain takes over as leader of the radical right they will use her and her inexperience to there advantage. Another women being used so rich white men can get richer I think it is a spit in HRC's face for him to pick this women!

Obama/Biden 08

Luke Brown, Charleston SC   August 29th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

But will she be ready on Day One?

Big Mac has blown it. He has given away his best issues against Obama. (as in public service experience, military service, and readiness to be commander-in-chief)

Mike Bulmer   August 29th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

"Heckuva job, Paylie." What a joke.

LLM from MD   August 29th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

HE'S EXCITED BECAUSE THIS MEAN MO' MONEY, MO' MONEY, MO' MONEY!!! I've never seen him this happy!!

Veteran for McCain   August 29th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

I am so energized by this choice. I was a little jealous of all of the Obama stuff going on, but this just takes the cake. McCain has opened the door for a new generation of Republican's and I'm so happy to be a part of it.

McCain/Palin 2008 - That just sounds good!!!!

Orbiter Dictum   August 29th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

McCain & Pain — that's the ticket.

Cynthia   August 29th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Isn't that what they have to say. After what the country and gone through with the Bush Administration for eight years the White House opinion doesn't count for much.

Bob Stephens   August 29th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

The White House would be energized if McSame picked Attila the Hun to run as his VP

JAMES   August 29th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

I AM A DEMOCRAT WHOM WILL BE VOTING FOR THE REPUBLICAN TICKET FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY LIFE IN A PRESIDENTIAL RACE. I LOOK NOW AT JOHN MCCAINS CHOICE AS A RUNNING MATE AND OUR PEOPLE IN THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY SAYING SHE IS VERY INEXPERIENCED AND HAS NOT BEEN AROUND LONG ENOUGH AND THAT SHE IS TO NEW TO THE GAME TO MAKE ANY DIFFERENCE. WELL MANY OF THOSE REASONS ARE THE PRIMARY REASONS I AM NOT VOTING FOR BARRACK OBAMA. I SEE JOHN MCCAIN AS BEING VER VERY DIFFERENT FROM GEORGE BUSH. AND IN ECCONOMICS AND ENERGY IT IS EASY TO SEE HE IS GOING TO HEAD IN A DRASTICALLY DIFFERENT DIRECTION THAN THE CURRENT ADMINISTRATION IF HE IS ELECTED. SO I THINK JOHN MCCAIN CAN STABILIZE THINGS AND GET US THRU UNTIL 2012. THEN IT WILL BE HILLARY ALL THE WAY TO A NEW AND WONDERFUL FUTURE. BUT RIGHT NOW WE CANT GAMBLE ON OBAMA FIGURING OUT HOW AND WHAT TO DO AND WE CAN TRUST HE WILL GO AGAINST THE GRAIN TO MAKE SURE OUR FUTURES ARE SECURE AND PROSPEROUS ENOUGH.
I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD HAVE SO MANY REASONS TO DOUBT A DEMOCRATIC NOMINEE AND VOTE REPUBLICAN BUT I SEE I AM NOT ALONE AND WE CAN DO THE RIGHT THING, AND MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE WHILE DOING IT!
DEMOCRATS FOR MCCAIN
HILLARY IN 2012!!!!I

TESAP:SAVANNAH, GA   August 29th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

PRESIDENT BUSH APPROVES………… WITH MCCAIN..HOW WONDERFUL SINCE MACCAIN APPROVES OF PRESIDENT BUSH……….

CRACKKKK   August 29th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

I love seeing a picture of him so happy like that! This is a good day, a very good day. ;)

bellabella   August 29th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Well, I hope Bush doesn't decide to call her at 3:00 in the morning!!

Emster   August 29th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Very strong? On what basis?!? Another point - I don't understand why discussion of McCain's age are unacceptable. There undeniably a significant chance that a 72-year-old male will die or become unable to serve as President for 4 years. So the qualifications of his VP are more critical than anyone else's before. And he picked one of the least qualified VPs ever. I find that insulting that he chose his short-term political gains over the long-term potential implications for the entire country. No one can seriously argue that Palin is qualified to step up to be POTUS and a leader on the world stage. So I find this choice to be obviously political pandering, and insulting. I obviously take this election a lot more seriously than McCain does. Do you?

Tired of W, OH   August 29th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Sounds like Dubya is ready to hang out his "Mission Accomplished" banner on the White House.

Hey, Dubya. If ya really wanna get energized, go stick your finger in a light socket.

Dan in Philly   August 29th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

Remind me again….WHO cares what Shrub thinks?!?

Paul   August 29th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

BIGGEST HYPOCRITICAL MOVE EVER!!!

Makes you wonder what other sudden surprises McCain is likely to throw at us.. This shows clearly his incredible lack of good judgement!

Gorbashov - Long Beach, Ca.   August 29th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Of course this criminal is going to say that. What else would you expect hime to say……………………………she is a heartbeat away from the Presidency, and doesn't know squat?

What a blunder.

Once again, McSames judgement has failed the nation!

Anonymous   August 29th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

"You're doing a heckuva job, Sarah."

D in MO   August 29th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

Sherry August 29th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

No, I feel his choice for VP does not undercut his own message. I am a Democrate/Hillary supporter until the state of New York made a “motion of acclamation” to nominate Senator Obama at the DNC with 1521 delegates on the roll call. That’s when I started to shift my support from Democrate to Republican.
——————————————————————————————

Seriously Sherry? YOU can't be….

When the state of New York made a motion? Were you not watching? IT WAS HILLARY that made the motion. So as this must be a way to deceive, I deduce you are no former dem at all but a repug blog spammer.

Rudy NYC   August 29th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

If Bush likes something besides food, then I know it is not good.

anonymouys   August 29th, 2008 3:07 pm ET

we will be looking foward to agreat defeat from the republican come november

Bulldog   August 29th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

President Bush would think she is a great choice because he and John McCain are two in the same.

Marty Pacino Chicago Il   August 29th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

What a great day for this country, for women, and for the Republican party. I am proud to be an American today. Despite what the misogynists will say this is a great woman and a great day for women across the country. The democrats will regret disenfranchising 18 million voters and will also regret choosing self interest over the will of the people. One woman in particular deserved to be on the ticket but the party was too arrogant and to egotistical to put the party before themselves. Palin just hit a home run with that speech. What a beautiful and articulate woman. Democrats, let the games begin… let the hatred spew and try and destroy this woman in front of the world and see if the voters fall for your lies and resentment. The Republican party has just taken the hope card from the democratic ticket. In poker there are 2 ways to describe this over the top move. Basically McCain just just check raised Obama and CNN and put them on freeze. And now I think Obama and the liberal media are on full Tilt………….. McCain with AA “I'm All In” … Obama with 2/3 off suit “ I Call” CNN with 5/10 off suit “I Call”….. now you tell me who's gambling?

McCain/Palin 08 … Did you hear that? I think I hear a Regan style landslide incoming

Todd M   August 29th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

There's your proof right there. Bush thinks the "McCain-Palin ticket is very strong".

When has this bozo been right?

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