September 2, 2008
Posted: 06:44 PM ET

From
Carly Fiorina, a prominent surrogate for Sen. McCain, toured the podium Tuesday on the floor of the Republican convention.
Carly Fiorina, a prominent surrogate for Sen. McCain, toured the podium Tuesday on the floor of the Republican convention.

ST. PAUL, Minnesota (CNN) — Senior McCain adviser Carly Fiorina said Tuesday that Barack Obama, Joe Biden and other Democrats were engaging in sexist attacks on Sarah Palin, as Republicans continued to invoke Hillary Clinton to criticize the Democratic presidential ticket.

“I am appalled by the Obama campaign's attempts to belittle Governor Sarah Palin’s experience,” said Fiorina. “The facts are that Sarah Palin has made more executive decisions as a Mayor and Governor than Barack Obama has made in his life.

“Because of Hillary Clinton's historic run for the Presidency and the treatment she received, American women are more highly tuned than ever to recognize and decry sexism in all its forms. They will not tolerate sexist treatment of Governor Palin.”

Fiorina pointed to a Monday interview with CNN’s Anderson Cooper, when Obama responded to GOP arguments that Palin had more executive experience than he or Biden did.

“Well, my understanding is that Governor Palin's town of Wasilla has I think 50 employees,” he said. “We've got 2,500 in this campaign. I think their budget is maybe $12 million a year. You know, we have a budget of about three times that just for the month. So I think that our ability to manage large systems and to execute I think has been made clear over the last couple of years.”

Watch: Obama appears on Anderson Cooper 360

She also pointed to a comment Biden made on the trail over the weekend, when he joked with the crowd at a campaign event that one of the “obvious differences” between him and Palin was that she is “good looking.”

Filed under: Barack Obama • Joe Biden • John McCain • Popular Posts • Sarah Palin


Joe   September 2nd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

I think some women use sexism as an excuse when they don't get what they want. Give me a break!!!! I'm sick and tired of this sexism thing because it seems just because Palin is a woman, any attack against her is sexist. If anything, Fiorina is a sexist for bringing this up. Men should be able to criticize women just as women can criticize men. It's not sexist, just an excuse to make yourself feel and look better.

Inutah   September 2nd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

I'm a feminist and Carly is wrong, wrong, wrong….they are stating the facts…I hope Republicans keep bringing up sexism…it will just another nail in their coffin.

Jules   September 2nd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Sexism in this election cycle?lol. Tell us something we don't know. Kaine, who was on Obama's shortlist, is a first term Governor. Obama/Kaine would have been the most inexperienced ticket that I can recall yet no one screamed about these two being in the WH together. As a matter of fact the media would have called them a real "change" ticket and brilliant.

Mom from Michigan   September 2nd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

I'm getting sick and tired of all the spin! Ms. Florina should be ashamed of herself for trying to insert sexism into the campaign. Questioning Palin's experience is smart, not sexism. No one from the Obama camp has said she can't lead because she wears dresses, or because she's a mom she can't govern. Every day women in this country are threatened, belittled, and disregarded due to sexism, and those are the women who should be most offended by Florina's spin and lies. Clean it up McCain camp, you can't tell us what to think anymore!
Obama/Biden 08 because they respect women!

Joe   September 2nd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Sorry, Carly, even the angriest Hillary supporters aren't buying this.

Lynne   September 2nd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Not only Obama and his followers but CNN as well.

Corey   September 2nd, 2008 5:25 pm ET

I agree that Gov. Palin's daughter shouldn't be an issue, but what about Troopergate? What about her approval of aerial hunting of wolves and wants to do the same with bears? What about the Governor saying that she supported the "bridge to nowhere" in 2006, but now says that she never supported it? Or the Governor saying that protecting polar bears was getting in the way of oil drilling?

Mike D.   September 2nd, 2008 5:24 pm ET

I think equal rights means your equal share of criticism as well…Obama has weathered his share of his personal life being dug up. If you want to play football, don't cry when you get tackled.

ulysses   September 2nd, 2008 5:22 pm ET

If this lame GOP ploy doesn't seriously backfire, I'll be really disappointed in the public.

Pat M   September 2nd, 2008 5:22 pm ET

There was absolutely nothing sexist in Obama's comment on Anderson Cooper. It's been the Republicans who have been consistently ranting that Palin has more experience than Obama. (Ridiculous claim) Obama was asked to speak to that insinuation. He did.

Steve   September 2nd, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Saying Obama's experience is less than Palin's is like saying that the CEO of a Fortune 100 company has less experience making decisions (and, therefore, was less valuable) after one year than the CEO of a $10M, 50-employee startup has after two years. Perhaps Carly Fiorina has a position on that.

Olga   September 2nd, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Carly's wrong. Obama and Biden have taken the high road. There has been zero sexism. Everyone seems to be very cautious on that.

Kevin - Jonesboro, GA   September 2nd, 2008 5:20 pm ET

I would like to see Carly explain exactly what points of Barack's interview or his comments were sexist. The McCain camp is repeatedly minimizing his leadership and judgement and when he stood up for his record in a direct comparison to Palin's, they want to cry wolf?! This campaign is grasping at straws!!!

Alex   September 2nd, 2008 5:18 pm ET

this palin is making such a mess…. what is going on…this is crazy

Jan   September 2nd, 2008 5:18 pm ET

I am a Clinton supporter and the reason I could never vote for Obama is that he has absolutely no experience at anything except campaign for public office. So, now he equates running for President with being a mayor! But the part that is the most revealing is… Do you notice that Obama never admits she was a governor? You know why? He was going to pick Governor Kathleen Sebelius for VP. If he mentions that Sarah Palin is actually a GOVERNOR, he risks everyone wondering why he thought that governor had enough experience, and this governor doesn't.
Sarah Palin is a GREAT pick, and I salute McCain for a GREAT ticket.

j   September 2nd, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Desperate hypocracy

Joe   September 2nd, 2008 5:18 pm ET

“Well, my understanding is that Governor Palin's town of Wasilla has I think 50 employees,” he said. “We've got 2,500 in this campaign. I think their budget is maybe $12 million a year. You know, we have a budget of about three times that just for the month. So I think that our ability to manage large systems and to execute I think has been made clear over the last couple of years.”

Funny how Obama shoots right past the Governor Executive position and focuses on the Small town she was a mayor of. Most resent experiance: As Alaskas Governor she has over 12 Billion in Revenue, A Population of over 600,000. Now how does Obama look with his 2500 people and 36 million a month budget. I would say someone is trying to hide the truth.

Dennise   September 2nd, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Sorry I listened to the interview on 360. I'm really not sure how they can scream sexist. Let's not forget, when cnn's anchor grilled a J.M. aide, Tucker couldn't even give any good examples of Palins greater capabilities.

Lancesmom   September 2nd, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Does she understand what sexism means,"Discrimination based on sex, esp. discrimination against women. Attitudes or conditions that promote sterotyping of social roles base on gender," according the the American Heritage Dictionary. At what point did Barack Obama ever say she could not handle the job because she is a woman. He never said or implied anything that was sexist, he said he managed his campaign which had much more money and was a larger entity then Wasilla, where is the sexism? As for Joe Biden, he was making a comment on her appearance. As far as that goes, he complimented Barack Obama on his appearance. No Sexism, no way.

Last night a congresswoman from Minnesota tried the same tactic with James Carville, because James Carville said that Palin was not ready to be VP, that she had no credentials, experience, etc. and immediately this congresswoman started crying sexism.

I wish these women would cut out the crap it's making the rest of us look bad.

According to the Republicans we should not question any woman on her credentials because that is sexist, that is the message I'm getting. That is sexist, promoting a stereotype that women need to be treated with Kid gloves or the game is not fair. WHAT BS these Republicans are dishing out to the American public. Pathetic

ben   September 2nd, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Puh-leeeez!!! The criticism toward Palin is what any politician, male or female, would face. Give me a break!!!

michelle stillwell   September 2nd, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Thats silly. Its not sexist and it makes women look stupid for calling that sexism. As a woman in a male dominated field I have experienced sexism and that is simply not it.

David from Atlanta   September 2nd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

How can any Obama supporter speak of "inexperience". I am unsure who I am goign to vote for currently> The hypocrisy and venom of the Obama supporters that post here does not give an endearing view of their candidate. Democrats and Republicans both need to stop with the idiotic attacks and actually start investigating the policies of your candidates to make an informed decision. Voting because for emotional reasons is what got Bush elected.

Daniel Wagle   September 2nd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

I really don't think experience should be used as an argument by either side. Obama is highly intelligent, but maybe a bit inexperienced, but he will have Joe Biden , who is highly experienced, available to give him direction when it is necessary, until Obama fully grows into the job. Palin will not be the president, and I don't think it would be highly likely that McCain would die of natural causes soon after taking the oath of office. Palin, like Obama, seems to be very bright and probably could grow into the position as well.

Dino (from Canada)   September 2nd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

As a Canadian observer and big fan of the United States, I cannot understand how anyone would think that Governor Palin is qualified to potentially be the leader of the free world. As yourself: can Palin goe toe-to-toe with Putin, Iran, China? Does anyone want Palin in charge of a decision to use nuclear weapons? These are not unfair questions - they need to be asked.

Palin is a nice enough person and probably has a future in the GOP - but she is not Presidential material. And Republicans, Democrats and Independents alike know it. With a 72 year-old McCain having already had 4 bouts of skin cancer, would it not have made more sense for McCain to have picked someone with gravitas.

This is not about sexism. It's not because Palin is a woman. Palin is utterly unqualified for the job. Period. There are plenty of woman who could easily have been McCain's VP with far more relevant experience.

My friends - please stop looking at the issue from a partisan perspective. Ask yourself: is this a good choice for America and in America's best interests?

Dori in AZ   September 2nd, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Fiorina is wrong.

I know and understand sexism. I've devoted much of my career to ending it, and all forms of prejudice & their ugly tentacles, for the sake of my sons and daughters, grandsons and granddaughters. And, yours.

What's happening to Palin is not sexism. What's happening to Palin, since McCain didn't bother to do it the right way first, is called vetting.

T'SAH from Virginia   September 2nd, 2008 5:15 pm ET

if it is EXPERIENCE Palin has and it's supposed to be more than Obama and Biden put together - then she must have MORE than McSAME…. Therefore, why didn't she run for PRESIDENT!!

OBA-DEN 2008-2016

Nia Hussein- Phoenix, AZ   September 2nd, 2008 5:15 pm ET

The rethuglicans still want to use the HRC/Rove playbook. When you have nothng ans everyone is questioning you play the gender card….the only thing Palin has to do now is cry. Obama and Biden haven't even politicaly attacked her yet…I'm so sick and tired of the gneder card being played unneccasarily…

MM in Texas..   September 2nd, 2008 5:15 pm ET

nothing they are saying is sexist…give me a break…they would say exactly the same thing if she were a woman…would McCain have picked her if she had been a man…I doubt it..please..

Sam in NC   September 2nd, 2008 5:15 pm ET

You got to be kidding me..sexist just because you question her qualifications!!!!!!! Also according to her she has made more executive
decisions that McCain since he has only been in the Senate. The republicans think they can just put out crap and every one is going to buy it…Fiorina is a JOKE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sherri   September 2nd, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Shame on this pandering attack. Sarah Palin has no experience. I don't care how many times the GOP says she does…her record speaks for itself. Little Wasilla is just that…little Wasilla.

Joe   September 2nd, 2008 5:14 pm ET

What was so sexist about Obama's comments? He spoke the truth. Is this what we are going to get every time someone points out she is not qualified. What a joke.

Jeff in Houston   September 2nd, 2008 5:14 pm ET

I think sexist remarks should be banned as well. There is plenty to go after Palin in terms of anit-progressive, medeivalist thinking aimed at stomping down any free thinking minority. And we all salute as we watch McCain and Palin goosestep back to the dark ages. Let them go. We do not need to follow.

adam   September 2nd, 2008 5:14 pm ET

McCain's camp plays gender card

Blake   September 2nd, 2008 5:14 pm ET

I knew this was going to happen. The Republicans will take any attack on Palin and label it as "sexist" because she is a female. They are going to try to use in the the Vice-Presidential debate as well. They want to force the Democrats to not want to offend the media and go soft on here in the debate. I hope Biden throws that away and nails her to the wall like she deserves to be.

You want equality, women? Sure thing, just expect the equal right to be proverbially pounded into the ground in debates.

Julie   September 2nd, 2008 5:13 pm ET

I would just like to thank Campbell Brown for not accepting a non answer from McCain's spokesman today. It was refreshing to see a journalist push a representative from a political party to actually answer a question. Clearly Palin has no real experience and is woefully underqualified to be vice president. If journalist do their jobs as Campbell did today then maybe the republican spin machine won't be able to deceive the American people into thinking this women is qualified in any way shape or form to be anything other than a hockey mom with PTA experience. Thanks

Alan Boyer   September 2nd, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Oh, I get it. It's sexist to question her qualifications. But not racist to question Obama's. We're just supposed to bend over and say OK!

McWhine   September 2nd, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Yep. The outsourcing qeen spoke again!! And we SURE trust her this time!!

Todd   September 2nd, 2008 5:13 pm ET

It's not sexist to point out the fact that, while she may have held executive office, her "executive experience" consists of being mayor a town smaller than a suburb and governer for less time than the campaign has run. They're grasping for some semblance of high ground after McSame;s gamble didn't pay. I'm glad to hear that the women in my life aren't so stupid to fall for such a weak ploy!

Joey, MN   September 2nd, 2008 5:13 pm ET

If what obama said makes him sexist, then everything negative that anyone says about Obama is racist. This is so stupid, I cannot believe we let these people come to the cities… I hope they blow a lot of money at the bars before they leave, although I think they'll need a stiff drink more in November than they do now. The dems will be drinking the champagne, of course.

Mark   September 2nd, 2008 5:13 pm ET

I think the McCain camp is playing the sexist card, period. Nothing in this article states anything Obama or Biden stated are sexist. It would be the same if Obama stated that McCain is racist because the McCain camp states that he has no experience. This is simply amazing. My mind has not yet been made up but the Obama camp has the same right to criticize McCain's VP pick like they did and doing to him.

Jeff   September 2nd, 2008 5:13 pm ET

This is hysterical.

How can any republican say - with a straight face - that she is the most qualified republican to be vice president or that she would have EVER been nominated if she were male?

Sexist? What?

Gal, Ohio   September 2nd, 2008 5:13 pm ET

As a woman I am offended that someone would go into the Good Ole Boys Network then try to gain favortism by their sex…play by their rules or quit playing.

Nothing said was sexist but you trying to use that card is…

paul   September 2nd, 2008 5:12 pm ET

THANK YOU, MS FIORINA!!! Call them out because I have been waiting for someone to complain out loud.

The democrats seem to be the party (my party of choice but not this year) for sexism and age-ism! If someone in that party from Obama to Biden to anyone can show me how this is CHANGE from the past than I will listen with open ears and a cynical stare.

McCAIN 08

john   September 2nd, 2008 5:12 pm ET

This woman is a joke!! All women should be insulted and you Republicans should be revolting!!! OR join us! Do you people realize IF Mcsame is elected and crocks THAT woman would be president………

OBAMA/BIDEN 08/12

Martin Lawrence   September 2nd, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Sarah Palin is a low budget John Edwards

texas   September 2nd, 2008 5:12 pm ET

oh I am a woman who does not care for Palin

Ping   September 2nd, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Fiorina, I cannot believe what you have said. You could not spin to keep your job at HP; you certainly cannot spin now to fool the voters with this stupid sexism allegation.

Sol   September 2nd, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Doesn't she have more executive experience than John McCain as well?

indewoman for OBAMA   September 2nd, 2008 5:09 pm ET

oh please….i knew this was coming…as a female I'm offended greatly by this…

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

SKF   September 2nd, 2008 5:05 pm ET

I am tired of Republicans yelling sexism.

Sarah Palin is not ready to be commander in chief.

I have nothing against her, but please don't yell sexism because I believe differently than you do, Ms Fiorina.

Jacqui Sellars   September 2nd, 2008 5:05 pm ET

As a woman, I'm offended that you would put someone so unqualified on the ticket and expect me to vote for them just because they are a woman. Any perceived attack by Obama, Biden, or their campaign is well-founded. Having this woman step into office is a joke and will make us the laughingstock of the world.

BJGT   September 2nd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

She has a 4 month old infant with Down’s syndrome, small children, a pregnant daughter, a son going to Iraq and she's got the time and focus to be VP, a career she has shown zero interest in having?

This has nothing to do with a “mother’s or woman’s” role

I would question the judgment of any man who chose to go on the campaign trail and balance the job of VP who had the same family circumstances.

Holden Litgo   September 2nd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Are the attacks sexist if they come from a woman, too, or are these people more full of crap by the day? They haven't spoken about an issue in weeks and weeks and now the only issue is Palin. Let's get back to governing and elect Obama/Biden. Enough!

LT for Obama   September 2nd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Where is the story about Obama deciding not to invade the gulf coast as not to be a distraction so that the emergency personnel can do their jobs, unlike McCain who rushed down there for a photo op. That was also part of the Anderson Cooper interview last night.

This lady knows nothing of how to handle a real disaster. Obama cosponsered several bills post Katrina which some were put into play yesterday.

When is Palin going to step down? Although, it is pretty much too late now for McCain to save face.

g.o.p. Playing Defense   September 2nd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Most of the posters on this site have more experience than Palin.
McPanderer or McLackofJudgement, you decide.

And I won't even mention Palin's ability to teach her daughter about not having sex before marriage.

Kristine   September 2nd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Using you logic, questioning Obama's foreign policy experience is racist. Asking Hillary if you can borrow a pencil from her is clearly sexist. Asking Larry Craig for directions to the closest grocery store is homophobic.

Chuck   September 2nd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Hey, I'm a woman and lived in Germany for 27 years. This means I have more foreign policy experience than Palin. I also drive a car, which means that I know about oil and gas prices. I'm pregnant, so I know about family values, I have a savings account, so I know about finance, and I go to church, too–WOW, *I* should be the Republican veep candidate.

Andrew   September 2nd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

The hit job they put on Gov. Palin is disgusting. Shame on you all. She is as qualified as Sen. Obama and represents a lot of normal Americans. They are on the line or have crossed the line of sexism for sure.

Chris (CT)   September 2nd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

I could see this strategy coming a mile away. It happened last night to Carville on Larry King and it's happening today to Obama. Any criticism will be labeled Sexism. It's pathetic…that dog won't hunt, Carly.

eddie   September 2nd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Bubba,

soy   September 2nd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

no wonder HP wasn't doing so great when she was CEO because its clear that she lacks common reading and comprehension skills. Probably one of those lame duck CEOs that only know how to designate tasks but can't do anything

Robert in Seattle   September 2nd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

If you had a shovel, you couldn't dig this hole deeper any faster!

Spin on the Spin to Spin the Spin, a whirlpool of lies!

Why not just admit that McCain is whacko, his VP choice was poor, and the Republicans are going down fast!

Karl   September 2nd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

What the Hell is Carly blabbing about sexism? False accusation from a person I once admired. No longer. Carly, just shut up or speak the truth. No one in the Obama camp is being sexist. The GOP and especially you are being stupid and sexist, pandering to Hillary's staunch supporters. SHAME ON U!

Keith!   September 2nd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

This is sad

Ann, California   September 2nd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

This woman is really on the sixth floor of a five story building. She knows as well as anyone with a brain, nothing Obama said could be construed as sexist. She just thinks that she can insult the American people's intelligence and especially women by saying this. She figures if you say it on a national podium, it must be true and people will believe it.

Ridiculous and she knows it.

Christy   September 2nd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

OMG, Carly Fiorina is full of it. Barack Obama contrasting his experience with Palin's is sexist? If that's sexist then what isn't?

martin   September 2nd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

this is ludicrous. There is absolutely nothing sexist about any of those comments. To make this campaign about sex is what is sexist.

Rob   September 2nd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

ok , is this woman on drugs..maybe she vetted Palin… people aren't going to be nice to Palin if she does get in office. Is the GOP expecting kid gloves for this idiot ? but isn't she Limbaugh 's babe-lol–you can't have it both ways.

Todd   September 2nd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

How is Obama's comment sexist? I think the Republican's planned on rolling out this "Sexist" strategy no matter what Obama said. I saw the interview and in no way was it sexist - he drew comparisons to number of people Palin was in charge of in her jobs as Mayor and Governor. It has NOTHING to do with her sex.

Since the Republican's are the one who wanted to start comparing Palin with Obama, he has every right to point out differences in his defense.

This is just Karl Rove 101 - distract the people with issues that pull at their emotions so that no one pays any attention to national and international issues effecting our country!!!

Anonymous   September 2nd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

YOU CANT EXPECT MUCH DIFFERENT FROM A DEM. YOU HATERS ARE THE CHANGE THAT O.B. BROUGHT TO THIS ELECTION RACE. YOU PEOPLE THAT TALK ABOUT MCCAIN BEING SO OLD ARE MORONS. YOU COULD DIE TOMMORROW ANY ONE OF YOU. WHEN YOUR DAY COMES IT COMES. YOU DEMS. ATTACKING PALIN .WHAT IS IT ANY YOUR BUSINESS. YOUR CANIDATE WOULDN'T HAVE HRC FOR VP. BECAUSE HE IS BIAS AGAINST A WOMAN AND SHE IS MORE EXPERIENCED THAN HIM.WHY DONT YOUNG HATERS GET A LIFE. DONT WORRY ABOUT MCCAINS VP. WORRY ABOUT OWN.REPUBLICANS ARE UNITED ,MORE THAN I CAN SAY WITH DEMS. YOU HAVE TO MUCH HATE AND DIVISION IN YOUR CAMPAIGN.

Carrie   September 2nd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Republicans are playing a game of chicken. They had no problem playing the experience card and even turned that against Obama by running an ad whereby Hillary and even Biden once criticized him for his lack of experience. Of course, that ran during the DNC but isn't it ironic that since McCain picked an inexperienced VP candidate, that ad is no longer running???

JH   September 2nd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Is this the best our country can do? Elect a candidate that thinks the best person for VP is someone with less than 2 years as a Govenor and all kinds of personal baggage OR elect a candidate with 2 years experience in the US senate who has the MOST liberal voting record and his VP choice has the 3rd most liberal voting record in the senate? Is this the best we can do?

Joel J.   September 2nd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

How can this be interpreted as sexist? Her gender isnt being mentioned aside from being a point of reference. She clearly is not suited for this position, not because she is a woman, but because her experience is laughable at best. She has absolutely no foreign policy experience, thats the rub. and thats it.

dannette   September 2nd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

I thought that the president and vice president were examples of what all American families should aspire to be like. How can we as parents tell our teens to wait for marriage to have children, when the vice president daughter didn't! She's a role model from hell!!

HF in CA   September 2nd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

“I am appalled by the Obama campaign's attempts to belittle Governor Sarah Palin’s experience,” said Fiorina. “The facts are that Sarah Palin has made more executive decisions as a Mayor and Governor than Barack Obama has made in his life.

AMEN and AMEN!!!

Ben Johnson   September 2nd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

The fact that Palin and McCain forced Palin’s daughter into a premature marriage is similar to the Islamic honor killing. What is the statistics of the result of a marriage between two teenagers? Not very good! This poor girl’s life is doomed by this honor marriage. She is SOLD to this underage boy and this bondage.

Jen   September 2nd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Obviously Carly thinks women are naive to buy this as being sexist. This the republican strategy to attract women voters? I'm not voting on a candidate just because they are a woman or they are a man but on which PERSON can run this country best.

Mary Beth   September 2nd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

I've been waiting for Nov since back in Feb. I already know who I'm voting for and nothing at this point is changing my vote…. Come on Nov 4th so we can get this over with. McCain is digging himself a deeper hole everyday. He chose Palin as his running mate now and he has to deal with it inexperience and all.

Obama/Biden 08

Joe, Hell MI   September 2nd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Running a campaign is no where near the difficulty of running a state.

The junior senator from Illinios, running for president, will have to divert attention the fact that the Governor or Alaska, running for VP, has more executive experience and documented 'change'.

People should be asking why Obama has less experience than Palin, the VP on the opposing ticket instead of demonizing Palin.

Debbie   September 2nd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Oh like false charges that she's a Muslim???
If women want to play hard ball then they have to learn to take their lumps - crying "sexism" at every turn pathetic?
I am very disappointed HC used it, and in this situation it's a pathetic effort to deflect close examination of this woman.
The whole thing wreaks of hypocracy to me!!!
You can't teach sex ed but you can forgive a teen pregnancy - has the world gone nuts???
There would be less pregnancies if there was better education at schools, and free contraception - we need this to be a big issue for women's rights!

M. Winners, Mesa, AZ   September 2nd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Fiorina is just like all the other Rovian neocon crack pot butt-kissers that McCain surrounds himself with these days.
She intellectually can't - or politically won't - acknowledge that Palin's chops makes her a light weight in most cases and a no-weight in all the others.
It ain't sexism Fiorina - it's a common sense observation to even the most casual observer, male or female, so stop with the hi-school like smears against those that can think for themselves..

JJ   September 2nd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

how is this sexist? Carly Fiorina, is stretching it…!
barack compared executive experience

Tom in MD   September 2nd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

The suggestion that those comments from Obama and Biden are sexist makes it painfully obvious that "play the sexism card early and often" was part of the McCain campaign's strategy before they even announced the choice of Palin for VP.

And if they're going to play the "executive experience" card that governors always play against senators, then maybe they should also add that she has more "executive experience" than McCain too!

Elanor   September 2nd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Are you sure that CNN didn't steal this from The Onion?

Lisa   September 2nd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Many of the comments I've heard so far are completely sexist. One Dem said Palin should not be neglecting her new baby to run for VP. If that were a MALE candidate with a newborn, would he have gone there? Absolutely not!

I guess we are supposed to be color blind but not gender blind when picking our candidates…

StopWhining   September 2nd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

STOP WHINING!!!

Jim Doogan.   September 2nd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Carly Fiorina, you are reachin'!

Take a poll from HP employees to see if you are qualified enough to be making this statement….

Dave   September 2nd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Profound baloney from the one who nearly ran HP into the ground and was fired.

Brad   September 2nd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

People are very upset all over this country on McCains VP choice, i feel sorry for her and her family, McCain brought her into the big city to be made a fool of, i wish her good luck, not McCain. I have to vote Dems this election, they actually deserve the next four years in the White House.

Bubba   September 2nd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Nasty little comment there implying Democrats don't mind if their children have babies out of wedlock. Yeah, and we eat little Republican babies too, Adolf. Shine up your swastika and vote GOP.

Independent_me   September 2nd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

With all due respect I beg to disagree with Ms. Fiorina.
The issue of Bristol's baby is of relevance and importance to us voters. It begs the question: why would a mother and father compromise their daughter's privacy, reputation and well-being by putting her in this precarious position?

Is the vice presidency so coveted by these parents that they would expose their child to this type of scrutiny and public discussion???

Does John McCain not care about the feelings of this 17 yr old child? Is winning so important that both McCain and the Palins were willing to sacrifice this child on the alter of their ambitions??? This opens up very valid questions about their judgement….

undecided in ohio   September 2nd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

It's not that she's a woman - it's that she has no business being a heartbeat away from President of the United States. I'm sure she's a great mother, and maybe did a nice job in small local government, but what qualifications does she have to lead the country? No way. No how. …Not sexist.

Peter of Oregon   September 2nd, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Hello!! It was a 12 Million dollar budget, and she has 50 employees. Fact check before you post please.

Loyal American123   September 2nd, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Has Fioerina ever heard a talk show host denigrate Liberals AND Demecrats.
Maybe she needs to be better informed?
One yalk show host lied when he claimed a Democrat would have had the baby aborted. Seems these Republican Stalinists know perfectly how all Liberals and Democrats. Pertfect knowledge is a Rupublicamn Family Value, just like adultery and out of wed lock pregancy.

But the real question is: Did Gov Palin and MS fiorina pay the3 taxes on Socoal Security protected wages paid to household employees?
That is something Carly need to talk about! Social Security Tax Cheating! Speak UP Carly!

Janine   September 2nd, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Honestly, I am sick and tired of hearing about experience. No one has experience of being president unless they've been president before. Look at George Bush, on paper he looks good. He has executive experience in the state of Texas but he wasn't good for the United States. I think people need to get off of the experience wagon and vote their values and positions. Race, sex, and experience should not play a factor.

Smitty   September 2nd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Weren't you the party who just recently invented a big public outcry - claiming Obama was accusing you of playing the racist card?

And what do you call this?

Hold up   September 2nd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

I keep hearing this argument that Sarah Palin has more Executive experience than both Obama & Biden put together so that makes her more qualified. Well if that's the case doesn't she have more Executive experience than McCain? McCain has spent his entire career in the legislative branch. According to your own logic then she should be at the top of the ticket not McCain since she has the most "Executive" experience than "any" candidate.

Texico From Mexico   September 2nd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

OMG dont touch her because shes a woman…..I bet if Biden lays into her over issues people start crying foul!!! What about the fact that she hangs with Nzi sympathizers?

Independent Voter   September 2nd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Blah blah blah, why is she out of the kitchen to begin with?

Jack R. Gentry   September 2nd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

I cannot believe the democrats are concerned about Palin's lack of experience. Where were they when Arkansas Gov. Clinton was running for President?

Mike Gr   September 2nd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

why can't she take it? gee, will she cry if Russia talks nasty to her?

RSI   September 2nd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Somebody tell this woman to just stop. Don't speak. If Sarah Pallin has more executive experience than Obama and Biden (and boy is that a stretch.), than that means she has more executve experience than McCain. I mean really, what position has she been promised in the Mccain adminsitration (wow just typing that leaves a bad taste in my mouth) that she is so desperate to make this stuff up. All I can say is keep putting your foot in your mouth. Sarah Pallin is fast on the bridge to nowhere.

Angela   September 2nd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

All I have to say is that Democrats M*U*S*T get out and vote in November. There is no way we can let McCain's proven poor decision making rule our country. Obama 08!

Colo Sprgs, CO   September 2nd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

You McCain supporters wouldn't know "sexism" if it bit you on the face. Additionally you don't practice what you preach, and you contradict your protestations in your behavior. Obama should being playing the psych card on you McCains because you all seriously need some therapy.

Eric   September 2nd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Palin and her skeletons were chosen purposfully. Obama who? Palin appears to be getting all the press now. Palin's history is much less litteres than Obama's, and we've already forgotten about his…drugs, etc. The populous will move past Palin's "issues" just like they did with Obama's. She will destroy Biden in the debates. It really was a stoke of genuis to find someone who could take the press away from Obama.

Carlos, NM   September 2nd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Obama and Biden said that Palin is "good looking", would they say the same thing if the GOP VP candidate was a man? I don't think so. That comment is obviously sexist as well as the "sweetie" comment Obama said a couple of months ago

Lois   September 2nd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

But it wasn't sexist for GOP mouthpiece Rush Limbaugh to scream "We've got a babe on our ticket"?

Tim   September 2nd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

All of the criticism is because she is unqualified not because she is a woman. That McCain picked her at all is insulting to women..that people who support Hillary Clinton's ideology will automatically support Palin's because they are both women. This pick is the straw that breaks the camels back in McCain's dastardly campaign.

jack   September 2nd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Nonsense!!!!! The Mccain campaign has launched nothing but attacks after attacks against Barack, his wife Michelle and several other Obama campaign staffers. Why is it that the Mccain camp can dish out but cannot receive? The Obama campaign has exercised restraint since the inception of this campaign while Mccain and his cohorts resort to smear campaign and Bush/Rove/527 attacks that are warrantless. We the american people are tired of the Mccain campaign repulsive behavior. You claim to be a maverick…prove it through your actions, McBush, Mcsame, Mcshame, McPal.
Obama '08

Hello!!!   September 2nd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Notice Obama doesn't mention the 12 or so Billion dollar budget Palin overseas as Governor, or the 25,000 employees she has.

politicojunk   September 2nd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

The heading for this blog should be: "McCain's Camp Blames Obama Again."

They blame O and his advisers for all of their failings. They cannot own up to their shortcomings.

Paula   September 2nd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Is she a "Whiner" like she called Clinton?? I would feel just as strongly about this terrible pick if her anatomy was different.
I have no respect for anyone who thinks it is sporting to shoot animals from a helicopter, try to ban books, and throw around their power like royalty.

Terrance Cavendish   September 2nd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

If Sarah Palin is ready to be VP why wasn't the Mayor of Fort Worth Texas considered. That person whoever they are is making 'executive decisions' representing a similar size population.

It is unfortunate that Democrats and Republicans can't be objective in their evalutations of the information and are only thinking in the same partisan mindset that has caused the US to start to fall behind the emerging eastern nations and continue to be beholding to the Middle East oil producers.

You get the government you deserve.

Days of Whine and Roses   September 2nd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Those mean Democrats are making fun of our VP choice and taking us off message. Boo Hoo.☹☹☹

teddy of orlando   September 2nd, 2008 4:54 pm ET

sorry i was born but not frekin yesterday what now the GOP is going to start out right lying yeah i really want you folks running the country please tell "MORE OF THE SAME MCCAIN" americans aint that stupid we may be slow and get to it in our own time but stupid naw

sue   September 2nd, 2008 4:54 pm ET

I am Canadian…I read alot about your country & your politics…I have also been to Italy & Lake Placid…Can I be your president?

Corey H   September 2nd, 2008 4:54 pm ET

This is the stupidest thing I've read in a while. Why is it sexist when Obama criticizes her skills at running a beaurocracy? She was mayor in a small insignificant town and he stated it, WHY is that sexist? I'm all for women, but I'm sick of people playing political games and pinning sexism on every little thing people say just because the victim of the criticism is a women. Thats nonsense.

Alexandra   September 2nd, 2008 4:54 pm ET

The Republicans have always been the most judgemental party, going on about ethics, morality, family values always bashing the Democrats. They had no mercy for Bill Clinton during the Lewinsky scandal which was also a personal, family matter. I also find it amusing and at the same time an insult to Hillary Clinton that Sara Palin is comparing herself to Hillary—NO COMPARISON. Hillary's been in public service for 35 years—she's earned her stripes! Also, if it's true that she actually tried to sabotage her ex-brother in law's career than who knows what she's capable of doing or how she will abuse her power as a VP. BAD CHOICE ALL THE WAY AROUND! Last but not least - She's Pro-Life? Nice photo of her with a firearm and the other photo of her with a carcas of a Reindeer! Life is Life whether it's a human or an animal. Nice going McCain

SwayingVoter   September 2nd, 2008 4:54 pm ET

So if Sarah Palin is more quailified than Sen. Obama and Sen. Biden because she has executive experience. Would that make her more experienced than Sen. McCain also. So this argument by the Repubs puts Sen. McCain's experience into question since he does not have ANY executive experience either…. Right?

Randy   September 2nd, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Any answer Obama gives on Palin is going to be twisted to the GOP's favor. No one can say anything against her, even though there are stories coming out everyday about her family, her legal battles, then you folks sit here and blame Obama for the stories..

give me a freaking break, you need to blame Palin's boss (McCain) for anything that gets said about her..

Leslie   September 2nd, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Hey Carly, Is sexism the same excuse you are using for getting FIRED from HP? Or was it because you could not run the company effectively?? Sounds like you and Palin have alot in common. Get a real job!

zydeco D   September 2nd, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Folks this is ploy to get media off sister sarah's back. Check out her comments at her church on Huffington Post.

maripil   September 2nd, 2008 4:53 pm ET

I'm terribly bothered over Sen. McCain's pick for VP. This is a horrible judgment on his part which only shows that he has compromised his judgment and values to further his presidential ambitions by not fully and thoroughly weigh in all options before making his first and biggest decision of his candidacy!!! It only speaks volume of how he will lead!

While Sen. Obama in contrast has weigh in options and puts country first on his first and biggest decision to pick a running mate in the person of Sen. Biden. Obviously, Sen. McCain has not shown good judgment as he compromised his persona and values to pick Gov. Palin to further his candidacy. It shows a rush to judgment which we now see based on the skeletons inside her closet, such as the TROOPERGATE and now the secrecy of her daughter's pregnancy!! I feel sorry for her daughter as she is now exposed to all of the negativity and empathy around her situation. I believe in my heart of hearts that her best place is not to run for VP, but rather to stay at home and support and attend the basic needs of her huge family. Her children, more especially her new born and now her pregnant daughter need her more now than ever. She will definitely not be ready to run the country of 300 million in the event that she becomes the president!!!

Licensed to Vote   September 2nd, 2008 4:52 pm ET

What? Who ? and What?

So if someone contrasts themself with Palin it is sexists??

This makes no since… I guess Biden should just not say one word during the VP debate because if says anything about her lack of experience he will be considered sexists..

Go away Repugnantans.

Linda, Chandler AZ   September 2nd, 2008 4:52 pm ET

I give this "marriage" two weeks, before Palin has to bow out due to "family obligations" - this is a total mess…and a clear example of John McCain's "judgement". As far as I'm concerned Barack Obama can't be sworn in as President fast enough.

Tracy Thompson   September 2nd, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Fiorina you are a DISGRACE to women everywhere!!

When we encounter LEGITIMATE sexism we will now be IGNORED!

I am a WOMAN!

I am INSULTED that the Republicans are trying to make this an issue of GENDER!!

Palin is not unqualifed because she is a WOMAN.

She is unqualified, PERIOD!

Do NOT allow them to spin this into a gender issue!

It is NOT hands-off because she is a girl. She climbed into the big boys ring and she has to fight with the big boys.

After spending over 20 years in the active army I was never given special treatment because of my gender.

After have six children while on active duty, I was NEVER give special treatment or consideration because of my gender and I never EXPECTED it!

All of these Repub women crying foul because Palin is female INSULT all women EVERYWHERE!

They give us a bad name and set us back 100 years!

Palin's gender has nothing to do with her empty air head!!

Carly you have no idea how IGNORANT you look and sound on television. Your nose must be about five feet long!

Ike from PA   September 2nd, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Here we go!!!!!!!!! I just knew as soon as Palin's feet gets held to the fire the sexist card comes out!!! Sexist is saying she only got the job cause she is a woman or why don't she stay and take care of her kid. Those are sexist statements. All the issues raised now are about experience, credibility, and being ready. NOTHING is sexist about that!! Toughen up!!! You want to play with the big kids, then act like it.

Axel   September 2nd, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Seriously, I ask you… Who cares?

jd   September 2nd, 2008 4:52 pm ET

By Carly's reasoning, Palin has more executive experience than even McCain! Perhaps, the republicans should get rid of McCain and nominate Palin instead.

David   September 2nd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Ridiculous!

Monica for Obama in Indiana   September 2nd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Republicans a bunch of whiners, Attacks good enough for Michelle, and she is not running for elective office, way better for palin. Get over it republicans, you sound like babies.

Kitten for Obama   September 2nd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

She gets it wrong as usual. Obama only answered the question that he was asked. He did not disrespect Palin, and Biden paid her a compliment. Let us not get it twisted Obama and Biden have not been dirty, negative toward her. Get a grip you are barking up the wrong tree. It was McCain that set her up for failure he knew how the politics worked for the caompaign. THINK!!!!!!! Maybe he should have selected Fiornia. Since she knows so much.

Sammy   September 2nd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

If Clinton was the nominee she would face attacks that would make the insinuations against Palin seem like childs play. So those republicans invoking Hillary's name have no sympathy from me.

Clinton Supporter   September 2nd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Ah, yes. Sexist remarks won't work this time, boys. Back to the drawing board, I guess.

Biden: "She's good looking." I reminded of, "You're likable enough."

No to mention all those other comments that CNN probably won't allow on TV or their web site this time out.

Just think, every time you criticize her, some Republican will loom up on the screen and accuse you of sexism. It's already so much fun to watch!

Hey, Hillary, don't miss this!! And no matter what the boys say, you just go on being silent. Do try not to smirk.

Hello!!!   September 2nd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

I like how Obama is now using his year of campaigning as his "experience"

That's really funny.

Breck   September 2nd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Carly Fiorina is lying, no sexist attacks have taken place, and she knows it, more Republican lies. Hillary lost because…. She lost. Obama won, he's the nominee, and Republicans are still trying to rile up Hillary supporters, now with this extreme rightist who happens to be a woman.

Andrew   September 2nd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

In terms of political level exec exp. yes she does have more then everyone. the only thing i see as how he talks down to her exp in alaska. if you all want higher taxes then vote for obama

DD   September 2nd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

As a woman I KNOW that I am just as capable as any man. I do not expect to be given special treatment or to be held to a lower standard because I am female. For Carly Fiorina to suggest that ANY negative comments amount Sarah Palin are sexist undermines what femisim is about… we are equal. Equal is respect, equal in pay (which McCain does not supprt) and equally able to withstand critism.

tim   September 2nd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

these attacks on sarah palin are sexist. the problem is just like people makeing racist attacks againt condeleza on the left wing fell that sarah palin deserves to be trashed because she is not left wing. If you are a minority or a female and you are a republican cnn, msnbc, and every liberal media outlet will jump on the chance to destroy her. The problem is cnn is sexist and racist and nobody should count on them to be fair anyone see campbell brown last night? that is left wing reporter and man did she show it.

carmen   September 2nd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

OBAMA_BIDEN 2008! VOTE SMART!

dave c   September 2nd, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Only in Republican America would a BLACK man with a law degree from Harvard, 12 years in politics, four years on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and manager of one of the most impressively flawless and forward thinking presidential campaigns be charged with not being ready for the presidency while a WHITE female evangelical former beauty queen with 19 months in national politics and a bachelors in journalism is considered "ready on day one."

+1

Saul-Independent   September 2nd, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Carly Fiorina got fired for sying on her employees at HP. What give her the credibility to say anything to anyone. We know better and are smarter than we are given credit for.
Palin needs to quit this Campaign and go take care of her new born, who she delibrately conceived despite all the advice she got about birh defects at her age. palin also needs to be there 100% for her teenage daughter who she recently exposed as pregnant. There are plenty of great candidatesfor VP, SHE IS NOT ONE OF THEM.

michele   September 2nd, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Fiorina should get a grip and a sense of humor . . . quit trying to stir women up with the sexist card. As capable, intelligent women we can see the differences between sexist, campaigning and just plain joking around . If Palin is going to run, then she is going to have to deal with the politics and the questions and comments about her capabilities. Obama's comments would only have qualified as sexist if he didn't ask the same questions of a male running from a similar background . . . there isn't one running, Palin is it. Biden was just being humorous, sad day when a woman cannot be complimented without crying sexist. Apparently, Fiorina is the one who has a sexist issue.

Mike   September 2nd, 2008 4:50 pm ET

It's only getting worse for the GOP. The Republican Party has significantly lowered the bar for the leadership of this country.

Now, they have the audacity to compare a woman who was elected Mayor of a town of 9,000 people and elected governor fo a state of 600,000 people with a legislature that has 20 senators and 40 reps with Barack Obama, a law professor, Columbia and Harvard law grad who spent many years working with ordinary Americans and served terms in the Illionios Legislature and the US Senate.

What's worse, is they are using the idea of sexism to avoid answering difficult questions about their ridiculous choices and lack of leadership. Shame on you and Americans are appauled at the shame that these people have brought on this country.

Sean Chong   September 2nd, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Stop putting words into Obama's mouth. Obama never once did try to make Palin the issue. Mccain picked Palin and created all the issues, and put all the blame on Obama. I hope Americans have eyes to see through it. Where is my old righteous John Mccain?

jay   September 2nd, 2008 4:50 pm ET

foxnews are keeping they mouths shut because even republican's don't like this pick now

Billy, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida   September 2nd, 2008 4:50 pm ET

This pick by John McCain shows one of two things: 1) That this was a shrewdly calculated move to distract attention away from his own record and his deficiencies, his hot headedness and his impulsive, reckelss behavior, both in his personal and political life or– 2) An extremely impulsive move with no real forethought, acting from his gut rather than his brain, the same exact way guess who acts–If you said George W., you'd be correct—It was his rash, impulsive decision that got us into this no win war and our current economic crisis.
Either way, it shows that his campaign slogan, which I find cynical and dark coming from a member of the Republican party,- AMERICA FIRST-is just that, a slogan that has all the flash but absolutely no substance. I'm no true Obama fan, though after his speech I feel A LOT better about him, but I will say that the WORST Democrat is better than the BEST Republican any day!! AND kudos to CAMPBELL BROWN for her take no BS interview with what's his name from McCain's campaign. BOO HOO–she treated him roughly, I'm cancelling my interview!!!

Jay Washington, D.C.   September 2nd, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Testy much. She must have seen todays Gallop poll. It's too funny Country First McCain picked Alaska First Secessionist Sarah Palin. It just gets better and better.

peter, MI   September 2nd, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Just let them go ahead. American people are not that stupid, they know what Obama said has nothing to do with sexism, and they know how to interpret Fiorina's desperate attempt to play the sexist card. It will backfire.

PA for Obama   September 2nd, 2008 4:49 pm ET

If you buy Fiorina's logic, then you have to accept that the McCain camp is nothing but a bunch of racists for questioning Sen. Obama's readiness to be Commander in Chief.

I'm a woman, and I'm incredibly offended by the selection of the grossly-underqualified Palin to make GOP history as the first VP nominee. Well, almost nominee. There's still time to save face and withdraw for personal reasons, like taking care of the family that's screaming for her attention right now.

Heather Wochner   September 2nd, 2008 4:49 pm ET

I am a 37 year old woman from Denver, CO. I am quite finished watching CNN, especially after the Campbell Brown interview and more importantly for the negative coverage on Palin and her daughter. I am the oldest of five children with a saty-at-home mother that loved us tremendously and sacrificed daily for us. I have a sister that had a chilc at 19 and was not married. The country needs to stay out of this families life and let Palin talk about her political views in order for the country to make a fair decision!@!!! ENOUGH ALREADY!!!!

Antigone   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

So the repugnants picked her so that they can now scream "sexist" to ANYTHING said about her by ANYBODY, even if it is not said by the Obama campaign.

Anything said to the negative about this failure of a VP pick is "sexist".

Isn't "sexist" just by the mere fact that the Repugnants picked her because she is a woman! Oh, wait, the repugnants deny sexism because they are accusing everyone else, media included of being that.

McCainieism first….USA second. McBush in office at any cost to anyone, including Palins family and children. This woman didn't even know what the duties of the VP were until she asked someone to tell her.

Even if the Obama campaign says something nice about her, those repugnants scream sexism. They need to STOP WHINING and start campaigning.

I am so tired of the repugnant pig sty campaigning and blaming Obama for what they are doing to themselves. It's old, it's tiring, and it's not productive.

The repugnants have created their sty and now they want to blame everyone else for the smell. UGGGGH Enough!

So because she is "female" everying~good or bad is deemed sexist by the repugs. They are just downright dirty campaigning and blaming Obama for their mess. Get over your silly selfs repugs! PLEASE!

JS Finley   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Carly Fiorina, are you serious? I'd hardly trust your judgement on anything, given what you did to HP.

Someone call a WAHHHHHHHHbulance for McCain & Co. before they all come down with the vapors!

cheryl (RETIRED VETS FOR OBAMA)   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Oh no, not this time, they will not be able to turn the tables on the American people. The republicans will stop at nothing, I cannot understand how anyone with a sane mind could vote for these liars. They are downright deceitful. I am a woman and I am here to say loudly and boldly, GOV PALIN IS NOT QUALIFIED!

Ella   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

The only reason McCain picked Sara Palin for vice-president was to trump Obama with a woman candidate. He's playing poker with politics and America is the winner or loser.
I just got a chain letter yesterday about Palin's daughter's pregnancy and how she tried to cover it up by saying it was she who was pregnant. She took her daughter out of school for the entire term of her pregnancy. She had to know that people are not all stupit. If she'll be good at anything, it won't be cover-ups.

Sad Alaskan   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Being an Alaska, i've seen first hand what Sarah Palin has done for Alaska, shes been govenor for 2 years. Before that she was mayor of Wasilla, which is a tiny city that is filled with strip malls. Sarah Palin has NO experience, and I think it's wise if she should stay home with her infant and her 17 year old daughter that is pregnant.

Ann   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

I'm appalled that the Republicans think they can point fingers at the Democrats when the only reason that McCain even looked at Sarah Palin as a vp candidate is the fact that she's a woman and he was trying to win over some of the Hillary disappointees. The Republicans are the ones who are being sexist and as usual think they can push it off onto the Democrats……..we're smarter than that.

id&eye   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Looks to me like Palin does have the experience the Republicans need.
She's all about Oil, War, Abortion, Guns, Gays, Corruption and Lies. I'd say she fits right in.

DK(@)AZ   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

I managed 15 people at burger king when I was in high school! Can I be VP! Hell, I will even where a skirt and ALWAYS leave the top of my shirt open so you can see my man boobs. Will Barack discredit me for being trans-gender ? I hope not! Let Michelle Oboma debate palin and we might, and I say might have a even match. GOTCHA!!!!!

Hello!!!   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

It's nice to see a political party stand up for women and fight the blatant sexism going on. Too bad the dems couldn't lead by example.

They have now been labeled the sexist party.

dromad   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

I can understand being upset by what Biden said. But if you listen to the whole exchange, it's not any different than what some people have said of Obama. He's attractive, she's attractive. Looks win votes (as shallow as that may seem).

As far as Obama's comments, Fiorina's critique is ridiculous and an obvious stretch for upset Hillary supporters. I find it funny that McCain is spending so much energy trying to capture a small number of votes. I'd be surprised if most of the waffling Hillary supporters looked at Palin and saw a kindred spirit. She may be a woman, but I don't think that's enough to win rabid Hillary supporters over.

Palin is being exploited. Anyone that can't see this selection as a ploy is blind. They are trying to take the language of civil rights away from the left. The Republicans are masters of reshaping language and this is simply another trick. They use civil rights to protect themselves while they strip those same rights from those that actually need them.

I find the fact that the McCain campaign threw Palin's daughter to the wolves disturbing. There were plenty of other ways to prove that Palin is the mother of Trig. But instead of releasing medical records, they thrust this minor out onto the stage with a pro-life banner hanging about her neck. It's sad. Palin is nothing more than a smokescreen for the Republicans.

Tony   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

This is better than the soaps, reality t.v., or the movies. The Palin family is just full of surprises and we get a new treat almost every hour. The next two months are goign to be loads of fun! :)

longhairs for obama   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

why is belittling her experience sexist? that's just dumb!

Vinson   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

REPUBLICANS————-ARE—————-DESPERATE

THEY———–ARE————-RUNNING———SCARED

FIORINA———IS———–PATHETIC

Obama08FL   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

What is funny is that all of you McShame voters most likely voted for Bush. You and your families will what you deserve. Go ahead and vote McShame. I have no sympathy for you and your families. Looks like you McShame voters will have to look your little ones in the eyes, and say yes son / daughter we are the stupid Americans that voted for McShame. With all that has happened to the Economy I have done what I needed to in life to make sure I won't have to suffer. I feel bad for the kids of the future, and the families who have to suffer due to ignorance.

Tim   September 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Too many devious people dwelling on every word, everyone says.
If it's not sexist, it's racist. The media also has a tendency to do this and get everyone on board with it. Race or gender has nothing to do with the issues. It's all a big game to see if they can discredit each other.

Ted   September 2nd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

This has nothing to do with supporting teenage sex or pregnancy.

Stuff happens… in EVERY person's life.

This is about the CHARACTER to stand up for family and for what you believe in.

So Obama supporters should stop slinging mud at every woman candidate in this race and worry more about their own Character.

Alison   September 2nd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Are they already playing the gender card??? Give me a break. Palin was an epic fail. You lose.

Kasch, Europe   September 2nd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

its all about the language

Barb Holan   September 2nd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

We need to speak with a few Mayors and Governors,regarding their duties. I was an elected official and the departments that came under the supervision of our Mayor included the police dept.; fire dept.; water dept.; park board; and if there was a city cemetary - that too. This means people, payroll, equipment and maintenance. It is not a small job folks. In addition, you must read all the ordinances and resolutions that are coming up for vote that are going to affect the lives of your citizens.

JAH   September 2nd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

It seems that instead of answering a straight question as to whether Palin is qualified to be Vice President, McCain's advisors feel most comfortable claiming sexism! This is not only sad, but a clear sign that McCain selected Palan for her gender rather than her qualifications. She is not qualified at this time to be VP, and that has nothing to do with her gender and everything to do with her qualifications. The only sexism I have seen is McCain's belief that selecting a woman who defies everything Hilary Clinton stands for will be acceptable to her supporters. Does he truly think that little of women's intellects that he thinks they can't tell the differ