CNN

John McCain Needs an agenda. not just follow his friend George Bush. He needs to be his own man. Being a POW does not qualify his for the office of the president. Lets hesr what he really thinks. Not pike up ideas from the DEMS and try to make it his own.

Griff,

Who else rambles? Peggy Noonan and Mike Murphy who called this choice a disaster?

The insult is that Republicans can believe that they can try to parade this candidate out and say she is just as good as Hillary (better actually because she is a good Christian) and then tell the media and the public that trying to find out what she is about is "sexist".

What about her support of Ted Steven's bridge, what about her request for millions in earmarks for her tiny town, what about her trying to fire the town librarian for not banning certain books, what about the firing of the Public Safety chief?

What about her denial that global warming is man made? What about her desire to restrict reproductive rights? What about her desire to prohibit sexual education (that has worked out well, hasn't it?)?

This is NOT about sexism, this is plainly about the issues.
She fails to understand and connect with mainstream America.

The clear difference here is that Meg Whitman did not drink the Kool-Aid that the hack, Carly Fiorina, did. She is a liar and, given her record at HP, a thief.

She is obviously angling for some cabinet position. God help us if this sleaze who doesn't give a %^&* about average people gets into someone's administration.

Fiorina,

Would you put Sarah Palin, with her ACTUAL experience (not the Republican trumped up version) and her bachelor's degree in journalism, in the position of "mayor" in charge of New York City? Chicago? Miami? Los Angeles? San Francisco? Detroit? Milwaukee? How about "governor" of a diverse and heavily populated state like California or New York?

Do you think any of those big cities' large television stations would entrust her with their reputations by making her their Sports Director with all her equally unimpressive experience as a sports reporter?

No, I didn't think so. But, you'd make her VP and one heartbeat, stroke, melanoma, or death by natural causes from the presidency????

This lady is not even qualified, to run a community college, hold an adminstrative position in a public high school, or to teach on the college level. How can we expect her to run the country.

boo hoo...the media is questioning palin's cred...boo hoo...the democrats are being sexist...boo hoo...

this is malarky! The media is doing it's job and there have been no sexist remarks from the Obama campaign.

No repugs were complaining when all of the baseless lies were started online about Obama. Let's not forget that those same lies are still active and strong. McCain even said that Obama's camp should get a sense of humor about it all, referring to the new trash from Corsi's pen. RIDICULOUS!

The media is allowed to vet the candidates and if the McCain team can't take the drama of the ridiculous spectacle that is the election process then they need to step down.

Jo'Bama '08

Does he think that he is above answering questions?????????

Why does anyone think that investigating a candidate running for the presidency or vice presidency is being unfair.

I did not here any of these now grumbling about the questioning of Palin's ability say a word when Geraldine Feraro was runnig for vice president, they were on her like scent on skunk and not one republican said ot layoff, is that what they call the double standard.

In her former post has head of HP, Carly Fiorina would not in a millions years have considered Sarah Palin to be her number two.
And you better believe that she would've considered everything fair game when vetting her #2.

sexism...PLEASE.

Ms. Fiorina would probably not even consider a candidate with 5 kids to become her secretary much less.

meg whitman is not too shy to show her discontent with GOP ol boys snubbing real intelligent women.

true, whitman is no bombshell.

that says all about the quality, or lack thereof , of GOP.

This was the design of the VP pick cloud real issues with allegatons of sexism.
The real divded party CNN will not cover

Could it be? Truth and openness from a McCain surrogate? How refreshing!!

Whether we we like the media vetting or not, it does an equal opportunity hatchet job on those running for the highest or second highest office in the land and their families.

I wonder if Fiorina was complaining about sexism when the dirt on Geraldine Ferrarro's husband was dug up. If you can't stand the scrutiny, simply say you have no interest in the job.

wow didn't the Fox reporter try to wink or cue her and let her know she wasn't suppose to say something like that? She is probably getting a good (blank) chewing in the back right now from the GOP.

Women of America:

You can not in good conscience vote for anybody who will take away your "right to choose".

Granted, the number of abortions need to decrease; but then, abstinence is not an option as its not widely practiced; and women will continue to have unplanned pregnancies. Imagine those that will abort anyway, in backrooms, illegally! Right to life is not just for Babies; it is for Mothers and would be Mothers also! It is for the health of women in this regard!

As cruel as it may sound, not all women are willing to carry all conceptions to term; whether they be unhealthy (for mother or child) or unplanned by the mother!

So if abortion becomes illegal (under all circumstances) and abstiinence is not practiced; does birth control or population control become "spaying" of females and "neutering" of males?

Women of America do not give up your "right to choose" because the other side of the coin is your right to reproduce....and how many times you can reproduce!!!!

What is sexist is the Republican Party for throwing Palin into the mix to take advantage of the Hillary edge. Women who voted for Hillary, but have now decided to vote for McCain, are SEXIST, because they are voting for the "female gender" and not party substance. This is the real sexist issue at hand. To vote for a women, simply because she is a woman is sexist. The two parties are diametrically opposed to one another and Hillary voters would go to vote for the horrors of the Republican part just to vote for a woman. That is sexist.

I am appalled at the sexism by the Obama campaign, his horrible, mean spirited supporters and the media. First they destroyed HIllary Clinton, and now Sarah Palin. Not on the issues, but in a personal horrible way. I see in another post, that the Obama campaign is whining because they are bringing up Michelle Obama's hate filled words against America. Apparently quoting your own words back at you is an insult, but labeling working mothers as bad people, and calling Hillary Clinton a racist is ok. Apparently Obama and his supporters think it's ok to attack peoples children, but not question someone's nasty words against their country. Obama and his supporters make me ashamed to be a Democrat, and that is why I'll be going third party. Obama's definition of hope and change is very different than mine, read his supporters comments, they don't understand the meaning of those words either

I think this says about McCain temparament and judgement. Well somebody got to do the vetting if McCain irresponsibly didnt do that.
At least there is somebody who is willing to tell it as it is, unsubconciously. She just lost her job. Thanks McCain.

The Mcshame camp is like the rest of us. Who the hell is Palin? They don't know anything about this woman. What can they say? All they can say is that she has executive experience. Well Bush has executive experience and look where the country is now. Republicans need to drop the act and vote for Obama. They know that everything he is saying is the truth. McShame is just telling people what they want to hear. All he has to go on is the fact that he is a war vet. Well, there are a million men and women that served their country does that mean that they can run for president? Oh, yeah, i thought the shot gun wedding were over. You got my daughter pregnant now you got to marry her.

I keep reading "McCain is a proven leader." Of what exactly? He left his first family after having an affair with Cindy. What legislation has he co-authored lately? He votes against energy alternatives, against soldiers' benefits, against a timetable to leave Iraq, even though he declares the surge a huge "success." Oh, and he chooses, in his first big decision, a woman he talked to once for 15 minutes as his VP. Judgment? Not so much.

Hillary Dem for Obama-a man with a law degree, experience, and the judgment to run this country!

It's MORE sexist to have this anti-woman running for VP. Nearly every right that women have been fight for in the last 100 years, she's completely against! We as women cannot use at least birth control to DECIDE when or if we have children? Women don't derserve the same amount of pay for the same amount of work? It's immoral to teach our children how to protect themselves against teen pregnancy and STDs?

The only thing feminist thing she isn't against is women voting!

I cannot believe that Mc Cain would use this women to try to get Clinton voters. It's so obvious and pathetic.

Fiorina has become desperate! She's so desperate, she's starting to look foolish. Poor Fiorina!

I love how you report on the charges of sexism as a "campaign message." You KNOW its just a campaign talking point, but you'll air the charge over and over again.

Boo Hoo! For heaven's sake quit making up excuses after excuses. \Keep on trying to convience yourselves that John McCain chose the right running mate...he didn't, most of America knows it, case closed Obama was put into the White House by the "Mav" himself!

The GOP opened the door for this kind criticism when they attack Michelle Obama with a vengeance. DEAL WITH IT!!

AVEE capitalcity VA September 3rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Another indication that McLoss has no control and that even with talking points, truth is truth.

This comment sums it up for me!

wow – the first words of truth from a republican in weeks. I'm shocked and pleased to hear someone from the McCain camp say it as it is. I'm worried she'll get the can today and be looking for a new job tomorrow.

Meg Whitman is the one with integrity and honesty here! The McCain camp has no defense of Palin except to cry sexism!!

Figures that folks in his camp aren't on the same page...lol!!!!

It's easy to go "off message" when your message is all lies, the truth usually slips out.

Since when is it great that 17 year old girls are getting married? this is not some third world country, this is the greatest nation in the world with more opportunities for young women than anywhere else on earth. Palin's daughter should follow her mom's example and hire help to raise her children while she pursues her own ambitions–oops maybe that sounds a little SELFISH.

Can someone tell me where Mc Cain is......

All his aides are doing his dirty work

At one point has McCain Come out his mouth and Simply said

"ENOUGH!!!"

That my friend , right or wrong would show BALLS

It is not a matter of Who!!! It is a Matter of you. You have a say in a Democracy. Leaders are just Tools! You have the power! The thing is, what do you do with it???

Getting off message, what message do they have? I have only heard attacks and smears. Of course they have wined and wined about everything when t

FINALLY SOMEONE IN THE RNC DELEGATION TELLS THE TRUTH.

Whitman did not get the memo...

Still, it is refreshing to see someone actually think and articulate views for herself.

She probably won't last long as co-chair

What's 'stunning' is how Fiorina ran HP to the ground. It had nothing to do with sexism but simply incompetent. Stop hidding behind the skirt and let Palin vetted as she should. If Palin cannot take the scrutiny, how will she do with other world leaders and countries where women are viewed as properties?

Tonight will be a wonderful night for Sarah Palin and for America.

She is a smart, vigorous, accomplished, principled leader. She will do an excellent job at making the vice presidential office more than just ceremonial.

She will be a leader in American public life for years to come.

McCain / Palin 2008!!!

If the McCain camp wants to cry sexism, then any criticism of Obama amounts to racism. Just as you can critique Obama without being a racist, you can also critique Palin without being a sexist. Enough with this foolishness!!!

The republicans don't have a message except whine, whine and whine some more. They sound like a bunch of 5 year olds. They need to grow up and stick to the issues instead of resorting to smears and lies.

These kinds of debocles are exactly why the McCain camp has ran a unsuccessful campaign. The McCain Camp, including McCain have been extremely inconsistent throughout the campaign race.

So if its sexist to go in depth on palin
is it racist to go in depth on obama?

Obama- housing scandal
Palin- Firing scandal
Obama- controversial wife
Palin- controversial daughter
Obama- Insane church ties
Palin- Insane big oil ties
obama- accused of having little experience
Palin- claims to have more experience than obama but actually been in politics for less
Obama- harvard grad of law
Palin- college grad of journalism
Obama- Worked in chicago
Palin-beauty pageant contestant

in the words of judge judy, "if you tell the truth you don't have to have a good memory."

This is the beginning of the end for the McCain bid for the president.

Oh please. Repressive and oppressive rehetoric = sexism. Looking under every nook and cranny = sexism. Marginalizing, undermining, all negative all the time = sexism. Stay home and raise those kids = sexism. Leave it to CNN to pick and shovel the dirt on Palin = sexism.

Palin's statement during the primaries also refutes Fiorina's rhetoric:

Palin said, "When I hear a statement like that coming from a woman candidate with any kind of perceived whine about that excess criticism or, you know, maybe a sharper microscope put on her, I think, man, that doesn’t do us any good. Women in politics, women in general wanting to progress this country. I don’t think it’s, it bodes well for her — a statement like that."

This can be found via a video interview with Newsweek, posted on YouTube, discussed the coverage of Sen. Hillary Clinton. The interview that appears to have taken place during the Democratic primary, when Palin criticizes Clinton for her response to media scrutiny she received while on the campaign trail.

The sexism charge is unfounded, ridiculous and will not help No Way No How No McCain's sad case for the VP role.

Obama/Biden '08

Going off record is what republicans have been programed to do. Ask them a question. They giggle, talk fast and long, in hopes that by the time they finish talking, you are so confussed you've forgotten what the question was. Maybe we should try it this way. Answer: Four months. Question: How long until republicans clear out their offices.

How dare the McCain campaign belittle the accomplishments of Senator Barack Obama. This is just a Republican scandal to destroy the first black presidential nominee. It's racist to question Obama's experience. And what flat out bigotry to raise questions about Obama's business dealings, political affiliations and his bipartisan record. Racist! Racist racist racist. (See how this works everyone?) You are witnessing the key piece of the Palin package. Use a woman to paint the entire media as sexist in the hopes that woman will be dumb enough not to see through this obvious pandering. Rallying your party base might have worked. Grabbing PUMA's ten members probably worked. But this will not work. Eat your own mooseburgers GOP. Cause I've had ENOUGH!! Anyone but McCain '08!

I was watching c-span and saw all the women line up to give a short speech while attacking media and Obama camp.................thought how ridiculous they seem. We live in a country where free speech is respected and protected; I was offended as a woman to hear them go on and on about sexism. None of them know what it feels to live in middle America and i'm prettyy sure cannot relate to average Americans. McCain is out of touch and out of his mind for pushing this message. There is nothing sexist about questioning qualifications of a vice president, I think they are the one practicing sexism, racism and every other isms base on social values. I"M COMPLETELY TURNED OFF BY THESE WOMEN ESPECIALLY FIORINA......SHE NEED A LIFE.

However tonight. the Sexist Sleaze Master, Mitt Romney plans to launch a slime ball attack on Michelle Obama.

There is not and the McCain campaign might as well leave that one alone.

Even the McCain camp can't keep the story straight. This VP pick was the best pick ever. Merry Early Christmas Barack!

Yeah, it's soooo "stunning" to see people actually inquiring about this unknown politician who is line to represent our entire nation should her candidate with the presidency. The nerve of us.

So, what does the Vice President do? Don't worry...No how, no way, no McCain!

I was actually hoping that McCain would pick Meg Whitman to run with him and now I remember why. Instead of polarizing this campaign like Ms. Palin, she would actually have been a good pick that most people could accept/agree with.

Thank you Ms. Whitman, here's to hoping that someone in the party will eventually realize what you could bring to the table.

I knew that they would cry sexist. I am a 45-year-old woman and knew this would come out. Obama was scrutinized through the media as well, especially Fox and they checked every little story on him, the republicans did not seem to mind. Now, Palin is really unknown and if we question her, it is sexist. This is not going to work. Sure, there are some instances out there but very few. If voters do it, it is not the Obama campaign's fault. But, again, I repeat, they will use sexism.

It is really not about Palin, it is John McCain's judgment on his impulsive decision to pick her. It is gimicky. That is why McCain's campaign will not answer any more questions on the vetting process. They know his judgment will come into question. What else is he willing to risk?

At least someone is being honest...The Repubs (in general) are such hypocrites. If one of Obama's daughters was older and pregnant-we would never hear the last of it!

Policy question for Palin:

As a matter of policy on sex education, does she continue to support the position that Abstinence-Only programs are the most effective means of addressing teen sexuality and the problem of teenaged pregnancy?

If Carly Fiorina was still head of HP, it would be out of business. When she messed up HP and Compaq, even the Hewlett and Packard families divested themselves of their companies stock. That is how much faith they had in Carly.

What I care about more than anything with Palin and the GOP right now is how the GOP is praising Bristol's decision to have a baby – just because she's not going to abort the kid.

The GOP's response to this scenario basically makes it legitimate for teenagers to have sex and have babies under the age of 18, just so long as you don't abort the baby. We've already got an epidemic going in the area of teenage sex, and the GOP's just making it worse.

The GOP is tossing their morals out the door, and will leave a negative example to our kids just in the name of an election.

There was good reason for the Republican mayor of Fairbanks, Alaska to endorse Obama. Keep flailing, GOP, it's almost over. You have driven this nation into a ditch, but we are digging our way out and all the distractions in the world aren't going to cover up for your lousy policies.

It's obvious, they only want to be seen, but not be known. You can fool the people , but not the media. The media are fact diggers, they don't like that. It's the media that let them be seen, so it's the media to let them be known as well. If you don't like it, then don't be a public figure.

Meg Whitman ought to be the VP nominee. She is one of the few people to offer anything remotely honest and genuine here.

ELECT WHITMAN!

They are trying to use the Hilary playbook. Didn't work for her. Won't work for them. SMA – Sexist My A..

Oh, you're a little off there Reason. Palin's husband is part of the Independence Party – not Sarah.

Nearly 18 million people voted for Barack Obama during the Democratic primaries. For nearly 2 years, we have hear every accolade and every attack and nearly 18 million people still had the confidence in Barack Obama to choose him as their candidate for the presidency. THAT is a thorough vetting process.

25 people made the decision in near total secrecy to select Sarah Palin as the GOP vice-presidential candidate. Without more information, how can the American public be confident in Gov. Palin and in Sen. McCain's judgement in selecting her?

We cannot be expected to hear "Trust us. We know what's good for you" and feel secure.

Sounds like GOP consultans Noonan and Murphy getting caught on live mics on MSNBC talking bad about the choice of VP.

"It's over!"

I love it!

At least whitman can say she kept her dignity. Fiorina is just slime.

Carly Fiorina is a mccain attack dog.

Sarah Palin needs to be vetted by the media.

Republican voting for Obama/Biden 08

NOW THIS IS NEWS!!!!!! A Republican that can tell the TRUTH!!!!!!

I do not care about her daughter or her to be son in law. I do care about how her husband votes and what party he belongs to. There are questions I want answered...that are not sexists. Yes, some will have to do with EXPERIENCE. Obama was asked about experience in 25 debates and all over the campaign trail...and over 18 million people VOTED for him. This person...NO ONE got to vote for, ask a question, debate, even interview yet.
This is not sexist.... This person could be running the country in as little a heart beat. We have a right to know.
Obama we voted for.

I will now conclude that the majority of Americans are misogynists.
Look at other countries , who had or have presently , great strong women as leaders.
Never would we dare not see them as equal to another men in the same position.
In your country , no sooner a woman emerges as a possibility for candidacy , and the rush to judgement starts.
You don't have to like her or agree with her , but why the ridicule and nasty comments towards her and her family.

I have been an Obama supporter from the get go. I am watching both campaigns and can't believe what I am seeing from the Republicans.
They are using Palin's sex and family to have the chance to act without question because to question her gives them the chance to cry "sexist".

I'm sorry but Obama's campaign has not implied or acted in any sexist ways. Now what the supporters do is a different story but Obama's campaign has continued to run a clean campaign....and will continue to run a clean campaign.

When they questioned Obama about Bristol...he stopped that type of questioning quick. But no republican will ever give Obama credit were credit is due except to say he gives great speeches. Obama has more integrity in his pinky then the Republican party has all together.

Obama thank you for showing us in this election how a real man acts.

They are scrambling to do more damage control. Next they will be rethinking their whole presentation strategy because comparing Palin to Obama is ludicrous.

I'm sorry but Obama's campaign has not implied or acted in any sexiest ways. Now what the supporters do is a different story but Obama's campaign has continued to run a clean campaign....and will continue to run a clean campaign.

When they questioned Obama about Bristol...he stopped that type of questioning quick. But no republican will ever give Obama credit were credit is due except to say he gives great speeches. Obama has more integrity in his pinky then the Republican party has all together.

Obama thank you for showing us in this election how a real man acts.

Whitman for VP!

I'm an angry liberal and I'm sick of the Palin coverage.

While a large majority of republicans are sharing in their "FEARLESS LEADERS" senior moment and hanging out drinking the republican kool-aid; at least one republican Meg Whitman has remained sober and honest shocking, simply shocking!

Obama/Biden 08!

Yeah...anybody who says that public vetting of a VP candidate because they are a woman is out of their mind. My wife is very feminist, as are many women I know, and as such understand that if you want to be on equal ground with men, you have to be willing and able to be dealt the same cards.

Sorry, McLame, but to call out sexism because people are asking legitimate questions about your running mate is a cop-out and, quite frankly, insulting to women everywhere that you would use her gender as a scapegoat for your campaign's poor management.

I do applaud Mrs. Whitman for her honesty, though. Let's see if she stays with it, or if she flip-flops back to the sexism argument.

The only blatent sexism has come from Rush Limbaugh who is part of the right wing. He's called her a "babe" and has also said that she can really wear a skirt. It's funny that the republicans are trying to put this off on "left wing" people. Maybe they should talk to their own party first.

Ha, ha, good show, it is just hard for honest people to keep lying over and over again. I know a big weight has been lifed from their shoulders.

I guess they will now issue a report that says Meg Whitman doesn't speak for the campaign...LOL

OBAMA was ELECTED,palin was SELECTED!!!!!!! go figure

Good on Meg. Tell it like it is. The press has been doing its job because McCain's staff didn't. No wonder they're mad.
And I'm glad to see CNN take the gloves off after McCain cancelled his interview with them as punishment for the Campbell Brown story. Just another thing we don't need more of: a press that rolls over for a Republican.
Anybody remember the name Judith Miller? I think you guys actually learned your lesson....

By later tonight Meg will have flipped-flopped on this issue because the Repugs will rein her in.

This kind of "maverick" thinking does not line up with the Repug's party line..they'll rein her in, just you wait!

GENDER should not be an issue, now.

How long before McComb-over gives Meg Whitman her walking papers?

Not only that, but this morning on Morning Joe, Rudy Juliannna was asked by Joe Scarbourough if he would pick someone to be his number 2 at his personal company or when he was Mayor his deputy the same way McCain picked Palin. Not only did he give a half baked answer, but he didn't answer the question on purpose twice. Heck, it wasn't like he was asking him how many houses he had......

This is just CRAZY!!! I would be ashamed to call myself a republican if I were them!!!!!

No one is questioning her qualifications because she is a woman. Give me one example, just one. They are questioning her qualifications because she is running for VICE PRESIDENT, and no one knows anything about her. The only way to find out about her...ask questions!

Wow! Is there discord in the McCain camp? I'll agree if a question is asked about being a mother and VP, that's sexist and should be left alone. But asking if someone is qualified is not sexist. Wasn't that same question asked about Obama?

Wasn't Obama the "unknown" candidate a while back? The same scrutiny that he received is now turned to Palin. Why do I not think that wasn't an accident.

Now Gov Palin is getting all the attention, albeit not exactly the kind she may have wanted, but the cameras are on her and not Obama. Isn't that what the McCain wanted?

It doesn't matter who McCain chose as VP. The media, the Obama fan club and the DNC would have railed against him or her. You're not fooling anyone.

Palin is just as qualified as Obama. Even more so, since Palin is a VP candidate and Obama is a Presidential candidate.

Vetting her in the media is NOT SEXIST. Even women are scratching their heads at the RNC's poor accusations of sexism in the media.

FIND SOMETHING ELSE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT!

We aren't supposed to vet their VP choice? It's sexist? What planet does McCain and his staffers live on? Nice try McCain. You've underestimated the intelligence of the american people and you will lose the election because of it.

I APPLAUD YOUR HONEST MRS WITTMAN. I AM GETTING SICK TO MY STOMACH WATCHING EVERY REPUBLICAN SPIN & SPIN WHEN ASKED ABOUT PALINS EXPERIENCE. THEY ALL HAVE THE SAME ANSWER, "WELL NOBODY ASKED ABOUT OBAMA'S EXPERIENCE". AS IF THEY ARE ALL PROGRAMMED.

Occasionally, a grain of truth does leak out of the RNC despite themselves. Thanks Meg!

Thank you for your candid honesty, Ms. Whitman. Obama has been vetted by the media for 10 MONTHS. Did dems cry foul?

The choice of Palin was gross negligence by McCain and now they're paying the price.

IIf you criticize the lack of real experience of Palin you are being sexist...even if you are a woman? But if you do it Obama it is all good? Hmmm, McCain and Co. may not be racists but they sure are hypocritical.

Thank you Ms. Whitman.

So if its sexist to question Palin's credentials and experience, does that make McCain a racist to question Obama's experience and credentials? Those playing politics by the old tricks are just making me sick. Please McCain and Obama camps, give the people what they want; honesty, integrity, and actual plans for approaching the nations difficult problems.

Let the media question everyone, thats their job.

Flip flopping is a GOP disease

How did this person even get into the GOP if she can't stay on message with the biggest lie...err, I mean spin....err what are we calling this hypocritical load of BS the Republicans are trying to float now?

Honestly, the GOP is just plain ridiculous concerning the press. All news media is liberal unless the GOP can dictate the talking points (as they do with FOXNews).

There are so many things declared off limits I'm beginning to feel like I'm living in the Outer Limits. Since when have candidates and their promoters been able to dictate what may be discussed and what may not be discussed in an American election?

Does CNN post anyone who isn't a liberal, you people are pathetic. How about the fact that Newsweek praised Palin's experiance in 2007 and berates it now, at least you can find that information on Drudge, which is where I am heading now for news.

Let's try to read from the prepared scripts people!!!

Its not about her being a working Mom. If she had five kids that were school age it would be no big deal. But there is an infant with severe challenges and special needs and a teen that needs attention. I don't think its sexist to wonder about this since most Dads and Moms would put their career advancement on hold during such a time. Its not because she is a working Mom–its about the status of two of her kids. I know we should focus on all the other issues she has but the reason this has come up is because of her stance on abstinence only and on outlawing abortion. We commend her family's decisions to carry these children but want to ensure our own families still have a choice.

This was wise of the McCain campaign to retract Carly Fiorina's idiotic comments. Such baseless comments would have definitely backfired on his campaign had it gone unaddressed. Sarah Palin needs to be properly vetted, and if McCain couldn't or wouldn't do it, the media has a responsibility to do so. These are very challenging times facing this country and this world. We can't afford spin, and deception politics to control the election.

Looks like someone should be fired if she doesn't even know the message. But then, is she one of those who didn't want Sarah Palin? Any idiot could see the coverage was sexist. I guess Meg Whitman is not even up to the level of an idiot, just incompetent.

she'll be removed from the campaign shortly.. just wait..

Interesting. McCain supporters are so adamant against Obama playing the "race card", yet are so quick to defend Palin with the "gender card". Could this be an example of wanting it both ways?

What kind of security clearance does Sarah have? How about the Todd? Who are these people?

Meg Whitman should perhaps have been the VP nominee for the GOP.
She seems to have good judgement and is known to be smart and capable.

And while we are investigating her, lets find out more about the ethics investigation on how she helped Tom Lamal get his job.

Is all of this really happening? And, if it is, is there anyone left who is bull-headed enough to not see through the Sarah Palin pick? And, furthermore, don't you have to wonder if McCain chose her during one of his lengendary temper tantrums after he was told he could not pick Lieberman? And, finally, is there any doubt that John McCain is secretly blaming,and hating, George W. Bush for the ruining of his political career? I mean, think about what an albatross Bush has been to McCain...for like eight years.

Okay, whose running who here? It appears the McCain camp are sending mix messages.

One minutes they crying "sexism" and the next minutes another surrogate is claiming it's NOT.

Okay ladies, WHICH is it?

Wow.... a state of constant confusion in the McCain camp. Everyone's true colors are starting to show under all the media pressure.

They are pissed at the MEDIA for calling John McCain out on the carpet regarding his "reckless" VP judgement. Bottom line.

The McCain camp is truly and completely UN-ORGANIZED. They have too many chiefs and too little indians. This speaks clearly in their "bash and trash" tactics.

Carly Fiorina is doing a huge dis service to every woman who is really having to deal with the crippling effects of sexism...people like my mother who was the first African American and first woman to work in an all white male industry, she, a single mom had to fight for years dealing with every kind of sexist racist comment and act to finally after watching less qualified white men get promoted before her, my mom is now the boss and ready to retire....so Ms. Fiorina, you are an insult to woman all over America.

This is also probably why Whitman wont go any farther in the Republican party!

I guess the next question is...who put their foot in it? Whitman for telling the truth or Fiorina for complaining?

Score one for Whitman. This is what comes from relying on level-headed business people instead of the normal shills and cronies.

This just in...redneck boyfriend proposes to pregnant daughter, all is well in Republican hypocrisy land..

In all honesty, it seems to me that the Republicans are the ones who are sexists or at the very least they are the ones who bring up the sexism claims.

Smart woman with integrity–

Whitman rises above...

Surrogates would be better served saying "sure, the road is tough – as always when breaking barriers" but instead Fiorina says "sexism"

Fiorina almost burried Hewlett Packard due to poor management skills (she has a marketing degree... not an operations or management degree) – she has NO place in economic affairs (surprisingly she's McCain's economic advisor)

Palin has a "journalism" degree... not so sure she'll make good economic decisions either.

Sounds like some people in McCain's campaign actually think for themselves, without being intimidated or pressured or threatened.

I AM COMPLETELY CONVINCED THAT IF JUDAS WERE A REPUB. AND RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT. THE REPUB WOULD SPIN HIM AS TRUSTWORTHY, LOYAL AND PATRIOTIC.

And fund a bridge to McCain's house(S)

That's because someone mentioned to the Republican camp how ridiculous they sound when they voice opposition over the press asking questions about/of Palin.

We, the people, are interviewing the candidates, in order to decide if we want to hire/elect them to run our country. WE CAN ASK THEM ANY QUESTION ON THE ISSUES WE THINK IS RELEVANT TO THE JOB. Sorry for screaming. My head is hurting from some of the stupid crap that goes on in these campaigns and the screaming helps to release some of the pressure.

As I said before it not about gender no one has made a sexist remark about her. The Reps would like for Obama or Biden to say something and they will not.

Whitman is smart enough to see the writing on the wall. She can't destroy her own reputation with ridiculous daily defenses of a poorly run campaign. I really don't see how McCain found ANY women to defend his choice of a ill-qualified vp pick that supports NO women's rights whatsoever.

Wanna know why? Because Palin said the same thing about Hillary Clinton in March – she called it "whining". Who's whining now!!!

Someone need's to Vett Palin...McCain's Campaign didn't!

Two things :

1) I am surprised that people (even Anderson Cooper, my fav!) say it is sexist to question how invested Sarah Palin can be in run for VP with a family of 5, including an infant with special needs. I am a feminist, grew up in 60s-70s, but it is still REALITY that married working women with children do far more than 50% of the work at home. Statistics show that women are responsible for more like 80% of cleaning, cooking, taking kids places, parenting.

2) Kudos to Campbell Brown for pressing the issue over the weekend (interview with someone from republican party) of Sarah's executive experience. The interviewee stated that she made military decision about the Alaska National Guard. Campbell asked for an example of the decisions, and they guy continued to repeat himself, but not answering the question. It is refreshing to have a journalist press for answers and accountability for statements made. She is doing better than many journalists with far more experience!!! Go Campbell!

Has there ever been a worse campaign for President than McCain's?

Let Sarah Palin have the last word about whether it's sexism:

Palin says, "When I hear a statement like that coming from a woman candidate with any kind of perceived whine about that excess criticism or, you know, maybe a sharper microscope put on her, I think, man, that doesn’t do us any good. Women in politics, women in general wanting to progress this country. I don’t think it’s, it bodes well for her - a statement like that."

Well no one knows her, are we supposed to just say "ok McCain we trust you" and then go blindly about? Theres judgement again, I think that is exactly what McCain had hoped for.

Wanna know why? Because Palin criticized Hillary Clinton back in March for saying the same thing – she calling it "whining". Whose whining now!

Hmmm, looks like someone forgot her talking points...Lol...

Ridiculous, what a fiasco, I'm betting Palin is going to drop out.

Fiorini the woman who tanked HP-even she is more qualified!
McCain & you republican women are sounding fenatical–Fiorini, thats what we want , a woman who needed notes on what to say & how to think!

Just goes to show, Fiorina is not any better at her job with McCain than she was at HP. I really don't think Fiorina knows what she is talking about, but she loves playing the victim of sex discrimination card.

Well, at least one person in that campaign is honest. She won't last.

Why is it that the substance and position of a woman aspiring to a political office cannot be critiqued without some so called "women Mentor" screaming sexism? If you bold enough to desire political office as "President/VP" then better be ready to take the heat from the press and the public.

Carly Fiorina has no other language but "sexism"in her vocabulary to address the shortcomings. She is just a one of those "independent woman" misfits that blame their failures in life as a "sexist" witchhunt by men.

I remember HP before the aquisition of COMPAQ Computers. She headed HP as the CEO and got the company way deep in the red within 6 months with her "beautiful" adventures. Had to be booted from office, and she screamed "sexism" by the board of directors.

Nah, nah, nah, nah, nah nah, Fiorina!

McCain has effectively ruled out any argument he had in favor of Palin by already using the same argument against Obama (i.e. experience). The only other way to defend her is to try to deflect attacks by crying sexism. It is becoming increasinly obvious that Palin was picked strictly for political purposes, and not because she would make a good VP.

The GOP double standard is quite something.
Lets Dump these chumps once and for all.

McCain is a born loser and emotionally unstable.
America desreves a winning ticket, and after the last 8 years the country needs to be placed in more capable. Shooting from the hip has destroyed our presige, our honor, and our economy.

Obama is a steady hand, he has shown he can run a tight ship and raise tons of money, and he has good Christian judgement.
Obama is hands down better for America.

Guess she didn't get the McCain memo that all questions are sexist.

Wow! Some honesty! That took guts.

How long did it take for the far right-wing extremists to fire her and make sure she had a room right next to Jimmy Hoffa?

Trust? Ha! I don't think so.

Another Republican flip-flop? Figures

This is why Whitman hasn't gone farther in Republican politics–she's honest.

So someone forgot to tell Whitman that the party line is to scream sexism at every chance. Shame on her for telling the truth. You'd think she was a Democrat!!

they've always been off message...republicans think this is a game show. who has the best drama queeen and trailer thrash wins....they dont care about america, the issues and what ordinary people are going through!

it's politics as usual...sad, but john mcsame dont get it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Poor republicans!!! TO be honest now I feel that Democrats will have full power of the White House in Nov..

Sounds like the McCain campaign is not communicating with themselves. How is it that communication within their own camp is disenchanted? It doesn't make any sense. Surely, they all converse and convene in the same place. right? I think that is a valid question that the campaign should answer is whether or not they TRULY believe Palin is being treated fairly. I believe that she is.

Thank you Meg Whitman!! Reading the truth is refreshing.

There is a story on Politico that says that Noonan and Murphy got busted on a hot mic bashing PALIN!

Thank you, Meg Whitman, for refusing to buckle to the ridiculous charge of "sexism"! Finally – an honest member of the McCain camp!! Too bad she wasn't picked for VP.

So? Some people, "Ramble"... Don't we all???

I find it to be irresponsible for anyone to accuse questioning Gov. Sarah Palin's ability to be V.P. as a sexist act. These are the same people who question Sen. Obama's ability to lead the country. I would question any of the people running for that office, as president of V.P. If my questions are then answered, I would know if they are or are not qualified. Are they afraid that by questioning her, we may get answers that prove she is not qualified? If not, they then have no reason to worry about the questions.

There has been nothing sexist about this coverage. The problem is this party never believed in sexism so they don't understand the meaning of the word. It's not sexist to ask questions about her. What they think they were going to pick this stranger and no one was going to say anything. This man is an idiot.

How refreshing - a Republican who thinks for herself. Yeah!

They retracted it because it was a lie fabricated out of desperation.

you can smell the mccain campaign's desperation all the way from England

McCain should be careful! Sarah Palin might fire him and take his job!

Do I have dictionary printed in a foreign land? My dictioary says VETTED means an animal has been submited to examination. AN ANIMAL

Hahaha..this is too funny. Even McCain people does not believe in his lies and corrupt mouth.

Obama is going to win by a landslide come this November. Sorry McCain is too stupid to be a President.

Meg Whitman, another GOP woman more qualified to be VP than Palin

at list she is being honest to herself and everyone else. sometimes you have to think for yourself and not to go along with were the wind is blowing.
Bless her.

ahahahaaaa!!!

even the leading GOP women can't hide their contempt for this pick

man, if i was Fiorina or Whitman or Hutchison...i'd be madder than HILLARY!!

BWAHAHAAA!!

Don't be shocked; the hardest thing to do is stick to a lie. It requires mch more memory and additiional lies to keep it going.

Obama/Biden 08 and beyond

Apparently, McCain did a crappy job in vetting his own VP and now they are pulling the sexist card because the media wants to vett Palin.

When Newsweek was praising her experiance in 2007 and berating it in 2008 there is a bias going on. Unless you somehow get less experriance working the same job for another year.

Finally someone in my party who willing to be honest and speak her own mind. There has been no sexism in this process and it is inappropriate of the Republican Party to imply otherwise. Sexism like race is not a "card" but a shameful, sad fact of life that needs to be eradicated not "played" like a game. Lives have been forever changed and even lost over race and sexism; a few tough, but appropriate questions pale in comparison.

The sexism here is from the McCain camp: the cynical choice of Palin on the belief that Clinton supporters don't have brains and will vote based on gender and now instead of letting Palin defend herself like every other candidate who emerges on the national stage the campaign steps in and cries sexism. This whole ordeal is insulting to women and insulting to Palin.

Fiorina and the republican party want to cry sexism to pander to the Hillary voters.

It won't work . McCain should have done the proper vetting before the media. When Obama was scrutinized AND vetted by the the media, the republicans were happy. Now turn the table and they cry FOUL/SEXIST.

The republicans need to get other talking point.

LOL

Watch out there. You accidentally told the truth.

T H E--–A M E R I C A N--P E O P L E----N O T--- T H E--

M E D I A---N O R---W H I T M A N---W I L L --M A K E--–

T H A T---D E T E R M I N A T I O N---A N D--I T ' S-–N O T-–

G O I N G--–T O -–B E--A ---P R E T T Y---R E P OR T--–

F O R--–T H E--M E D I U M

How can you go off message when you've never really had one. These republicans are melting before our very eyes. And we want to put this party back in the white house?

This is truely entertaining.

Atleast one Republican thinks it's ok to expect the VP to be vetted, whether they are male or female doesn't matter. That we know EVERYTHING about the person, does. This isn't about running a household as a husband, wife, mother or father. This is about being the stand in President, or perhaps PERMANENT President of the United States of America.

Yes, we deserve to know everything about our next VP. The media has every right to investigate her 'suspicious' nature and beliefs. Her so called reform platform when she has firm and long connections to Lobbyists, 527 groups, oil and corruption. I want to know what made her support the secession of alaska from the Union. Just because there are KKK meetings in the south doesn't mean the Governor should go to them, no...it's NOT 'responsible' and expected to entertain the beliefs of nut jobs just because you are the Governor...it actually shows extremely poor judgement at the least and at worse a very anti american streak.

Is this a case of the left hand not knowing what the right hand is doing? Or just stupidity? or the Co-chair putting Fiorina in her place?

Just another layer of why I NOT be voting Republican this Nov.

Tell the truth and shame the Devil. Thank you, Meg.

I guess she didn't get the memo to say that every question about Sarah Palin is sexist.

Hummm, the campaign can't even get its own message straight,

CAN WE ALL SAY...... FLIP FLOP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

wow a republican with a conscience to tell the truth... shocking.

"It is important for the public to know that Palin raised taxes as governor, supported the Bridge to Nowhere before she opposed it, pursued pork-barrel projects as mayor, tried to ban books at the local library and thinks the war in Iraq is "a task from God." The attempts by the McCain campaign to bully (journalists) into not reporting such things are not only stupidly aggressive, but unprofessional in the extreme."

-Joe Klein, Time Magazine

Fiorina, the gender card will not work this time, fear and smear is a thing of the past.

McCain campaign is falling apart faster than you can say Alaska with the new Klondike Barbie.

bingo. just what the average american has been saying. it is not sexist to question Palin's qualifications. double speak from the mccain camp is not uncommon. they are all about double speak and it is clearly being out in the open. good.

The repubs set the trap and we dems stepped right into it. They did not complain right away because it would reduce our attack. This is going to look bad for us dems as we will be seen to run an anti-women campaign that highlights Obama's lack of experience. Repubs win this one, but not the election.

Wow, finally someone telling the truth at the GOP convention.

Maybe Meg Whitman should replace Sarah Palin!

But the right-wingers want Sarah though- you gotta appease them first.

Bottom line, Obama is all words no action.

McCain is a proven leader.

Enough said.

The McCain camp has brought these troubles upon themselves. I'd like to see them fight their way out of this wet paper bag.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

She must be a democratic spy or had some democratic pie for lunch or she has a new job already. You decide.

Another indication that McLoss has no control and that even with talking points, truth is truth.

Oh man....Meg didn't get the memo.

I actually liked this woman when she took over eBay but the purchase of Skype and the alienation of the seller base really turned her legacy south.

They're right...nothing the media or Obama/Biden have said that is sexist!

Good Answer. Michelle Obama has been vetted by the media and she is not even running. WHY should this candidate be treated with satin gloves. Isn't if sexist to NOT subject her to the same rigors as her male counterparts?

She is an unknown so this will be especially invasive since we have less than 2 months to get to know her. I would imagine that the McCain campaign has prepared her for this.

Meg will be fired today.

Revealing. Also revealing to hear Repub strategists caught on an open mic saying this election "is over" because of this "cynical" pick.

This is the woman that destroyed HP the stock went down 50%. She has her own scandle bussines to deal with.

First decision that McCain made as presidential nominee, and it was the biggest blunder. Palin was in the Independence Party in Alaska – a party that wanted Alaska to SUCCEED