CNN

What the heck are you talking about, Gergen? She will connect with people in the suburbs (and perhaps even in the cities). She appears to be a compelling figure, confident and secure in her skin.

I’m a former Hillary supporter; I think Sarah Palin is a refreshing change from the facade most politicians use to mask their agendas. She laid herself on the line tonight and allowed the audience and viewers to judge for themselves if she was worthy of their votes. I admire her tenacity and strength of character as evidenced by her handling of personal life crises and being thrust into a presidential campaign. She exhibited the ability to handle the job. I look forward to watching Palin and Biden debate.

Oh, and Mr. Gergen, I live in an upscale gated community in the county. I usually vote Democratic, but I’ve been known to, horrors, vote Republican if they were the better candidate. I wish political journalists would step outside their own perimeters and stop trying to fit everyone into preconceived slots.

. There was not the slightest bit of bi-partisanship in Palin's speech, which clearly followed the hateful RNC/Rovian playbook. The fact remains that this country is a mess ... I didn't hear one suggestion last night to indicate that Palin has answers to the most daunting issues facing all of us.

She will not win votes.

Arrogant, pompous and immature. That is what comes to mind after watching her speech. She is clearly not ready to lead. Does she even have a plan? I think she just found out what the Vp does yesterday.

Sarah Palin looks to me like she could have been something, she could have been somebody but she just made the biggest mistake of her political career – yielding to the negative politics of the past.

I am a suburban woman and I find her o be an uneducated repulsive woman

You liberals, running scared! America is falling in love with Palin, and it is driving you nuts!

WOW! What a plastic pit bull. The teleprompter had words for her to read from. She did not write that speech. It was written to say what mccain wishes he could say. mccain has no backbone though. if he did he would have picked lieberman or ridge, but he doesn't have say over his own campaign. the scary right wing evangelicals have all of the say. Maverick? I think not. These two make a great pair a senile old man and a aged beauty queen. real substance.

Though small town and suburbia are not exactly alike, i believe that she will hit it both ways. Small town woman with pit bull like attitudes can make it work, you don't find that mixture often in politicians.
I believe she's ready, and makes a good candidate for John. I have seen her work up here personally, you would be amazed.

Who would you rather have to a dinner party: Sarah Palin or Michelle Obama? I think there is your surburban answer and I don't think it's Palin. I don't think most people would have a problem having either the Bidens or the Obamas into their home, if only because they would put their host at ease; they'd feel awkward with McCain but feel he was a distinguished man and feel proud but drained by the time it finished; but Palin ...

The dumb american pitbull style which appeals to many rural people is hated all over the world. It works to win elections in uneducated areas but world leadership based on american pitbull philosophy will never work.

PALIN IS JUST PLAIN MEAN AS SKUNK SCENT.

I find it interesting that so-called "Christians" with their values and morals denigrate a man for being a community organizer. The job involves helping the poor and downtrodden. You know, what Christians are actually supposed to be doing instead of hating gays and counting their millions.

It made my stomach turn. Barack Obama has been nothing but a gentleman throughout the campaign and seems to have lived a life of relative virtue, deciding to do the right thing instead of the easy, lucrative thing. Heck, if I graduated Harvard Law I can't honestly say I'd have the fortitude to turn down a Wall Street job.

I think someone needs to ask these people how they define their faith. I can't imagine that Jesus would appreciate their divisive, holier-than-thou, violent ways. That seems to be the case with Palin, who wants to tell everyone else how to run their lives but apparently can't control her own children.

I am one of those suburban voters you are all speaking about and I hadn't made up my mind about this election until just this moment. Quite frankly, I found both presidential candidates unable to capture my support over the past year. Obama has absolutely no credentials for the job and McCain seemed like a bit of a loose canon. However, Governor Palin has won this independent voter over and then some. At last, a smart, articulate and hard charging woman has come along – one who has found how to strike a balance between career and family. She appeared to be the genuine article with a take no prisoners approach to cleaning up Washington and the anti-corruption record to back it up. Obama says the country is broken and he can fix it but he never gives any real information on how. The usual democratic approach of throwing money at our problems hasn't worked in the last 60 years so why would it work now. I don't think the country is broken - Washington is broken. Unfortunately, Obama's extreme liberalism would only further divide the country and would cause the congress and senate to be hopelessly gridlocked again. At Least McCain and Palin have a good chance at being able to compromise and work across the isle to get Washington out of its perpetual state of political impotency. The fact is that most hard line Republicans are going to vote for McCain and democrats are going to vote Obama. It’s the 10 to 15 percent of us who don’t vote party but vote for the best person that is going to decide this election. Palin is showing well with us and we are the ones who will end up deciding this election.

She did not impress me at all. How could she ? She insulted any and every community activist who has ever shed blood, sweat and tears for any cause. I'm appauled. Not real work ? Tell that to the civil rights workers, women's rights workers and see what the think. She needs to go back to wolf hunting in Alaska. I hope the gloves come off for the Dems.

TO KATHLEEN,
GREAT BLOG!
THANK YOU

How can someone with a clear mind will be voting for McCain/Palin?!?
I mean America is no longer the world leader. That country is more in debt than ever, but still people support the next bush administration.
But than again it is world wide known that the majority of the american people are stubborn and very very stupid!!!!

We keep hearing that McCain served his country blablabla but why doesn't any reporter asked what kind of education the man has?!?
And than again what kind of qualification does Palin has more than Obama or Biden?!? How will she talk to world leaders other than in Alaska

KEEP ON GOING REPUB SUPPORTERS THIS IS VERY FUNNY FOR PEOPLE ALL OVER THE WORLD HAHAHAHAA and HAHAHAAAA

We keep hearing that McCain served his country blablabla but why doesn't any reporter asked what kind of education the man has?!?
And than again what kind of qualification does Palin has more than Obama or Biden?!? How will she talk to world leaders other than in Alaska? What a joke!

KEEP ON GOING REPUB SUPPORTERS, CAUSE THIS IS VERY FUNNY FOR PEOPLE ALL OVER THE WORLD HAHAHAHAA and HAHAHAAAA

As if saying McCain represents four more years of the previous administration isn't an age old political tactic? Seems like the same rhetoric that is used to unseat the incumbent party that along with empty promises of change. Obama = fluff. Palin is just calling him on it. The truth hurts, huh?

tobiasjosias, you named some very good issues that will definitely bring down the price of oil, certainly create stable jobs and help us compete in a global economy. NOT, if people vote for the reasons you listed, America is in a crisis.

I thought Palin and the rest of the RNC tonight were going to off set Obama DNC message of Change... I have followed this election with a close eye, giving both sides a chance to catch my ear. I was excited that a "county girl" could be in charge. However, I found myself confused, and mad. There was no substance!!! Ok, I know Obama has not experienced, but I did not need four hours and several speakers to tell me that.. Furthermore, I do not want to hear a governor of a state of 200,000 people, just come on stage and think Alaska politics is the pulse of the nation... Sorry McCain and Palin, no were near.... wanted to hear Issues. I want Palin to define herself. If I want to hear Obama and Dem bashing I turn to Fox. At least obama and the rest of DNC told of there view and policies.. I do not agree with most of the Dems policies, but they attempted to explain them.. They seemed to tell a story of equal ground to all parties. Tonight, the message that if you are not the right, you are wrong, and lets blame the media and the left for our problems. Come on!!! I am the person who both side is fighting to get to vote for them... Tonight did not do it for me.. I am sorry, the RNC lost me when they started this change for america Idea, you can't say that if you personally believe everything is ok.... I am disappointed tonight, and I will be turning the TV off, and change my vote for Obama......

Republicans have no answers for the problems of the people. We could see that during the last 8 years and we can see that within the Palin speech. Having no solutions they just sell hate and divisivness. And sometimes they try to copy solutions from the democrates (wind and solar and clean coal ! – heard this already better way from Obama).

Loud, angry, and mean. All talk, with nothing to back it up.

If she was a man with that speech, about 20 jerks would vote for him, the rest would ignore him or wanna kick his butt.

So, if you heard that speech and you wanna vote for her–

–the first 20 of you are jerks, the rest are sexist pigs.

I was very disappointed in Palin speech tonight. The only thing I got out of it was "she"s just like the good ole boys" Negative, mean spirited and disgraceful. ANother example of a woman letting a man use her for his own gain.

Since she describes herself as a pitbull with lipstick I say the Democrats go bust Michael Vick out of jail and let him take care of her for them. This woman is disgusting, her attacks on Obama are appalling and her entire speech failed to talk about any of the issues.

Sarah Palin had a terrific opportunity tonight–to introduce herself to us, to give us some idea in how her mind works, maybe even trot out some ideas for how she thinks the country should be. Instead, what we got was a whole series of zingers and cheap shots at Harry Reid, Obama, Biden, community organizers (!), poor folks, democrats, and even people who deign to live in big cities.

I kept thinking–what is she so angry about? Why is she so sarcastic and biting? Why is she taking out the glare of the media spotlight out on me? At first, I had some sympathy–I wanted to hear her side of it. But when she baited the media, I said to myself, "She's gonna get it! They're going to dig and dig and dig until they find something really bad, and it will bury her."

I got a sick feeling as I watched the crowd's response to Palin's speech tonight. But, the C-Span viewers who called in afterward mostly criticized her speech as disappointing because it lacked substance.

How ironic. Last night Lieberman went on and on about how important it is to rise above partisan politics. That's what would be best for our country, he said; that is putting country first. He repeated this theme over and over, and as he continued with his transparent plea, he simultaneously made personal digs at Obama. Apparently the crowd was unaware of the hypocrisy, and cheered wildly. Lieberman’s resolution of non-partisan politics was short lived. Tonight Sarah Palin continuously mocked and ridiculed Biden and Obama, including their public service, and twisted one fact after another, yet addressed few of the important issues facing our country. The venom that spewed out of her mouth was appalling. It was a mean spirited spectacle. I'm glad that Obama has not stooped to this level, and it's not because of lack of opportunities to do so. THAT is strength of character. THAT is being a leader; THAT is being a maverick, THAT is change, and makes Obama all the more appealing. I am a newcomer to the Obama camp. I admire the decency of this man and think he would help our country regain the respect it once had in this world.

I'm a basic 62 year old white american male. An Obama man myself.

I think it would be wise to start at the beginning and say that politically she's a diamond in the rough. Mayor...then Governor of Alaska...a great start. Not very many skeletons in her closet, not a lot of baggage.

Her primary disconnect, that has yet to be brought up, is that Alaskan's (for the most part), per capita, are really quite well off when compared with our lower forty-eight down here. They are not experiencing the same "widespread serious economic blows", in the same way we are. She'll have to do some touring in the lower forty-eight, and some learning, in order to get that part of it embedded into her system properly.

So far, she's become Alaska political tough. The next thing she needs to face and experience, is Washington DC tough. As vice-president she'll have the time to be able get through that process before they get a chance to eat her alive over there.

Ex-Navy I've worked for five outstanding captains. I give her an excellent leadership rating, as I do Senator Obama.

For Senator or President McCain, and the nation, as a vice-president, and from a human/public relations standpoint, she'll be a big improvement over Mr Cheney for sure. Tough...is a lot better...when it includes a little polite, civility, and diplomacy as well.

Good luck in November Republicans.

I couldn't agree more, David. My husband and I listen to you. He (my husband) says, "If Gergen says it, I believe it." Thanks for being a cool unbiased head in a crazy world.

what a horrid, empty person she is. i pray to the gods that we do not deserve her. and i agree with mistermister: i am sick of her already.

no issues, no substance !

Sara Palin is what she appears to be so far. An extreme right wing christian who puts county first, family second. I am a mother of 2 and if I had 5 children one with DS, one pregnant, there is no way I would run for the 2nd highest office in America and it is not sexist saying so. Women do have more of a connection and role to these kinds of life situations lets not delude ourselves about that. Now, if her husband is willing to be a stay at home dad power to him? But bringing up a special needs child must entail enormous time, energy and love. This also goes to McCains judgement if he really did know of this pregnancy and knowing about the baby having DS, why did he pick her when there are other more qualified more experienced woman without these problems. He was not thinking of the Palins or of County First?? He is thinking of McCain first. Folks let's all imagine for a moment, what if the Obama's had a teenage daughter who got pregnant at 16 or 17? How do you think the right would react? There would be an uproar. They would say see, democrats don't prescribe to traditional values. This is most hypocritical. It's ok for republicans daughters to be pregnant at 17, but, it would be a scandal for a democrat or an independent. Also bothering me, is during the announcement of Bristol's pregnancy, the governor said "we are so proud that Bristol CHOSE to have the baby. ok? so did Palin let her daughter choose, which would be hypocritical, or is she being forced to have this baby?? Palins speech tonight was very nasty, sarcastic, and yes as harry reid said "shrill!" It is truly sad that Cambell Brown was offended by the word shrill? I wonder if the attack on the media by the republicans really did make the pundits nervous. It shouldn't, you have every right to report news. this is after all a free country with freedom of the press remember? I am hoping tonight McCain's speech will address the issue's?? So many people out here are hurting? And lastly, everyone seems to be addressing McCains health saying he had cancer twice. I read and maybe someone can confirm this that McCains father and Grandfather both died of sudden heart attacks at younger ages then McCain is now? has anyone else heard this because if true and he is elected that is pause for CONCERN?

Palin can't control her daughter, she was running around screwing until she get pregnant now she want to be the VP of this country

Mrs. Palin, didnot refer to Sen. Obama as a person only as our opponent! She is supposed to be a person of moral value. Not evident! Angry woman. Is that what the country needs? She is not in agreement with universal healthcare. No sex ed in schools, {Teenagers will use self control} Lives on another planet? Find her arrogant and a know-it-all! Out of the mouth the heart speaketh!

Where is my comment? Please at least send me a copy to my email address. Thank you.

She won't if those suburban women watch and like the show "Housewives", they tend to be independent, open-minded and certainly more inclusive than Palin's views.

I am not a fan of the Republicans. I generally vote Libertarian but I am leaning toward Nader this time because he is the closest thing to honest person running. Nonetheless, I think that the Republicans might have struck gold with Palin.

I work with suburban middle-income families all the time as a high school coach. I think this speech will sell big time to moms who do not identify with political parties and in the past have been more or less uninterested in politics.

She connected on so many levels with people on issues that don't typically get talked about in traditional political discourse. She has a special needs kid. She worked on the PTA. Her husband is a union guy. She hunts. She has a kid in the military. She is attractive, well-spoken, funny. This lady is like the perfect political Mrs. Frankenstein.

Sure, the political die-hards (and people who make comments on CNN.com) might not care about special needs kids and hunting, but most voters don't study the history of the Russian-Georgian conflict or the details of health care policy. They go home to a kid with autism and could care less about drilling in ANWR.

I don't agree with Sarah Palin on a lot of issues, but I think this was the most effective speech of either convention, with John Kerry and Hillary Clinton getting the silver and bronze respectively. I have a feeling we are going to see Mrs. Palin quite a bit. She is the next GOP rock star.

just looking at a map of the united states of america. there"s a lot of small towns across this land. just think,,this could be a small town election this year

I THINK BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA CAMPAIGN R IN A DEEP,DEEP TROUBLE RIGHTNOW.

NO WAY! NO HOW! NOBAMA!

Of course she will appeal to suburban america. I am from the suburbs and people here can relate to all that Sarah Palin went through raising kids, athletic background, working parents, etc. For the first time in my voting years, I am so enthusiastic about this particular election. I am glued to the TV set everytime Sarah Palin is speaking. The Democrats really have something to worry about this year. Obama made a mistake when he didn't choose Hilary and I am not a Hilary supporter.

Which suburbs do you live in? She will make a difference in all of the swing states and you will be in shock just like you were in 2004.

Denial is an ugly shield of the truth!!

Well, here's what it is for me: I'm a Hillary supporter who has checked out McCain/Palin as much as any citizen can at this point. And you know, the media and the out of control Obama supporters online have decided for me: I feel safer with McCain. I don't feel safe with a wuss who can't and won't apologize to Geraldine Ferrarro. I don't think the economy is ailling enough to justify BHO's vast new spending spree, and I prefer Grandpa and the Barracuda's reform and cuts to increases in taxes. I don't support helping to bail out people who bought 10x more of a house than they could afford. And let me tell you something Gergen: tell KeithO and Mr. Middle Leg Thrill to just keep it up (& tell David Axelrod we know the campaign is behind the smearing of Palin). Tell them all I like MY OBAMA better. She's prettier and actually knows how to execute a job and make decisions fast. How long did that Georgia position take to finalize with the 350 advisors, by the way? Hehehe

NO WAY! NO HOW! NOBAMA!

MCCAIN/SARAH 08!
HILLARY 12!

I don't think she will, especially if she's just going to continue her tirade and not talk about real issues.

Palin shows that she is as sophmoric as they come. When she should speak and show intelligence, she resorts to base tactics often used by the bully on the school playground. I have seen this often, as a teacher. The bully who calls names and stirrs up things with quips and sarcasm is the student with low intelligence and self esteem. She is not VP material, and will hurt our national image throughout the world.

I thought the speech was mean and nasty. To attack community organizers is as low as it gets. I can't imagine that this woman will go well with the majority of American people (not the old white people at the convention)!!!

Amazing to watch the media elites fall over themselves praising this petty, mean-spirited and hollow woman smirk her way through a VP speech. What does she offer America besides platitudes? I can't believe that Americans will fall for her fundamentalist bitterness, but we'll see. The GOP delusion that she is some kind of Reagan is amazing.

Sarah Palin would do well to stay at home to take care of her infant son with Downs and her unwed pregnant daughter. That is what Family Values are all about. What total hypocracy she has demonstrated.

Alison- I have been to Costa Rica not a bad place. It is funny how during every election you hear that "If (Insert republican candidate name here) wins I am leaving the country".

Regards,

Tony

Mocking community organizers is a disgrace. It shows that she is out of touch with ordinary working people facing the today's challenges. I think sure, the speech was well crafted but had no substance about the issues, how we are going to lift this country, how we are going to improve the economy, etc. It is extremely irresponsible to mock the achievements of others for personal political gain.

NO from this suburban household. I was very disappointed in her speech. I am left with a lot of data on what the Democrats are doing wrong, yet nothing new on what the Republican plan is to make things right.

I thought many of her remarks were very divisive, and sarcastic- meant to pit the rural voters against the urban and the suburban. It sure put a new spin on their whole “Country First” moto- do they intend to put our * entire* country first, or just her rural, country base? I want a leader who unites the entire nation, and not divides. She is not it.

Mean, racist, and sexist...ah the Grand Old Party at work.

Who wrote her speech? Karl Rove or Dick Cheney?

I think its also important to contrast the nasty, smug, and sarcastic tone of her speech with the level of discourse coming from Obama and Biden. The Dem ticket seeks to unite and be positive, McCain/Palin are again (like Bush) seeking to divide the country for political gain.

you can be dismissive but she is a stong woman and she is not going down or going away.

Dear Mr Gergen,
A pure speech to the party base and faithful nothing else.
The USA,USA,USA chant and country first headline and the constant POW stories, War veteran, patriotism banging as equalling Presidential skill, judgement and experience are music to the ears of Republican minded voters, but a touch invalid.
The economy, taxes, energy, ( total lack of any social welfare commentary or policy) are more of the same Bush ideas from both Palin and McCain. They seriously miss out on the current increasing number of younger voters, education concerns and any realistic foreign policy/diplomacy (again the latter not seriously mentioned).
Republicans want international power , respect and strength but only by Military supremacy, that is Republican diplomacy.
That is why the rest of the world wants Obama to win. The so called war on terror is a guerilla type war, and history proves those are never really won until you negotiate with the other side which Bush and McCain+ Palin will not do.Terrorists are growing in numbers and staying in Iraq will only exacerbate that problem. A military so called victory is only 1/10th, the aftermath and subsequent results determine real Victory and that comes from diplomacy which often gets it wrong as well.. In what is now Iraq In the 1930's the Brits got it wrong and USA is falling into the same trap.
My view for what it is worth is the "change" that Obama might pull off is the lesser risk than the "sovreign state" rights and policy of USA, USA, USA, country first ( they mean 2nd, 3rd and last as well) of Republicans In todays global world. The isolationism that implies is appalling, and watch America decline as did the British Empire only much more quickly.
Regards,
Hodgson.

David, I have the utmost respect for you over any other pundit (I do love AC tho!) Your analysis are always almost perfect as you have the ability to see both sides extremely effectively. What I am furious most is her putting down 'community organizers' and her negativity. How is she going to win over moderate or liberal Indies?

Like most all "politicians," she's a LOT of hot air and no substance – the thought of her being a heartbeat away from the presidency is terrifying.

I don't think she'll appeal to suburban women, unless they're very Conservative. Her speech was only for the base, it was very mean and the tone was very off-putting. America doesn't know enough about her for her first introduction to us to be so very mean spirited. Who mocks community organizers? They work with our churches to feed people and get them jobs.

Nor do I see how any Independents would be attracted to this speech. It has no specifics or anything positive about their party and their message and how they intended to fix the country. Not the least of which is the Constitution, which is very important to most Independents I know and yet she was mocking it. Big mistake.

Did anyone else catch that fact that Palin's husband is an Oilman? You really want another person with ties to Big Oil in the whitehouse? And why did the republicans (Palin especially) bash obama about raising taxes?

The fact that he will LOWER taxes for 95% of the country is the democrats major speaking point! Did Palin not watch the Democratic convention??

I think she did great, she stood up and played ball with the big boys! She is a strong woman, and that scares all of you in the left.... look out there is a new woman coming to Washington, and she's going to shake up this town!

PALIN was a total winner and I'll say that the average North American voters are 'Total idiots', always! Hillary was our next best bet but you bunch of idiots go for the "trendy' / groupy! Obama so you'll fit in the crowd! Losers!

All republicans has to offer is abuse,war and economic downturn.But i will be surprised if American people fall for it.Abuse doesnt bring back the jobs,it doesnt solve healthcare and education.American people are wiser than that.Nice try though.
OBAMA/BIDEN 08 TICKET WITH FOCUS

Voters will send this hick back to the sticks of Alaska. She is more of the same kind of Republican we have had for eight years, nasty, snide, sarcastic, rigid, small minded, under educated and just plain wrong about the issues – which by the way she barely mentioned. Her entire speech was a shrill attack ad. No wonder McCain picked her – she is just like him – negative and mean – certainly not inspirational.

I see Palin's appeal as more psychographic than demographic. Intelligent, sensitive people were perhaps entertained and sympathetic. (I thought it was a great speech!) But it was all fluff and swagger. People who are taken in by swagger will buy it hook line and sinker. These people are in suburbia too (although much fewer in urban areas). And I imagine there are people in small town and rural America who will also not be taken in (but maybe not that many).

I've implied people taken in by her speech are stupid, and here are a couple points on that. Palin talked about cleaning up Washington. Who messed it up? Republicans over the last 8 years. Which is her party? And she talks about change? Did Republicans favor change before Obama made it a winning message? This is just at the top level. We could go on to debunk most of the claims she made.

you are an idiot!

This group of Democrats will now support Sarah Palin.

What a phenomenal woman!

Dear Gov. Palin. You can't have representation without taxation. I heard, cut taxes, save jobs, and drill, drill, drill. Was that a 2% tax increase I saw in Wasilla during your tour as Mayor? Do you, or any other conservative base Republican realize that if we continue to Drill, Drill, Drill, there will be no more snow in Alaska for Todd to ride his gas guzzling, air polluting, snow machine on, because, let's face it (and not that you're willing to admit it), oil, gas, and coal are causing this little mess called, Global Warming. You promote cutting taxes. For who? We cut taxes, finance a war and rebuilding in Iraq, increase our national debt to over $9 Trillion (that TRILLION), and sell this debt to the Chinese. But that's okay. Cause we're giving them all our jobs also, so they can certainly afford it.

No she will not appeal to suburban America. She will appeal to the hockey sticks.

A Mormon, a transvestite, a Democrat and a hockey mom walk into a bar. . . .!!? Are you kidding me? What a joke! This is the best the Republican party has to offer? Though, compared with the first three, no wonder Republicans are ecstatic about Sarah Palin. If you were paying attention to the men in the crowd at the RNC the night John McCain announced her as his choice, though, they were confused and displeased. I have no doubt they'll drink the Kool-Aid rather than vote for a Democrat. Hey, guys, there's always Nader. And any Hillary supporters who would vote for McCain because of Sarah Palin, shame on you! How dare you insult her like that?

Undoubtedly Ms. Palin will have some measure of appeal in suburban America (specifically with the somewhat sizable segment of unhappy females Hillary supporters who voted for her primarily based on gender). As a former Hillary supporter (because of her positions – and admittedly also because of President Clinton), Ms. Palin has limited appeal to me.

Obama was on the streets in Big City America actually helping people while McCain was having lunch with a lobbyist and Palin was dressing out a Moose.

End of story

Unfortunately, I believe it will play very well in all the places the Republicans must have to win. Her target population will respond quite well to her "down home" small town charm and she will play well in the suburbs which are run by the PTA, soccer/hockey moms who are frustrated by the lack of a female political voice. I can't believe we are going to be allowed to watch all this unfold before us free of charge. I would pay to watch the next 60 some days. I am curious about one aspect of CNN's coverage: every 90 seconds a little flag appeared on the bottom of the TV screen reminding all of us about McCain's bouts with skin cancer. However, I have not heard nor seen a word about Biden's brain cancer. By the way, Joe doesn't wear lipstick to my knowledge, but he is ever much the pit bull as Ms. Sarah.

I think by the reactions so far it's clear who reads CNN.

Now we know why she's called Sarah Barracuda... She fights dirty!

Saucy, yes, but smug and arrogant and sarcastic. Said nothing about issues that are important to all of us, but lots of cheap shots that were personal and nasty. She delivered her speech well, though it was obviously written by others... something she learned when she was a TV sports announcer. And VERY misleading about her background in Alaska politics.

I strongly sense that this lady is really no "lady" in the finer sense of the word, and can't wait to see that smirky expression wiped off her face in a real debate.

Its the ISSUES stupid!

I thought CNN did a great job, and most analysts on all of the networks thought Sarah Palin did a good job for what she needed to achieve for her party, it doesn't mean they agree with what she said.

David, I have occasionally voted for a Republican, but this time I will vote for Obama. I think Palin is intriguing but much too conservative and militant for my taste, but it was quite a rip-roaring speech, kind of fun, but also made me cringe at some of her more sarcastic remarks about Obama. She will be a Republican star but I'm tired of the "culture wars", so that kind of hyped up rhetoric doesn't appeal to me at all. This country needs to become less divided and angry, not more.

Shella, what are you talking about, that Palin doesn't have any experience? She's got more executive experience than Obama, Biden, and McCain put together! She's had to make actual decision without the luxury of being able to vote "present." Her decisions not only affect the residents of Alaska, but also the entire country in the way of our domestic oil supply.

And to those who think she'll cry Sexism when the Dems come back on her, she's never played the sexist card in her entire career, so I don't think she'll start now.

democrates are just as rude.....Sara was great....she said so much that other people would have loved to say but didn't have the guts...she is the average American woman ...we are very impressed with her.. most moms are like pitbulls....

As a disable veteran who lost his eyesight while fighting for this country, I have a few things to say about tonight:

1.) I heard a lot about how we should be proud of our troops and the great service they have done and are doing, but I heard nothing about what Palin is going to do for me or for them when they are no longer fighting. In fact, I heard no real substance at all. What about the economy? What about a realistic way to lower gas prices right now? What about the price of groceries? What about how they are going to keep people in their homes?

2.) Campbell Brown was accused of being too harsh on Palin yesterday. Today, she is defending her because someone used the word "shrill." I have always admired CNN for being non partisan, but I questioned that tonight. No one wanted to talk about how harsh the speakers were on Obama and his wife. I just had to wonder if the speakers hadn't mentioned how bias the media was being so many times, would the narrative been different?

3.) If McCain happens to win, is Palin going to sell AF1 on ebay?

I think she is a voice for the exterm right. I think she is a very ugly person.

SARAH PALIN IS DICK CHENEY WITH LIPSTICK!!! Can't wait for the 3rd day of the klan convention tomorrow. Can't wait for McFear to tell me who I should be afraid of and why he'll protect my scared butt. The fearful right have nothing left. Game over. Sarah Palin. Just Dick Cheney with lipstick.

Sarah Bell, Cleveland, OH.

Short answer – Yes! At least to those of us who don't vote on single issue topics. This working suburban mother appreciates Palin's strong, independent nature. She is what all feminist should strive to be. We may not agree on every single issue, but women every where should be free to choose their path. We can have it all and Sarah Palin has shown that is possible. As far as people thinking she is a bit sarcastic, perhaps some need a little thicker skin.

I live in the suburbs, and I'm a supporter. I have never voted Republican in my life, but I will in November. Gov. Palin was very effective at poking holes in Obama's charade of lies and deception. By the way, I am not alone. In my neighborhood, I know of several McCain supporters and only one or two Obama supporters. And it's a racially mixed suburb, with many black voters voting for McCain. I'm excited about November. MCCAIN/PALIN '08!

I mean.. I have to wonder does she appeal to small town voters.. heck any voters.. I'm sure McCain's camp are already calling families in small towns that will let Palin stand on the back of their pickup truck in front of their home and give her next speech..

Obama's first executive decision: Joe Biden, Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, and chief negotiator in the Balkans.

McCain's first executive decision: Sarah Palin. Mayor of village of 6000 with degree in journalism, and governor for 18 months of a state with lower population than Columbus, OH.

It's clear who has the judgement to be President.

rj states, "Dont you get it David, Christians and people with integrity dont care what the "popular majority" think. Abortion IS the WRONG ANSWER!"

Unfortunately for you, it's the "popular majority" that wins the election.

Granted, I live in arguably the most liberal city in the country, San Francisco, but I am absolutely at a loss for words when thinking that this person could be just a heartbeat away from being leader of the free world. I would love to have a woman president, but I think she lacks the tact and grace that I would expect to see from someone representing our country at that level. Being a pit bull isn't the job description. Getting in Washington and shaking things up is just part of things. We need someone who can bring dignity back to the White House, and I shudder to think this is who we'd suggest.

I think there could be a great job for her in our government but not as our vice president or God forbid, our president. I think if that happened, people would wake up and ask themselves, "What have we done?"

i have a mother. I love her to death. She can't be president. Guess what, Sarah? We ALL have mothers. What makes you so special?

I don't understand the politics of Pro-Life.

If you're a Republican who advocates smaller government then why would you want the GOVERNMENT telling you what you can and cannot do with your body? Didn't God give us free will? Why do you want government to take it away?

To me it's simple. If you think abortion is a sin, then don't have one!

But please don't tell others who may not share your beliefs what to do. This is a deeply personal issue. Every child should be loved and cherished and any child whose own mother doesn't love it enough to give birth to it is actually better off not being born!

Rape victims should not have to prove that they were violated if they don't wish to feel a rapists fetus kicking them from within... Think about it!

Americans deserve choice. And they'll surely shy away from choosing those who would take that choice from them.

Palin is no Hillary Clinton folks... So don't be fooled!

I think suburban families will take to Sarah Palin, definitely. And I don't think she came off as rude or arrogant at all. Attacking in some times, yes, of course. Every convention speech (including the ones at the DNC) have negative attack spots in them. I think the majority of people here on this thread who say they can't stand Sarah Palin are pretty obviously made up their minds very strongly in favor of the democratic nominee, and just want to bring down the republican ones.

Undoubtedly Ms. Palin will have some measure of appeal in suburban America (specifically with the somewhat sizable segment of unhappy females Hillary supporters who voted for her primarily based on gender). As a former Hillary supporter (because of her positions – and admittedly also because of President Clinton), Ms. Palin has limited appeal to me.

This was disgraceful and mean spirited and frankly terrifying. This is what we are supposed to compare to the message of Obama? As a woman the more I hear and see of her and the more I find out what kind of person she is -it is more than appalling. Please do us all a favor and be sure and vett this maniac more and do your job. We do not need the female version of Bush.

I was frankly horrified at the level of just flat out hatefulness in her speech. It was really startling and off putting to me. I came away from her speech thinking this is Cheney times two, and the absolute last thing the country needs right now.

It just seems the whole convention so far has been hate, hate hate.

I wish they would talk about solutions or ideas instead of who to blame and who to hate. But I suppose if they had to talk about solutions they would be forced to admit there was a problem and it seems the whole convention is determined to pretend as if the last eight years never existed. It's the culture wars all over again. Ugh.

My hope is that she will not appeal to the majority of rural, suburban, and urban voters. In these stressful economic times, people need solutions, not divisiveness and pettiness. Her idea of governing is to further her agenda of anti-abortion, anti-gun control, and all the other neoconservatism issues, in addition to OIL, OIL, OIL- Alaskan oil, that is. What about health care, education and jobs? I am sure that there are small town voters who have concerns about these issues.
What scares me is her seemingly tendency toward abuse of her power to get rid of people who do not share or get in the way of her agenda. Above the law-sound familiar?

The lip stick bulldog will not appeal to the progressive Northern Virgina suburbans for the most part as they are educated and hurting at the gas pump, grocery store and increased bills. N. Va is the prototype that she can not reach because as Obama mentioned today, they will go at one character and not the economic ISSUES.

It is the ECONOMY Mrs. pitbull w/lip stick!

Obama/Biden/America '08

ps see you at the debates. Yup Yup!

David: Your analysis impresses me as sound. But, just imagine...if Palin doesn't attract suburban America; can you phantom the disconnect between Palin and the rest of us women who are not hockey moms? I don't believe Palin is ready to lead; although she clearly thinks otherwise.

Somewhere along the way, the media and political pundits got lost on the highway of stereotypes. Last I looked, suburbia is full of regular, hard working, honest, patriotic folks who are tired of big government and it's heavy-handed liberal policies. In fact, I suspect there are a few people in urban areas who feel the same way. It doesn't matter where you live but how you live. The liberal Democratic elite only exist as long as they can find someone to make dependent on their big-spending, no-hope, victim-perpetuating programs. I think Palin has demonstrated tonight and this past week that she is one of the top two people on a presidential ticket to lead this nation. I'm sure you can guess who I think the other one is. I'm half expecting the 2012 contest to be Palin vs. Hillary. How would that be for the history books?

First of all thanks God that she can deliver a prepared speech quite well, but honestly this lady is really frightening. her speech, except the part about her life, was absolutely pointless and without any substance, rather it was one of the nastiest speeches I’ve ever heard from a person who is running for the highest office. What did she offer as real solutions for solving the problems that are mostly created by her own party? What about health care,tax,jobs,..? What kind of unity can she promote in this divided country by mocking members of the other party? What kind of respect does she have for her opponent who strongly defended her daughter from attacks and called her children “off-limit”?

This lady hasn’t left any positive impression on me, the way she treated Obama was really inhumane .she has no character and I think she is just a divisive, low level political figure who is running for a high office which simply is not her place.

I’m so surprised that some of the so called “best political team” on CNN were excited about the fact that she is a mother and she loves her children, and she has an Infant with DS!!! Come on, this is not something unique about her, everybody loves her children. Please talk about her experience and important issues that were missing completely in her speech.

Obama/Biden= Hope, prosperity, unity, restoring American dream
McCain/Palin= hatred, fear-mongering, disunity, low-level politics, more 4 year of Bush

Please post it CNN

I do not want a Hockey Mom at a National Leader. I want a public servant that is up to the job and does not tear down her opponents for person gain. Her speech was meant to do two things: Deflect her own baggage and fire up the hard core right of her party. She did that but the substance of the words have no long term vision or hold any weight to the problems we face. She had a chance to introduce us to a new voice inside the GOP but all I heard was Karl Rove's message repackaged.

Too bad because I felt after day One the RNC did a good thing with being all about helping out in the Gulf Coast but they never miss a chance to go negative when the lights are turned on and they can abuse while they use the main stream media.

Shameful but predictable too.

Not much going on upstairs if you ask me, but hopefully you won't.

I'll go with the Harvard grad over the Idaho State grad.

I'm a suburban independent voter and Sarah Palin did not appeal to me. As many have already stated in their comments, the tone of the speech didn't sit well. I was really ready for her to provide details about her experience, fill in the glaring holes in her resume. I wasn't interested in hearing the typical insults/quips/one liners etc. I wanted her to get specific on her experience and qualifications, display some depth of knowledge on the issues. I didn't hear any of that, I'm afraid I'm not ever gonna hear it, and as a result, McCain/Palin aren't getting my vote.

I loved how Sarah Palin came out and delivered a Knockout Blow to the Degenerate Liberal Party. Notice I didn't say Democrat Party since they died out years ago and were hijacked by left wing, pro baby killing, do nothing to help the poor, hate american, live off our working Republican neighbor, and godless Party of Lefty loons.

EAT THAT SCUMBAGS!

THIS SPEECH HAD KEITH 'I WOULDN'T KNOW A FACT IF IT HIT ME OVER THE HEAD 1,000 TIMES' OLBERMANN WETTING HIS PANTS IN FEAR THAT REPUBLICANS STILL KNOW THE TRUTH AND THAT HE IS A JOKE OF A HUMAN BEING WITH THE IQ OF....A LIBERAL!

I guess tobiasjosias considers himself an expert on what women want and think, but, as a suburban woman, Sarah Palin's nasty- with-a-smile style doesn't appeal to me at all. Since John McCain seems to think he's so smart that he can run the country singlehandedly without consulting anyone but his friend, Joe Lieberman, I'll definitely be voting for Obama/Biden (the two men) in November.

After watching Palin, Romney, and Rudy. I had to take a shower to wash off all of the negativity and arrogance I was just exposed to. I can't see how any independents could have been swayed by the RNC.

Mitt Romney and Rudy Guiliani were especially mean spirited and confrontational during Wednesday night's convention speeches. Both of the speeches contained vagaries, numerous inaccuracies, personal attacks, mudslinging and hateful references to liberals. Both speeches lacked substance and offered few specifics on the issues concerning voters. Mike Huckabee's speech lacked the spiteful sarcasm of those delivered by the other two failed republican contenders, but it came off as cheesey and mundane. All of the speeches including the one delivered by Sara Palin were harsh toned and critical, launching verbal attacks at the Media, Democrats, Barack Obama and his wife, Chicago, community organizers, and liberals, among others. If this campaign was ever about compromise and civility, it was not evident this night. Pavin made an especially tasteless joke during a biblical reference to Obama's phenomenal popularity.

More nasty attacks, and some very personal mocking, this won't resonate with female voters, only white trash from woods. Watch the republicans not even get a bounce, prob a loss in polls...

Didn't even talk about issue #1,(economy) spent all their time attacking another American. Thats not gonna solve our problems

-Someone should tell her that this is a presidential process, not one of the wolf hunting from an airplane expeditions she likes to go on.

Take it from a suburban mom – NO. A girlfriend and I were at dinner tonight and interested in what she'd say. What kind of representation she'd be.

After I got home and heard her speak, I was completely turned off from her personally. I genuinely dislike everything that spewed from her mouth.

Of course politically I already knew we were worlds away. It still would have been nice to have someone to root for in heart if not on ballot.

I never thought it would have been possible for someone to make me sympathetic towards Hillary Clinton. Biden was actually my first choice, Obama my second. But Palin managed... I now have something resembling affection towards Hillary.

I think Mr.Gergen is right on the money. I do not like most conservative pundits, but Mr.Gergen is always calm and objective in his analysis. I am a career woman and mother, and find Governor Palin's sarcastic and abrasive style very offensive. I was turned off to Hillary Clinton when she got too nasty in her remarks during the primaries and I am having a similar response to Palin, with one exception: Governor Palin is not as exceptional or accomplished as Clinton, which was why Clinton was considered in the first place.

Sure you can dig up all this stuff on Sara Palin, but a saint like Joe Biden who has spent 30 years in the Senate has not a single transgression?

And Biden’s disingenuous mantra about McCain voting with Bush 90% of the time. Anyone care to count up the number of times Joe Biden voted with George Bush? Seeing as how he voted the same as McCain on virtually every vote I can research, its running near 80%

You can't even get a reasonable sampling on Obama’s US Senate votes because he has missed more votes than he has made in his 3 1/2 years and in spite of what the Democrat talking heads say, he has done nothing of consequence in the Senate.

BTW since he has been Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Sub Committee on Afghanistan since 2007, do you know how many hearings has he held????? 0-Zilch, none, nada. And he wants to send two more Combat Brigades there? Based on what?

Why don't you look at how he and Chicago’s Democratic Machine's man in the Illinois State Senate, Elim Jones, cooked the "Yes We Can” scam?

I was a strong Hillary supporter and toyed with voting for a minor candidate after she left the race, but I have gotten comfortable with McCain and was impressed with Palin.

Electing a neophyte like Obama would be as bad as or worse than when we elected the neophyte Bush 8 years ago... I can live with McCain for 4 years. Hillary will run again and McCain probably wont

Cambpel Brown didn't treat Tucker Bounds unfairly. She asked a fair question. She shouldn't feel to appease theRepublican campaign. I felt that she kind of pounced on 'the shrill and sarcastic" prematurely. Keep your cool Campbell the World is Watching.

The only thing she will appeal to is Mccain... oh yea, and the other simple minded rich jerks!!!!

What a bunch of empty rhetoric to fire up extreme right wing Republican base! Palin is on the wrong side of issues and will be an absolute disaster on McCain's VP ticket. She is arrogant and wreckless. It is mind boggling that millions of good intentioned Americans are behind her nomination. Are they out of their mind? Can't believe so many people can be gullible and brainless after what we went through in the past 8 yrs. Bush+Cheney are single handedly responsible for the deaths of 4000+ young and brave US soldiers in Iraq. McCain+Palin will continue to same belligerent war rhetoric and alienate US from rest of the world even more. God save this country!

I think that many women will relate to her haveing to juggle a family and career. However, she and Mick Romney have plenty in common and maybe she would have made him a good vp. She lies out of both sides of her mouth. The Death Tax- lets get it straight that only the one percent of the population have to pay it. The jabs about McCain is the only one who served his country because he was a pow. Would McCain be the first one to say that torture is wrong. But no, they feel that crapping on people's rights is okay as long as they're not "American". Let's not forget that people aren't country first because they do not follow the republican way. Romney and his sucker punch at Michelle Obama. Should she be proud of Jim Crow, how about lynching? She was and is proud of what many people fought for and of what American could be.

As a Ron Paul style liberterian, I would have to say a couple things.

First, I like her family style and values, with not giving into a convienence abortion of a disabled child. Lets face it, most times abortions are about the (in)convienence of the mother.

Secondly and more so, for her teenage daughter, she does not convince her to get an abortion. In other words she lives her values. She is like most families with struggles, hardships and constancy.

Now for the Ron Paul part; though she may be pro life, her party and the values of McCain Bush are certainly not. No one could be truely pro-life if not committed to all life. Even the lifes of Iraqis who have been so utterly destroyed by this senseless war, her party has gotten us into.

I agree with Ron Paul, we need to respect all life if we claim to be pro life, and being pro war is never pro life. For that reason, I would not vote for her or McCain.

Some very thoughtful comments (at least as of the time I posted this).

I have heard nothing but a complete attempt to divide our country even further from this Republican convention. Yes, I expect each party to agressively confront each other over the issues, but the right-wing approach this convention has rapidly decended into is just more of the same old garbage.

You will never convince me these two are going to fix the mess their party created, hell, they caved in to that group within the first 2 days of this charade.

This country will fail in our lifetimes if this keeps up . . .WAKE UP!

I'm a middle aged white woman that lives in a conservative suburb. I was astounded at how negative and mean this woman is and how she's served up her family on a platter. The last straw was turning the baby around to show the audience as if the little guy was a McCain sign! That really turned me off. If this plays well in small towns and cities, the true dumbing down of America will be complete. It was totally offensive.

More nasty attacks, and some very personal mocking, this won't resonate with female voters, only white trash from woods. Watch the republicans not even get a bounce, prob a loss in polls...

Didn't even talk about issue #1,(economy) spent all their time attacking another American. Thats not gonna solve our problems

-Someone should tell her that this is a presidential process, not one of the wolf hunting from an airplane expeditions she likes to go on.

Republicans have nobody to blame but themselves for the past 8 years, and a lot of people are suffering because of their lack of leadership( except the rich of course) but to attack people and be flat out rude about it was disgusting. Mccain and Palin are not even worth the dirt under Obama's shoes.

I am listening to a replay of the speech as I write. I have been waiting for all those attacks on personal character and rudeness, that I've heard about.

Don't hear it.

I do hear biting criticism about qualifications, policies, ideology...
(What, is Obama's resume off limits for criticism)?

Lots of praise for McCain.

Heartwarming stories... a bit too much of that.

No, this is not a speech for suburbia, but it's not supposed to be.

I'm an Alaska, and when the truth gets out about Palin, she will sink the Republicans. She is not an innocent do-gooder. She is under legislative investigation in Alaska for using her power illegally to fire the State Comissioner of Public Safety who would not bow to her pressure to fire a state trooper who Palin's sister was in a divorce custody battle with. The Comissioner, Walt Monegan, former Chief of Police of Anchorage, said he would die for Sarah Palin, but he would not lie for her. So what does Sarah do, now that this is entering in the limelight? She filed an ethics complaint against herself, hoping it would move it to the ethics panel, a 3 person panel SHE APPOINTED. She has hired an attorney and the attorney has tried to squash the independent legislative investigation. How's that for sweet small town beauty queen behavior? Her talons run deep, don't let the sweet smile deceive you. I say impeach her for flagrant misuse of her gubernatorial power, and then trying to conceal her wrongdoings and thwart an independent investigation. She's as stinky as Ted Stevens!

The republicans can keep playing the same old divisive politics of Bush because they don't have any ideas on helping turn this country around. They can't claim credit for the last eight years because nothing was accomplished!

This is the person John McCain thinks should be a heartbeat away from the Presidency of the U.S.?

It would be funny if this were some kind of parody or send-up of U.S. politics (like 'Wag the Dog' or 'Bulworth')...but McCain is serious.

For McCain to pick Palin, and after watching her tonight I feel even more strongly about this, is an insult to women, to voters, to basically all Americans.

By the time November rolls around, it's going to look like a landslide for Obama.

the problem is this what is this day 2 or 3 and not one word from sara palin about the republican partys achevements over the last 8 years . so they show no accountability how arrogant can a party be . and not one new policy to take this country forward . FOR GOD SAKE MEDIA DO YA JOB HOLD THE REPUBS ACOUNTABLE FOR THE LAST EAIGHT YEARS . AT LEAST ASK THEM TO LIST THE GRAT THINGS THEY HAVE DONE . ASK THEM TO EXPLAIN THE EC ONOMY WOULD YOU AND WHATS THEIR PRESCRIPTION TO FIX IT . NOT JUST THE SAME OLD MANTRA OF TAX CUTS , TAX CUTS ITS A TIRED OLD LINE THEY DRAG OUT . CAN THEY EXPLAIN HOW WE CAN CONTIMNUE THESE WARS WITH OUT PAYING FOR THEM WERE 10 TRILLION IN DEBT BECOUSE OF CLOWNS LIKE MISS PALIN AND THE GOP . COME ON MEDIA ITS NOT FAIR ON THE PEOPLE PLEASE DO YA JOB THANKS .

THE REPUBLICANS STILL COULD'T FILL THE HALL. THE QUESTION THAT IS MORE TO THE POINT IS – CAN THE REPUBLICANS GOVERN? THE PAST EIGHT YEARS DO NOT INSPIRE CONFIDENCE.

Palin's touted as being an expert on oil and gas. So is Dick Cheney. Over the last 8 years we've seen attack and attack on the environment while at the same time a huge increase in oil prices. Enough of this expertise! Count this Arizonan as firmly against McCain.

Palin laughs at derogatory comment aimed at her rival, Lyda Green. Lyda Green is a cancer survivor and a radio host called her a cancer and a b#@*&. Very, very disappointing.

GOP is trying to get a piece of the change pie.

But can someone tell me how reading a speech written by Bush's writer is change?

I'm a registered independent, a woman, I consider myself a Moderate–and after this week, I realize that there is no place for me in the republican party.

And as a community organizer, I have to ask, what is wrong with working with the community? I've helped teens after school, walked neighborhood beats, and organized events to raise money for neighborhood projects, amongst other things. With my church we organized Bake Sales to raise money for the Homeless. Why did they attack us>

Ahh! The good news is that she welcomes the fight.

Indeed, she is someone who will stand toe-to-toe with Biden in a debate. It would be a terrible mistake for Biden to approach this woman from a position of empathy; she has instigated a fight with the media (who doesn't really know her), she presents a disdain for Barack and his life's journey. And she seems prepared to promulgate lies, (particularly about taxing the poor), typical of Republican politicians.

Palin wants to prove she is tough and has come ready to fight. She should not be disappointed.

Biden has to, "take it to her" because she is not only asking for it, she wants it.

Palin has officially fired-up the Democratic base and as we thank her, we shall proceed to "squash" her.

The fight for the presidency is ON!

She sounded like a regular republican to me. Always putting your opponent down while beefing up their party while carrying around lots of corruption and misconduct. They are usually good people they just don't wear it well.

I have been a dedicated libertarian since the Bush administration began, thus, always choosing far left or somewhere nearby. I got to thinking about our two choices on the Presidential ticket, and was in the middle. Behind all of the media, which really does ruin reality and constructiveness for both candidates, I had a mutual respect for both of their point of views on health care, economy, and a cleaner environment. I felt that Palin's entrance into the race was a big hit for the Republican's. It's amazing to see a woman on the ticket as VP!! WOW!! However, after tonights speech, what a joke! She didn't even try!!! This isn't 6th grade! The Republican party is just riding on the wave of Hillary Clinton. They are hoping all of those Clinton supporters, just wanted a woman in office, regardless of party lines. Palin didn't prove anything about herself. I don't care about her family and how she was a governor. I care about what she can and will do for this country. I believe she feels that the Hillary Clinton phenomena is enough to get her into office. Better think again sister!

Please, America, this is not about suburbia and not even only about America, it´ s about world issues and millions of lives.You cannot possibly think of putting Sarah Palin in charge of world politics.
Bush has antagonized everyone including his allies and now the Republicans come up with someone who would be even more of a danger to some peace and intelligence and goodwill on this earth?
I heard she´s been abroad only once and that in Kuwait and just hope it isn´t true.She seems a totally prejudiced sort of person and her speech was simply nasty the way a high school queen might get nasty with opponents.I can tell you, from Europe, that almost all of Europe is eagerly waiting for the end of the Bush era that has split the world.We are in this economically and politically with you but we don´t have a vote. I´m afraid for my children´s future. We´re looking for some wisdom, some respect of other creeds and races, some statesmanship, for an end to recession that has spread to Europe already.Please, Americans,it´s in your hands now to make the world a safer and not a worse place full of antagonism and selfishness and war.You cannot honestly think of putting this provincial lady with her antedeluvian beliefs on top of the world.If McCain thought of anyone except himself and his victory he wouldn´t have picked her.

Michelle Obama had so much more grace and heart than Palin. Palin seemed like a guest that is pushy and looks in your refrigerator and laughs when hurt happends to another. That's it. She went too low and crossed a line.. and that made her not seem trustworthy or very kind on an instinctive level. I'm not sure how it will play out. But it did not impress me. And she could have. Even when i don't agree with something I can recognise beauty. Tear down this wall. That was beauty. what palin did tonight was not beauty. It felt ugly.

This is the greatest time so far this election! The left is in disarray and the media is in a mad scramble. It will be even more glorious to watch a mom from Wasilla, Alaska wipe the floor with big bad Joe Biden. The election took a turn for the worst for the Democrats.

Long Live Freedom.
McCain/Palin '08

thegreatamericablog.blogspot.com

I really appreciate the optimism here (it's clear that this is a liberal's hangout) ... but let's be honest – Palin showed that us Dems are in real trouble. Will she appeal to suburbanites? ABSOLUTELY YES!!! Those of us who were already voting Obama can bash her all we want. But, they need to realize that this was a "base" speech (not meant to swing any voters). And, I have to admit that she hit it out of the park tonight. Palin's just getting started & Obama/Biden are going to have trouble.

We don"t have much of what you'd call suburbs, but even here in Alaska there are areas where she is not as wildly popular as reports seem to indicate. She has often seemed combative just for the sake of distinguishing herself as a "reformer" and she has left a lot of broken promises and angry people along the way.

I have fought for women's rights, paid for my own education (which goes beyond Mrs. Palin's B.A., thank you), and fought for respect in a male dominated field. I did so with dignity, without playing the gender card.

She is a puppet who didn't write her own speech. Drop the gender card and speak for yourself. She could have told us ONE plan, ONE thing she stood for, ONE reason we should have confidence in her, but she just wasted her time and ours poorly attacking.

And stop playing the hockey-mom because I DON'T CARE. So, she is just like every other woman – How is that a selling point? I am not looking for AVERAGE. What will you do for my country? She cleaned house in Alaska, firing anyone who disagreed with her, but she can't fire elected officials and foreign leaders. She needs to learn to tact and diplomacy since she will need to work with others. We are one nation of many in the world and I don't want her speaking on our behalf.

I am so sick of Republicans trying to RULE the nation by FEAR and DIVISIVENESS. I want my country back.

I McCan't stand another 4 years.

I practice law at a conservative large law firm in a very conservative state. Some of the partners today stated that their republican wives have decided to vote Obama because of Palin. Some of my colleagues who supported Hillary Clinton are insulted by McCain's pick of Palin. They don't relate to her. McCain may have brought some of the base back in but he sure pushed a lot of other folks out.

I think your comments are biased. You are already expecting her to fail...or hoping she will. As a voter with one foot in the small rural community and one foot in urbania, I can already tell you, I think AMERICA is ready for someone to give Obamason a good kick in the pants. He has been a media darling throughout the entire campaign. He's a racist...he's elitist...he's not done ANYTHING to tell me he is ready to lead. Good speaker...indeed. Lots of hot air, but no track record of change to be had. I think you are all underestimating the urbanites. Kindly note, not ALL urban cities vote to the left.

Indeed a shrill of garbage from a trashy pitbull.

"I could hardly stand listening to her, as she attacked Senators Obama and Biden. "

I agree, Alison. You know, at the very least she could have shown a little respect for the fact that Senator Obama stood up for her family's privacy this week. Even when they go after his policies, the Dems frequently say they respect Senator McCain's service to our country. There's just no respect being shown at the GOP convention. What a great bunch of Christians packed in that room!

Mr. Gergen:

By the way: Bloggers attack CNN because many of their personnel is
lauding SARAH PALIN. They forget that these persons are normally Democratic leaning !

This demonstrate the effectiviness of Palins performance !!

Tibor

Sarah Palin did nothing more tonight than demonstrate two things: it takes absolutely no vision or leadership to be a "pit bull", and when you have nothing of substantial value to offer, sling falsehoods and insults. Palin's speech was 30 minutes of her spewing sarcasm and proof positive that nothing in the McCain/Palin ticket represents anything resembling change or reform. Tonight–the group that spent millions criticizing Obama for no substance–chose to spend their prime time with no mention of health care, no mention of education, no mention of inflation or the housing crisis, no mention of the declining treatment of veterans returning from war, no mention of Afghanistan and the growing destabilization in Pakistan, no meaningful discussion of Iraq outside the same old vitriolic language that has come out of the McCain campaign for months. It was just several long hours of attacks and insults and mockery and outright lies about Obama's policies plus the telling and retelling and retelling yet again of McCain's horrendous experiences as a POW. This ticket is nothing new–it's just Karl Rove in a new year. One thing they said tonight was right: the stakes are way, way too high for this kind of campaigning. And I believe people in rural America AND suburban America–especially those losing their sons and daughters in a needless $10 billion a month war or those who can't afford to go to the doctor or those making minimum wage with no hope for financial security or those whose jobs have been outsourced–will see that, as well. Where is the integrity of the Republican party? What happened to their conscience?

I listened to Sara Palin's speech and felt the Deja Vu of listening to George Bush – demeaning the good works and sensitivity of men who have either spent their lives striving to improve their communities or their productive years to date doing so. Why make pejorative comments about community service? What is the point? What does this woman even know of John McCain, what can she offer the administration. She spent five minutes introducing her clan and then
clearly read the Rovian prepared speech.
It was not such a beautiful thing watching that white homogeneous crowd shreik and chant...reminded me of another country and time not too long ago.

I am amazed that Republicans could not find a more educated, dignified person in whole of America, who could speak substantively on issues that concern the country like Islamic terrorism, budget deficit and economy. God save us from her and John. After hearing her, I am voting for sen. Obama. At least, he is a gentleman and a scholar. I prefer that to a pit bull,even with a lipstick.

Based on this performance, I think the appeal is very limited. She was carefully scripted for this one and if she approaches a policy debate with the same style - sniping sarcasm and mean-spirited attacks - she's going to self-destruct.

As a black american conservative male from California, I think Gov. Palin gave an excellent speech. But I don't get the sense that she will appeal to non-white americans. In fact, the RNC doesn't seem to reach out to non-white americans very much at all. In almost every camera shot you see a predominately white audience at the convention. Where are all the minorities at? Why is our convention not as diverse looking as the DNC Convention? Second, why is it that most of the speakers on stage are mostly all white? As a black conservative, I agree with almost all of our party's platform and I'm voting for McCain for national defense, but I have always had a problem with the republican party not reaching out to blacks and other minorities enough. At first glance on tv, it almost looks like an all white convention, unlike the DNC convention. Substance is important, but image is everything! This is why most black americans vote democrat even though our values are really conservative at heart. Conflicting isn't it?

Thank you! Palin for going out there and proving to the American public how unqualified you are!!

I was sickened by the speeches tonight that were so smug and hateful and sarcastic and full of lies. Palin sounded like she was running for head cheer leader against a dispised rival, flirting with the audience and stabbing her opponent–all with a smile. The whole RNC has reminded me of a bunch of high school kids on game night riled up to whoop their opponents–maybe that's what was intended. But when are we going to grow up as a nation and talk seriously about issues? I think Palin lost both small towns and suburbia, at least the ones who really care about their country and solving serious problems, the ones who are tired of the same hateful, smug divisiveness that characterized the Bush administration. Palin is Karl Rove in a beehive.

A Golden Globe performance but too naive to endure, much like Geena Davis in the 2005 TV series, "Commander in Chief," where she had to "fill in" after the death of her President. Life imitating art?

I'm a democrat and completely for Barack Obama but I enjoy conventions and politicals and I like John McCain, and I watched the Republican convention last night and this night. Last night was interesting: it was mostly a positive tribute to John McCain. This night was so negative in tone. Not just Sarah Palin's speech; other speechs, too, with the sneers about community organizers and teachers. It just reminded me of one of the changes so many of us want to see; more civility and getting away from the mean-spiritedness of the last eight years. I don't know if how Sarah Palin came across is based on her natural style or the result of the speech she was given to deliver. I think moderate people, whether they live in rural areas, or in suburbs, want to hear about solutions to our problems and to feel more optimistic about our chances. We have every reason to be optimistic, and Barack Obama would make a fine president.

I think that conservatives will love Palin, leftist liberals will hate her. I am canadian and am just watching from the sidelines. Both political sides are so bias it becomes more a game of ego/party building than thoughtful ruminations about who or what is best for the country. Noticed the same thing when watching cnn commentators(except for wolf blitzer and anderson cooper) Mr Blitzer is like an island of calm in a storm of bias

And the Republican slate for President and Vice-President is Mr. Magoo and Daisy May from Dog Patch

Is this America's best? I thought "W" gave us a belly full of corn pone and belligerent ignorance. No third helpings please!!!

When are you sleeping democrats going to wake up and see that the person that is running to be your vice president, has more experience than the man that would take the highest elected position in America. Don't you see something a little wrong with that. The number 1 person on the ticket should be the one with the most experience. Duh.

did anyone get scared silly by the mob-incitement feel of that "political convention"?

the republocrits may be in the ugly throes of losing, and I dearly hope to celebrate that, but their mentality, what they will stoop to, is very, very scary.

and so shockingly, so tragically ironically non-christian. where is the love? Jesus did not say, "love thine own kind rabidly and despise those you don't understand."

please, everyone, let god work in your heart and help us. this hate and fear-mongering is not what we need. those who claim to follow Christ, please listen to his words.

Palin is GREAT!

Obama is yesterday's news

Palin is the new shining star.

I bet the Dems can hardly stand it...:>)

The RNC convention is shaping up like anti-hope gathering of sorts. There's no joy in the faces of the attendees. Their speakers also so seem to have no qualms in lying about their opponents or lying to their listeners! I don't understand how this helps their campaign rhetoric of country first when they insult the intelligence of and doubt the patriatism of any who differs with unpopular vision for the country.
Janan

The republicans are trying to make Palin into a kind of instant sentimental icon–a kind of daughter-mamma of the Republican party.
We can watch the convention gush over her, grateful and relieved that some of her personal qualities (an appearance of determination and strength) might transcend the negatives of the past few days and much that probably has yet to come out about her record.
The danger for Democrats is that Palin becomes a kind of instant icon–although an empty one at that, and people take her as a kind of female George Bush–she's likeable on the surface, so don't worry
about what she stands for. I don't believe suburban or educated women, rural or urban, are going to be so foolish. Here's a candidate who claims to be an advocate for special needs children and in her state cut all kinds of pre-kindergarten funding. The republicans are bamboozling, and women won't fall for it.

Of course she will. She's not angry, bitter, or focused on killing babies. Women in all areas of the country are hungry for politicians that reflect their values and concerns. The right to abort your child is not the greatest concern for most women. I can't wait for the debates.

Sarah Palin! THE BEST REFORM MONEY CAN BUY!

Desperation has reared its head. The RNC is using the same old tactics it used in the past. You would think John McCain would have learned his lesson from the attacks he suffered under George Bush. This is a clear sign of desperation because they have nothing substantive to say.

To compare Sarah Palin to Hillary Clinton is ludicrous. She is has neither the intellect nor the presidential demeanour that Hillary has. If the public falls for their rhetoric – God help America. The country can't afford 4 more years of divisiveness, which is clearly what Palin was all about tonight.

Sarah's speech was garbage! It had no substance or message on how to help American family going thru hard times. Everybody can stand in front of a crowd and tell them about their families, which is all I got from the speech. Having all those kids don't qualify her to be a VP. She needs to go back to Alaska hunting moose. Go Obama-Biden!

I am shock of the disgraceful way Sara Palin dismiss Senator Obama as a community worker it seems he is below her and the Republicans for all the work he has done it means nothing at all
I don’t have no problem with party attacking her other but have some dignity is this the way she introduce herself to the American public I am calling social service because it is just wrong the way she have her sick child parading around to impress people that is just wrong and someone should speak to her about it

Please tell me what executive experiences do Senator McCain has also there are millions of American who went to War and suffer greatly worst than John McCain did does it mean all those thousand of Heroes don’t service Honor and Respect John is acting like he is the only one who has suffer in times of war

Unless she can speak to the reasons Bush is the most unpopular and unsuccessful president in our history....and set out what she and McCain would do differently about the Iraq war, the economy, jobs, education....all of those issues that are important right now to most Americans, I don't think she will make much of a difference to McCains stale campaign. If the biggest problem most Americans faced were a lack of patriotism...well watching the convention would have solved all of the country's problems.

McCain is a lunatic which is evidenced by the entire charade performed tonight. These people bring out the worst in everyone. Demented, divisive, idiots who haven't got a clue. They are ugly, mean spirited, liars. They make me ashamed to be an American.

In my opinion, this speech just served to guarantee victory in New Mexico for the OBAMA/Biden ticket. The McCAIN/PALIN ticket is nothing more than a far right conservative candidacy, this is not the way to win our state. All I sadly say is that this campaign is going to get personal and nasty.

People often dislike most what they themselves inhibit. When you say she is combative, it's interesting to see the vitriol responses from the left.

She will carry middle America, because Middle America isn't full of themselves unlike these leftist bloggers.

Well.., in rural America.., Montana. The real question is: Do I or (we) want four more years of the same ? I don't.

I hope suburban America can see the pathetic attacks by Republicans for what they are, distractions from the fact they have nothing to offer except more of their tired fear mongering, failed foreign and domestic policies, and continuation of our current miserable state of affairs. I have had eight years to much of them. It is time for a positive approach to our problems and our opportunities. I yearn for an intelligent President / Vice President with an energizing expansive, inclusive, respectfull approach. It has been said we get the government we deserve. Wake up America – we deserve better than we've had and better than McCain / Palin.

Thank You Sarah for letting us know exactly who you are...a desperate,
bitter, anti-intellectual housewife....and apparently not a very effective communicator/parent on teh home front.
Stick to the hockey and moose hunting, and clean up your own mess
before you attempt to impose your backward, un-evolved ways on our nation.
I'll keep you in my prayers.

In my opinion, this speech just served to guarantee victory in New Mexico for the OBAMA/Biden ticket. Thw McCAIN/PALIN ticket is nothing more than a far right conservative candidacy, this is not the way to win our state. All I sadly say is that this campaign is going to get personal and nasty.

I think that anyone who believes themselves to be a mature, responsible, parent and brings five children into the world...should also be the same parent who puts those children ahead of her/his own ambitions and makes parenting ALL five of those children their full-time job until those children are grown. This is especially true when you have a special needs infant who will need much time and attention of both parents who chose to bring him into this world. Finally, I think that a pregnant teenager shows a lack of parental supervision on the home front. Maybe mom shouldn't be off governing the mighty State of Alaska and dad working up on the North Slope. I would be pretty unhappy with my parents if I was Bristol and the whole nation was talking about my private life. Thanks, Mom.

My advice for Mrs. Palin would be to go back to Alaska and cool-off.

I listened to her speech last night and found it to be empty. She did not introduce herself to America. When in office as a Mayor or Governor what are her responsibilities. She only mentioned the few that the news media has already reported. Gov. Palin had the opportunity to tell us what she stands for and didn't. Who is this Gov. Palin character? What are here personal views and what are her plans for the country? No real substance at all. Her negative attacks about other political figures is atrocious. I thought she was suppose to be above that type of politics. As an independent it's difficult for one to support a candidate like this. McCain has made the wrong choice this time. There are better and more experienced candidates than her, such as Ms. Rice.

if this woman becomes president somehow we are in big trouble. a month ago she didnt know what the veep DID. palin fired the wasilla head librarian for refusing to ban certain books. she wants creationism taught in schools. she stated that the war iraq, and the alaska natural gas pipeline, are the will of God. she offered nothing in the way of policy–NOTHING–in her speech. so she sold her plane on ebay and fired a chef as well as the town librarian? great. what will she and mccain do for the economy? what are the specific plans for the war in iraq? what specific policy or legislative ANYTHINGS has she done in alaksa? i have no idea. what a horrible, mean, snide person she is. what unchristian behavior, demeaning obama's wife, when i thought candidate's families were off limits.

Now the gloves come off. If Palin wants to talk tuff and wants to get in the ring with the boys dont go crying sexism or any other foul if your feelings are hurt. I have a funny feeling this so called pit bull is really a chiuaua.

Republicans don't GET IT.

She crossed a line attacking Michelle Obama.

It is an insult to me as a woman to think I would vote gender based not issued minded. I will not vote for McCain because of the anit abortion stand,

Mona

You are officially voting for Obama? Who cares!!!!

Like many fellow Americans I thought I would look in on tonight's speech by Palin to her introduction to the American public. After last week's stunning, captivating, and uplifting speeches from the convention, I thought it only fair to give some air time to the RNC. WOW! Although she presents a very attractive exterior, she amount of venomous, vitrolic hatered she spewed tonight was nothing short of disturbing. I have never witnessed watching someone running for office that actually sneered while hurling insults like Palin did tonight. It was like watching a cage fight. It proved what I thought it would: the Republican ticket will "Pale-in" comparison to that of the Dems! This white, left-leaning, liberal Lesbian will cast my vote for Obama and Biden. God help America if McCain and Palin get voted in. I'm moving to New Zealand if that happens!

That was an unbelievable speech-unbelievable in the sense that I was amazed at how negative she got, which will only reinforce the idea that she is not ready for primetime; unbelievable in the sense that it offered absolutely no constructive way in which to place hope in the yet to be disclosed vision that John McCain has for America; and unbelievable in the sense that the claim she was making that she was a reformer will not be believed in the days and weeks ahead as the details of her attempts to reform her city and her state come to light. Unbelievable!

One other question-which hat did she have on tonight-her Republican hat or her American hat? I’m not sure, because as an American I didn’t really feel all that welcomed by her. She sure seemed more interested in having me understand what she is all about than letting me know that she is listening to what I-an American-might think about the state of our economy, our society, and our place in the world right now. But then again, as I watched as the cameras panned the crowd-I didn’t see a whole lot of people who were interested in listening to what I think-and I am an independent, just imagine how the Democrats must feel. Oh, and yes, I am from the suburbs.

I am suburban America, and no, Palin did not play well at my house. I am an independent who was hoping she wouldn't be as mean-spirited and holier-than-thou as the "right" often is. She's a Republican on steroids. Elitist, exclusionary, and entitled while pretending to be "just a regular gal." All the regular folks I know are kind and decent, not fond of taking gratuitous shots and parading them as truth. When will people learn that sarcasm doesn't make you look smarter only smaller. That being "a pit bull with lipstick" is nothing to be proud of if judgment and intelligence are what is required. Bluster, tough talk, and posturing play well at the convention, but let's face it. That's what we've had for the past 8 years. And it's what put us in the war we're in now. Enough already.

Obama 08

The republicans are at it again...divide and conquer, a republican trade mark . It usually works as they keep the empty minds in America busy hating each other. It was scary watching this separatist movement ignite their sheep by delivering blatant lies and anger.

Who would have thought, Alaska’s has their very own Don Rickles. As a woman find Palin offensive in more than one way. Granted mistakes do happen, however how dear Palin parade her daughter in front of my teenage daughter, as an example for other teen in America. Palin appears to know no shame; the big question is should she?

Secondly, shame on Palin for comparing her being elected with electing a Hilary Clinton. She is obviously delusional and hopeful.

I am WOWED by the comments thus far! I too, thought she was rude, sarcastic and snide. Her body language and facial expressions were also rude and totally uncalled for. I was actually looking forward to hearing about who she is, but was greatly disappointed in her. Any hope that Hillary supporters will be swayed by her are totally out the window. The way she jabbed and attacked the Democrats was sickening and I actually think HRC supporters who were on the fence, just might be swayed into voting for Obama now. "Saracuda" crossed the line! No way would Obama EVER talk that low and dirty. He is a gentleman. I had hoped she would be a lady. Guess not! I bet there were some Republicans doing a little bit of squirming as she went ON AND ON with the nastiness. Totally uncalled for. I am proud to be an Obama/Biden supporter.

She read the speech that was given to her. Any high school student or college student could have performed the same way. It was acting, and I say that lightly, and very robotic. She kept pausing for cheers. She read it like a script where between each sentence it read, "pause, smile, look at the audience." This so called "bull dog" will be crushed like a "scared puppy" at the vice presidential debate. My advice to her, "take it like a man." Don't whine. Don't act like Biden is hurting your feelings and showing disrespect to you as a woman. Sorry, you were setup for defeat and will be laughed out of the auditorium. No well versed speech is going to help you now...you don't have enough time to get well versed in foreign affairs, the economy, healthcare, etc. So much for being part of the PTA, mayor of a town of 9,000 or being an "executive administrator" of a $12m budget. Perhaps you and Campbell Brown can share the stage as commentators of CNN after the November election.

I don't know how anyone could have considered her speech a good one. Not one word on any of the issues, nothing but one attack after another. She probably was the worst choice McCann could have made. She never could have been vetted properly or at all because there will be lots of negatives surfacing. He has dug his own grave with this choice. The other three speakers were shameful in their attacks and also nothing was spoken about any of the important issues we need resolved. How could anyone be proud to be a Republican after that terrible negative round of speeches. We have to be more intelligent than that. We made a terrible error in judgement when we allowed Bush to serve 8 years. We are suffering on all fronts because of this inept administration. Hopefully, in time, criminal charges will be sought against them. Please, America, don't let us repeat another 4 or 8 years of this failed administration. Wake up!!!!!

I rushed home because I wanted to hear her speech so disappointed I skipped a girls nite out for this. I am an independent and this made me make up my mind. I just made my first donation to Obama/Biden ticket. I think that she is just a nasty person and I don't have to hear anything else from her.

I don;t like Republicans!!!! I;ve seen what they;ve done to the cuontry and it;s no different from the past , 1930's Hoover, 1960's Ike, Reagon, Bush 1&2. The same with McCain-Palin. I will never vote Republican!!!!! I DO NOT TRUST THEM!!!!

It is clear Gergen is out of touch with America as well!!!!!!!

I.m glad i´m not a american because this is the best comedy i have ever watched. As a English man living in Germany this is the best english speaking soap that i have seen for along time.

This is the first time I have ever heard CNN praise anyone but Obama. I used to be a faithful CNN watcher but after they showed all the favoritism to Obama(and they still do) I don't watch it very much. I did turn it over tonight after the speech just to see how badly they were going to treat her and boy was I surprised!!!! John McCain will talk issues Thuursday, its his place not the other peoples. I thought her speech was great and saw no anger, sarcasm, or anything but plain good rhetoric. By the way, I'm a democrat. You other nasty people need to change your attitude.

The speeches I saw tonight from Giuliani and Sarah Palin were disgusting. The insults towards community organizers, people who actually do the groundwork to help others get out of poverty and are now helping people keep their homes, was offensive to me. Last time I checked, community organizers have a pretty good reputation: Martin Luther King, Ghandi, Jesus, etc etc.

Well, America, thats Sarah Palin. What do you think?

As for me, I waited eagerly for her to speak with all the hoopla surrounding this new face.

But i really must say, I think, she lived "Down" to all the hype. She didnt inject anything new or substantial. I consider myself a down to earth american living day to day in failing economy. And all Sarah Palin could do is talk negetively about Sen. Obama and the democratic party. Nothing was said or laid out in terms of how they plan or suggest to recover from 8years of the failed polices that have been set forth. I was completely dissapointed.

But then again, the speech was written and prepared by McCain/Bush writters. So, im not at all suprised that it was as dissapointing as it was.

If i wasnt before, i'm definately conviced now that these two republibcans will do absolutely NOTHING to help out the american people.

It will be a sad day in america and accross the world, if these two somehow manage to make it to the white house.

I pray that, that just wont happen.

God Help us ALL !!!

drill drill drill thats a change?

I'm all for strong women, believe me. But what Governor Pallen proved tonight was that she was not such a strong woman standing up for women's rights. She set us 100 steps backward as she stood for nothing but the same old tired Republican rhetoric. Shame on you, Sarah! Hilary you are not. You will NEVER get this soccer mom's vote!

Sarah Palin just had her last best day in this campaign. She may be able to deliver a rousing speech to an already sympathetic crowd, but let's see how she deals with a serious interview, continued media scrutiny, and the debates. I suspect she will not perform well there. Personally, I don't care about her credentials as much as I care about her myopic world view and the fact that she is still of child-bearing age and already has 5 kids - one with special needs and another about to pop out her own. If she were to wind up in charge of the show, I just shudder to think!

Shouldn't Palin actually accomplish something, besides redirecting the "bridge to nowhere" funds into other projects and calling out "reform", before criticizing a guy who received 18 million votes as unqualified (Obama), nearly twice as many Americans (I know you love identity politics now) as McCain got?

We won't know how Sarah Palin rates with suburban and small town America until the election is over. That's because first the media will quickly weigh the early reactions of the newly euphoric republicans and of the rest of the (incredulous) population. Then, depending on what reactions make better copy, the media will give her a label which she'll embrace if it's favorable to her or fight to avoid an early and merciless burial. As Frank Rich noted in his article in the NY Times last Sunday, there's a serious disconnect between the media and reality.

As an Obama supporter from the beginning of the race, I am a 64-year-old female who thinks that politicians such as Sen Obama don't come along very often in a century. So the likes of Barbara Palin can't sway me, but I would like to give her her due. I watched her nomination acceptance speech. Wow! She's a brilliant speaker; she exudes confidence and she is no slouch when it comes to getting a crowd in the center of her palm. She even reportedly has slain a few Alaskan-style goliaths.

But positive as such accomplishments are, they can't make up for her serious deficiencies – her limited political experience and its slim if not inconsequential relevance to the world outside of Alaska, the rigid pro-life stance (why should this be an election issue!!!!!), her position on drilling even in sanctuary lands.

I think that most Americans will respond to her purported spunk. But I think most will ask themselves "is this the person we want a heartbeat away from McCain?" And I think the answer from most - whether or not they're urbanites, sburbanites or small townees - will be a resounding "no."

Palin was sarcastic and caustic, a far cry from Obama. I am a woman, a single working independent mother and do not relate to her at all. It seems that she was on top of her game, and her game is attacking, criticizing and acting holier than thou. I did not hear one thing tonight that inspired me. Palin gave a speech. When Obama speaks, it's a conversation with the American people. As Obama said, it's not about him, "it's about us." I would never want this woman to be our vice-president or worse than that, president of our country. Would you?

I just want to see conservative Republicans express their strong admiration for all those teenaged girls in inner cities who have babies out of wedlock. Clearly they should be held up as role models, and their parents celebrated for having done as fine a job as Sarah Palin and her husband. How hypocritical can one get? Family values???

For the very reason that I expected nothing less from the Repugnicans, I did not and have not watched their Convention at ALL. I'd rather read the reactions of you bloggers because that is the real barometer of how their convention is going. As usual, from what I'm reading, the Rethugnicans are living right down to expectations. Don't worry about Palin, when she gets Joe Biden up her butt and some of the higher level Dems, she won't know which way to run because she won't have a scripted speech to help her then.

David,

Pitbulls are banned in some counties in this country because of their reputation as maulers, and the fear that even ones that are pets may become overly aggressive and kill other animals or children.

This is one pitbull – with or without lipstick – that I'd be horrified to see running our country, and I wouldn't want her anywhere in the vicinity of my family.

Palin proved one thing tonight: she can read a teleprompter, after practicing awhile, when the words have been scripted for her. Truth doesn't appear to matter to her. Neither does demeaning people that she doesn't even know....

Yeah. Politics as usual for Palin and for the Republicans. I predict more people running from them than running to them.

Wow! The best team in politics really missed the call on this one! Sarah's speech was void of substance, but filled only petty zingers from someone who doesn't have been around enough to lob them. This just made her look mean and nasty. Not sure how this played out in the hall, but considering she is getting an 'F' on the Report Card by viewers, I'd be taking another look.

I thought her speech was scripted specially the sections that were supposed to address REAL ISSUES. She sounded like students reading from the scripts. The sections that she tried to attack Obama's credentials and personalities, She sounded very rude arrogant and dishonnest almost Bi..ting. TYPICAL BUSH REPUBLICAN attitude with lots of thruth distortion and lots of lies,....As a professional woman and a mother, I thought she was unappealing.

I watched the speech and thought she came off very arrogant and sarcastic. I had not heard much about her until the last few days, so I was anxious to see what she was all about. I dont get how a person that nobody in the country knows, can go out there and attack anybody. Dont you usually have to get your own positives up before going negative. I think people are going to be asking who is she to attack Sen. Obama or Sen. Biden. I think she would have been better off just telling us about herself and her family. She should have tried to fill in the details about where she stands on the issues. Maybe Im wrong but, I think her speech came off very condesending and arrogant. I think the American people are going to find it kind of odd to have a complete unknown out there criticizing public figures. Finally, how can she talk about how great John McCain will be for this country when she only met him one time before this whole process started. This whole thing seems very strange to me.

Wow, what a rude, insulting little speech that was. I thought Palin was supposed to draw a few independent women away. This is a perfect example of what I hate about social conservatives and the divisive policies of the Republican party. Many of her criticisms of Obama were outright lies and others were very misleading.

From a tactical point of view, the only thing I can think is that her nomination was aimed at a few thousand evangelicals in Pennsylvania and Ohio who may not have voted.

Palin definitely has a future in hate radio. It is going to be a crime if a fine man like Obama is taken down by such gutter tactics.

Mr. GERGEN

The bloggers which think that people vote on issues and that the
GOP does not much to address them ignore two evident facts:

1) Democrats neither address them seriously,

2) A large majority of persons vote the candidate they like and perceive as trustable, or see in them a reflection of themselves,

Obviously persons suffering an economic drawback, affected by
the mortgage crisis etc. may be more interested in issues, but they
are a minority.

Therefore, the answer to your qustion is: YES,

Tibor

The only thing she accomplished at the convention was the proof of how mush of a mess talker she is. seems to me the only thing she was worried about was herself and what the media has said about her, like the congress women and the other two on the show tonight said, she was only the governor for two months and also left a small town with debt when she was a mayor. i wonder what she has planned for america, she never mentioned that at the convention. and to talk about experience... i can only imagine what the economy would look like if the republicans win this election.

This was her first introduction to America and what people wanted to know was if she would be ready to be president if something happens to McCain. Unfortunately, she did not address that concern at all. She did not display knowledge of domestic or foreign policy issues. She did not make nuanced, well informed arguments for or against but came across as a rabid attack dog. Most importantly she displayed a divisive attitude which tells me it will be four more years of bush presidency.
This was huge strategic blunder by McCain campaign. This was Sarah's first and last opportunity to appeal to a nationwide audience and they wasted it in petty partisan attacks to appeal to a base which was already going to vote for them. This was their opportunity to pull in the independents and now its gone.

Bush won the election not because of the GOP base, but because of those outside it that he brought in. He got people excited about voting for a guy "they'd love to sit and have a beer with."

No one has gotten excited about Mccain. Palin's addition to the ticket adds excitement. One problem: the only people who are excited are super-PUMAs (who weren't voting for Obama anyway) and GOP-lifers (who also weren't voting for Obama anyway).

Her staunch conservatism helps the base justify voting for McCain and her woman parts help the PUMAs justify dismissing Hillary's wishes.

But in terms of reaching out to swing voters, she falls behind. They aren't excited about McCain. And unless they happen to be gun-toting, abstinence-educating, oil-drilling, power-abusing, ridiculously attractive former beauty queens, I don't think they can relate to her.

She represents small towns. One Congressman tonight said the number of people that reside in Alaska is smaller than her Congressional District. I'm from Chicago, I definitely can't relate.

Absolutely not!!!! We like our community organizers and rely on them heavily. Most join the PTA to help out their communities or do it for their kids, not for the bragging rights. She was way too harsh in her words about others and I was always taught that if you don't have anything nice to say about someone, don't say anything at all. Where are her manners. I also cannot believe she doesn't believe in sex education. I can attest to the need. I was 17, but married, when I had my child and learned about birth control from my friends, not my family. Times have changed folks, abstanance only creates the spread of STD's and increases abortion rates. Sarah Palin won't last long.

All white but for one asian woman in that pic

Well Palin sure will not appeal to anyone who has ever benifited from the community work that she mocked derisively. I doubt she will appeal to many folk suffering from this poor economy that she never addressed. She spoke of Pit Bulls with Lipstick and darn if she is not starting to look like one.

If you don't have a message than what do you do? Attack your opponent...That is what Karl Rove has done for eight years and Americans have drank it up... Tonight you see the real Republican party... A bunch of mean- spirted and dare say I Christians... Go figure...

I still don't know who Sara Palin is. All she really spoke about was Obama and McCain. She didn't really tell America who she is if you ask me.

Idiots like other idiots. She has shown herself.

Obama/Biden 2008

She didn't have anything to offer the women of America. Despite all the talk about her special needs child, she didn't address the difficulty most families would face with healthcare in the same situation. What about support for pregnant teens? There is more to our lives than fighting wars. Obama laid out a plan of his vision for American and how he wants to accomplish it. I haven't heard any specifics from the Republicans – just attacks. And attacking someone for community outreach and organization comes across very elitist. That type of experience counts toward being able to rally the American people behind a cause. Did you notice that Obama's experience in the Illinois legislature was conveniently ignored as well? The McCain camp is using Palin to distract us from the real issues at hand – the economy, healthcare and the housing crisis.

The speech tonight was not exactly what I expected, I figure they were going to attack but not at the level they did. I was dirty mud slinging but hey that politics.

The thing that upset me the most wasnt the attacks on Obama's experience but the fact that Palin stated BOLDLY that community organizers have no responsabilities. To say the people that run homless shelters, soup kitchens, The Boys and Girls Club, any and all community organizations dont have responsabilites is a slap to their faces and every one that has volunteered for these organization that help Americans in all walks of life..

In these rough times community leaders are the only leaders that a great number of Americans look to. The government is not helping them but these community organization are doing all they can. Maybe I am taking this comment and those other comments belittling community leaders in the other speeches tonight to far, I would love to hear feed back but to say the least I am outraged.

I am a mother and I work. I also volunteer at a church run soup kitchen organized by community organizers.

I have to say I was terribly offended by the negative tone Ms Palin took to those of us who volunteer to make life better for others. As a fellow Christian I would expect a better response from her.

But it seems like Gov. Palin's prevalent tone is that of rudeness, negativity and downright meanspirited. If I had to draw an analogy, she reminds me of cheerleaders I went to school with that used to pick on those less fortunate.

I'm sorry but I'm not happy with this selection at all, and the prospect of her actually being President makes me lean towards the Obama/Biden ticket now.

I'm not completely thrilled with all their policies but at least they are taking the high road.

Boy, lots of Obama's paid staff on these boards as usual. Obama fanatics think that the is "above" it all, that's why people think he is elitist. Fact is, he throws low and dirty like everyone else, he's just not as good at it. Palin was great, This come from a Dem. who supported Clinton and will sit out this November.

She is making women look vindictive and catty. I'm a woman and we don't have to always have to be hard and catty. Can she talk about her stances on things. My gosh. Even Romney, Guilianni and Huckabee were extremely catty. Now, I understand they have to attack their opponents and it's only fair since the Dems did also but to talk down about community activists. I'd rather have a person that has worked with a community (larger than Wasilla) than someone tooting being head of the PTA. She's an insult to women and no Hillary Clinton.

OBAMA/BIDEN

No. Not in suburbia or anywhere else parents are raising children with special needs. In a speech dominated by insults and bullying was a promise to parents that when she is Vice President we will have an advocate in Washington. As a life long educator and a parent of a 17 year old with special needs I would offer that she has a ways to go before she can brand herself an advocate. Given her sons age it would be unlikely she can appreciate how much change she and her family will face in the years to come. My own family has moved from a long time home and given up career opportunities to give our son the chance he deserves. Children with special needs don't understand sarcasm and need all the positive roll modeling they can get. I'd make a bet that if her son was 14 years old instead of an infant she wouldn't let him within a mile of such a negative social situation much less being a main contributor. Maybe the Republicans like the idea of a pit bull with lipstick but we in the business of advocating for children with special needs are looking for someone who knows the score.

I am a 45 yr old white woman...my husband is blue collar....we are conservative christian...just the people she was talking to...and I am ashamed to say, as a christian, that I just cannot stand that woman. I don't know why but I just can't. I voted for Bush twice but I cannot vote with her on the ticket. I think she is full of herself, full of baloney, and a bad mother to boot. Not to mention rude and arrogant as others have said. Its like she thinks she's better than the rest of us. I bet when other peoples teenage daughters got pregnant she talked about them and how they weren't following her abstinence teachings. Yuck is all I have left to say about Sarah Palan at the moment. I'm sure I'll think of more stuff later.

"Seriously" Is exactly what I said the first day they introduced Palin as VP and I say again "Seriously".
This is a joke and we are really going to hear from the real plans of the Republican Party, so we can compare to the Democratic Party.

I was so disappointed to think that Mc Cain / Palin really don't have a plan. The sad thought is that they could end up in the white house
without a clue!

She will absolutely play out in suburban America. I am convinced there is a bunch of people coordinating these comments on the blogs. I live in suburban Cleveland which is very liberal trust me she connects to people here. I was 100% sure Kerry would win in 2004. Everyone I knew voted for him. Most people here don't like either party so they will go with who they identify with most. She is extremely likeable and if she didn't come out tough the media would be saying is she tough enough. I will probably vote for McCain although I have nothing against Obama and generally think well of him and Michelle. 100% guarantee that McCain wins Ohio.

Rudy Giuliani and Sarah Palin make a good pair ! Both are arrogant, rude and overly impressed with themselves. Sad thing is how the audience bought into all of this. Hopefully, the majority of the voters rise above this low bid behavior. and realize how our great nation must look to the rest of the world. And, do the right thing when they go to the polls, and NOT support the Republican ticket. The Republican campaign just seems so angry and militant.

She'll undoubtedly appeal to self-professed rednecks. According to his YouTube posting, her future son-in-law is a redneck who doesn't like kids. He'll make a great dad to Sarah's future grandchild. Also, why is Palin's four month old baby being used as a prop for political events. Wouldn't pictures suffice?

A few quick thoughts - Sarah Palin really showed she's up for a battle ... I had hoped the divisive war was over.
Only part she screwed up was the joke - told correctly, it's "What's the difference between Dick Cheney and Sarah Palin? Answer: Lipstick.
Oh year, the other difference is that Sarah Palin's view of foreign affairs is that it's all driven by God's plan that will culminate in the Last Days when Alaska becomes one of the refuges for the saved - this is not a joke or a snide comment, just a reiteration of the "testimony" I saw in her presentation to a church school group, available on YouTube. Scary stuff.
The Republican party tosses around the word "evil" but doesn't define it. Evil empire, evil this and that. I must have heard it at least a dozen times tonight. That sounds like a religious term, the Anglo version of "infidel". How so many people get so many conflicting messages from the Almighty I don't know, and I don't understand why so many innocents need to die as a result of all those messages. I just wish people could think and talk.
John McCain is a war hero. John Kerry is a war hero. Republicans want us all to make McCain POTUS because he's a hero. Four years ago (when the Republican incumbent candidate was arguably not too different from being a draft-dodger), they slandered Kerry about his heroism. Funny how these all-important Republican values change depending on the election cycle.

She has nothing in common with the other 49 states at all.

HOW ON EARTH CAN SOMEBODY FROM ALASKA POSSIBLY KNOW WHAT IT'S LIKE TO LIVE IN THE CITY????

They can't.

Palin is done.

I grew up in a small town and now live in suburbia, I don't think she will appeal to anyone other than those who already have there mind made up. I don't get the praise. A very pedestrian speech and a typical blind reaction.

Palin has no appeal to suburban independents whatsoever. Most of us have at least a little knowledge about politics, and that's all it takes to know she's just an act of smoke and mirrors, more like a freak show really. She can take her bridge to nowhere just where it leads her, but I for one will not follow.

Sure.

If "suburban America" believe the Earth is 5000 years old, are against women's right to choose, and rather launch childish and sarcastic slander than to talk about the economy.

I found Palin's speech high on rhetoric and lacking in substance. I'm tired of attacks, I want answers on how America can be the great country that the world looked up to, aspired to be and to be in. I am ashamed of the America Iive in now because of the politicians who think I am so stupid that I will fall for the distractions of the attack-dog politics. ENOUGH! I want to take back America fromt he Bushes, Cheneys, the McCains, the Karl Roves and yes, the Palins.

and it still doesn't matter.....

David, rural people are generous and accepting. Palin came off as nasty, condescending, mocking and rude. I doubt she appeals there and she sure as heck won't appeal in the burbs.

Let's not forget that all but 18 months of Ms. Palin's "experience" consists of being mayor of a town smaller than 10,000 inhabitants (probably including the local bears)...that's like Clint Eastwood running for President based on being mayor of Carmel by the Sea (except we like him better). Give me a break. I have not heard one Republican talk about the problems that their party has created over the last 8 years. Do they think that the american public is stupid enough to get caught up in false rhetoric and accusations of the Democrats such as "angry left" and big government. Look in the mirror..and btw, I'll take big govt over CORRUPT government.

Pitbull in Lipstick? In the oval office? Is that suppose to help us feel safe? Come on people, wake up. This woaman is a heartbeart away of being president of the United States of America. Can you imagine? God save us from the GOP.

I think many of you are looking for substance coming out of a VP when it's the candidate for president that needs to offer substance. If she put any real substance in the speech the news would make her words out to be the words of McCain. Pay attention to McCains speech tomarrow before you jump to conclusions. A VP has very little to give on policy decisions. They do not hold a VETO pen and their only influence in legislation is when they must act as a tie breaker in the Senate. Stop trivializing the process and expecting the VP nominee to offer substance that would be held against McCain.

Think about it like this. If I you are my manager and I am a supervisor. As a supervisor I tell you that you can take tomarrow off without having knowledge of the agenda that the manager has. Than I've just overstepped my bounds and undermined the manager. Let McCain lay out the policy. The VP nominees on either side are of little significance.

Wow cnn and msnbc are so biased and afraid of Palin she's got my vote.

I heard her and I think the Republicans have been brilliant in lowering expectations when really Palin is an excellent speaker and presenter. She's a double edged sword, however.The question is whether her rough edges will ultimately appeal or pall. Unfortunately, her limitations re. experience and exposure strike fear into the hearts of all who cherish meritocracy. I'm an Obama voter but I think the woman has a future, whether in this election or a future one.

Hope CNN is listening. I'm a single suburban mother of 3, own my own business, am a staunch Roman Catholic. I was not going to vote for McCain until Gov. Palin was brought onto the ticket. I watched her speech. She's exactly what the country needs and just the remedy for what ails the Republican party. Not shrill. Real equanimity. Yes sarcastic. But good, not hateful. She's a winner!

With all the Colleges and Universities in this country, most American living in this country are functionally illiterate. It is this sad reality Republicans have taken advantage of election after election. They are getting ready to do the same this election and sadly ignorance will probably prevale. I am not a Democrat, niether am I a Republican however Base on what I have observed, untill Democrats learn to play head games as well as the Republicans , the will continue to loose elections.

P.S.
These topics (pregnant daughter, "shrill voice") would not of been an issue with a male candidate. So you women who stand behind the good 'ole boys (Obama camp) that are nit-picking Palin, wake up and smell the coffee sisters!

I was personally offended when republican pundits said her speech was "reminiscent of Ronald Reagan"...

Ronald Reagan, agree with his policies or not (which mostly I didn't), was a good man and put American before himself. I think he would be angry to see what his party has become since he left office. It has become the party of greed, tyranny, and apathy. Its like Nixon reincarnated.

Sarah Palin was the biggest mistake McCain made in this campaign. He should never have kow-towed to Karl Rove. But whatever, he already flipped his positions on abortion, torture and civil liberties...

I am an Independent who watched Sarah Palin's speech with genuine curiousity and was extremely disappointed. I noticed quite a contrast between the DNC and RNC speeches in general. After the dem speeches, particularly Obama's, I felt elevated. But after Palin's, I actually felt depressed. I found Palin's speech rather "small" –high schoolish.

What was even more depressing was watching the CNN reporters' commentary: Is this behavior the kind we, Americans seek in a stateswoman? No.

Secondly, to Campbell: You cannot say that a woman brings a "certain something" and then say that she should be treated the same as men. The discussion regarding the Reid "shrill" comment was consistant with my opinion of Palin's speech.

I stopped supporting Hillary the moment she started doing two things: making reference to the "good old boys club" and complaining about the media. If a woman is truly tough, worthy of aspiring this level of leadership, she doesn't complain. She keeps her feelings within her circle, but never ever complain in public. She attacks if she has to, but she does so with elegance –worthy of the position she seeks fill. And, smiling is not enough; even teenage girls can do that.

Many people are against affirmative action but we have a case here of just that. They need to get a quota done so they put a person in their who is not as qualified as other people in the party. Or you could look at like this there are other women who are more qualified within the party but they chose the one who was pretty and had an interesting personal story over a woman with excellent economic and foreign policy experience. As a woman, I find this highly offensive along with the buttons many of the men were wearing in the audience. Seems like an audience out of touch with the struggles of the real woman.

Lots of rhetoric, no solutions.

The Republicans got nothing to fix this mess the country is in. Time to make the change.

I'm hoping that, as Joe Klein has said, that the media lives up to their obligation to bring unbiased and complete information to the American people. This election is, IMHO, going to be determined by the quality of the press.

It is imperative for the candidates to held accountable to spin, half-truths and out and out distortions by the media.

Without the diligence that was shown in the Watergate era we may never be able to have an honest debate about the candidates and the issues that face this country.

CB

Palin was amazing tonight! I was hoping McCain would pick her, and honestly surprised he did. I was hoping she could perform well in the national spotlight, and she really delivered! Beyond my wildest dreams, and now I can't wait to see her debate Biden. She's a great role model for my daughter, and as a fellow mother of a wonderful child with special needs, I'll be voting for her and McCain this fall!

Suburban America care about Issues. She offered none. She offers reform, but I don't recall any big scandals in Washington.

I think she will appeal to the 30% of Americans who think George Bush is doing a good job

Palin reminds me of every soccer mom that ever cut me off as they let their SUV stray into my lane while they chatted away on their cell phone on their way to the newly opened Panera Bread co. That's suburbia in a nutshell. Suburbia is full of women that want to raise their children in a small town atmosphere while benefiting from the economic engine of the big city. This is a stupid question that seems to be posed so that CNN can collect negative comments from obama supporters pretending they live in that god awful cultural black hole known as suburbia.

scaring folks to vote for you isnt reform. just so rove. and it's maccain that said he' different than bush, but i could'nt tell by her speech. god bless her dysfunctional faimily though.

I watched her speech with a group of suburban, moderate long-time loyal Republicans. Nearly all were put off by her negative and empty speech. When I mentioned Gov. Palin's stance on social issue being to the right of Sen. McCain's, including her stated opinions on reproductive rights and adding creationism to science curricula, many were surprised (since news of her family has kept the media from mentioning her stance on actual issues). I was surprised by how many of my friends declared that they will either find another candidate to vote for (whether that's Obama or Barr or whoever, I did not ask) or said they may now sit out this election. Quite a few are very disappointed in McCain for picking a running mate so far to the right of where McCain used to stand.

This woman is a snake!! which can bite anyone anytime!

I think she should go hunting with Dick Cheney.

It is to early to tell if moderates and suburbanites will like her, but the right is going to LOVE her. It also going to be hard for the Obama camp to compare McCain/Palin to Bush/Cheney dispite the fact that they are from the same party. These two are a pair of mavericks.

Palin impressed me tonight actually. She needs to be careful of attacking the media, however. A lot of networks are biased toward Obama and they always love to dig up dirt, but they have a lot of influence and she needs to get on well with more than just the Fox news people. Still, even MSNBC seemed to like her tonight.

She comes across as a female Rove/Cheney and as Mr. Obama said: Eight is enough.

I can hope that she doesn't appeal to suburban voters.

Her experience and politics make her an expert at nothing besides being a mom. The McCain decision shows a lack of wisdom, and her narrow minded, small state politics add little to our country's need for real wisdom as we hope to move forward.

Small town Alaska isn't the same as suburban America – or so we can hope.

As a matter of fact, as a suburban American...and a woman, I am very excited to have Palin on the ticket! Obama...you should be shaking in your spiffy loafers by now. I hope you were able to see Palin's speech as you looked down your Ivy-League nose!

Oh,Rnc is in big trouble! if anybody see what I have seen? republican have a very bad night ! Just think about waiting to here palin speech and suddenly she took the stage and get straight for nasty talk ,about barak and joseph biden,you can see she holding her lip (pit bull) is coming oh god a bad approach, she turn me off right away. she was so cold! she have nothing that biden have nothing! she is one of the same old politics, more the same!!!

I thought she came off like a real firecracker, and some people will be attracted to that. I even think she is, and will be proven to be in the ethics investigation in Alaska, genuinely righteous by her own definition of right. But like many Republicans, that definition is far too narrow for the common good. Apparently, the value of the fetus has eclisped all of the other Christian virtues- chastity, modesty, gentility, humility, poverty, charity, mean nothing in comparison to what someone does with an unplanned or challenging pregnancy.

She might be someone you'd like talking tough to your enemies or firing up the troops for battle. And lucky for her, the Republican administration has left her many people around the world itching for a fight. But is she who you want to represent your country when your trying to make friends, make the peace, and win the hearts and minds? Obama has apparently won those hearts and minds all over Europe and in Africa already, judging by the crowds that turn out to offer him their good faith.

Oh yeah, faith. That's another Christian value that seems to fallen by the wayside. I don't believe anyone spoke tonight in good faith, about anything.

Her speech absolutely inspired me!!! I get paid on Friday and I am giving my whole check to the Obama-Biden campaign because there is no way that this woman who was on a tirade should be in office, I am afraid for my children's future with this nutcake. On another note I have never been so disappoited with a convention that is so one dimentional. I cannot believe the amount of hatred that this group has toward anything that is nolt like them. Have 2 question to the GOP- why do you all say things like Barack is a "Muslim" like it's a bad thing when there is a large percent of Arab- Americans that are practicing Muslims and also Republicans? Is being a Muslim wrong in this so called "free country"?

I didn't hear anybody complaing when this womans whole family was being attacked by the media since last Friday. I didn't hear anybody complaing when Obama and Biden were attacking McCain at the Dems. convention last week. I didn't hear anybody complain for the last 19 months when the media promoted Obama and trashed Clinton.
Congratulations to the RNC for standing up to the media. The DNC didn't stand up not once for Clinton. They just let her get thrown under the bus.

Same old republican tricks,but it wont work.
Not this time.
The delegates they look so old.
That era is over.

Obama now has my vote

Okay, CNN.....ignore all of my posts....

you're OFF one of my favs. websites,

OFF my favorite channel on XM radio...

maybe i'll switch to POTUS 08 on XM radio..........................

Is this speech really the best the GOP could do? The GOP convention crowd certainly loved it, but nasty sarcasm surely is not the way to lure independent voters. This seems like the Karl Rove strategy for Bush's 2004 election, but I think too many Republicans have died while too many Democrats have reached voting age for this to work again.

I don't think Palin will appeal to suburban America or America period. Our country has serious economic issues due to an unjust war in Iraq and the republican party. She proved tonight that she fall in line with all the other republicans as not caring about the American people and playing dirty politics. This convention is a disgrace! I never sceen a campaign where personal attack mean so much and the American people mean so little.

Nice try from the republicans. It's hard to be disciplined when you have been nasty and mean spirited since the Clinton years. Millions of dollars spent to trash, smear and lie -all the hours listening to radio talking heads- become part of your system and will come out at the least expected times and places. Having the first dinner with the family you are courting -you want a good fist impression- is not the right time to let your darkest traits surface. Oops!!! I think most Americans got it tonight!!! Thank you, Karl Rove, you used to be brilliant!!! You are a great american...ha ha ha

Who is Sarah Palin? What is her experience?
Mayor of a town of about 5,500 souls (back then) and a governor of 680,000 people state. Sure, it is the biggest state in size, but 680,000 residents? What experience is that?
Her best expertise is in firing those she doesn't like. That makes her a "good" republican per Rowe's book.

I think McCain is loosing it. Is Sarah the best VP he could find? There are more than 1000 better republican candidates for a VP.
John, what have you been thinking? Now I have to switch to Obama! You ARE out of touch!!!

I resisted the urge to leave the room during Guiliani's speech, saying to myself, "no, I've at least got to hear her out; it's the fair thing to do." And at the end of her speech, I was at a loss to decide which was worse out of the two.
It seemed as if the first half of her speech was solely about her life and her family's life, things that I consider relatively insignificant regarding whether she earns votes. To be frankly honest, I don't really care that her oldest is entering the military, that her youngest has down syndrome, and that her husband is a former AIP member and a snowmobile champ. I don't think any of that has anything to do with her VP job.
And then the second half was just a long, tiresome and ardorous tirade against Obama, Biden, and other democrats. Half of the claims against them sounded twisted at best and downright false at worst.
Yet I noticed that she didn't discuss in depth one issue, and how McCain or herself planned to tackle it. Not the economy. Not the war(s). Not health care. Not education. Nothing.
They did seem to like trying to steal the "reform" and "change" banners from the Obama camp, though, touting themselves as the party who could really shake things up in the white house.
Oh well. You know what they say; imitation's the sincerest form of flattery.

Please watch this video of Sarah Palin asking a youth church congregation to pray so a natural gas pipeline will be built in Alaska. As she says at about 2:13 in the video "God's will has to be done in unifying people and companies to get that gas line built".

This is NOT the kind of person I want anywhere near the White House.

What really stood out for me is the "divisive" rhetoric that this woman spewed. It made me long to listen to Obama's speech again that left all of us with such a sense of hope and encouragement. Heck it made me even want to go and hug my usually very abrasive next door neighbour that mostly barks at me when I say hi. Obama's speech left you with a sense of positiveness, "mrs Pitbull's" (quoting her words) speech left you drained and angry.

You have got to be kidding me. If the people of this country will be silly enough to go with a 72 year old man, an inexperienced small state governor that know one knows .........

after 8 years of Bush abuse...it says the country is totally lost in mind, heart and soul. We can't take another run of this mess.
Wake up America!!

I am not angry and I will vote Dem. I was a Hillary girl and I will vote Dem. We need change. We all need to get over ourselves and our anger that Hillary didn't get the nomination and do what is right for the country. If we don't then we will have no one to blame but ourselves. Between Guiliani's apparent foray into stand-up comedy and Pallin's Obama-bashing, the RNC is looking more and more like a grade school playground. Is that really what American's want?

david,

this is really a sad day for our democracy – the palin speech was nothing but the angry and mean talking point goosesteps that you hear all day on talk radio – it is horrible that john mccain have let these people loose on america

the speech – and the entire convention program – was nasty and mean – and added nothing to intelligent discourse- it is right there with karl rove calling joe biden a "blowhard doofus" – i dont see why small town america would fall for this horrible nasty propaganda any more than the rest of the country would.
i am angry that the republicans are trying to bully and intimidate the media from asking very legitimate questions about palin – the reason it looks like a deluge is that there is alot of questionable things in her background and mccain sprung her on america – it is his incompetence that caused the media and blogsphere frenzy.
joe klien was right to issue a warning to journalists – don't back down from asking and purusing the legitimate questions. the press was too intimidated in 2003 to ask questions about the wmd story and now we are stuck in iraq –
david make sure your colleagues in the media do their job this time

correction to the last sentence, mccain can't stay awake long enough to solve anything.

I was hoping to listen to a reformer. I was dissapointed and wanted to switch off the TV. I do not think she was herself.. reading that speech was awful.. the content divisive.

She was overboard nasty. The republicans were gleeful and it was kind of depressing.

For people who said that Palin had more vote in her election as governer than Biden did as president, I want them to know that Biden was not on the barlot caucus past Iowa. You cannot take vote from one state and generalize the situation. I guess the same situation apply for that person when it come to his failed presidency bid as well. Biden is a long time experience senator with far more vote in all his reelection than that person who stated that comment and Palin combine. Biden is ready for the job when Palin is going to be an intern for the job.

Listening to all the speeches tonight felt like listening to a used car salesman trying to sell me the same "Lemon" that he sold me four years ago, and trying to pitch the sale with the same lines.

Guess what, I'm not buying this time, and from talking with my neighbors, their not buying either
.

"Pit bull"? I can't wait for the VP debate to see Joe Biden chew her up and spit her out without breaking a sweat doing it. We'll see the "pit bull" turn into a poodle!

Paliin is a pitiful shame. Further, CNN is now Fox News. How disappointing.

I am not in rural America, but surely people who are, will not be gullible enough to fall for this trumped up, set up speech that any good presenter could be taught to give.
Nothing has changed regarding the Republicans, except the need to change from them.

I really don't know about you, but I was tempted to punch my tv tonight as Palin destroyed the art of good speech giving. Even taking an independent look on just how to give a proper and sound speech, she destroyed the basics of how to keep eloquency. In a time where Americans are looking for a new era (post-partisan) of politics, Palin, Romney, Huckabee, and Giuliani (apparently the master in management..phhyeah right) all sought to take personal cheap shots to Senator Obama and his wife, not to mention Palin's insult/joke at the expense of community organziers all over the country (drawing a chorus of laughter from the crowd). The first full nights (day 1 really didn't count) of this convention, with one to go, have done nothing but stir up hatred of our own brothers and sisters..I just don't get it. Americans are looking for common sense and togetherness to tackle the issues facing us, and the Democrats gave this to us. Yes, the Democrats dished out some political shots..but no personal ones. The DNC had constant speakers going up to the stage, laying out the policies that Dems will bring with an Obama victory (many calling for, a lack of better words, "peaceful" work between parties)...the RNC hasn't even touched serious issues (more later). They've settled for giving the far-right fringe of their party joygasms by attacking and dividing the country...again. And again going after "Islamofascism" and repeating "9/11" to try and stir up fear..it won't work.

Outside of the Conservative fringe, I honestly can't see who she [Palin] was trying to impress tonight (her speech reminded me of early high school–where the popular girl has a falling out with her best friend and tears her apart for laughs). Palin showed a complete lack of respect for "the opponent"–never once mentioning Barack Obama or Joe Biden by name. Didn't really give any salient points on key issues (Republicans still haven't brought up the economy..I really can't image that Americans will be duped into voting on fears again..right?). And the attacks..just disgusting. I mean, even for a partisan convention speech, that was over the line. She got very personal on some of those. I was really at a loss..I could really go on and on about this, but I need to digress in order to save my strength!

Where's the Tylenol?..

Palin's speech was hateful. Her speechwriters had her mocking community organizers. She obviously doesn't realize or care that they organize to help people, as in Obama's case, intercity families who live in impoverished conditions. Helping the poor is the Christian way of life, something that she supposedly espouses to do (remember that's why she's going to Washington). I truly don't understand where all of the Republican hatred comes from. As someone who works with people everyday who truly can't provide for themselves because of mental or physical illnesses, I guess I don't have a problem with the government caring for its most vulnerable citizens. In case you're wondering, most people in the helping professions are Democrats.

From reading the many comments I feel our fellow Americans are not that dumb after all. People see through all the negative attacks, FAKE remarks, empty substance coming out from all speakers from the RNC. This will not help to rebuild our country which is in very bad shape. Admit that there is no win to any wars!!

BRING BACK OUR YOUNG AND OLD SOLDIERS!!

Obama / Biden 08

All you people can say now is that she's a pitbul in lipstick??? That's original! You are so pissed, you can't stand it AND I LOVE IT!!! She messed all of you up!

While it is the job of the VP nominee to attack the opposition so the Presidential nominee can appear above the fray, the virulence of her attacks and lack of facts (okay, lies) seemed only to be used to draw attention away from HER lack of experience. I don't think America is ready for a female attack dog, and the attacks will seem disingenuous.

She lost this Independent voter today. I, too, am a mom who is proud of an accomplished governor-mom. However, I felt sad for our nation after her hate-filled speech. I was listening for what she would do for our families but all she did was say sarcastic and caustic things. It made Americans look ugly all over the world. I simply cannot vote for her even though I really wanted to.

I'm a Hillary supporter, and this choice of VP guaranteed my vote for Obama.

Palin will appeal to voters who were going to vote for McCain anyway. Her speech tonight, as it revved up the GOP base, also revved up Obama's supporters–and those of us who are new to the Obama camp..

I was really hoping McCain would have the courage to go with Ridge or Lieberman Palin is just a terrible choice.

Thanks but no thanks Gov. Palin. In a speech dominated by insults and bullying was an promise to parents of children with special needs that when she is Vice President we will have an advocate in Washington. As a life long educator and a parent of a 17 year old with special needs I would offer that she has a ways to go before she can brand herself an advocate. Given her sons age it would be unlikely she can appreciate how much change she and her family will face in the years to come. My own family has moved from a long time home and given up career opportunities to give our son the chance he deserves. Children with special needs don't understand sarcasm and need all the positive roll modeling they can get. I'd make a bet that if her son was 14 years old instead of an infant she wouldn't let him within a mile of such a negative social situation much less being a main contributor. Maybe the Republicans like the idea of a pit bull with lipstick but we in the business of advocating for children with special needs are looking for someone who knows the score.

Her appeal is to small minded America, not small town America. Just because people are from small towns doesn't mean that they left their brains in the Bushes (please excuse the play on words, but I couldn't resist). In the future, it will be interesting to see how she will preform without the predictable Republican speech writers and spin doctors. Some reporters said that she really went on the offensive...me, I just found her offensive...and disappointing.

Mr. Gergen, Please call a spade a spade. I know all the CNN analysts are shocked and disappointed that finally someone is beating up their boy, Obama. Yes Sarah Palin beat Obama up real good tonight and you guys don't like that.

Of Course YES, Sarah Palin will appeal to entire America. She has changed the game already and Republican party will win this election. You guys can talk her down as much as you want or try to diminish what she did tonight but we are not dumb. It is very obvious that she has punched lots of holes in Obama's sweet and empty talks.

I am a 53 year old, married 32 years, southern, white female – the demographic John McCain seems to be salivating over and I am terrified. Terrrified of the judgement of the man who would choose a person of such low caliber as a running mate. Does he think that putting Karl Rove/Dick Cheney in a dress is going to fool people? It is an insult to the women of America. How any mother could put her own political future ahead of her family – exposing her daughter to the ridicule of the country and trotting out the "boyfriend" to sit on the front row with Cindy McCain – is beyond my comprehension.

Well, that answers it ... this former Republican who had to turn Independent when Bush was elected a second time and who adored -truly adored – John McCain just 5 years ago is officially done. Unless the Republicans can come up with some specific answers for the problems that currently face us (instead of the personal attacks and "spin" showcased yet again tonight in Palin's speech) or the Obama campaign just completely blows it, I'll be voting for the Democrats this year. I cannot believe how much I despise my former political party. By the way, I'm a suburban mom from a small hunting/backwoods town – Palin has no appeal for me.

Just waiting for the pictures

Now that the Democratic bloggers have commented, I thought I would chime in. Does Sarah Palin appeal to rural America? I thnk she does. Love of country, hard work in good times and bad, and family are at the core of life in rural America. But those values are not limited to the less populated regions of the country. There are thousands of families in rural, suburban and urban America that can relate to a candidate who loves her country and her family, and is willing to work for those things which fulfill her dreams. As for the "shrill" attacks that were in her speech – excuse me – but isn't that what vice presidential candidates do in their acceptance speeches? I don't recall Sen. Joe Biden patting John McCain on the back, except to say he respects his service to the country. Repeatedly, both Barack Obama and Joe Biden have criticized McCain and his policies, and say he "just doesn't get it." All Palin did was point out that the Obama-Biden ticket may also not "get it" when it comes to the values some Americans feel strongly about. These kinds of "negative" comments happen in every campaign. Running on reform does not mean avoiding pointing out differences between candidates, any more than running on change does.

I must admit I did not "identify" with Palin. I don't agree with most of her politics but I don't agree with a lot of my friends' politics either and they remain my friends -it's tough being a moderate democrat in Louisiana. But my impression, fair or unfair, of Palin is that, despite her avowal that she is "independent" and believes in less government, her agenda is to use her public office to impose her morality and religion on the rest of us., which usually involves government enforcement. This seems more common amongst repubs, although common enough in politicians in general. The tragedy is that I like and respect McCain and would not have otherwise feared that he would use his position to to impose his own personal value system on the rest of us. Palin's extremism is further contributing to what I see as the unfortunate transformation of McCain from the Maverick to the well-broke saddle horse, ready to accomodate whatever republican rhetoric his party wants to saddle him with.

Proves she is a joke or joker

It remains to be seen.

The undercoating of this bitter sarcastic plastering of Barack is the underlying message of white supremacy. The base of hatred among the poorest white rural members of the us is the subtle indication that a person of color is "pulling one over on ya" is the 2nd greatest fear short of a arabic islamic terrorist invasion. Let's just be honest, we just saw the whitest convention in 40 years tear apart the black candidate in ways so disrectful in will demand a response.

I thought the speech was fine in delivery at certain points. As a woman she did not appeal to me however. It could be because what I thought of her and how she came off on screen was absolutely different. I almost felt sad that she was a pawn and then I felt angry that it so far right and so ugly. I don't think they get that people don't respond to that kind of politics. The smile and the jab felt like a scary movie. Campbell Brown said that, it would appeal to women, I hope she wasn't trying to make up for the interview because there was nothing wrong with the question.

Ultimately, I felt turned of by Sarah Palin. All I can say is Obama: stick to ur message and ur plan!

I was hoping to learn more about her, since she only appeared on the scene less than a week ago. But instead all I learned was that she is capable of reading a speech written by someone else from a teleprompter. And that she has no problem being nasty, divisive, and arrogant... oh, and she also looks down on those of us who reach out to our fellow man through community work... but she is a God-fearing Christian?

I am sick of her already.

just a bunch of hot air no policy. i wonder when are they going to start talking about the issues that are important and effecting us all baseless lies.after he made sure he respected her and her family and that's the thank's he gets.it will all comeback and her in the face. GOD BLESS BARACK AND HIS LOVELY FAMILY. I'M TAKING MY CHANCES WITH OBAMA/BIDEN IN "08"

I have been watching commentary by all 3 cable stations, and CNN rivals MSNBC in negative commentary on all things McCain and Palin. Many of you simply can not stand a strong woman who is not liberal. Gov. Palin is obviously warm, smart, funny, and as gifted a speech reader as Obama. WHY don't your reporters dig into the details of Obama's past instead of obsessing over Bristol Palin's pregnancy? I would rather have Gov. Palin answering the red phone at 3 AM instead of Obama-at least she has shown she has the guts to take action if necessary. I used to think you were fair, Mr. Gergen, but sadly, you have sacrificed your journalistic integrity to worship at the altar of Obama. I would say to your CNN team, especially Jack Cafferty, whose comments would get him fired if her were on FOX saying them about Obama–"At long last, sirs and ladies, have you no shame?"

I do not think Sarah Palin will appeal to independents and surburban women. She presented herself to be rude, divisive, arrogant, demeaning and sarcastic. Americans expect people in office to be stately. She didn't discuss the issues that Americans care about. What are their plans for the economy, jobs, energy, foreign policy etc? She really missed an opportunity to introduce herself to the American people.

I'm a Democrat from San Francisco. Love Hillary Clinton and also find Govenor Palin to be refreshing. I like her. I was considering voting for Senator Obama (reluctantly) but now am reconsidering. This Democrat likes Palin!

Typical Republican convention, lies and smear tactics.

Pailin had days to prepare for her speech, wonder how many advisors she had to help her out.

Regardless, The McCain / Palin ticket is dead in the water.

Nothing new this woman will deliver as McCain would not go for it anyways.

Power is not judge by how savagely you can rip apart your opponent using false or misleading claims. If anything, Palin came across as rude, insecure, and quite arrogant. She will not resonate with any woman I know.

Hell no!

she must not want my vote. I seriously thought about supporting her because I like to support women but it was hard to find any common ground other than the fact that she is female. Her speech was empty and full of attacks and I believe she should not be talking about experience when she has hardly been out of Alaska. Sorry Sara but most women dont compare themselves with pitbulls and if you compare yourself with a pitbull are you saying that you are technically a b.......

What a vile woman! I am in shock at how she can spew those lies with a straight face. That's all they got, hate and fear? Seriously, not one speaker at this ridiculous convention has mentioned any kind of plan to solve any of our country's problems. The GOP is mad at the media, really. They cannot even begin to feel the anger and rage I have at the MSM. They call this a great speech, there was nothing there but hatefilled BS in a speech she didn't write or basically have any input into that this woman read off a teleprompter. My God! Wake up people!

Actually I'm glad to listen to Mrs Palin's speech tonite. Because it helps me to see who she really is and what she stands for. In this new world of advanced techonoly, people are getting smarter and more intellectual. Americans these days, after 8 years of disappointment , look at things in a very different way. More realistic I should say ? I voted for Mr Bush the last time, I won't allow myself to make that same mistake again. If Mrs Palin today, put down her pit-bull tactics and replace it with a plan of what she can do for Americans, may be she might get some credit for that . But a VP with that attitude ? no way Jose.

Good Ol'CNN viewers...You can always count on them to tout the Democratic "War Room" Rhetoric. You people call her nasty but turn around and attack her in a"Nasty" way. She gave her stance on taxes and other issues...not all issues but some. It's not her job to do that right now. That is John McCain's job tomorrow night.

I'm a real registered Independent and did she register? You bet she did. Much more than Obama's speech of generalization laced with hidden cost , heavy taxation and punishment for financial success. The guy is a wolf in sheeps clothing.

ALL SHE TALKED ABOUT WAS MCCAIN MCCAIN MCCAIN AND OBAMA THIS AND OBAMA THAT. I EXPECTED HER TO INTRODUCE HERSELF. CALL ME SEXIST, BUT SHE LOOKS LIKE A SECRETARY.

Why do I have a feeling that I already know about everything that Palin has actually concretely done in politics: that the few things she mentions about her background in her speeches are the extent of her accomplishments?

If there is something else about her to sell the country as to her allegedly remarkable record of accomplishment as a "reformer", etc., etc., the GOP better start reeling it out NOW. Otherwise, pretty quickly everyone will impatiently be asking..... "umm, is there anything else to this marvelous record of yours?"

Snarky. That's what a bachelor's degree gets you in this day and age... She seemed to confuse "self-deprecating" with "self-demeaning" – i.e., the pit-bull with lipstick comment. Why would a pit-bull wear lipstick?

You Libs.protesteth too much. Sounds to me like you are really worried and you should be. Sarah Palin is going to make a huge difference in the positive for the Republicans and I think deep down you know it. You would rather wait for your empty suit candidate to TAKE CARE OF YOU. I get a little confused when I listen to him. He's going to offer affordable health care to everyone, make sure everyone can have a college education, spend 150 billion on alternative energy sources and numerous other big spending projects. Along with this he says he's going to give 95% of us tax cuts. I'm trying to figure out how those 5% not getting his tax cuts are going to pay for all those promises. Taking what we spend on Iraq would cover about 3 months cost of his health care proposal. Of course anyone who can walk on water should be able to work out these problems.

I do not think Palin will appeal to anyone with a brain. She definitely didn't appeal to me. I' am speaking as a woman from a small conservative town. She is going to have to speak about something other than her accomplishments as a mom. We know she is a mom. Okay i got that. I' am sure America got that. Hopefully now that her seventeen year old daughter is pregnant she will be for sex education in school. Instead of praising her daughters pregnancy she needs to be talking to young women about the importance of having safe sex. She is against abortion but against sex education. Does she believe in condoms? Apparently not. I wonder how many kids she will have in 4 years.

I am a mother of four and from suburban America. I come from an "ole boy network" type of state and have a great respect and appreciation for Sarah Palin's style. I thought her speech was amazing. As far as the "sarcasm" or "pit bull" comments go, welcome to politics in 2008. There is no difference in what the Republicans do versus what the Democrats do. It is just so unfortunate that politics has become what it is today. However, we should ALL take personal responsibility for providing the market for the obnoxious political behavior we see on both sides.

I just have to ask, Where were all the people of color at this convention? That in itself shows the Republican Party is out of touch with mainstream America.

I watched the whole speech. It was very nasty and anger in tone. I know this was written by the RNC machine, but I was appalled at her having the audacity to belittle established democrats. I know this is a polical race and I do not think the media has treated her fairly, but come on, the american people wanted to know her. What we got was one liners and attacks on Barrack Obama. I do not think she has the experience or judgment to run this country based on that speech. However, I will be following her and McCain closely to see if they have any ideas on how to straighten out this country. Because frankly I haven't heard one, zero, nota (Rudy Giuliani).

I don't think that she's going to appeal to many Americans. She certainly doesn't appeal to me or anyone that was sitting in my living room tonight. This woman scares me and watching this convention makes me physically ill. She's sarcastic and disrespectful and demonstrated how well she fits in the GOP. She mocked Obamas experience as a community organizer while touting her "actual responsibilities" as a small town mayor. She then neglected to mention exactly what those "responsibilities" were. I guess her "responsibilities" included attempting to ban books at the local library and spending hundreds of millions on earmarks.
Alaska should take back their pitt bull.

Obama/Biden '08

Hmm. A woman interested in burning books, who introduced divisive party politics into small town Alaska, who fired civil servants because they supported her opponents, who wants to further weaken our status as a leader in science and technology by mixing science and religion.......the only change I see is a sex change operation to make a female George Bush. All this narrative lacks is the party sweeping the prosecutor who dared bring abuse of power charges against her out of office.

So the plan that the republicans have is to insult the Democrats. Their issue on the economy... insult the Dems. Their stand on the WAR... insult the Dem's. Everyone has it wrong. If by some means the republicans win, God I hope not. But our four years will be worse than the Bush 8. They would make the failed Bush administration seem like the Regan administration.

Gergen: she will definietly apeal!!

Mrs. Palin did not deliver any thing to the American people what we wanted to hear, high health care, too much taxes, and keeping our troops home. All I got out of her speech was anger words toward Obama. She needs to go back home and not give up her position as Governor of Alaska. God forbids if something happens to McCain, and we are stuck with a socker-mom running the country!!!!!!

Unenlighted mind, limited visiont (if any), and most unfortunately, a small heart as well. She's the exact opposite of the leader we want.

Sarah Palin gave a speech written by President Bush's speechwriter that was meant to offer four more years of fearmongering and hatred. She will go over big in the less affluent parts of our country, but her act won't be popular in the suburbs.

Fail. Won't grow the base. Time to dump her and pick another VP.

this RNC convention can't bring up the economy since it's their adminstration's policies which put most Americans in the pinch they're in today. As the pundits pointed out last night which followed suit tonight, the RNC is trying to act like the past eight years haven't happened b/c by doing so would tie this ticket to Bush – and that's nothing but defeat.

This Republican ticket is not sane and it scares me to think what else this political group can do to OUR daily lives. Think about the decisions made in the Bush years about policies and decisions to go to war... and think about McCain's decision making skills and the processes (or lack there of) he will rely on to make if he were POTUS. That's a country I hope none of us ever have to see.

ENOUGH!

Yes, Mrs. Palin has won my vote alright! For her pit-bull-styled attack and her distortion of the truth, she has won my vote for a slot on Fox News, "The Palin & McCain show", right after the Hannity show.

Sarcastic. Unprofessional. Completely Lacking Substance. Endless and needless stories about her family. Is she running for president of the PTA or the Vice President of The United States of America?

Enough Said. Go Obama!

This evening’s convention started off with a man and a woman singing “America".
Their performance reminded me of watching The Lawrence Welk Show, many years ago with my grand parents.

Their singing sounded labored, old and tired as well as being off key.

Then you have Sarah Palin. She reminds me of the Lennon Sisters who used to sing on the Lawrence Welk Show. They were a group of young women singing the same tired old songs, also off key, with a drop more energy, but the same old message.

In the end you can't teach an old dog new tricks but you can teach a young dog old tricks.

This in a nut shell is what is wrong with the Republican Party and why they are doomed to fail and lose the election.

I'm proud to be a woman, a mother and an American... and Sarah Paliln made me feel even better about all three tonight! Bull dogs have never looked so good. Earlier today I heard a female radio commentator refer to her as Caribou Barbie, after tonights performance I think we can toss that little title out with the trash! I'll be voting McCain Palin in November, and Sarah Palin just made me feel a whole lot better about that choice.

I am so disappointed and worried about our Country. The GOP delegates have signs that say "Country First", but as usual are showing their true colors, so the signs should read "Country Club First". One of my 3 sons is heading to Iraq. I am a single mom who has raised my 3 sons to be responsible and patriotic citizens, give back to community and country. I find it quite disheartening that anytime anyone questions a republican's actions or ideas they are labeled unpatriotic. John McCain, I respect that you served your country as a soldier. Now serve it as a "Human Being" and look out for the lower 95% of US Citizens. Not all Veterans are lucky enough to marry a Millionaire so that they never have to worry about being able to pay the bills when they get laid off due to their job being outsourced. Shame on you Gov Palin for spewing out such vile against someone who does not have your same ideals. Senators Obama and Biden are just trying to find a way to get our Country out of the outhouse that the Bush Administration has put us in.

Palin was chosen after the DNC as a desperate attempt to lure women voters to the Republican party. She is a perfect match for the old geezer looking McCain who has had four heart attacks. If he were to die in office, it would not matter since the Republicans have always had their agenda and there puppet to spew it on an on and on.

I could not believe my ears tonight, as a proud Canadian, I've been drawn to the US election, I have enjoyed the dynamic of it, I even envy the american people to be part of such an historic election year but tonight I am very disappointed at the so call speeches that where nothing else than insults, mockeries and accusations on the other candidates. I sincerely feel ashamed for these individuals, the only consolation is that it shows that the american people are smart that's why they didn't get the votes during the primaries. I believe that Sarah Palin is a good human being, unfortunately she is being used by John McCain for political gains

I keep hearing and reading the buzzwords "more divisive politics" regarding Palin and the RNC speeches. Please explain exactly how they are any more divisive than what is coming from the DNC and the further-Left elements who have taken center stage within the Democratic party? It is disingenuous to proclaim the RNC rhetoric as divisive, when it is simply the other side of the same coin as that from the DNC. If you don't like it, fine, attack its merits or accuracy, but don't turn a blind eye to its shared nature with Democratic rhetoric and deny it. THAT is hypocrisy.

How is it that Biden is portrayed as the "attack dog" that would get McCain, and that's OK, but when a Sarah shows that she ain't no pushover you want to act all offended?

She's tough, and she has the heart of the heartland. You can keep your "vote present" senator and long time beltway insider that has done noting to change the status quo. Yep he's been an insider so long he probably has dinosaur DNA under his toes! LOL!

What's the plan?? You ain't listening ...

I heard lower taxes, smaller government, an energy plan (effective Jan 2009), national security, and integrity expressed tonight.

Rudy made a couple of great points. You people act as if terrorism isn't a threat or that other evil nations mean us no harm. Dems didn't even address it in four days!!

Also, he did hit a very accurate point when he said ...

"Change is not a destination, just as hope is not a strategy."

Raising McCain!!

McCain/Palin 2008

David, why is it this year that Cindy McCains fortune is not fair game? Was not Therese Heinz Kerry's fortune the cause of much media attention during the 2004 campaign, to the detrimentment of the Democrats?

And why is it that Republican's can get away with using someone's war record against them so much better than the Democrats? One practically can't say like Wesley Clark that McCain's war record does not necessarily make him a better candidate for President without being disloyal to the man's 5 1/2 years of hardship at the hands of the North Vietnamese, which should of course not be made slight of. But did not the Republicans, during the Bush Presidency, link a photo of a Democratic veteran who had lost 3 limbs in Vietnam with Osama Bin Laden because he did not vote exactly the way the White House wanted? Tell me which is worse, 5 1/2 years in captivity or no captivity but missing 3/4 of your limbs for the rest of your life and confined to a wheel chair.

Her rudeness might work in Alaska, but here in the suburbs of Charlotte, NC, she came across as mean, nasty and very bitter--SHRILL. I hope that she and the GOP understand that the gloves can now be taken off and the sexism charge will not work. As a woman, I was offended by the charge of sexism towards someone as unqualified as Palin, she is nothing more than an affirmative action pick by John " stoop to any level as long as I win" Mccain.

She really fit in with Romney and Guliani tonight, another blowhard that has never done anything that's worth speaking of, other than lying.

Why bother leaving a comment? It gets moderated out by the REPUBLICANS in the tank for McWarmonger and the "Hot" Candidate from Alaska

It's called CENSORING AMERICANS

The woman flat out insulted Community Organizers across the country.... that shouldn't sit well with anyone in rural america

Call it morbid curiosity, but I was actually checking email at work throughout the day to keep tabs on what was going on/the "speeches" (I use that term loosely) at the RNC. Good coaching of Palin, huh? Had her ready, waved the red flag and "let the bull begin"!! Rudy teed it up, too. Last night was mild compared to tonight from the clips I've seen....just diatribe, not discussion of the issues that plague our nation after 8 Bush-league years of incompetence in the White House. Leave it to the "lady in the house" to come out firing because her colleagues don't have the cajones to do it....now let's watch how they hide behind her "skirt" as they continue to use her as their mouthpiece to throw their stink bombs. Looking forward to the VP debate, which I believe is Oct. 2nd....lots of memorizing to do, Sarah....better get ready to stay up late.

Sarah Palin is proving that she is a hail marry attempt to win the election. I was looking to forward to hearing what she had to say after all the media attention and I am very disappointed. She's a bag of hot annoying air. She wasn't saying anything about the issues. The fact that she hated on Obama so much just shows how weak her ideas for this country must be. She doesn't have any ideas. She's a freakin puppet with an annoying voice. Game over McCain camp.

I think Sarah Palin was George Bush in a skirt, the sarcasm and smirks were a real turn off. I am a Obama supporter but I really wanted to hear this supposed "breath of fresh air".....wow I know I'm with the right party. And what happen to Cambell Brown? Someone putting pressure on her to make nice?

Her speech came across as arrogant and sarcastic. I respect her opinion but this woman is clearly not qualified at this time to be this country's Vice President, and God forbid the President of the United States.

Did Sarah Palin appeal to my small sector of suburban America? NO! I have never been so appalled or offended at any other point in the political season. She did nothing to sway independents and or unsure democrats to vote for their ticket in November. She has no experience and it showed in her speech. All she could do was jab and and speak negative and continue to throw up more smoke and mirrors.. which is a typical Republican tactic. In all honesty, her choice as VP was a major smoke and mirror effect as it has tried to distract truly engaged voters away from the true issues. We all know she has no experience and was merely selected for her gender. I would just hope that she along with McCain realize that informed voter cannot be deceived or rather duped into falling for this. She does not represent nor stand for all women and I would hope that women who are still bruised from Hillary not getting the nomination remember that. A vote for McCain/Palin is 4 more years of the same hell we've been going through for the last 8. Enough is enough!

I am a Hillary supporter and life-long Democrat who happens to be from bitter small town America. My family and I are appalled at the sexist treatment of Sarah Palin by the media and will be voting for the TRULY EXPERIENCED, HONEST ticket of CHANGE: McCain/Palin. Several of my friends feel the same way and we plan to both donate time and money to see that this ticket is elected.

I wasn't impressed. Her "attacks" were OLD news, or should I say old conservative news talking points. We are divided, and this didn't help. We are a country facing many challenges, and instead of addressing these challenges Palin was a Rove megaphone. My Grade: B for effort, F for failure to be more than we've seen for 8 years...

OBAMA/BIDEN 08'

I think the McCain/Palin ticket will fire up the Democrats!.

She's obviously tough enoughto be president, and I don't blame any Democrat who is worried now. This is one Hillary supporter that has finally found a good reason to vote Republican (sorry, Hillary!) for the first time ever – and her name is Sarah Palin!

SHES YOUR GIRL IF YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ALLOWS FIELD DRESSING A MOOSE!!

I thought her introduction to the American people was insulting. She viciously attacked Obama mercilessly! Americans are tired of this bitterness, and its not coming from Obama. She spoke to republicans and no one else. She is a very devisive personality.

If I hadn't watched Mr. 9/11's grotesque performance only moments before, Governor Palin's speech would have been the most arrogant, snide, factually and substantially deficient piece of swill I've witnessed in over a year. The entirety of her speech reads like a right wing chain email, utterly unfettered from facts or reality and completely bereft of substance. Campaign Manager Rick Davis said earlier today that "Issues don't matter." Well, apparently issues don't matter to Senator McCain or Ms. Palin either. America deserves better than this and if the commentariat doesn't do its job and COVER the innumerable factual errors and distortions pouring from Ms. Palin's mouth, we're screwed.

To have appeal in suburban america, she's going to have to get new speech writers. They can try inserting some real content into future speeches. Hollow attacks and half-truths are just not going to get you very far today with all the problems that we have to resolve. Why couldn't McCain find a true conservative to be VP, someone like Andrew Bacevich? Someone who could bring real change to the Republican Party.

I never cease to be amazed at how these so called "religious" people can spew such hatred and intolerance. "Booing" of the NBC news organization during Palin's speech reminded me something of the Nazi's cheering while burning books!! Wake up America – if you want to return to the past, vote for this Republican ticket.
One more thing – this so called "pro-life" ticket needs to be reminded that maternal mortality (that is death of the mother) occurred at a much greater rate when abortion was illegal in this country.

Don't fall for the hype. Palin McCain is the same old politics For the past eight years the peolple have had to deal with the republicans holding the highest office in the land full control of the house and the senate as well as appionting the most Supreme court justices and today our country is in the worse state I've every seen it. The world look at our nations as aggressors and not problems solvers. they think all we know is war. Our dollar is lower than in history. Well I'm ready for change and this RNC showed me no diversity so how do they think they represent the average person WAKE UP PEOPLE THINK AND VOTE ON Nov 4
Obama Bidden 2008

This is another republican old style attack machine. She is anti abortion, no equal pay for women, killing polar bears, hand in hand with oil industry, misused executive office for personal stuff and NRA buddy. She might be hockey mom, but it takes more to run a country. It would have been better if she know how to fix broken economy and build non partisan atmosphere in Washington. How she is going to earn back US reputation that we lost in last 8 years? GOP has only one thing- that is negative attack machine; which McSame experienced 8 years ago, now he got experience throwing mud on others. He will never make it through and we will be left with this Hockey mom playing sports. She needs to concentrate on her family. Her son as well as teenage pregnant daughter needs help. I know all the companies and government retire individuals after 65 years, bcos they can't work, act and think the way a young person can. When it is time for McSame for retirement, he is thinkng to run this country. We don't want George W. Mcsame. Fellows you have opportunity and power to make a difference and I know you guys are smart enough to know who is on your side. In last 60 years Dems run this country 41% of the time with more than 10% annual rate of return. Rest of the time GOP with 7%. During Clinton rate of return was 19% and thank you Bush for 0.22% during last 8 years. Republicans have only scare tactics: tax and terrorism, and I am telling you that worked for them so far. STAND UP and ACT now to save the land of dreams. It is common saying: "If you made me fool one time, it is your fault, but if you made me fool more than one time, I am stupid." I don't think American people are stupid. GOD save America from GOP.

Appeal to subburan America? Heck she is from Alaska! Population........ well less than the average American city! I listened to the speeches of the Repubs and the Dems, and all I can say is......it scares the heck out of me to even think that a Republican can get into office yet once again. I am a registered Republican but can no longer submit to the call of the party. I have listened to both conventions and am just sick. What did I hear coming out of the GOP? War! Win at all costs! Make no acceptions! I am at a loss, I will vote Obama, I do have hope!

I'm privileged to carry a vote this upcoming election (and influence several others). I'll say this: Mayor Palin's budget was about the same as mine as student government leader in college. My election required more votes than the mayor did. And I think I ran a cleaner (ethical is the more appropriate word) campaign for two weeks than Ms. Palin did in the few minutes she spoke tonight.

For me, voting in this election is a no-brainer. A democratic country deserves the leaders it gets - I'm hoping we the people of America do not fail to see the miserable light in which one campaign is being run, and the audacity of the other. Ridicule hope and change all you want. The more you do that, the more you shy away from substance. That's what the RNC has been about so far. That's what we need to understand before election day.

God bless America!

I find it interesting, from an outsider’s perspective, why God is part of the political narrative in the U.S. election. The only other countries that inject God into their politics are Islamic States, and they tend to be quite radical. Are these candidates running for President or head of The Church of America? Especially Republicans who seem to feel God is smiling down on illegal wars and ignoring the plight of the disadvantaged! I wonder if Jesus would approve?

Not in my suburbia. She was absolutely ridiculous. You call this a "home run" ??? Any high-schooler with a penchant for sarcasm and a willingness to compare themselves to a dog could have pulled it off. Personally, I don't care what her kids are up to, unless of course they are a BLATANT result of her "abstinence only" sex-education policy. Then her daughter just becomes an unfortunate statistic. Nominating her was an insult to all women by thinking we would so blindly follow the poorest excuse for a leader I've ever seen. McCain knows there were several far more qualified, but chose politics over his country. I once considered myself an independent, but after the absolute nonsensical actions and incessant belittlement McCain/Palin endorse... I'd be more comfortable with the term "bleeding heart liberal."

The republicans keepsaying that Obama does not have any experience but neither does John Mccain he has never been a governor nor held any executive office so what gives him the right to criticise Obama. Also George Bush held executive office as the governer of Texas some good that did. I was also annoyed with Sarah's judgement to parade her unmarried pregnant teenage daughter and her boyfriend for the wolrd to see. When has this become an acceptable thing to do in our country. Is that the example that's beign set for our teenage daughters. There was a time in America when being unmarreid and pregnant was look done on but it seems to be acceptable in our society today. Is this where we are heading .

No. She reminds me of one of those nasty groupies getting power from hanging around bully bikers.
Of course they are McCain's constituency.
Speech–she is all fingers and fists in the face. What next? A Nazi salute?
If this is what the Republican Party has dumbed down to, they are finished.

A lot of suburban women are pro-life and pro-reform. They love strong women and Sarah Palin gets things done. No one can argue that. She will pull votes from men and women. The men love to see a woman who believes in the 2nd amendment. Since she is a hunter, they know they can trust her. She is tough and she knows how to negotiate. She proved that when she stuck it to Big Oil. You gotta love this woman. She is going to be great as Vice President!

Well, finally we get to hear 'Elly Mae speak. The Republicans have attempted to trash every other aspect of our country ( our Constitution, Privacy, our International standing in the world...just to name a few) so what was next? Of, course the highest offices in the land! I am not a holier-than-thou church goin type, but I have to admit seeing her pregnant daughter paraded out with her "fiance" was really a low-point for our country–she and her family are real role models allright–right up there with the Spears sisters. What a snide, ugly human being. She and McCain make a perfec duo–Dumb and Dumber.

Since Palin was chosen, I've made it a point to educate at least one person per day on her extreme policy positions. Each time I tell someone that she wants abortion outlawed even in the case of rape or incest, wants creationism taught in schools, and believes in abstinence-only education, they shake their head in disbelief.

When people find out what Palin stands for, her everywoman charm won't be enough to make them pull that lever, no matter how likable she is.

Just bringing back from memory the Red and Blue areas in the maps of the last elections I'd say that Palin does have a chance to make a mark on the "lesser developed" parts of US.

Then again, those regions don't come across to me personally as being very "feminist" so who knows, really?

Paul

Palin sets women back about a hundred years. All that we fought for is being lost by her. She won't win the VP and will put her foot in her mouth and turn people against her. She has run down alot of people tonight, especially those in big cities. I would like to see a full investigation on this woman about what she did in Alaska to have her brother-in-law fired. I can't see why CNN isn't doing more as an investigative media agency. They should be sending more tough people up to Alaska to find out exactly what kind of person she really is. I am a woman and would never vote for her. I am a Hillary fan. You can never compare the two.

I thought her speech was rude, arrogant, racist,and an insult to hard working community organizers across this country.

It was sad to see Wolf Blitzer jump with joy while implying her speech was a home run. What a joke.

Replace McCain with Palin! Palin, Palin, Palin, Palin, Palin, Palin, Palin!!!!!! Whoopee! Whoopee!!!

Why will most Americans not take her?? Because you think she was rude???? C'mon!! Arrogant?? How arrogant can a governor of Alaska be? You know as much about her as you know about Obama. Obama has been on the media circuit for almost 2 years now, and he still hasn't lived up to her experience.

Had he chosen Hillary for his VP.....there would be no race here, no experience question here...

this would be a no win situation for the REPUBS.!!!!

No, she will not appeal to anyone other than her base. For her first appearance on the National stage, she was rude and condescending. Say what you will about Obama, most Americans know his story now and even if they are unsure of him and may not even vote for him, he has earned some respect for all that he has accomplished. Palin, someone we don't know yet, to come out and disrespect Obama's service to Americans however small but still honorable (community organizer comment) like she did really set the tone and eventually my opinion of her. I guess doing good for your community and your fellow American is not as worthwhile as selling the Governor' jet on E-Bay....

tobiasjosias.......You are so wrong......I'm a Clinton supporter and and swore not to vote for Obama....the Dem Convention changed my mind....And Sarah Paling confirmed I made the right choice in now supporting Obama.......She is a Puppet for the RNC who is smart enough to give a speech that someone else wrote and knows opportunity when it is handed to her....Other than that she is an opportunist moosehead-airhead puppet.
.

Yes, the attacks were a bit strong, but you know... the "more of the same" comment is getting old, and since the "no experience" bit will not work since Palin has more accomplishments to show for her short time in office (aside from the pep rally's that have launched someone who is completely unqualified into the Democratic nomination). What else do the Dems have to offer? Why aren't the republicans a better pick? And lastly, I had to laugh... exactly what DOES a community organizer DO?? This brings to mind the block parties that we have during the summer in Philly... our block captain is going to be soooo thrilled when I let her know she's now qualified to run for president! The dems are just hurting now because the punches were hard and on more than one issue, hit home. I think John McCain choosing a woman that tore apart the books when she walked into office and trimmed the fat rings out loud and clear on how he's going to manage the economy. Lastly, I have to salute Lieberman for being his own man and standing up for what he believes is the best for our country – even if it didn't make him the most popular democrat.
-Another Independent Democrat

I know many of the pundits are giving her kudos for a 'great' speech, but she totally left me cold. I hope that people will think carefully about the fact that she is on the same side as George W on every issue. So if you want to continue down the path we have for the past 8 years, vote mccain/palin. She is Sarcastic, nasty & not very brainy,. She's not highly thought of in the suburbs where I live.

I was interested in hearing what the RNC had to say these days, but I was disappointed to see them, and her, hide behind the old hypocritical liberal bashing that they were known for. It's sad because it certainly take the shine off a historical nomination of a women to such a position. I believe women in the suburbs and cities will look through her blatantly transparent cynicism. I've made up my mind now, this girl votes for Obama..

As a registered independent, and a 60 year-old white male, I was finally pushed off the undecided column this evening. And none other than Ms. Palin clinched the deal. I'm voting Obama/Biden in '08!

It wasn't all Palin's doing, she was "just following orders". The same refrain that was heard over and over in the late 1930's and early l940's in Germany. No way, no how, no McCain/Palin this year, or any other year! Go Obama/Biden '08!

I doubt if Suburban America will go for her. Pit bulls make people nervous ... especially if they're not confined or leashed.

She is a joke! I was supporting her before her speech tonight, after her speech, I lost respect for her. I am a woman and women are supposed to unite not divide, To govern a any country as a leader you need to bring people together, it not only Rnc living in unite state, the left are American citizen too. We American abroad here in Canada are disappointed and as woman and a mother, she failed the first test. When Obama was asked to comment on her daughters rumor, he defended her. On the first night of her fist introduction to the nation and America's abroad like me, she failed, just as she failed as a mother.

She only alienated female voters with any modicum of intelligence tonight. Her rabid and bullying style will only backfire and turn off moderate and independent voters alike. I'm actually glad that she is so horrible offensive, so there will be less chance of women being duped that she would do ANYTHING to make progress for REAL women.

Sounds to me like all you "Bleeding Heart Liberals" are really scared.
Fact is that Sara Palin has more executive experience collectively than the complete Democrat Ticket! Get real folks.

Pray to GOD that she doesn't appeal to any one significant ... else America is doomed to another term of Bush-Chenney. I can't understand how that can be appealing to any one !!!

Until tonight I was still undecided. I voted republican in the last two elections and really needed to be convinced to do so again. I too wanted to hear her address the issues and was sad that she did not. I truly disliked the attacks on Obama, big strike against her. This man is conducting himself with integrity and Palin should be careful how she speaks of him. I'v listened and observed both candidates and tonight Palin did not win my vote for McCain. I will vote democrat in November.

Where there no people of color there. Wow, did not see one brown or black person.

everything i know suggests that this country is moving away from
extreme right wing ideas like if you're daughter is raped make her
have the baby. i'm sorry, in this day and age, that is a barbaric
attitude. there is something very dysfunctional looking about that
family that the RNC is celebrating. family values is now about
shotgun marriages and teen aged hockey players with foul mouths?
i think i will be for the candidates who can run under the banner
ONE HOUSE, ONE SPOUSE.

Dame....W

I live in suburban Southern California - Orange County, specifically. The "soccer mom" identity practically originated here, and from my perspective, I can say that the divisive issue with Palin is not gender but geography. Her being from Alaska will not convince a lot of suburbanites that her executive experience is relevant to "mainstream" suburban America. If she were governor of California - which has the sixth-largest economy in the world; is home to multiple major industries like agriculture, entertainment and technology; and represents the future demographic trends of America - then maybe I might give her executive experience more weight. As it is, I think suburban America will see a governor from a remote state; now Alaska has some mystique, but not all of it good.

She read her lines very well but it was too not real. That was not her speaking at all and you could tell. It was an attempt to make her out to be something she is not. In the end win or lose, the politics of America was turned into a three ring circus in an attempt to add another historical nominee to a ticket to split the country and to throw the real issues off the table.

I have a very bad feeling that this is the beginning of the end for Obama and Biden. Palin will end up killing and pwning those two and hand the election to McCain.

GOD HELP AMERICA! I'm about ready to barf!

Drill Drill Drill ,
Ice caps melting, more tropical storms on the way.
You would think she would have more awareness of the severity of climate change and global warming !
If a person has so little understanding of there surrounding environment, how can one understand foreign policy?
Yet of all the speakers at the RNC , she has a lotta heart!
But thats not enough for my vote. I can't afford four more years of denial , nor can my four year child.
Sincerely,
Hambone Pickins

yes NO QUESTION fantastick

Palin gave a good speech... at least we know she can read. Her speech not only fired up the conservative base, it fired up the Democrat's base more. We are not stupid. We have all watched what the republicans have done to the country over the last 7 years. I am still searching for life in the white house. The republicans are running the carl rove play book but has forgotten that we all read it and reject it. I maxed out my contributions to the Obama team tonight.

On this issue of people who say that "Abortion is the wrong answer"

Doesn't it say something though that we live in a country where we can have that argument and that opinion? I don't believe we have the right to say when life begins and ends, I'm anti abortion and anti execution. But, I don't believe that others shouldn't be able to make the same choice that I've made. I think its a decision for the people involved, not for us who aren't.

I am a 21yr.old first time voter and I am very in tuned with the issues.I thought that Gov.Palin's speech was very harsh and echoed the same talking points that's used on (THE FAIR AND BALANCED) FOX NEWS.As a first time voter I expect our leaders to be above that devisive rheteric.To laugh at someone who reaches out to the community,who's educational level far out weighs hers,speaks to a persons heart.I have no doubt that she reached her base,but I'm not sure she reached the undecides.I am one of them,and she lost my vote for the McCain/Palin ticket.

Lol, Democrats are tired about hearing of Palin and she has just been on the news constantly for 5 days..Imagine a Republican or Indy getting the Prophet Obama pushed down our throats for 8 months.

I love how the Democrats are taking off their gloves and throwing out nonsense because Palin is starting to raise eyebrows of a home run pick.

McCain/Palin
08

She doesn't excite me she is just another rep. with looks. I don't even think she sound very christian.. Her voice is as shrill as her comments. I don't even consider her a candidate. She hasn't put in the blood sweat and tears like everyone else in the primary. There is something wrong with just walking at the last moment and not have dirtied her hands. I also found her very sarcastic which was not called for. Wake up reps. we are sick of this. What can you do to get us out of the mess you have gotten us into? The dems have risen above this. I also don't want a pres or vice pres that thinks they can silence the press. And she had better not put Barack down anymore she hasn't earned that right

After Palin's speech tonight, I am convinced that she is the female version of George W. Bush. She is smug and self-satisfied and thinks she has a great sense of humor – just like W. Her view of the world is shaped by her right-wing religious beliefs – just like W. She thinks our being in Iraq is part of "God's plan" – just like W. She has a very limited understanding of foreign policy – just like W when he took office. McCain is no maverick – he picked someone to pander to the extreme right-wing of his party and I'm sure they are excited.

McCain/Palin 08 – MORE OF THE SAME!!

Sarah and her group are certainly painting the down home, out-of-doors type with just a touch of whatever substitutes for being a redneck in Alaska. If it is similar to what constitutes a redneck in Texas I can only hope it will not play as well in suburban areas across the United States. It's been my experience that most of the true rednecks I have known have been bigoted, intolerant and generally poorly educated. I think Sarah and her crew will appeal to this group. However there are certainly many highly educated Republicans and she will appeal to them because she will toe the line on all the appropriate orthodoxy.

Everyone hear seems to be saying we dont know who she is... Fair enough, but Obama has been in this since the beginning and I still do not know who he is or what he stands for.

Unless you count bashing Bush... Move on, President Bush is on his way out, leave him alone and concentrate on trying to figure out what this guy Obama wants. Other then to be the WORLD LEADER... What a JOKE OBAMA is. If he gets it I will take the seat from Allison in Costa Rica, otherwise good my Allison...

McCain/Palin for me.

The tenor of the Republican Convention tonight, especially with regard to Giuliani and Palin, makes me think that Rove has had a lot more to do with this Convention than was first apparent.. Even if he was absent. Meanwhile, the Democratic Convention was remarkably free of such low tactics.

I don't understand how the RNC's painting everyone who is trying to talk about the candidates records and their stance on the issues, including the so-called left-wing media, ugly reflects "Christian values." Nor, for that matter, how out-right lying , distorting and demeaning the record of the opposition does.

Yes, indeed.

I was very disturbed by the speech. She seemed overly confident given the position she is in. There was very little that was new or creative. It was very frightening to think that she could be in charge of our military given the simplistic, false ideas. And the idea that she is God's gift to the country.

I think that they knew she could be manipulated, in that she seems in awe of John McCain.

I am left cold by the family thing. It is easy to talk about family. She is leaving a disabled infant alone at a time when critical bonding is occuring with his mother. Also one wonders if her daughter may have benefited from more supervision and attention, instead of talk of her family.

i expect politicians to campaign hard, spin, lie, say what they need to portray their opponents in a light less flattering. that's what politicians do. however, what i have seen from palin and almost every other speaker this evening has honestly floored me. the open mockery combined with unapologetic, trite attempts of wit was one of the most unprofessional political displays i've ever seen.

I had to turn the TV off she was so offensive. God save us if McCain gets in and he dies. There will definitely be an im-Palin....

I found her incredibly under-whelming. Her mean-spirited, sarcastic end to the sort of warm – and – friendly get-to-know-me-and-my-family beginning spoke volumes about her not evening having a platform – position – of her own (and proving that she's more a subservient to McCain, licking his boots and singing his praises). And the subtle dig to those who support Obama-Biden (calling them "the devoted") definitely won't win her any kudos from those undecided.

It was a condescending, insult-laden bit of smarm disguised as a vice presidential acceptance speech. Just goes to show how far down that character ladder our leaders have fallen.

No because all she has to offer is anger and a selfish dysfunctional family. I thought the GOP was family values. She has none!

The CNN commentators gave Palin an A for her speech, except for Begala who gave her a B – your readership gave her an F! It is not just the media who has a problem with the repulsive Republican reprobates! Ah, the nattering nabobs of negativism!

I believe Sarah Palin's next career will be a talk show host for a right wing radio or TV station. She is entirely in the mold of cynics like Rush Limbaugh. Her entire speech had almost no positive content. Her 600 days as Governor and manipulative, rude arrogance have prepared her perfectly for a media job – but not for the job of Vice President.

As a woman I was insulted by John McCain's pick for VP. Does he think all women will vote for her because she is a woman. I think her speech was mean and nasty. It really made me mad to hear her remarks about Obama and Biden. They are so much better than she ever could be. What would happen if anything happened to John McCain? Would the America people really stand to have her as President? I think the American people are smarter than this. Many of the things she said about Obama were just wrong – will she be called on this by the press? That is if John McCain ever lets her talk to the press.

"....... may just leave a lot of voters cool if not cold." How about frozen? We really need more snide, snarky, insulting, demeaning, and LYING discourse in our leadership. Obama and Biden have been saying that electing McCain would be 4 more years of the same ................ Gov. Palen SHOWED that it would be just that - or worse! She's Dick Cheyney in a skirt! I thought more of John McCain but he has brought us the most mean-spirited candidate that I can recall. --- And she told at least three bold-faced, absolute lies with a totally straight face. - Once again, the Republican party has shown how stupid they think the American public is, and now they are saying that those of us who give service to our communities are worthless as well. I'm sickened.

I'm confused about the message....

Is it "us against them", or is it "we want to reach across the aisle, and change the way Washington works"?

McCain looked creepy, Romney sounded silly, Rudy sounded crazy, and Palin sounded un-presidential.

Best speech of the night? Huckabee...

I certainly hope suburban women (and everyone else) will see Palen's acceptance speech for what it was: a thinly disguised hatchet job and well-crafted defamation of character. Let's not forget that McCain's people wrote that speech for her, although I thought McCain had vowed to keep his campaign on the high road, as Obama has so admirably has. Well, if tonight shows us anything, it's that while McCain's out there mouthing bland things about policy, Palen's job will be to launch malicious personal attacks–with McCain's full knowledge, approval and support.

I am a suburban mother, and I'm concerned with issues like education, the economy, alternative fuels, and health care. I also care about social issues and am deeply concerned about the social climate of the country. As a mother of a preteen daughter, I also care about the kinds of role models that are put forth, and the messages that are sent to our children by the media and by politicians. In Michigan we have a wonderful female governor who is steady, fair, consistent, capable and very intelligent. I have little patience for playground politics. I feel suburban voters are very focused on the issues at hand, and are not turned on by the name calling and hair grabbing.

Yesterday, I thought McCain was nuts and that he should throw Sarah Palin under the bus. Boy was I wrong and McCain was right!
Tonight's speech Palin gave at the Republican Convention (9-3-08), was the best, funniest, coolest most down-to-earth speech I have ever heard from any politician. I see why Alaska loves her.
She's a phenomenon!
To paraphfrase Sarah Palin's dad.... HOLY COW!
You bet she'll play in the suburbs.
I've been watching Larry King Live and it's obvious that the ONLY people who don't like Palin are the die-hard liberals and really ugly women like the jealous women that Larry had on tonight. Larry, shame on you... you should have had at least one woman who actually likes men.

I'm stunned that Sara Palin thinks that her right wing extremists views will appeal to mainstream Americans. She is great for inspiring support for the Republican base, but that's about it.

Does she really think that she has the experience to take on Barack Obama and Joe Biden?

Give me a break!

She made a good presentation of herself that will soon have a spotlight put on it to reveal the truth of the perfect reform lie that she is living. However, the next time she won't have speechwriters to spoon feed her information on national security.

I CAN'T WAIT!!!!!

And because she has labeled herself as a pitbull with lipstick, she and the Republican party of whiners can't cry foul that she is being treated unfairly!!!!!!!

I've noticed that the Republican party for most of this election race has never focused on stating the issues and their specific plans for turning this election around. I guess they feel that the best defense is a good offense and just attack the other candidate. If that's all they have to offer, then please, please, let Obama win!!

Sorry David,
I have always been a fan of yours as a fair minded person and speaks whats right...
I wonder just because McCain called off his interview on Larry King because of what happened between Cambell Brown and Tucker, you guys have simpy closed your minds and decided to show wrong is right.

Sarah Palin is far from a dignified America woman many would connect with, she has portrayed herself as a nasty , sarcastic person who could neither prove that she was fit for the job nor could she lay out the problems she saw this country facing and how she as team with McCain would put up to solve those problems..

I dont think most woman will like to be seen as one of her kinds..at least not me.

The only suburbs she might not do well in are the suburbs of San Francisco, Washington DC, and Chicago. For everyone else, Sarah Palin is a much needed breath of fresh air after months of an Obama smoke screen.

Much of Sarah Palin's viability as a candidate for Vice-President is weighted on her role as a mother for 19 plus years. And for the past 13 years as a mother and public servant. Based on those criteria, she falls short.
Failing to have a teenage daughter heed any reasonable guidance about abstinence/safe sex and subjecting the same daughter to national exposure during an out of wedlock pregnancy suggests an uncomfortable disconnect about Ms. Palin.
Was she so fixed on raising her national profile that she accepted Senator McCain's offer at the expense of her family's emotional health.
The same may be true in press accounts of her flying from Dallas, Texas to a Seattle, Washington layover, and Alaska after her water broke before she delivered her last child who was pre-diagnosed with Down Syndrome.
Governor Palin is untested. Mother Palin is reckless.
Vice-Presidential Candidate Palin is overmatched.
DE

HOW COME PALIN CAN BE A ROCK STAR, BUT OBAMA CAN'T BE A CELEBRITY. THIS REPUBLICAN PARTY IS REALLY GOOD A DOUBLE TALK.

After watching Palin's speech at the convention, I am more mystified than ever as to why McCain thought this choice would be a good idea. She's clearly a smart, successful career woman. Great. Let's invite her to book club. But leader of the free world???? Surely they can't be serious about this.

It was a home run. She hit it right out of the park. Of course everyone knew before she even gave the speech that the extreme left in this country do not just dislike her, they have already demonstrated by their baseless savage attacks this week, that they hate her. But the Democatic left in this country have always been and will always be nothing but shallow mindless haters. However, for the majority of Americans she connected big time. My prediction is she just sealed the deal for John McCain as the next President of the United States.

She was dynamite, and anyone doubting her exploding popularity – and the positive affect it's having on the McCain ticket – will be unhinged come election day. McCain/Palin will win 52-48. America wants change, but far more Americans relate to Palin and McCain than Obama and Biden. Obama is an amazing communicator and has a compelling story. But he is the most liberal senator, period. His voting record speaks for itself, and America will not vote for anyone with his core beliefs once the curtain is pulled back during the debates. Saddleback was a hint of what's coming. McCain will trounce him in debates, and Palin will more than hold her own against blowhard Biden.

Her speech sealed the deal for this currrently registered Republican in a Red central state former Hillary supporter. Barack Obama andJoe Biden will get my vote. The thought of this woman being one melanoma away from the presidency scares me as much as if Dick Cheney, Karl rove or Adolph HItler ran. In fact when I get off this site,I am calling Obama's campaign to donate a hundred dollars. I am hoping someone is there overnight to take my debit card number. I only hope angry people like her and those who applauded her don"t bring their moose rifles to DC on January 20th with harmful intentions toward the people I now hope will win. But I would not put anything past that group of people. Wow what a huge disappointment.

Listening to Paline's speech was painful. A couple of jabs here and there are OK, but her speech moved quickly from jabs to attacks to full-blown sickening bile. I truly had a hard time getting through the speech. There was absolutely no substance to it. It was pandering and shallow. In my mind I kept envisioning another "pitbull in lipstick", Tanya Harding. She wasn't as good as the competition, so she resorted to an attack to take out the competition. I can't imagine that she will appeal to anyone beyond the established base. American women, suburban, urban or rural, are smart enough to want more than an "outsider" as Vice President (or, God forbid, President). This country needs the most intelligent and strategic team in the oval office. Outsider "pit bull" status doesn't add to the resume. It makes me cringe to imagine her handling anything to do with foreign affairs.

The hateful diatribes that American heard tonight cannot possibly do the Republican Party any good.

When they are compared with the hopeful and forward looking message being delivered by the Democrats, it is hard to imagine that people will choose another four year of the same kind of venality that has sickened our culture for the last eight years.

Instead of "God bless America" I suspect that many of us tonight are praying "God please rescue America.

If the Republican talking point is that this woman who was mayor of a tiny town and governor for 20 months is more qualified to lead the country than Barak Obama and Joe Biden combined, then they are saying she is more experienced than John McCain as well. If her "administrative" experience gives her the right to be president, than John McCain doesn't qualify either. He has never been a mayor or led a company. They are saying he "is ready to lead" and then talk about him being a POW. How did he get administrative experience in a dark cell?

I simply don't understand the argument. If being a U.S. Senator is trumped by being a mayor of a town of 6,500 people, then John McCain has not met the requirement either. I guess this 44-year-old hockey mom has them all beat.

The RNC is much like the DNC in that it is ...ALL ABOUT OBAMA!

P.S. In case anyone missed it...John McCain is a POW.

I would ask this: if McCain looses, would you expect in 2012 there would be a lot of Republican support for a Palin for President campaign?

As a Democrat, I was worried that perhaps Palin would come out and give a dynamic, powerful speech that would show her to be a star. That did not happen. Instead her speech seemed like one that Cindy McCain could have given, and I don't think Cindy McCain is qualified to be Vice-President.

Imagine the speech that Hillary Clinton would have given. Imagine the speech that Kay Hutchinson would have given. Pailin's speech was not in this league; and the "I have more executive experience" type arguments the Republicans are making borders on sophism.

I hope she stays the course as a VP candidate. She will not appeal to suburban America; because families in suburbia want to have control over their own lives, and not have choices as to how to deal with family issues dictated by government.

No she will ot appeal to suburban women. She is downright nasty, rude, arrogant and yes shrill. I am a woman and there is no way she is appealing to me. She failed the commander in chief test tonight. She inspired no confidence. She is NOT ready to lead and the thought of her becoming president is downright scary. All I can see is a female Karl Rove. Heaven knows we've had enough of that. I was very disappointed in her.

Woah, Bubba! November cannot come soon enough for this mother. Virtually everything coming out of this convention has been gruesome.
Who is this "Family Values Woman" with a special-needs preemie hauled out for publicity, while she makes a play for the Big Time?

She's as hypocritical and into cheating for her own gain as any other corrupt pol out there! What about directly addressing the issues which are crucially important to the average citizen? You won't hear about them here! It's a creepy hate-fest .

Incredible display--can you smell the desperation?!

Among other things the Palin speech demonstrates how easy it is to go after the Obama record. Many Obamaites will take these attacks personally because they have so much naive "hope" invested in the guy. Too bad the dems didn't choose the person who really deserved to win – HC. A lot of people are going to be disappointed with Obama. He may even lose this thing.

You Obama freaks are pathetic, you are the only ones posting here. I am a Democrat, but this time it NOBAMA. Id rather the pit-bull with lipstick lead the country than an egotistical man.

I read a couple of comments saying that she's a pitt Bull in lipstick. Well, there's another word for that and it starts with a capital "B"... she's a "Bush".

She sounds very angry in her speech.. and I hate how she smirks every time she made a negative comment about Obama. Her "punch" lines against Obama makes her THE joke.

She's just a female version of McCain.. more of the same. Oh.. Sarah.. you forgot to mention something in your speech.... the economy!

yes– thank you Sheila, that is the word: smug.

Sarah Smug.

This is what excites the evangelical Christian base? Mean sarcasm?

I remember when being Christian didn't just mean believing Jesus Christ was the son of God – it also meant being a kind person. That last part seems to have gone out of the Christian right-wing movement.

I know politicians should be tough. But I don't think being snarky and rude is the same thing as being 'tough'.

Community organizers across the country give their blood, sweat, and tears to causes (and people!) they care about. And she just made fun of all of them (not just Obama) by making it sound as though that job is a joke.

She shouldn't be proud of that – and neither should all of those fine Christian folks who cheered her on.

Not with the low road to politics. Suburban women are hurting economically.

We want our sons back from iraq. What does it mean to win a war when the place is stable and the iraqis want us out anyway.

Even bush and chenney want to bring our boys home.

Why is the convention all about war?

She doesn't even support equal pay for women because her husband works for big oil companies. give me a break.

this whole thing is like a fairy tale.

She did not sit well with me. None of the speakers did. Tonight the Republicans kept saying they were the real party of change, not Obama (although did anybody else notice they were all white- not exactly representing all of America) but it seems like they forgot some other key words, such as hope and unity.
The ugly tone of the speeches tonight was very off-putting

Her speech will tug at many American's hearts, especially with her comments about her family and her youngest child who has special needs. And for the most part, I agree with David's commentary.

BUT, her "pit bull attack" style does not convince me that she is what America needs in a Vice-President for two reasons: 1. Again, like many have commented, her style is signaling Bush - shoot first, ask questions later; and 2. As we have seen, being too hasty to attack has not served American's well.

What a disappointment. Gov Palin proved SHE IS NOT A MAVERICK – SHE IS A PUPPET for the Bush speechwriters and handlers. She did not address the issues important to the voters. But I forgot, McCain's campaign manager said this race was not going to be about the issues. That's good, because McCain can't win on the issues.

I am amazed that anyone Democratic or Republican would spend more than a split second considering this woman for a position of this gravity. The RNC is getting exactly what they want right now – and that's people and the media talking about non important issues; her family, her child's pregnancy, etc. which as we all know have nothing to do with running the office of the Vice President of the United States. Step back people, get some perspective....we ARE talking about that office here and once you remind yourself of that, there is now way anyone can seriously say she's ready for the gig. I don't understand why this is hard to get?

Palin isn't going to do McCain any good with anyone other than the conservative right wind of the GOP. Even more of a issue is McCain's poor judgment in selecting Palin in the first place. McCain's number will start to go South in the AM and continue to do so, until he comes to his senses, and forces her to step down. Either way he's toast. The GOP is DOOMED.

I found Sarah Palin to be not only a good attack dog for John McCain, but also very condescending in her speech. Unfortunately, unlike Joe Biden, who has a history we can refer to, Ms. Palin is an unknown. She needs to tell us what she will bring to the political table. Attack dogs are a dime a dozen. Condescending attack dogs are benieth the office she is running for, Her condescention brings back the smarmy rhetoric of Jerry Falwell and his ilk. Don't they get it? The religious right is no longer relevant.

Come on, Wolf....."A Star is Born"? The CNN staff needs to grow some chest hair and stop being so afraid to criticize a mean-spirited and mocking speech by Palin. All I heard were disparaging and negative comments about the democratic candidates and absolutely NOTHING about why we should vote for the republican ticket. What are they going to do to shore up this sinking ship? Go ahead Palin, throw rocks at your competition and perhaps they too will be too afraid to confront the bully barracuda. I'm a 44 year old married, working mother who supported Senator Clinton and am supremely unimpressed with Palin.
And Campbell, pllleeeease.......shrill? She was absolutely shrill..!! Please democrats, don't tip toe around this cocky, mean, bully Palin. So what, she has a handsome looking family. So do we all, but we are not all knowledgeable enough or wise enough to heave this country up out of the sink hole we've encountered under the Bush administration. Please don't be afraid to offend us women by shedding light on her inexperience, mean tactics and shiny lipstick.

What message is America sending to the rest of the worl. One could not choose a more divisive person. Pro Gun, anti abortion and not having the own household under control.

Anybody given it a thought that McCain's age could potentially lead Ms Palin taking over. A frightening thought indeed.

I hope the electorate as a whole is smart enough to see past the smoke screen.

I can totally relate to the first commenter, Patty.

I sometimes listen to talk radio, when I'm stuck in traffic. Gov. Palin's speech really did sound no different than the type of stuff that Laura Ingram, Sean Hannity, Hugh Hewitt, Rush Limbaugh etc., talk about every single day.

If you're a conservative who loves talk radio ... and more importantly agrees with what they say, there's no doubt Sarah Palin is pretty much your dream candidate.

But, if you're the type of person who may occasionaly find talk radio rhetoric entertaining, but can't imagine those people actually running the country for 4 more years ...

Enough said.

btw, this moderate Independent Was Inspired by Palin's speech. After it was over, I went to BarackObama.com and donated $50.

What was she thinking? Attacking pit bull style only pushes women away. Her speech was all attack (pit bull style) and no substance.

I live in suburbia.

Sarcastic, angry, belittling, juvenile, mocking, attacks, out here, sound, well, sarcastic, angry, ...

This woman sounded like the popular cheerleader telling everyone to hate the smart kid – and I do mean HATE.

It would be pathetic if it weren't so awfully dangerous.

Sarah Palin is the brightest light of hope that has hit the front line political scene for decades. She is more than a match for the Obama Celebrity President wannabe. This is a VP that will roll up her sleeves and serve the people and put them first. Obama is a Leo and they just love the drama and theatricals. Palin can work at all levels of society and is flexible enough as an Aquarian to meet the needs of all. She is a true humanitarian and America has seen nothing yet. Every time you try to typecast her she will pull out more magnetic energy that will satisfy every doubt.

Palin is heaven sent and thank God she arrived just in time to help save America from complete self-destruction. However, if you prefer a man that likes to sit on planes flying around the world giving out his orders, best you choose Obama who will lead america into the ditch.

I am a Democrat who supported Hillary, but I wanted to see what Gov. Palin had to offer, after all I am a woman first. My goodness.... what a show! I was extremely disappointed that she took the SAME LOW road that the Republicans always seem to take. I think she is a very smart woman, who is amazing to be able to balance a large family and such a demanding career. However, since she has decided to play NASTY, I can't wait for the Dems to go after her, but then again, when they do, they will be called SEXIST. I could not stand to watch her speech in it's entirety, it made me cringe. I am officially voting for Obama !!!!!

She's a total turn off in every way. All I heard was more fear mongering, partisan, hypocracy. She needs to discuss some form of birth control with her husband. Don't most women know that birthing a child after the age of 40 is risky to mother and child, and her new born baby has (down syndrome). That is sick, selfish, and irresponsible.

I am so excited about this ticket, I truly dont believe the last time I felt so energized by an election. I am a Democrat, female, 44 years old.

I am pro-choice but respect people's pro-life stance. I even find myself being more toward pro-life just becuase I am a proud mother and just recently a proud grandmother.

I like Sara Palin, she has more experience in Public office at city councel level, mayor level and Governership of the Oil rich state of Alaska.

She has more experience then any of the running candidates. I like the fact that she is a reformer and fights corruptive government. She is also well verced in the oil industry, they know not to mess with her! I am voting for the Maverick who selected this great VP.

#1. Go John McCain, we love you!

i think palin power sums it up best, she will not take any baloney from washington. i loved those signs at the convention Straight Talk!

I am so disappointed with Gov Palin's approach to introduce herself to the American people. All she did was prove that she could read a speech written for her by Bush's speechwriter and lower herself to say whatever tasteless, pit bull smear they told her to say. THIS IS NOT A MAVERICK OR A REFORMER. THIS IS A PUPPET! I don't think this speech addressed one issue the American people are wanting to hear from the McCain campaign. But of course, I forgot, McCains campaign manager said that this race was not going to be about the issues! They know they can't win on the issues, so it's just more of the same divisive rhetoric that does not do justice to the American voters.

Sarah Palin does not look like the "girl next door" to me. Her speech tonight was divisive and made her fair game for the same type of attacks she levied on Obama.

McCain/Palin must be synonomous with that french expression used to describe a lack of substance-full of $h!t.

In Palins littany of attacks she never once diverted from the telepromopter to say i will do this this and this for our healthcare system, education, our economy, gas prices, infastructure, renewable energy, mortgage crisis, immagration, securing our borders, rebuilding the military, social security, national deficit.
This is what i wanted to know about from a canidate for heartbeats from presidency. Not stab after stab and joke after joke mixed in with "I'm a hockey mom".

Sarah Palin reminded me of the middle school bully who was the "popular girl" that led her clique around by the nose using sarcasm and belitting comments to undermine the confidence of those girls who just didn't quite measure up as part of the crowd. As a retired teacher, I saw this technique used many times. Somehow this very mocking technique, delivered with a derisive smile, just might appeal to women and men who were the very ones bullied. I loved my students and always hoped those doing the bullying and those bullied would mature and overcome this type of experience. I'm not at all sure Sarah Palin has done that. Her speech was delivered very well and was extremely effective. She will be a tough adversary for the Democratic ticket.

She is a poorly educated extremist who would be placed in a role that would be well beyond her experience and preparation. What a cynical, irresponsible selection by McCain!

I do not think that Palin's speech was anything but a hot air baloon that was written for her, delivered well, with no heart and no substance and at the end exploded into nothing but smugness. I do not think she will help the Republicans.

Nasty, petty, insulting, and just plain mean.

This American will do everything in his power to make sure this harridan is kept far away from the White House. If they like her in Alaska, they can have her.

Here in the lower 48, we like our leaders to inspire the best in us, not mock and belittle fine Americans like Obama, Biden and Reid.

Governor Palen and her speech did not at all resonate with me. It was mean and divisive–no substance. In fact, so far, the RNC has been all about divisiveness and nothing about how McCain plans to "reform" this country. I do not think that other Americans (except the far right wing republicans) will take to her.

Palin is a double-edged sword. In shoring up the base in the convention center, she managed to isolate the base from the public at large. Her well delivered series of barbs may have seemed clever to the choir–and she seemed very pleased with herself–but that was exactly what most of America is sick and tired of (and what McCain used to rally against). What shocks me the most is why she raises such things as the bridge to nowhere, which it turns out she voted for before she voted against, and why she talks about ethics and other reforms when she a) is under investigation for ethics violations, and b) hired the very lobbiests to get earmarks that she says she is fighting against. How can she talk about executive experience when McCain has none? She is one big contradiction, and her word cannot be trusted.

I hope the mainstream press will examine closely what she did to her hometown–left it in debt, fired devoted public servants, and tried to fire the librarian (Laura Bush must be livid) when she refused to ban books that Palin wanted to censor.

.

I just would like her to answer some questions from the media and general public. I am disturbed that the "right" would make such statements without outlining their own agenda. it is just truly disturbing. I know exactly who I am voting for now!! And the accusation that the media is stirring the pot. Huge mistake for those on the fence.

Obama '08

Thank you Mrs. Palin after hearing your speech I'm voting for Obama.

How can you mention Katrina... and only lament over the strategic petroleum reserve being opened during the shortfall and say nothing about the devastation to hundreds of thousands of peoples lives, homes and communities. Not to mention over 1800 people died.... but it is really sad that we tapped our oil reserve?

Sounds REALLY out of touch to me

Palin was the best! I am a Democrat myself, however, like Ronald Reagan said "I did not leave the Democratic party, they left me!" exactly my sentiment.

I will be voting for this fabulous McCain ticket this election, I will be voting against my party for the first time in my life, I am 44 now. I am voting for the Maverick that selected this enlightning VP.

Go Senator McCain, we love you! Yes we can!

In simple words. This was the most pathetic display of politics by the Republicans. I am not sure if inexperience is the right word here, Her face, her mannerism sugested a "whiny" lady. Are we saying she is qualified to be a VP ? please give me a break. sorry this ammunication is the wrong kind in Mccains gun and when used will fire in the wrong direction..Go Obama,,,,,,,,,,,,

Don't you guys get it? The McCain ticket is the "Change" ticket. They both have a track record of going against mainstream government and thats where this country needs the change.

David: I think you insult rural America. These are hardworking, decent Americans who want solutions and hope in their lives. I believe no matter where you come from, the mjority of voters want someone who has judgement, vision an who believes in them Tonight they saw an arrogance that was condescending ang hateful by a "closed shop" of self righteous speakers and participanta.

The Republican party, the pollsters and analysts like you are falsely "tagging" voters instead of doing what Obama does and sees their common goodness, aspirations and decency.

Red meat as you like to call it does not futher anything except the smallness of the person delivering it. I was truly so disgusted I could not watch i and am getting a flavour of ti online.

Her sarcastic attack and mockery of Obama leaves me cool and disinterested in anything she will say from now on. She does not represent change and offered nothing about the economy. McCain-Palin equals Bush III, and who in his right mind would want four more years of that.

Thank you! Palin for going out there and making it clear you are so unqualified!!

The republicans have created a paper dragon. Tonight was one of the ugliest nights that I can remember in recent politics. It was full of scorn, arrogance, bullying, nastiness,etc.
I am a teacher and a mother of a child with special needs and I have three other children too. Right off, that kind of talk would not be allowed in a public school- we do not allow bullying, making fun of others, cracking wise jokes at other's expense and being generally nasty.
Kids who behaved the way the republicans did tonight would find themselves doing community service to learn about respect.

As a parent of a child with special needs, one of the things that you learn is that you model the behavior that you wish for your child to exhibit. This is social intelligence. It takes years of work.

The tide and buzz has turned. Gov Palin appeals to Americans that care about the country and to "do-ers", not "talkers." She is an Executive level leader, she appears to be a wonderful Mom, and I am proud of Sen McCain for selecting her. Even CNN noticed this, and I for once was "proud" of CNN for giving credit where credit was due.

Her appeal and that of the Republicans will only be with the politically uneducated people that buy into their lies and name calling.
McCain- Washington insider for 26 years- longer than most.
Elitist Press- most news organization are owned by staunch consevatives or conservative corporations. Hardly liberal or elitist.
With all their name calling, it was interesting to not hear the word BUSH- father or son even once! When the best they can do is go back to 1980 to find a leader, it doesn't say much about their party.
And where is all this leadership they talk about from McCain? Why is it we are in the financial mess we're in? Why are we still dependent on foriegn oil? When he reaches accross the isle is anybody their from either party? If not, then how can he get anything doen from an office down the street.
Wake up Republicans!

She is very very rude. I am a mother of four. she should not have attack obama or reid. I did vote for Mccain but listerneing to her I will not vote for Mccain again.
She needs to respect her self
When they will start attacking her now she will say is a sexit
How can you be a vp when you can not even controll your chilren

As a working mother, I'm thrilled that the public consciousness is addressing women in politics (sometimes graciously, sometimes patronizingly, sometimes stupidly–many tonight as exhibited by CNN men and women on that panel tonight). As a working mother, I'm insulted that people could think womean could shift affiliation with Hilary (and her issues) to Sarah (simply because she's female) and disappointed that we end up in 'mommy war' rhetoric instead of focusing on the election issues and qualifications (man or woman). And, btw, did Sarah's daughter exhibit 'choice' but mom is anti-same? Of course, rhetoric appears to be the real battle taking place here–and that, as a communications professional, I say 'kudos' to both teams who are doing great jobs in the perception/media battle. But as a Republican, I say, I'm switching.

the CNN staff for their total support of the RNC, I usually like CNN for being fair but this date it was all about the RNC and being a women

The speech Palin gave tonight was for the Republican base ONLY. It did nothing to reach out to Independents and Democrats, as a matter of fact, it may have alienated them. As far as suburbans, probably. Most of the attendees looked like they were going to a high price luncheon or dinner, with their pearls and diamonds on. It looked so elitist and yet they keep trying to place that label on Obama, which is ridiculous.

Same old populist demogoguery about the elites and the media. The Republican Party has been whipping up this garbage for 40 years, starting with Nixon. While ostensibly championing the common man with their populist rhetoric, they have picked his pocket with tax breaks, deregulation and bailouts for corporate America and Wall Street. Not surprisingly, the common man's real income has stagnated and inequality of wealth is now as great as it was in the 1920s, just before the Great Depression. Hopefully, the electorate finally has wised up.

She may be funny but the idea of her as president is not. Yes, Obama and McCain should be evaluated by their choices of running mates. If anyone was undecided before...the choice of Palin should make it clear-McCain is unacceptable.

No. She won't.

Suburbia tuning in. Palin appeals to women because she is multi-faceted. More important is that she respects, defends, and values the multiple hats that women wear. It's not necessary to agree with everything she supports. There are some people that have a natural affinity for getting things done, solving problems, and constantly being challenged with learning curves. Not only that, they make it look like an effortless process. Those people are our everyday American women, who live in Anytown, USA:. Palin's style allows them to see some of themselves in her.

Well, first I must say I am very disappointed in this speech. The republicans there, I'm sure, loved every minute of it. But, did she actually have substance? DId she quote any substanc eon John McCain? No. All she did was play with mud – so much in fact, alot of it got back on her. If you sit back, you'll observe that she epitomized juvenille behavior, making fun of someone she envies. Sit back and note that her town of 6 to 8 thousand has less people than seats in a typical college basketball stadium. And her state, one of the most non diverse in the entire country, has less people than live on Manhattan, or Minneapolis/St Paul for that matter. How can she claim she knew all her voters in her town and compare that to being knowledgeable about anything? That said – she'll play well to people who consider Topeka, KS and Fargo, ND to be the BIG CITY – but for those who actually have lived amongest the problems the Dems (and McCain USED to) – they will most likely be turned off...unless they were planning on voting that way all along. Don't even get me started on her foreign policy experience...boarding Russia...unreal.

McCain's new ad puts another stitch in what we've called his pattern of deceit on Obama's tax plan. This one claims Obama and congressional Democrats plan to push forward "painful tax increases on working American families" and that they will bring about "years of deficits," "no balanced budgets" and "billions in new government spending."

The ad is plain wrong about higher taxes on working families. In fact, Obama's economic plan would produce a tax cut for the majority of American households, with middle-income earners benefiting most. As for "years of deficits," exactly the same claim could be made about McCain's program. It's unlikely either Obama or McCain would balance the budget, and both are projected to increase the debt by trillions.

Analysis
We've already reported on at least three other ads, in both Spanish and English, from Sen. John McCain's campaign that distort his rival's tax policy. The ads claim that, for example, Democratic Sen. Barack Obama would raise taxes "on the sale of your home" and that he has a "history of raising taxes" and that he wanted to raise taxes on "families" making just $42,000 a year.

Claims like these have led us to say that McCain's campaign is engaging in a "pattern of deceit" when it comes to describing Obama's tax plan. This most recent ad fits right into the template.

I hope that Americans will not in general rally around someone who was petty, snide, rude, angry, and nasty. I listened to the speech with an open mind as I previously knew nothing about her. I still don't know very much, other than that she can be divisive and viscious and that she has either been misled or lies well!

Sarah Palin is too extreme to appeal to mainstream US. Anyone who thinks that abortion rights should not be available for victims of rape obviously has not been victimized. And with her being against a woman's right to choose and against any sex education that is not abstinence based, is her situation what she has in mind for the rest of us? I certainly do not want a pregnant teenager!

And anyone that needs to boost their high school and PTA activities as "experience" is certainly lacking all around.

I think McCain just wiped out what little chance he had at winning in November with this irresponsible choice in a VP.

What disturbs me is that whoever they trotted out as their selection
would get the treatment Palin is getting – deserved or not. Which is
utterly disappointing. Where is the integrity? McCain could have
picked Britney Spears and them jugheads at the convention would
have acted exactly the same. It's beyond belief that this country has
devolved to this level. God and money have conspired to plunge us
ever deeper in this hypocritical state. I just read where Palin believes
god wants a natural gas pipeline built from Alaska to the lower 48.
ummm – here we go again with the "I talk to God" leadership style.
I don't know about you but I think these believers in god have done
enough damage to this earth and her inhabitants, people, plants
and animals. Believers or evangelicals need to go the way of
the Dodo. Thats right I said it. It needs to be said and it needs to
be done. If not they will run us into extinction. We need to wake up
to this fact. And SOON!

Until tonight I was undecided on who to vote for.
Sarah Palin said nothing about issues. It was just a big slamming of the democrats. Nothing more! I'm voting for Obama

She will be a hit with low information voters but suburban Americans, not so much. Nothing we hate more than a snarly and not too bright person. She could have hit the ball out of the park if she had cut back on the blatant and unnecessary insults. After her speech I felt disappointed because I expected more Hillary and less trailer park trash. Not a hit tonight.

Never trust a pit bull. They attack without provocation and leave their victims for dead just like the Republicans hope to do this November. The Republicans need to be euthanized this November once and for all time. Sic 'em Obama and Biden!

I live in Idaho Falls, and she's not the type of woman who would be seen as admirable here. She needs to put her children first, and not just because her youngest will need extra care and love. And her nature does not seem reasonable, kind, forgiving, tolerant, or Christian. That's not a sexist remark; men in this region aspire to those values as well.

Maybe the ice covered suburbs! I thought she spoke and carried herself well and I was impressed by that. I was very disappointed that the first messages we received from her were attacks on Obama and nothing to address the problems of today. She didn't touch on any of the issues that working families are concerned about. This in keeping wit the republicans. They are oblivious to the problems the average Anmerican deals with. They talk a good game but have no solutions. At least the democrats spoke about issues whether you agree with them or not. I can't see how anyone could feel comfortable with Sarah Palin as second in charge. She is impressive but that is not nearly enough.

As I Christian,I am really disappointed in Christianity in America today.No matter there is a huge trend of atheism and non religious in America. The republicans remind me of the pharisees in the Bible(hypociites) Sarah Palin suppose to have highfamily values, how come she could not even manage her kids.Why are evangelicals not complaining that a stauch Christian and value person could not raise a daughter and she sin by having premarital sex. The Bible only allow sex in marriage. Do you remember a couple of months ago about the high schools girls that had a plan to get pregnant? It was all on the news. Sarah Palin we want our daughter to grow up and avoid sex and pregancy and go to college and get married and have kids not kids having kids. You are proud of your kid having kid... Great religion and morals. Suburban America can not connect to your whack principles and priorities. How old is the baby dady? Is he a minor as well? How come the press is not covering that...

Other people see Sarah Palin as a great pick because it portrays diversity however; Sarah Palin’s nomination as the Vice-President is not about her record but more about a power pick, a pick of popularity. John McCain needed that ingredient in order to capture another demographic of the voting population.

Just look at all the white faces in that audience. I am so encouraged when I look at Obama's crowd... you see a lot of everything... male/female, white/black/hispanic/... just everything... this crowd looks like the 1800s with better ads.

Oh no-I'm not going for another 4 years of mega disaster.

After the respect Obama gave her, you would like to think Mrs. Palin would show the same in return...this hockey mom has a lot to learn!

She does not appeal to me (and I'm a woman). She just another extremist wright-wing republican trying to tell the rest of us mortals how to live our lives. Palin wishes she was Hillary Clinton or Nancy Pelosi, even Elizabeth Dole.

David Gergen is probably one of the smartest people in America (even if he is a Republican). That's why he has advised 4 presidents. His analysis always gets to the heart of the matter. I think he has this exactly right. The moderate independents and Republicans are going to be turned off by the hateful and obnoxious rhetoric this woman is spewing out. It's not 1968 and we don't need a female Spiro Agnew.

Mona, did you watch the DNC? Every speech by both parties had attacks. Goodness people, take the plank out of your own eyes!

The election is about the economy, not about Palin. A woman who is exploiting her children to get McCain elected.

Many families have teenage daughters who become pregnant and keep their kids. Palin is acting like she is the very first mother to have a teenage daughter that is pregnant in high school.

We have already seen what the Republicans can do for our economy. NOTHING!!!

Obama/Biden 2008!!!

After our formal "introduction" I'm left quite cold. She came across as mean, petty, smug, self-righteous... Much like President Bush has been over the last eight years and like him I'm sure that won't play very well with other world leaders. I'm sorry but Republicans just seem bitter and hateful towards anyone who doesn't totally agree with them. Does anybody else remember when they disliked McCain before he completely started pandering to "the base"? You know, just a couple months ago?

All right ladies and gentlemen. The gloves are off....ROUND ONE!!! I think, as most of you have stated already, what the Republican party needed tonight was for someone to come in and show a bit of common since, and a bit of bipartisanship, to gain those moderate, line straddling voters. This speech did not do that. Palin, along with all the other speakers, just extended that bridge and are starting up their own island of McCalin Land. Yes, she got her rowdy crowd in the RNC room, but she completely missed her big opportunity to set a precedent and tone that would really make her a lethal component to the Republican campaign. She gave us:
-More republican hate talk
-More Obama bashing, with the same false arguments that have been factually disproven but the republican party keeps regergitating anyways
-Nothing on their plans to turn the economy around
-Nothing on healthcare, which I really want addressed
-Education, foreign trade, energy, resources, oil dependency....NOTHING. She said nothing on their plans on the real issues and concerns facing america.
-ONLY, more cut-throat talk, back sliding, twisting truths, and lies. Lies, lies and more lies.
-And more low-down, below the belt politc talk that I, personally, am sick and tired of, and I, American, have had ENOUGH!!!!
-ENOUGH!!!!

Obama 08!!!!!

She did not seem anti-elitist to me, she seem disrespecful,rude and smug. her speech seem's she was told what to say, I am really convinced now that the Republican's are more of the same, if she mock's community organizing she is really only for some American people and not other's, do they think that helping Black people who are strugging is not important ? Elite media, us against them, divide and conquer, the republican's are playing the same old low down politic's no matter what new face they bring it, TIME FOR CHANGE, TIME TO GO FORWARD NOT BACKWARD

You all keep CENSORING ME OUT – I'M an American that isn't going for the Big Oil Money and Power.

Barbara September 4th, 2008 12:26 am ET
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
She was SHRILL – she was also screeching, jeering and quite condescending to a Constitutional Scholar. What is HER degree in?

She's doing this(exploiting a Down Syndrome Child) for POWER and McCain/Bush/Chency/ROVE are doing it for oil.

Censor this one out CNN – you CENSOR AMERICAN Viewpoints

Absolutely not. She came off as bitter and divisive. She was unimpressive as a speaker and quite unlikable. People want answers to their economic issues, not a rehashing of W's campaign speech 4 years ago. I mean she basically alienated anyone who's ever held the title 'community organizer' for God's sakes. That's not the way to reach middle America. I'm surprised she didn't attack his time as a teacher. What a vile WAY OUT OF THE MAINSTREAM political operative this Palin is.

It takes an airhead to like an airhead. I don't know any "hocky moms", but the "soccer moms" I know are not airheads.

Well at least they have something to cheer about,even though they will be crying after the election.

She was very sarcastic..And shame on her husband handing the infant off to the youngest daughter while he grand stands and accepts applause wave to the entire arena?And never took the infant back as he sat down...If Barack had a pregnant 17 year old daughter, White and Right America would say she is a typical black teenager and how Michelle and Barack are unfit parents

It is hard to tell how much her style of rhetoric and "small-town" appeal will affect this election. I have been guilty of overestimating the critical-thinking skills of the voting public in the past (i.e. Dubya's second term). The woman has personality, to be sure. I would probably find her to be an ideal neighbor, but I would not want her in charge of my HOA. She may be tough and quick on her feet, but her agenda makes me shudder. Those that cast their votes because they believe Senator Obama is "arrogant", because they are angry that Hillary Clinton did not win the nomination, or that vote for the guy that they'd most like to "have a beer with" are numerous. They care not for issues. They do not educate themselves about the issues. They simply fall into the "Prom king, WE are more patriotic than you, we are more American than you" mentality. This is the mentality that the McCain campaign is reaching out to, and it is not to be scoffed at. There is no way of knowing how many of your fellow Americans fall into this easily lead and mislead category of voters. They have seen the failed policies of the last 8 years, but they are blind. They are reciting Rush and Dr. Laura as if these were their own ideas Still, they are going to cast a vote in November that counts just as much as your own. I think it all comes down to the youth vote, the vote for the people who have the most to lose. I sincerely hope that the young voters will turn out this year, as they never have before.

No, American women will not take to her.

She is as divisive as the campaign she is representing.

ENOUGH!

Sad Angry Woman.......lost my vote...

Angry Northern Superlady Channels Party Frustation

Sen. Palin is a good performer, but comes off as smug. She'll certainly gets the righteous anger vote. I don't think this message will connect with women at large.

I find the Democrats responses amusing. They sound quite foolish! It is obvious that they are terrified of Sarah Palin. They should. I suspect that there are a lot of folks across the country that, like me, are no longer undecided.

I'm not sure what her appeal is supposed to be. She offered nothing with regards to what SHE brings to the ticket.

I sincerely hope all the caring Americans who give of themselves to lift up their communities listened carefully to her opinions on community service tonight. I find it telling that community service is considered a joke within the GOP. Same goes for civil liberties, I guess.

Country first? Not from what I heard tonight. Oh, but thanks, because I wasn't aware that McCain was a POW.

So, Obama took the high road not attacking Palin, and Palin rewards that high road with attacks, *proven* lies about things like Obama raising taxes, and basically calling people who do community service not real leaders.

Fine.

She is officially fair game and anything that is legitimate and truthful to attack her with should be used - you see I don't condone lying.

Republicans are indeed a party of divisiveness and general hatred - but sadly that works for them to get elected.

I live in small town New Hampshire. I think Palin is an irresponsible choice, a pandering and cynical ploy, and she will not play well in this state, where McCain needs a little help. I've met the man twice here in New Hampshire, but this is too much. Those few rock-ribbed, Yankee Republicans that remain could not feel more out of touch with where the GOP has gone. I thought McCain was a chance at a return to real Republicanism, but now I don't think so very much.

rj...even though abortion might not be the right answer...it shouldn't be up to the government to decide that for any woman. the government isn't going to be there day in and day out to help with whatever this woman is going through. let the woman decide and let her decision be between her and her maker!

No, it won't play in the suburbs. Self-important, smarmy. Felt like a PTA state president's agenda. A thoroughly unpleasant experience

I can't stand Palin. She's George W. Bush with ovaries. Our country cannot take 4 more years of destructive economic policies. There are a lot of intelligent, experienced, stateswomen that McCain could have selected. Instead, he chose to insult American women with this charade.

Suburban folks don't want thier kids drafted for the next wave of war in the mideast.
I heard NO policy from ANYONE tonight except the policy of sleaze.
GOP has quite a double standard for the press...
Uh didn't they rip Mrs. Obama to pieces?...
But DO NOT ASK PALIN ANY QUESTIONS THAT COULD BE RELEVANT TO THE USA'S WELL BEING!!!! Thta's sexist..
This is Orwell come true....oh yeah I forgot so has the last 8 years been..oops my meds wore off.

I'm a small, town farm girl from Illinois who now lives in Republican, all white (all most) suburbia. Sarah is not only not playing well among my family and friends of my hometown; she is not playing well in the country club set of my present life.

The difference between this election and the ones of years ago is the ability for people in families and for friends to easily and to often communicate with each other. Whether you live in small towns or the suburbs or big cities, you usually know people in each place and talk or write to them frequently. Thus, the tactics of divide and conquer, of scare and wedge politics that might have worked in the past, won't work this time. Americans simply talk and share knowledge, thoughts, and ideas across the previous geographic divisions too often for the "old divisive ways" to work.

This country is not as nearly divided into neat groups of people as some would like to think. What was it someone once said about fooling all the people some of the time.....etc? Once the American public finally gets interested in something, the collective wisdom that is unleashed can be inspiring. And I think you would agree that this time we are certainly interested.

Gov. Palin came off tonight and rude, shrude, and condescending as she belittle the work of community organizers. I'm with Roland Martin on this. As a communiy organizer myself, the republicans completely dissed our work for those same small town folks that are attempting to pander to with this selection of Palin. Obama has my vote!

Once again, what we get from the Republican's is a rewriting of history. And not just that, but Ms. Palin's speech was one of lot's of flash, but absolutely NO substance. Her sarcasm was completely unattractive and was a turn-off, despite the adoration she recieved from Wolf Blitzer and other CNN correspondants. They blew the acheivements of this speech completely out of proportion. This speech showed that the bi-partisanship that grid-lock's Washington started with and is perpetuated by the Republican's. There is no desire on their side to work with anyone other than themselves. The Republican's have come to stand for–If you're not a Republican, you're unpatriotic, you're UnAmerican. Well, that is not what our forefather's designed our form of government for, Republican's aren't for more freedom, history bears this out to be true. They want to be in your bedrooms, in your hospital rooms and tell you how to live your life.
For years they have claimed to be for smaller government and lower taxes, while the last three Republican presidents have seen us through the largest expansion in government and the largest increase in our national debt. The ONLY reason that the current Democratic congress has not got anything done is because they don't have enough of a majority to override a veto and President Bush, who in the first six years of his presidency never used his veto, has vetoed EVERY peice of Democratic legislation that has come across his desk.
The Republican's are the party of cynic's. They count on American's having short memories or America's "stupidity". They repeat their talking points to death–they use the basic advertising principal that if the average American hears something three times, they believe it to be true, ala the HEAD-ON commercials. We have to show them that we are smarter than that. This nation cannot withstand another 4 to 8 years of Republican rule, they don't govern, they rule. The most prosperous time in the last twenty years came with a Democratic President who balanced our budget and curtailed the building of our national debt. And that is not revisionist history!

I am not sure if I'm a "suburban" mom. I live in a medium-sized college town in a "purplish-red" state (NC). I grew up in small towns in KY. Sarah Palin wouldn't really appeal to most women in either of these, based on her approach tonight. On policy, I think she would have a lot of appeal to the small town "values voters" I grew up with in Kentucky. But her approach was all wrong. Too angry. She didn't really say what she was for, or what a McCain administration would do. And the way she tries to use her family to score political points, at the same time she attacks the press for going after her family – well, small town folks can see through that kind of hypocrisy.

Amongst the "Mommy and Me"/PTA suburban style mothers that I live around now, I think Palin is a bad fit for different reasons. A lot of women I know question her judgment for entering the race with an infant son who has special needs, to say nothing of subjecting her eldest daughter to the scrutiny of recent days. Obviously, the Governor has every right to balance work and parenting as she and her husband deem best, but there is a certain quality of whimsy to her selection (and her decision to accept the offer) that makes her judgment seem questionable. Did she really think through the ramifications of her candidacy, for her family and herself? It sure doesn't look like it, based on the stories that have emerged in just her first few days. And that apparent lack of common sense doesn't sit well with the less exotic moms who *don't* hunt moose and take eight hour flights while in labor.

Sara Palin Rocks. She is going to make a fantastic VP

This suburban woman(and my husband) loved Palin. Obama and Biden do not speak for us and our views. Sarah Palin voiced everything that my husband and I have been saying for months about Mr. Obama. We are Democrats who are now PERMANENT Republicans!!!!

Get out of the Beltway and go into America. I have not seen such excitement, genuine joy for a candidate in 20 years. WHY? Many reasons...but basically Palin is not from Washington, don't you all get it? Look at the Approval ratings for Congress. Well Palin is what we have hoped for, but did not know where to look. McCain ( or somebody) found her. Get used to her, in 8 years she may well be making the Thursday Night speech at the NRC !

As an independent voter I think it is pathetic and repugnant the way that the Republican Party tries to pull a fast ball on the American people. WHERE are the real issues that affect our daily lives, such the terrible inflation, the ruined economy and the foreclosure fiasco. We have to vote on a referendum on the failed administration of 8 years under George Bush and the Republican Party. Sarah Palin has a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and tries to compare her education with a Harvard educated Lawyer, that my friends is to try to strechhhhh the truth way too far. By the way Barack Obama has no Managerial Experience as a Governor but what about John McCain? . Not this time, not this time.

She claims the "small town values" of people like Truman? Truman was a DEMOCRAT. You know who else was from small towns, Carter and Clinton! All of them had far more education adn experience than Palin. But I guess she would know these things if she had a clue about American politics and history.

I am a suburban woman, a mom, and a professional, and frankly, there was nothing in her speech that appealed to me. I don't even think her speech tried to appeal to me. It seemed to be the same speech Guiliani and Romney gave, with a little bit of her bio. There was nothing in it to tell me why she and McCain should get my vote, just alot of nasty digs and some inside jokes (I guess) that I did not quite get.

And I was really bothered by those "hot chick" buttons, and I wondered why no one (the commentators) said anything about them even though they were clearly shown in close up several times.

Is all that "left-wing, liberal elite media" stuff working?

you almost had me there campbell brown. your "just doing your job" which is so rare these days was refreshing the other day. your palin's hate speech analysis was back to new media' role of shallow and worthless. oh well "hope springs etenal" even for the cable news.

Her speech, her "humor", etc. was nothing more than a woman practicing for the last 4 days what McCain's writer wrote for her. She's not qualified and McCain is totally irresponsible for choosing her! Alaska has 1.1 people per square mile – not a lot to manage. All the Republicans did was manage to show that they can teach a puppy to speak.

Palin talked a lot about changing Washington, but is she aware of the fact that her party has been in charge of Washington for the last 8 years? She talks a lot about family value, but how about the fact that she let her daughter get pregnant under her very own nose. If she can't even change her own kid, how is she going to change Washington?

i have 9 brothers and sisters and one of my brothers was born with (D S) and we are so proud that our mother had him and we all love him verry much and he brings great happiness to all of us and i understand why she thinks this way and by the way i am a dem but i have never voted for rep before but i will this time she gave a great speach and im sure she will do very well for john mccain and CNN is trying to dig up all the trash they can on this woman because they know the dems are in trouble

David – This team has marginal appeal in the suburbs. The Palin pick was a hasty stab at galvanizing a base that was adrift and hadn't fully warmed up to their candidate. Now, the "maverick" has sold his soul to Palin's agenda or else it will appear he lacked good judgement in picking her – Catch 22.

Do the Republicans really believe that rural small towns will bow down to Palin? Why would they be any dumber than the Republicans in larger towns.?
OBAMA.BIDEN 2008

Palin’s speech was a disappointment for me. I expected an intelligent, eloquent, and substantive first national speech. Instead, Palin’s speech read like a cheap stand-up comedy act which pandered to small town evangelical right wing extremists.

Palin is no match for Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity. I expect a monologue riddled with insulting political innuendo from Limbaugh, Hannity, et al, but I expect a certain level of civility, respect, substance—and most of all, common decency—from candidates running for the two highest elected offices in the United States. Regardless of political party, in the end, the President and Vice President must represent all Americans. The President and Vice President do not have the privilege of representing only members of their party. A national candidate who spews non-stop insults, belittlements, and mockery toward her opponents is as offensive as she is divisive.

Palin’s focus on small town leadership is disconcerting given the challenges and social ills faced by the vast majority of Americans who live in more populous counties and cities. For the average American, the challenges of daily life overwhelm. Millions of Americans suffer from the ills brought on by poverty, unemployment, poor education, poor healthcare, inflation, traffic congestion, and soaring home prices. Millions of Americans are victims of murder, rape, and burglary. Drug traffickers terrorize whole neighborhoods and destroy the lives on many young children. While Palin is proud of her small town experience, I question whether she has the fortitude to deal with life inside the city limits.

I live in a county with a population of +3 million, and a state population of +36 million people. The entire state of Alaska is home to fewer than 700 thousand people. The unemployment rate in my state is 7.9%. The unemployment rate in Alaska is a full percentage point lower. The median price of a single family home in my city is $783,000. The median price of a single family home in Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage, is $250,000.

Life in a small town is idyllic, affordable, and relatively crime-free. It doesn’t take much to lead a small town. By contrast, the most seasoned of politicians barely make a difference in the modern American urban communities. Being a “barracuda” on the basketball court is one thing; achieving success on the mean streets of America is another matter all together.

Finally, Palin never gave us substance. She humiliated and degraded women with her sexist blow kiss to the former POW. Palin never gave us her resume. Never gave us her vision for American, and never addressed a single social/cultural issue faced by Americans. In fact, they display fringe group behavior. it was down right creepy to see a huge auditorium filled with thousands of angry white people screaming: "Drill Baby, Drill!"
The experience was surreal: a crazed fringe group chanting and pumping their fists in the air, they invoked an image similar to a Klu Klux Klan or Nazi rally. From Giuliani first words, non-stop through Palin's last words, they filled the air with a raw anger and hate. Really creepy. Really not representative of America.

I am a mother and a former career woman. I believe women should have every opportunity to succeed and progress in whatever they choose to do. However, I would never expose my 17 year old pregnant daughter to the national spotlight just to achieve my ambitions. How could any loving parent do this? No matter bow much I may have wanted the opportunity I would have to decline for the good of my family. When Sarah Palin is able to make that executive decision she just may have the necessary experience on the national stage. Her performance so far leaves much to be desired.

From an independent perspective, and a young voter…I felt like she was waiting for an applause right after each statement. I don't know if I am the only who had notice this pattern where she would somewhat was waiting for affirmation on each statement. It seems like she wanted everyone to pinch her in every statement she made, as if she wasn't even convinced on her own speech. The speech really showed weakness. She should've pinched herself really hard before she walked up the stage…

Wow... this is the best blog comentary? A woman attacking Obama? What's the big deal? Both Biden and Obama attacked McCain... regretfully, that's politics. Personally, I don't like any of the choices... Please people, make a political point! enough with the non-issues, he said she said. The problem isn't the politicians, it's the media and the citizens who don't demand all canidates answer direct questions... no one wants to report on actual facts, news had gone from news to comentary entertainment! And you all just accept it and feed it by making stupid points that have nothing to do with factual accurate info. Careful what you ask for, you get what you deserve.

I had to laugh. My son said, what is going on. All of a sudden it looks like highly educated people acting like they are gangstas trying to scare somebody with their awful tactics. He was undecided but made up his mind now to go with Obama.

The RNC is a big disappointment to him and myself.

OH MY GOSH! THE REPUBLICANS ARE ACTUALLY EXCITED ABOUT ONE OF THEIR CANDIDATES!

Palin's pick is nothing but a curve ball rather than home run. This is just an attempt to win over Hillary supporters and galvanize the Republican base. Palin's pick is purely political. John Mccain's claim he puts country first and party last is just a plain Washington lies and clear attempt to repeat Bush policy of deceit.

Excellent speech and well-delivered. The democrats have their work cut out for them. How can you question whether she will resonate w/ surburban America when she embodies so much of surburban America? No other vice presidential candidate is as in touch w/ the issues that face us in surburbia. I much prefer Mrs. Palin over the plagiarist.

What may ultimately put Mr. McCain and Mrs. Palin over the top is the treatment of her by the media – shameful and disgraceful. We all know this is just the beginning. Unleash the attack dogs... and continue to focus on her family. How come we don't see any reruns of Mr. Biden's infamous speech? Does anyone think this was an honest mistake? In my line of work, people get sued for stuff like this and reputations are irrepairably damaged because it is a character issue (not to mention a horrible lack of judgement). And there is no leftist bias in the media... Hmmm....

If this election is about character – true character – then there is no comparison between the choices.

I have heard Sen. Obama speak several times and in each occasion, he has talked about there not being a "red America" or a "blue America," but a United States of America. He even said that in his convention speech. He calls on us to unite because only then can we solve the great problems in this country. Palin tonight was divisive. It reminded me of Cheney/Rove/Bush. Slash and burn. I am SICK AND TIRED of divisive politics. I am SICK AND TIRED of culture wars. I am SICK AND TIRED of the republicans. Is that all they have to offer?

Obama can't compare to Palin. Get it.

Dear Hillary voters now McCain voters:

I would like to ask you a sincere question? Is voting for John McCain going to bring the change Hillary sought? Do you care about America our just your personal vote? I honestly don't believe you care about me as a fellow citizen. Do you care about our men and women fighting an unjust war? What about all the children and elderly who don't have and can't afford health insurance? Do you not care about the rest of us?

I've been to Sen. McCains website and read about his plans for America and believe me, it won't help us. How can you vote for a health plan that allows $3,500 for single people and double for married couples. What type of care will we get for $3,500.00 or $7,000.00? I don't think you Hillary supports care about Americans.

Dem of Obama & Biden 08

David–I am about as "rural" as you can get in America and I found Gov. Palin's caustic, divisive, sarcastic remarks appalling! Not all of us are the rednecks her family and supporters seem proud to proclaim they are. And most of us know how to pronounce "nuclear", unlike President Bush and Gov. Palin. It is sad that she could not inspire with new ideas about how to solve some of the major problems we face as a nation. I would be so ashamed to have someone so caustic as our nation's representative for the outside world. Give me Barack's gentle intellect and common sense any day!

I think Sara Palin is a joke to begin with, and she is an example of everything that the republican party stands for in terms of playing dirty tricks and tactics in order to get more votes. She will not gain my vote towards McCain, and after hearing her poorly put together speech, along with the other republicans, I have decided to vote for Obama.

Sarah presented all she has been rehearsing in her bunker for the past three days. The speech was more like that of a high school teenage contest. No substastance, no real issues. And the then "barracuda wink wink" – I thought that was such an unprofessional body language. There was very little seriousness to the content. It was a comedy.

I believe the speech was aimed at the conservative provincial vote:
- The vote from those who believe women have no choice over their bodies.
- The vote from those who do not care about guns in the streets.
- The vote from those who believe in "shoot'em" deplomacy.
- The vote from the less informed and less scientific minority who do not understand the scientific facts about global warming.
- The vote from those who are easy to sway by fear mongering.

The contemporary world does not subscribe to these ideologies. Informed Americans do not agree with any of her political positions. McBush campaign is aware of this, and thats why they wrote her speech, omitting all these ke issues that are important to American people.

Hmmm, 12 out of 12 siding with the democrats on these comments- As expected, CNN's audience is 100% liberal democrats – go figure

How soon people forget, this is the same crowd fired up by Bush and Cheney just 4 years ago.

This suburban here, see disaster in her. It makes me scared of McCain. McCain's attack of the media is even scarier than his lack of judgement in selecting this novice to a job of pro.

Palin will no doubt appeal to huge swaths of the "Republican base" and 'misunderstood suburbanites' throughout America.

That said, it is clear she is an unabashedly extreme-right-wing politician, far more so that any of the Bush/Cheney/Rumsfeld gang (with the possible exception of John Ashcroft).

If that's what "the people" want then that's what they shall have.

"McCain the maverick" who stands up to his party and the far right is now official the biggest single joke of the campaign season.

One of the most pathetic and politically cheap speech lacking moral values and absolutely no substance.

This woman is not even fit to be a decent human being.

All I heard tonight was We ( republicans) are patriotic and love american and everyone else ( democrats or others ) don't. The Character attacks were angry mean and horrible. Bush talked about liberals being angry but I think its the other way around. All attacks no substance. Barack laid out to us exactly what he will do. Palin and the Repubs have no platform.. no plans for America. McCain chose her for political reasons not for the country.

No – absolutely not. The GOPs have nothing but smoke and mirrors. At least Obama tells us Exactly what he's going to do. Repubs just tell you who to hate.

Did you hear how she wants to take away law enforcement reading you your rights?

It's always shoot first and ask questions later for them. Guilty until proven innocent with them.

I WANT TO KNOW WHAT THE DEAL IS WITH HER ABUSE OF POWER AGAINST HER BROTHER-IN-LAW!! SOUNDING A LOT LIKE SOME GOOD OLE BOY TATCTICS TO ME. IF THE PREGNANT TEEN WERE IN THE OBAMA CAMP, WHAT KIND OF FAMILY VALUES TALK WOULD WE BE HEARING THEN? ARE THE SOON TO BE WED REALLY READY WHEN ONE OF THEM IS ONLY 17. IS PALIN NOT MOMMY ENOUGH TO SAY TO HER DAUGHTER, LOOK MOTHERHOOD IS HARD ENOUGH WHEN YOU'RE OLD ENOUGH. IF YOU'RE NOT READY TO BE MARRIED DON'T BE WHAT'S WRONG WITH CHOOSING WHAT'S BEST FOR YOU DAUGHTER AND NOT YOUR POLITICAL CAREER!!

David, let me first start off by saying I have gotten hooked on CNN because of you. Through out this election I have followed your thoughts and really believe that you might be the smartest person in politics I have ever watched. Thank you for all your contributions to this election.

On the noted of Sarah Palin. I don't think she can connect with middle of the road America. Watching her made me so deeply sad because throughout this election I feel like the country as come so far and she took us back to the reasons why we are so highly disliked across the globe. In my opinion, what America's are seeking is growth....growth of our nation to come together and become a nation that we are proud of. I travel for business all around the world, and I truly believe that the rest of the world is growing in terms of science and MOST importantly TOLERANCE and unity. People in Europe don't care about what sex you are dating, or what god you believe, they care about understanding the differences that make us all special in our own way and using those differences to learn from each other and advance....

When I watched the biography of John McCain that was done by John King, I was moved. I had a completely different opinion of the republican. After watching Sarah tonight, I see a DEEP contrast in the two. John McCain COMPLETELY sold out on his true beliefs in order to satisfy the GOP. Heartbreaking.

Fears, Smears, and Tears thats all the republicans are bringing to the table.

BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!!!!!

How can she not?
Who can relate to a lawyer that won't salute the flag because it controversial?

Who can relate to a lawyer who's wife is a lawyer?
Who can relate to a career politician that wears $1000 suits?

Who can relate to having a really rich wife? (In my dreams maybe)
Who can relate to being a fighter pilot war hero?

Now who can relate to a Soccer Mom that hunts and fishes and takes on the establishment and wins? And she's the best looking of the whole bunch! And just maybe the most honest.

It's already happening. How much talk have we heard in the media about Obama's VP? Didn't he select one too?
There seems to be only ONE VP nomination according to the news coverage.

She appeals to people that host RNC parties.

I was very unhappy with both Obama and McCain until the Palin VP announcement. I am a suburban mom and I am solidly behind the McCain Palin ticket.

I find it quite amusing that the McCain campaign has somehow managed to get the Obama followers to start criticizing Palin for the same attributes that Obama has.

I had every intention to listen to Mrs. Palin speech with an open mind and without too much bias and prejudice. I was truly offended at her (and "The Country's mayor) tone and sarcasm regarding community organization. Since Palin doesn't know what a community organizer does (or a VP for that matter) let me shed some light...community organizing is about working collectively with people to solve problems—joining or forming organizations to address issues that concern people in their neighborhood, workplace, or community of interest (eg., senior citizens, health care, housing, environment, education, economic development). Community organizers work with others to: improve the social conditions of a community, enhance the quality of life of people, and bring people into the political process. As someone who has worked with the communit it is a very, very, very difficult task and requires strong leadership abilities, decision-making skills, and a host of other qualities that a President should not only posses but be able to demonstrate.

It was community organizers that created movements in this country...has Palin ever heard of the Civil Rights movement? It is because of community organizers that Palin even has the right to vote...the women's suffarage movement came from the community.

Country first??? Who's country?? All I heard tonight was divisive, nasty, hateful speeches that are beating the drums of war.

S. Palin is running as a reformer. As vice-president, how can she initiate reform? What needs to be reformed is her own party and its leaders. Her devisive, sarcastic style surely doesn't inspire cooperation or reconciliation. She made me ashamed to hear her represent my sex.

hi just what i thought, small town ,small vision, small brain. all she said is what we have heard 4 8 years. no substance, all ugly name calling. thank you. thomas

Hey David. Thanks for bringing some sobriety to cable news, although I miss the News Hour days. I think tonight brings good and bad news to Democrats. The bad news is that Palin didn't fall on her face; not by a long shot. The good news is that the GOP seems to be trying to re-align this election along the same axis as '04. Part of the strategy then was to energize the party by painting the left and right as culturally irreconcilable, neutering any substantive policy discussion. It's been an effective strategy in the past, but in '08 it actually plays beautifully into the Obama campaign's message that Republicans don't know how to change, at a time when the American people are desperate for something new and different. I suspect that the suburban voters you're talking about will recognize retrograde, Rove-era thinking for what it is.

I'd also add that the Obama campaign's decision not to participate in the public's "vetting" of Palin since last Friday shows that it remains several moves ahead of everybody else on the chessboard. In light of her strong performance tonight, the relentless attacks on Palin over the last few days seem small and undignified. As she becomes more of a stationary target, however, we're likely to see some truly focused ("grown-up"?) criticism from Obama. This may also play well in the suburbs.

On "Larry King" tonight after Palin's speech Stephanie Miller accused Palin of using her family as a prop. I find it amusing that if she had not brought her family on stage as any candidate would do, she would have been accused of distancing herself or being ashamed of them after all the unfair democratic attacks! The democrats can't have it both ways. Nobody has five children for a political prop! Sarah Palin would not have had to spend so much time defending herself and family if it wasn't for all these double standard liberal attacks!

I live in the midwest in a small town of about 25,000, and honestly didn't think I was interested in voting. I now know that I am. I now have a reason. Her name is Sarah Palin. Incredible speech.

Depends, if the McCamp controls her image to be Mrs Smith goes to Washington, then a chunk of suburban America may fall in love with her considerable charm. If her image comes out as a Creationist, who believes in no abortion even in the case of rape, incest, who really wasn't much of a reformer after all, then she can kill suburbia goodbye.

Interesting to see who if anyone wins this experience battle. This "executive" experience argument is interesting. Will anyone buy that it makes her especially qualified except those who already want to believe? We'll see.

Obama was criticized for being "not black enough" because he didn't hew the traditional line on "African American issues." That trivialized his broader appeal and once it became clear that he could actually win, African Americans swung behind his campaign.

Sarah Palin is, in essence, being criticized for being "not female enough," where "female" implies pro-choice, anti-gun, entitlements, and a prominent government role in family life. That trivializes her broader appeal.

Forget her gender for a moment and take a look at the package. She hits the same cross-section of the voting populace that Reagan did: socially conservative, but equally appealing to the dirt-under-the-fingernails workers of both parties. She is very comfortable in front of the camera and talks to the individuals listening, not the crowd, as if she were sitting at their dinner table. Unlike Reagan, she has a family, and commitment to family, that will resonate with all voters regardless of policy and party. She conveys strength – this barracuda clearly has teeth.

You may be right about those suburban women – today. But what about in late October if it looks like this hockey mom may actually win, and on merit, and stand as the first woman to be the proverbial heartbeat away from the presidency?

Watching Gov. Palin speak tonight, with my wife at my side and my 11 week-old daughter in my arms, it was tempting to get emotional about the historic aspect of this woman's sudden and fascinating political rise. Then, she started speaking. The shrill, smug, and often downright mean tone she took as she leveled often untrue and unfair attacks at Sens. Obama and Biden, the Democrats, and even community organizers, was enough to make me squirm. The kind of "red meat" political theater put on by Gov. Palin was divisive and polarizing, which is in perfect concert with many of the tactics used so successfully by Karl Rove and the Republican Party over the last 8 years. My concern, as I look into my daughter's eyes and face the real-life uncertainties of her generation's future, is what good does this kind of angry, snarling rhetoric do? How does it help the average American and the real struggles we face every day? What specific policies do she and her running mate intend to implement that will make the lives of those of us in Middle America with which she supposedly identifies so well? I can only pray that these tactics are tired and worn-out, and that Americans have the sense to see through this and stop listening to these dangerous attempts to replace talking about real solutions with simply attacking and deriding one's political opponents. Nothing less than my daughter's future is at stake.

Sara Palin: Be cautios, just see what happenned to Hillary!!! That kind of politics is not "in fashion" in 2008.

I liked the presentation of her speech, but, I think her past is about to catch up to her. Biden once said that every sentence from Giulianni contained "a noun, a verb, and 9/11." I can say the same about McCain: every sentence contains a noun, a verb, and POW.

I didn't watch the speech but I watched analysts disect the speech. From what I heard the Republicans are good at distorting facts to suit their motive. Put division in a Country known as United States of America. Divide and conquer is what they do best. They never said anything about how they are going to help me as Civil Service worker. I owned a house for 12 years but lost it sometime this year eventhough I have two full time job. And yet they never said anything that could help me with my economic condition. What is there to say. Is my life any different from that of someone in the surburbs? May be if you are an old white guy who probably doesn't like change.

Sorry David,
I think you are way off base on that opinion.
I'm a Democrat. I supported Hillary Clinton. Still believe out of everyone, she would have made the best President.

But Sarah Palin? Wow! She is not Hillary Clinton, but she CERTAINLY is Sarah Palin! McCain made a great choice....keeping her under wraps threw the Obama and the Media off!

Now you can tell the Obama Campaign is pissed...and by the commentary these last few days, the media has also been pissed.

But not only did Sarah energize the Republican ticket, she energized some of us Democratic women too! I think Obama blew it...and this race will be another close call. Why? Obama is incongruent. And although McCain and Palin has many views I personally disagree with, they have a lot of views I DO agree with. Between the two, I actually believe McCain and Palin WILL take action for change while Obama is still talking about it.

Gergan is whistleling thru the graveyard. The Washington elites are scared.

As a independent voter wanting to find the best canidate for the job, I'm very disappointed in CNN's coverage. To sit and watch 3 people on Larry King sit and bash on Palin, I just don't get how you can expect the average voter to sit and watch this. It's like having two prize boxers getting into the ring to fight and bounding one of the fighters hands behind their back. I don't undersand why you don't tell both sides to severe your viewers justice. I also watched last night and it seemed like the same thing. I do watch other news networks to get a full view of the race and it looks like your network is a cheerleader for the left. Like I said, i'm have both left views as well as right views and I looking for fare and balanced coverage. I thought that the coverage of the Barack and Hillary campaign was also cover unfairly and wanted to know what was going on.

First of all I thought I was at comedy central and I am not being sarcastic. Here is a party that once agains talks about America but only if you are a Republican, where is the diversity in this party?? I am tired of these attacks and lies, I feels if you are going to attack then attack with truth, I heard more lies come out of the republican camp on Sen. Obama and I am APPALLED about that. To belittle him with being a community organizer, they need to talk to those people who he helped to find their voice and to fight for them when no one would. Where was McCain or Palin?? As a suburban mother I am just sick to my stomach on what I saw tonight. They did not speak about what they would do for me it was just attack and fear, but then again isn't it them that said we are safer now because of Bush and McCain? You can't have it both ways. It will not work thise time and I am afraid they just don't get it. To tell you I have to say as a White women I was angry from the majority of this party that is white, tonight I saw the ugliness and that is a party I don't want in this office.

I'm a suburban housewife and mom and she lost my vote. Nothing shre said would be change for families...it just was OBAMA bashing and I'm sick of the negative words...I'm OBAMA

I wonder if CNN will ever post this.
People, this is a woman who puts a job before her child. We all heard and see that she has a special needs INFANT. Instead of parading your son around at this hour in such a loud atmosphere, mom, maybe next time can you forget about your personal agenda and look out for the needs of your child and keep him home with a BABYSITTER!! And dad, did you not see you little girl wiping her spit and poking at your drugged up, i mean sleeping child. How, dad, do you plan to care for your children while your wife is at work, when you have shown the world that your judgement is a little off to have a little kid watching your special needs infant in such a manner. Can I repeat INFANT. Is there a Child Protective Services in Alaska or is this not considered neglectful parenting. Will the repugs just blow this all off as being cute?!? CNN do you not see this as important?

It's all about changing the narrative. Issues are being avoided, in lieu of referenda on "Do you like Sarah Palin?", "Can a mother of 5 do the job?", "Isn't John McCain a hero?"

As long as voters are cognizant that they are voting for a President and President-in-waitin who will enact policy, the democrats should fair well. The issues and the times are not in the republican's favour.

However, it would do McCain some good to actually mention issues, the economy, or something relevant to the average voter's quality of life. If he continues the low-substance redirection play we've seen all c.onvention, I think voters will be left asking where that beef is after all...

I WAS HOPING THAT CHANGE WOULD CARRY US INTO THE FUTURE NOT BACK TO THE 19TH CENTURY. SHAME ON MCCAIN..,,...YES A WOMAN .......WRONG WOMAN.

Yes She will

She is one of us, An American who went into politics to change it.

She has proven she can.

she is not an Elitist, she was not born with a silver spoon in her mouth. Everything she got she had to earn the old fashion way. She wants America to Safe for all of us, run properly and cut out the unnecessary spending.

She is Ready and Able and willing to work hard. Above all they will listen to the people. Unlike their opponent who tells the people what they want, what they need.

David,

Huge fan in Canada. I will be honest I found the whole thing mean spirited. And I felt like there was a sign on the door saying "whites only".
And I am white. Last week you saw men and women of all different races crying over the historic moment and united in hope for the vision your country.

Tonight it was polarizing and quite upsetting to see the crowd cheer and shout and clap to every mean spirited word as if to protect themselves from someone they think is beneath them. On the contrary he stands much taller.

Obama is a candidate you see once in a generation

Gergen, Gov. Palin already called you out during her speech. She doesn't need your good opinion. This is one tough cookie and she did not crumble. You guys, the media, have been ripping her to shreds for days and attacking her family. It's obvious she's a fighter and does not back down. Those are qualities any American can relate to.

I couldn't agree with you more. She is of no appeal to me. I gave her a chance today, by watching her, but i think it was not worthy. It is for people like her that i don't vote republican!!!!
Thank you!!! Please reply if possible

As a suburban Mom, for me the answer is no. Her views are far too conservative. Pro-life, thinks global warming is a hoax, and believes we are on a mission from God in Iraq. All add up to disaster. We need real change now.

If by suburban, you mean the ignorant, hate-filled Republicans who still adhere to Dubya's way of doing things, than yes.

This Independent is less than impressed. I'll be voting for Obama in November.

Palin as VP? Now there's a man made natural disaster... Those in the suburbs might want to head for the hills!

FAMILY VALUES LOL RIGHT WHAT MOTHER WOULD PUT A 4 MONTH OLD THROUGH ALL THAT NOSE YOU TELL ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GO DEMS

McCain and Palin can't beat the media too. They act as they are in a war with fellow ameicans. Just division, pure hatred and vitriol. This will backfire on them. Too many people are hurting, we don't want this divisivise Karl Rove, Right Wing Crap.

This little lady is a tough skinned hard hitter and the dems won't be able to recover now after this little lady hit the home run as VP contender. She is already a hit and a favorite! I never thought I'd see the day when we would have a female in the Whitehouse but that day is now. McCain has what it takes with his experience and integrity and now with Palin as his VP this election has finally found solid ground and a positive base with the leadership of McCain and Palin our Next President and Vice President of the United States of America!!!!!

Hillary supporters are NOT staying home! We are going to vote AGAINST this woman who shares NONE of Hillary Clinton's values or views. This woman from Alaska is vile and cold hearted.

In a word – no – she will not connect with suburban American. She doesn't have a gracious bone in her body and has injected a degree of nastiness into the campaign that is disappointing. Obama went out of his way to stand up for her and her family, showing genuine concern , and she responds with vilification. How can anyone that immature be placed a heartbeat away from the presidency???

I think Mr. Gergen that you need to get out a little more, and see what it is you've been missing.

You've been "beltway" too long, sir.

Palin appeals to the silent majority. It's real; it's there, and they do indeed vote.

Didn't hear the hope of Christ in this person. If this is what being a Christian in American is all about, count me out. I have had enough of these hypocrites.

Quite a performance! Just a performance. This speech was just more of the McCain campaign attacking Obama. This was nothing new: we heard this from McCain during the primaries. Palin's speech was more strident and more of the same. The Republican party's plan is simply to avoid the real issues that this country must deal with quickly.

Also, I have serious doubt that she wrote any of this speech. Nor do I think that she will be able to write the next speech regarding the economy, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, national security, taxes, education or health care. This woman will be second in line if anything should incapacitate McCain as President of the United States. I feel that she has absolutely no qualification to handle that job. To answer your question, I was cool. I am now cold.

I for one find the whole anti-elitist argument to be astounding. I do not want someone just like me running the country. I want someone better and smarter.

yOU GOT TO BE JOKING! SHE'S NO HILLARY THATS FOR SURE. JOHN MADE HIS SITUATION WORSE BY PICKING PALIN. OH AND BY THE WAY SARAH I'M A COMMUNITY ORGANIZER MYSELF. THAT IN ITSELF IS LEADING.

This is a good question. Thank you David for asking something sensible. I do think there will be a serious problem once all the hoopla is over - her views are extremely far to the right, anti-intellectual, and some of her religious views will frighten those who expect some level of thoughtfulness and at least a respect for pluralism among their leaders.

McCain has illustrated in this election - as he did years ago kowtowing to the religious right (which he once called 'intolerant') that he will do anything to win. Neither soccer moms or independent voters will be swayed by throwing red meat to those Republicans hungry for something to chew on after trying to swallow the vapid campaign and uninspiring message (a new one every week!) of John McCain.

But people are hungry for someone who provides leadership that is thoughtful, reasoned, respectful and forward-looking. Nothing Gov. Palin or Senator McCain offers is anthing new - it is more of the same and people have had eight years of miserable hubris and divisiveness.

You might put a pretty face on it but it is the same ugly tactics and hostile speech - vacuous and demeaning. Will the press really do it's job and take a serious look at this potential President? Will they ask questions that require thoughtful, long answers and not pablum? We'll see if the fourth estate has the courage of their profession!

I don't think that most Americans will take to her. She came across as rude and arrogant. She should have used this opportunity to introduce herself to America and tell us who she is, what she stands for, and why she thinks she is qualified to lead America. We still know little more about her than before the speech except that she can be mean and nasty and her she will say whatever the McCain campaign tells her to say. I am sure that when the Democrats answer her attacks she is gonna cry sexism. I regret staying up to watch this... it was very disappointing. She is so pathetic. She took the typical Republican approach of attack and distract. Nothing has changed. The Republicans just found a prettier face to spout McCains old tired rhetoric since people were falling asleep trying to listen to him... Once all the sizzle wears off, everyone will see that a pitt bull in lipstick is... well... just a pitt bull in lipstick. The best way for her to put the country first would be to go back to her Jerry Springer life and leave America alone.

I am a mother of 4 and a career woman who can relate to Palin and Michelle Obama because they are mothers as I can relate to any woman who is a mother and loves their children. I felt that she was very proud of her family but she fell short on her message to the American people because she didn't speak to the real issues and concerns that I feel as an American needed to be answered. Such as health care, economics, and the hardships that I am having right now. To me she is making this more of a cultural war than anything else. As far as I am concerned she is more of the same and a woman version of Mccain. Yeah her speech was okay, but very, very sarcastic and smug and the experience stuff should come on off the table since she doesn't have that much experience herself and that's just the truth about it. So what she was mayor of a small town and now governor or Alaska, what does this tell me? NOTHING! Her message fell by the waste side and came up way to short for me. I want real answers to what this GOP party plans to do to help me and my family out, not give me a hand out but fix the problems they made for us! Obama laid out what he plans to do, now it's the Mccain's camps turn!!!!

I looked forward to her speech because I would like to know her, but her speech left out any vision she has for America, and instead, I found her to be sarcastic, condescending, and arrogant for some of her speech, which turned me completely off to her.

She was poised, confident, but a tad too strident and caustic. If he ultimate goal in this election is o apeal to the sliver of undecided voters who want to change the tone in Washington, she might have been too good for her own good.