September 4, 2008
Posted: 08:44 PM ET

From
Gov. Sarah Palin's speech Wednesday night fired up Republican delegates.
Gov. Sarah Palin's speech Wednesday night fired up Republican delegates.

ST. PAUL, Minnesota (CNN) – Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin came out swinging Wednesday night, but it's going to take more than just fighting words to win over the independent and undecided voters who hold the election in their hands.

Palin's speech at the Republican National Convention marked her first major address as the Republican vice presidential candidate.

The Alaska governor tore into Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama as two-faced, arrogant and unable to lead while she painted Republican candidate John McCain as courageous reformer who is ready to take charge.

Her prime time address was full of humor and sarcasm. Her tone was a hit with delegates watching in St. Paul, Minnesota, but it didn't resonate well with everyone outside of the Republican circle.

"She came across as angry and overconfident," said Kuntal Warwick, an independent voter from King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. Palin had little to say about policy, and her speech was full "of smugness and mockery," Warwick said.

Independents like Warwick, combined with voters who have yet to make up their mind, are the ones who could decide who ends up in the White House.

"The base of the Democratic and Republican parties — their votes are predictable," said John Avlon, author of "Independent Nation: How Centrists Can Change American Politics." "It's the swing voters who decide who's going to carry the balance of power, who will ultimately win that election state-by-state and even nationwide."

Avlon didn't have a problem with Palin's tone. He said her humor and confidence will probably appeal to the independents, but it's the lack of substance that will leave that group in search of something more.

Full story

Filed under: Republican National Convention • Sarah Palin


Dan   September 4th, 2008 9:43 pm ET

Why hasn't the media polled Joe Leiberman's constituents to see if they approve of his actions at the RNC. It would be interesting to know if he was working for the people that hired him. Also when did 3 bars on a navy uniform become the rank of Captain?

Angela Dust   September 4th, 2008 9:41 pm ET

Her "tough talk" convinced me that Obama is the right choice! I dont want some ignorant religious fascist telling ME what i can read, or who I can entertain in the bedroom! She did get one thing right. She sure IS a pit bull with lipstick!

Hillary supporter now for Obama!

Hillary Supporter   September 4th, 2008 9:31 pm ET

It was disappointing to hear how spiteful she was last night. It completely turned me off of the republican party.

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