Saturday, August 30, 2008

McCain and the VP "Chic Pick"

Okay...was this a shocker or what? Wow! Who saw that on coming? No one I know did. Let's take a look at this move. Strategically, it was brilliant. Sarah Palin blows away the stereotypes of what a Republican politician is, no Ivy league education, and no heir to millions. As to quote Sarah Palin's own words, "I was just your average hockey mom." To make it even better her husband is a proud member of a union. If that does not connect to middle America, I don't know what will.

Is it all politics, or does Palin line up with the McCain "brand?" McCain has consistently been criticized by his own party for being an independent. He campaigns to reform politics in Washington. When we take a look at Palin's record, she shows a steady record of reformation. As taken from her acceptance speech, she states: "Along with fellow reformers in the great state of Alaska, as Governor, I've stood up to the old politics as usual, to the special interest, to the lobbyist, the Big Oil companies, and the 'good old boy' network." Some have been comparing her to "the next Margaret Thatcher."

After Friday's Republican VP announcement, I got to witness several reactions to the pick. Most people were shocked (like myself) at first, then great excitement flooded in afterward. McCain's choice for VP has started to revitalize hope for many republicans, that feel like their voice has not been heard in the media. McCain's choice may very well have sparked hope and a renewed faith for many republicans, that have been disappointed with the party's voice being "hijacked" in the media by the extreme voice of the right wing. Palin's record, and overall genuine style is sure to shake up some of the old schemas. 

It is more than likely that Palin will be attacked for her "inexperience," and how it will affect national security.  Is that really an issue we need to go over? That issue died with the Obama campaign. The fact is Alaska is a large state and it would be logical to assume she has had to deal with many homeland security issues as governor. The next issue will be to call McCain's age into question, "what if something happens, and she needs to take over as POTUS?" Don't Panic, lets think this through. She will more than likely pick a VP with strong qualities that complement hers. She won't be alone.

McCain's campaign "Country First: Reform, Prosperity, Peace," may really be just be what he intends to carry out. It appears as if the Maverick may finally just be in a position to serve his country the way he has always intended to. I don't believe picking Palin was just strategy, I think he may be serious.

Obama's campaign has been for "change." But really, who is breaking out of the mold? If you ask me the real change is happening with the republican party. This team appears to be "annointed" for change and reformation. A movement that will hopefully bring the party back to some of it's original tenets, as well as, be an advocate for ALL Americans not just a party.

It's an exciting campaign season, and the polls are showing this race is close. Whoever wins on November 4th, it is sure to be historic. But I am sure waiting for those "18 million cracks" to be broken through.


3 comments:

finished said...

Vp. Chick Pick. Genius.
Why shouldn't McCain capitalize on the many Hillary supporters who feel unrepresented in this campaign? But, is that really the angle?

Palin, can earn the trust of thousands of mothers who have sons in the military. Doesn't that lend credibility to any foreign policy decision she supports?

Also, a pro-life candidate who knowingly had a child with down syndrome...Someone who actually practices what she preaches. It is easy for politicians (predominently male) to stand firm on the abortion issue. To some extent, male politicans are somewhat distant from the issue in the sense that abortion law directly affects women's rights. But, Palin has direct experience with the decision; so, her opinion, at least from the remote perspective, has a little more credibility than some old guy who has never been forced to consider the true impact of the issue.

And, wow! How dynamic are the photos of her holding semi-automatic weapons, coupled with the commentary stating that she is an NRA member. Gun lobbyist have to love that.

Married to a union member...There's your blue collar vote.

She is the republican dream candidate...only female.

As a non-republican, I must admit that I found her a very appealling candidate. Her nomination supports McCain's message of reform. That would be the height of change, conservative republicans voting for a woman with little experience at the national level. It's a nice change! 18 million cracks and then some.

The Most trusted name in fake News said...

I can imagine how happy Obama was when he didn't pick Hilary, and I bet he feels very stupid now for not picking her. Biden against Palin is like a roach trying to take down a Grizzly Bear.

Or, Polar bear since she's from Alaska.

Schmidt said...

It's the most brilliant pick McCain could have made. Another boring white guy as VP would have left the enthusiasm gap between the parties wide. This has closed the gap considerably.