One Hearbeat Away

I think my Palin quota would be full if my only exposure to Sarah Barracuda was on Saturday Night Live. Despite Tina Fay's reluctance to deliver us this poignant impersonation after November 4, she captures the essence of a woman who seems to lack much political/intellectual substance (at least in public). Her three television interviews failed to earn her credibility, rather they resulted in her standing as the laughing stock of bloggers, columnists,and television personalities.

Yes, a "pleasant and nice" politician is comforting, but qualification (or the appearance of preparation) is even more important.

The stress of Palin's mishaps must at least be slashing a few months off the lifespan of her running mate. She strings together incoherent phrases in response to predictable questions from national anchors. How does McCain really feel about Palin's inability to stay on message? Now, Zardari wants no part in a Palin hug.

When a veteran commentator offers this type of harsh response something is wrong.

"That is one of the most pathetic pieces of politics that I have ever seen for someone aspiring to one of the highest offices in this country" Cafferty says. If anything Palin, should at least learn how to bullshit Couric and Gibson.

Despite our ideological differences, I at least want to give Palin some credit as a politician. But seriously, how does a mayor (male or female) actually charge victims of sexual assaults for rape kits?

Earlier this week, CNN Anchor Campbell Brown called for the McCain campaign "to free [Palin] from the chauvinistic chains you are binding her with." Campbell, the McCain campaign is limiting exposure to Palin not because of her gender, but because she has failed to impress anyone, Democrat or Republican, Male or Female with her public intellect and leadership skills.

So what does it say when Kathleen Parker, of the National Review admits that the "Palin Problem" is not her gender, but that she is simply not ready for the job.

"No one hates saying that more than I do. Like so many women, I’ve been pulling for Palin, wishing her the best, hoping she will perform brilliantly. I’ve also noticed that I watch her interviews with the held breath of an anxious parent, my finger poised over the mute button in case it gets too painful. Unfortunately, it often does. My cringe reflex is exhausted."

Bob Herbert of the New York Times argues:

"If, on the other hand, it becomes clear that her performance, so far, is an accurate reflection of her qualifications, it would behoove John McCain and the Republican Party to put the country first — as Mr. McCain loves to say — and find a replacement for Ms. Palin on the ticket."

Calling for a replacement on the ticket initially seems outrageous, but then again maybe it's worthwhile considering the circumstances.

To my knowledge, only one candidate for Vice President (Thomas Eagleton) has withdrawn after accepting the nomination. Nine vice presidents, however, have succeeded the sitting President after unexpected death. Yikes.

She is not the right person for this office and it frustrates me. America seems to be catching on as her favorability ratings tumbled 21% in a single week.