Whoever wrote CNN’s headline “McCain taps Alaska Gov. Palin as vice president pick” has a dirty sense of humor that I applaud.
Governor Palin has been in office for two years, a degree in Communications/Journalism (so I’m betting she’s great at PR handling), and has a decently pretty face for 44.
Pregnancy rumors and bothersome ex-brother-in-laws aside, the discussion should be over how she’s going to influence the McCain campaign going forward.
All things considered, I’m going to say quite well. At least, I don’t see her doing any harm.
A quick analysis has to address the obvious reason she was chosen: to seduce women voters over to the Republican camp. You know, all those Clintonites who were spurned by the Obama mob. I can see her influence having various effects: She could represent a kinder, younger, more energetic alternative to Clinton, something women may find appealing, or she’ll be considered ditsy and inexperienced. That sounds bad, but it’s not as though McCain had those supporters to begin with, so it’s kinda a nothing to lose shot.
The alternative, picking a man, really wouldn’t have covered any fresh ground for McCain: he’s already old and experienced, yet more moderate than many Republicans and he didn’t need to hardcore support he fought for in the primaries anymore. They certainly aren’t leaving for Obama.
In essence, Palin might be the perfect compliment to McCain: young, vibrant, probably better at PR, attracts a completely separate demographic, but shares values with the candidate and party. Is she the best thing for the country? Probably not, as vibrance doesn’t solely mean you’re ready to step into the Presidency. Her political views will soon be revealed and her ability to convert from the Democratic party could die off well before the election. But for a running mate, I don’t think McCain could ask for more.
**UPDATE** To those who believe this is a “desperate plea for love” from McCain, to you I say: Well, yeah, but he has to, the guy is a tad dopey and not all that compelling except the to World War 2 crowd. I expected someone, well, likable to be his Vice President.
**UPDATE 2** Additionally, for a couple of people who feel she was a “random” pick, I told quite a few people beforehand that it was going to be a Governor we hadn’t heard of and weren’t going to be able to predict. None of the obvious candidates fit the bill of what the McCain camp needed.