VP Debate Rules Changed to Compensate Sarah Palin

Take the rules for what they show. A totally unprepared and unqualified person. Don't even try to compare her experience against Obama's. You'll look like an idiot if you think serving as mayor to a dinky town and leaving it millions in debt, then a short term as governor because people in Alaska have a sense of humor, can in any way measure up to Obama. As for comparing to Joe Biden, she's a miniscule little bug with a pitbull face with lipstick (she's the one that started it, so don't blame me).

Is any one surprised at the request that she is only to be asked soft ball questions?

It reminds me when Mr. Ross Perot had Vice Admiral James Stockdale as his running mate: during the V.P. debates Mr. Stockdale said "Who am I? Why am I here?" a priceless moment to be cherished.

I'm sure that no matter what Ms. Palin said or doesn't say she will not gain any new voters.

The Dems agreed to this! This is ridiculous they should have said no way and if McCain wanted to pull her out of the debate so be in let the chips fall where they may.

Wuss!

After this, I would like to see the right-wing geniuses say she is more experienced than Obama. I don't remember Obama requesting special treatment or a new set of debate rules when he faced Biden in the fourteen debates before Biden dropped out of the race. I have never really cared for Hillary, but after this, I have a new found respect for her. I would of loved to of seen Hillary take this mental midget on. She would of reduced the pitbull to tears.

Sexism!

I really can't help but note that this has been live for several hours now, on the front page, and we've yet to see a single one of our resident right-wingers step in to defend Caribou Barbie and her supposed "experience."

Executive experience is important, it seems, but so is fixing the rules in advance.

Hmmm

I think that your english is wrong in the title. Do you really mean that they are changing the rules so that they can pay her?

Kinda funny.

His English is just fine. Compensate has several meanings.

OMG! I can't believe this. Are they serious?? After throwing her "that's sexist" crap around! Good, compensate little Sarah, however, DO NOT give ANYBODY and sass about how they were sexist in reacting to this situation. Game on, @!$%#!

A debate with training wheels to compensate for Palin, eh?

I didn't realize that Pit Bulls needed to have their opponent hog tied. Interesting.

Isn't this sort of like being on "Iron Chef" and all the contestents must make spaghetti sauce from scratch except the one who can't cook and she gets to use Prego from the jar? I don't know it just sounds hokey to me.

Why not just call it a debate using WWF rules, the Republicans already got the storyline.

Do you think maybe McCain should have instead picked someone with an intellect, point of view and talent?

Actually Palin requested a debate format with a talent competition, a swimsuit contest and the question "If you could have anything, what would you wish for?" World peace?

Got to go watch Miss Congeniality again.

I bet Sandra Bullock could play Sarah Palin.

killfile,

Here's your lone conservative. The caveat: I'm pissed about this. It's just about the dumbest possible move the campaign could have made, and I'm incredibly suprised the dems went along with it. I like Sarah Palin (oh, I know that's going to get me massacared on here, metaphorically speaking) and I trust McCain far more than Obama, but really, I have to agree with most of you that, if she's going to be the VP of the United States, she should at least be able to handle the Gaffemaster Biden.

Just when I thought this election couldn't get any sillier...

Oh for crying out loud! We are supposed to take her seriously as a running mate and she can't be trusted to handle a single debate! Come on, this is getting really scary.

killfile,

Here's your lone conservative. The caveat: I'm pissed about this. It's just about the dumbest possible move the campaign could have made, and I'm incredibly suprised the dems went along with it.

Why wouldn't they?

Why would they pass up a chance to see the GOP shoot itself in the foot?

I like Sarah Palin (oh, I know that's going to get me massacared on here, metaphorically speaking)

I'm fine with you liking her. Her politics aside, she seems like a fairly nice woman. If we were going to get into a political debate over her I'd argue that there's more to this election that who we like but that's another matter for another day.

I don't know why the Dems went along with it either. Part of me wonders if they think they'll get more mileage from crowing about how they had to change the rules to accommodate her. Certainly the (perhaps smaller) political benefit of accommodating her is a sure thing whereas counting on her to blow the debate isn't. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush perhaps?

Killfile,

I've read enough of your posts to know you're not the simple-minded attack type, but you can't deny there are a great many of them around. As for the dems going along with this, the only thing I can think of is they did it because they know it makes the McCain campaign look foolish. You also may be right in your assessment- I personally think she would do fine, if a bit jagged and unpolished.

Where are our pro McCain/Palin friends? ;]

Why would they pass up a chance to see the GOP shoot itself in the foot?

The number one rule in politics according to the late Lee Atwater: When your opponent is in the process of tearing themself apart, let them.

Nothing broadcasts to the world more that your candidate is not ready for the big leagues, like asking to let her play by little league rules.

I think McCain waited until 6 days prior so that Obama/Biden would be surprised.

As was pointed out, they were. And so am I. Surprised they agreed.

This is one subject the Democrats will have to run across the headlines for 6 days prior to stepping foot on stage.

The problem, here, has been noted by other news JOURNALISTS prior to this request. Neither McCain nor Palin are able to put together more than two sentences on ANY subject. Granting this request is basically conceding to their skills.

The journalists have already acknowledged that any kind of debate between Obama (complete thoughts include nuances) vs. McCain (complete thoughts are one line zingers) would appear to favor McCain simply because he'd interrupt Obama's mental process successfully enough to make him look like he doesn't understand anything.

Palin, is exactly the same issue. We know she doesn't understand ... and Biden would constantly look condescending simply by sounding informed. Pretty much the same thing that happened with Charlie Gibson.

As I see it, McCain/Palin are well on their way to winning the expectations game with this move. Don't forget 2000, where the Bush campaign drove down expectations so low that when Bush easily met them he was widely seen to have (at least) held his own against Al Gore (reality be damned).

Palin doesn't need to win these debates on points. She only needs to allay enough voters' concerns about her bona fides so that they'll vote for McCain. Drive down the expectations too low, and she's guaranteed to do that for a large number of independents who aren't necessarily averse to voting Republican on policy.

Where are our pro McCain/Palin friends? ;]

Laf

How about having a life? Been having fun today. Lets just wait for the debate before you start crowing about anything.

:)

America is been short changed with the Palin choice. The standards are been reduced to allow for mediocrity.

McCain advisers said they had been concerned that a loose format could leave Ms. Palin, a relatively inexperienced debater, at a disadvantage and largely on the defensive. The wrangling was chiefly between the McCain-Palin camp and the nonpartisan Commission on Presidential Debates, which is sponsoring the forums.

Nonpartisan Commission on Presidential Debates? Changing the rules to "accommodate" a debater's skills smacks of partisanship to me.

The only nonpartisan thing to do would be to cancel the debate claiming the GOP did not want to participate, if would be the case.

My biggest fear about this agreement was admittedly made worse with this line:

"Advisers to Mr. Biden say they were comfortable with either format."

Lowering the expectations of Palin's performance might make it easier for her to appear to be better then she is but there's one thing also that could possibly be worse for the Dems- Biden coming off as far better then her. I mean, waaaaayyyyy bettter. I mean, the local mighty mites playing a hardcore real ballgame with professional athletes better.

If Biden tap dances on her too hard, she may just get people's sympathy.

I really can't help but note that this has been live for several hours now, on the front page, and we've yet to see a single one of our resident right-wingers step in to defend Caribou Barbie and her supposed "experience."

I won't defend Palin, but I will defend the McCain campaign move.

We're picking a president, not a debate champion. What matters is that the format allows us to see more truth about the candidates. A rough and tumble debate sometimes does that, but sometimes it favors the wittier or the better actor over the better ideas or the better leader.

Some of the smartest people suck at tests. Some of the most visionary people suck at off-the-cuff articulation.

Okay, let me temper what I just said a little bit. We do want a president able to debate ideas, both with others and with her/himself. We do want a president that can articulate well. But let's not oversimplify and equate televised, staged debate performances as representative of the kind of situations in which a president will really need such skills.

Palin hasn't been on the stage in any where near the amount of time Biden has. Fair enough. Let them agree on a format that puts them on a more equal footing. Why not?

We do the argument for an Obama/Biden presidency a disservice by engaging in frivolous argumentation and mockery of the opponent. That some on the other side frequently hurl such at Obama and Biden is not reason for us to debase ourselves.

CHICKEN! That was my first reaction. Then I thought, wow, the McCain campaign must be really nervous to do something like this, as they must know there is going to be a lot of flack for it. Then I read Spiffie's comments and thought, maybe there's method to this madness. Then I read Vas' generous and open minded take on things, which made me think, "Good points, Vas." So, where am I now with this accomodation request? YELLOW BELLIED!

But let's not oversimplify and equate televised, staged debate performances as representative of the kind of situations in which a president will really need such skills.

Yet oversimplify is precisely what you did. The debate structure is and always has been a formality, so of course it's staged, but only in the sense that its ON STAGE, it's the thinking-on-their-feet skills that is among the things measured in a debate - the one with the greater depth of knowledge and intellect to use it generally comes out on top. What you are saying is that you have no problem with a "staged event" ON STAGE, and allowing it to pass as a viable debate scenario.

Palin hasn't been on the stage in any where near the amount of time Biden has. Fair enough. Let them agree on a format that puts them on a more equal footing. Why not?

Hmmm. Maybe she should have thought about this before saying "yes", maybe the McCain camp should have thought about this before asking? Unless, they felt they could manufacture here before eveyone's eyes, as they appear to be doing.

So, yeah, give her a high-chair and let her sit at the adults' table, if you want. Heck, you can even call her "qualified" for all I care. The fact is, I know better, and so does a good portion of the country. What their attempting to do is fool those that don't know any better into thinking she's competent, that's the problem, sort of what they did to us with Bush/Cheney.

and got someone with allot of experience! like a beltway insider! that's exactly why i am voting for Sarah.

What happened to?

"I'm ready"
"I believe"
"I'm prepared"
"You can't blink"

How can you "believe" you are "prepared" and "ready" to be the Vice President of the USA and then "blink" when it comes time for your debate.

Seems to me that along with a lot of voters, the McCain campaign's staffers are also lacking confidence in Ms. Palin.

This is a response to #1.1, 1.4 section of this thread.

For the record, I'm a conservative and I'm against the different rules. She should play like everyone else.

Don't even try to compare her experience against Obama's.

I would like to see the right-wing geniuses say she is more experienced than Obama.

why are you still comparing palin to Obama in terms of experience. One will be vice and one will be president. Experience, i feel, is a little more important for the actual president.

Secondly, because Obama is a better debater he has more experience to run a country? Pretty thin reason to elect someone. I could speak really well but my ideas might suck. Listen to the actual words and not the speaker...

Put Palin and Biden aside.

Obama rejected McCain's 'Debate a Week' challenge for ten Town Hall type meetings and he also rejected Senator Clinton's un-moderated debate challenge.

Seems that Obama is the one who is running from face to face confrontation.

Jeez, is the Columbia and Harvard trained scholar afraid to face off with a seventy-two year old challenger who finished fifth from the bottom of his class at Annapolis? Seems so.

space guy
Where are our pro McCain/Palin friends? ;]

Laf

How about having a life?

Space, do you have a problem with this website's Code of Honor?

philipe

Put Palin and Biden aside.

Obama rejected McCain's 'Debate a Week' challenge for ten Town Hall type meetings

Yes, yes we know what the McCain camp was painting Obama as. The truth is that Obama also liked the idea of Town-Hall style debates but:

The Obama campaign responds: "As Barack Obama has said before, the idea of joint town halls is appealing and one that would allow a great conversation to take place about the need to change the direction of this country. We would recommend a format that is less structured and lengthier than the McCain campaign suggests, one that more closely resembles the historic debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas."
Source

McCain didn't approve of the idea and kept pushing for his same old format repeatedly. Then charged Obama as "afraid" to participate when the two of them couldn't compromise.

Same old dirty politics, convince Americans that the situation is something it's not.

Why doesnt this Palin woman just go home to spare herself the trouble of PROVING ANYTHING related to qualifications for public office ?

If this was said on TV, I still have an extra pair of shoes to throw at the TV set again.

Luckily, the international community has also agreed to change the rules in the event that Sarah Palin were elected Vice President, or had to step up to the Presidential spot at some point. China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and Pakistan all prematurely agreed to any demands we might make, and agreed to allow extra time for wittle Sarah to make up her mind.

arcanebliss

The truth is that Obama also liked the idea of Town-Hall style debates but:

...But he backed out: "Mr. Obama's reversal on town-hall debates is part of a play-it-safe strategy he's adopted since claiming the nomination and grabbing a lead in national polls." http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2008/aug/02/obama-backs-away-from-mccains-debate-challenge/

Also, Hillary suggested a Lincoln-Douglas debate format, but again Obama backed out.

"Same old dirty politics,..."

And 'Obama the Clean' is leading the charge.

Vas

I won't defend Palin, but I will defend the McCain campaign move.

We're picking a president, not a debate champion. What matters is that the format allows us to see more truth about the candidates. A rough and tumble debate sometimes does that, but sometimes it favors the wittier or the better actor over the better ideas or the better leader.

I have a real problem with this line of thought.

Are you seriously suggesting that once she is performing her duties as the Vice President or quite possibly the President she will not have to respond to ad hoc questions that are not pre-scripted?

That her duties will not include having a back and forth conversation (debate) with heads of state?

That in cabinet meetings she will not have to state and defend her position (she is supposed to be able to actively contribute, otherwise there may as well be an empty seat).

How about when she is supposed to preside over the senate, now there is a place she will receive special accommodations to perform her duties.

McCain has announced it himself, his choice for VP is not ready on day one. He himself has no confidence in his choice, why should we.

What the fuk? Change the rules because this lady isn't versed on the issues and can't speak of them? I've never used this language in here, but what an absolute fukn joke.

Well they have finally admitted this lady is dumb as a brick without even realizing it. How can the potential second in command of a country even let someone even make a decision for her like this. I wish some goof in her staff would mix up the stock answers she gives in her "interviews" so I could get a good laugh.

logdump

Well they have finally admitted this lady is dumb as a brick without even realizing it. How can the potential second in command of a country even let someone even make a decision for her like this. I wish some goof in her staff would mix up the stock answers she gives in her "interviews" so I could get a good laugh.

You know, you make a valid point. If she is so strong and such a maverick like the McCain has painted her, why didn't she stand up and say NO I can do this. Maybe it's because even she thinks she can't do it.

So far this week we have established:

McCain doesn't believe Sarah Palin is ready.

Sarah Palin herself doesn't believe she is ready.

But despite this evidence half of the citizens of the USA does believe she is ready.

/boggle

Once again the NYTIMES uses a headline to discriminate against a Conservative/Republican. Buried in the column was this paragraph. So all of you Liberal/Leftists, equal is equal. I await Biden's propensity for stepping in, ala his recent comment about "Taking money from the rich and they should feel Patriotic about payuing more taxes." Last time I looked, it is isn't patriotic to pay taxes, it is a duty and required. Here is the exact quote taken from the articl that the NYTIMES buried:

Indeed, both the McCain and Obama campaigns have similar concerns about the vice-presidential matchup in St. Louis: that Ms. Palin, of Alaska, as a new player in national politics, or Mr. Biden, of Delaware, as a loquacious and gaffe-prone speaker, could commit a momentum-changing misstep in their debate.

So once again, LIBERAL MEDIA BIAS AND BLOGGING.

Profchaos, it's your party that keeps comparing Palin to Obama, saying she has more experience than he does. If she is such an experienced leader, then something like a debate should be a walk in the park for her. They are changing the rules, not because of her debating skills, but because she really doesn't know anything about the economy and foreign policy. Obama on the other hand does. When Obama faced his first debate last year, he certainly was not experienced in debating, and you didn't see him whine and want to rules changed. He faced Biden, just as she will. If McCain was in his 40s and had no previous serious health problems like Obama, the running mate wouldn't be as big a deal as it is in his case. The stress is really starting to show on him, both physically and mentally, and he isn't even in office yet.

So once again, LIBERAL MEDIA BIAS AND BLOGGING.

Once again you are grasping at straws to justify their weak choice for VP. That paragraph you pulled was not a quote or even backed up. It looks more like filler than anything of consequence.

Bottom line is that you picked her and want her one heart beat away from being the President and you can't even let her have an open debate with what many of you, (Laura Ingraham) call an old wind bag? Come on you can't have it both ways.

"McCain advisers said they had been concerned that a loose format could leave Ms. Palin, a relatively inexperienced debater, at a disadvantage and largely on the defensive."

Alexandra, I will probably get slammed too but I really don;t see this a surprise from either camp. The GOP wants to keep the questions and answer's short in order to keep Biden under control. He is well known for going off on tangents. On the other hand the Dem's want to keep the answers short so that Biden doesn't say something that will come back to haunt them. He's not only known for going off on tangents but also for not always using the right vernacular when addressing subjects.

MHammer:

The paragraph you quoted is true. Biden is gaff-prone, but only in the sense that he isn't in the habit of using nuance & DC Doublespeak. Now he is in a position where phrases, statements and slips-of-the-tongue become today's sound-byte. What many in the media do NOT do is show how in the majority of his gaffes Biden himself catches and explains or gives the appropriate mea culpa, frequently immediately. He seldom needs a stable of party surrogates to interpret what he meant. I am also from Delaware, and his way of speaking is the real deal, and should prove that Washington hasn't changed him.

The difference is that Biden makes verbal gaffes, most are funny and some not, but he is extremely knowledgeable about the issues that face this nation. Palin isn't gaffing, she is clueless, she believes the malarkey she is spouting, and those things about which she is uninformed (little things like foreign policy, effective economic policy, civil rights, open and honest executive power, etc.) she is content to play the obedient puppet spouting memorized talking points ad nauseum. She is misinformed, uninformed and incurious to learn the facts for herself; she would rather have her "facts" pre-chewed, pre-digested, and regurgitated in tiny doses she can memorize for interviews and debates.

sjbo659:

Good afternoon! Welcome to the fray ;-)

I think you are correct that the format gives advantage to both sides. Not so much that Biden will get off-sides, but more likely since he is more experienced and informed, there is the risk that he will come across as condescending or be called sexist if he challenges her answers. He recovers from gaffes well (if the media would roll the entire gaff & recovery instead of just the gotcha moment), but appearing to be exasperated by "I can see Russia from my house" moments will be milked out of all proportion.

MHammer - You hit the nail on the head. Liberal bias. Sarah Palin is gonna knock out Biden in the debate with her toughness and charm. The left wing press is throwing this crap out there to make everybody think she has already lost the debate. Pre-Spin you could call it.

You all forgot one thing. Maybe the Obama camp agreed to this also to shut Biden up and keep him from his usual diarrhea of the mouth that so often gets him in trouble. You just want an excuse to attack Palin. If the Obama camp wasn't getting a benefit they would have never agreed and making McCain look bad it a simplistic, naive interpretation.

Isn't that reverse sexism? There should be no special treatment, we keep hearing that she's ready for the big leagues it is obvious she needs to go back to the farm system.

I'm disappointed. Despite what I wrote in #1.27, so-called members of the Hope and Change movement would rather continue to throw out self-serving political rhetoric, name calling and mockery rather then be fair and logical. Based on the votes, at least three times as many on the left would rather mock Palin as chicken and claim that this is proof of something. Probably more than three times, since I'm sure most of my 5 votes at present are from Palin supporters.

Question: Given your line of reasoning, why aren't all of you voting for #1.38?

One more thing: Given the line of reasoning that appears most popular above, if Palin wins the debate simply because of the new format, then one would have to conclude that she is better than Biden in more structured situations, and perhaps would make a better president because most of the presidency is NOT about thinking on your feet. Thinking on your feet just makes you look better in press conferences.

I guess you guys don't have that much confidence in Biden. I guess you think that Biden is so marginally better than Palin that giving Palin a little handicap will change the results?

Nearly ALL of the comments concern Palin's KNOWLEDGE, not her performance. Anytime she opens her mouth she proves it.

I think it's amusing that Obama's refusal to allow McCain to determine his travel with weekly town meetings has been called evasive. Bunk. We will be able to live with three debates and he can still pick off New Mexico and Colorado. I saw him this afternoon in Charlotte.

As for the concessions? Think of it as LeBron spotting you 10 and playing to 12...STILL gonna spank dat azz!

I think it's amusing that Obama's refusal to allow McCain to determine his travel with weekly town meetings has been called evasive. Bunk.

Agreed. But all those knocking the McCain campaign about their moves with the VP debate can't agree without being self-servingly inconsistent.

We will be able to live with three debates and he can still pick off New Mexico and Colorado. I saw him this afternoon in Charlotte.

I agree with this point, but that's as a person who wants Obama to win, who understands the campaign strategy to avoid more opportunities for spurious and unpredictable things throwing the race into chaos, given that Obama is ahead. You have to admit that if Obama were behind, he'd be demanding more debates. In other words, both sides are playing campaign strategy. So why knock Palin and not Obama?

As for the concessions? Think of it as LeBron spotting you 10 and playing to 12...STILL gonna spank dat azz!

Agreed. What are the Obama/Biden supporters above afraid of? If Palin is the air-head many above like to say over and over again, then why the need for the pre-emptive pre-debate spin? Are they afraid that if they don't run this commercial over and over again, other Americans will come to the wrong conclusion after the debate?

So Palins good at assassinating the character of Obama and Biden in front of a home crowd...

The national debates are coming and the Palin/Mccain camp wants the deck stacked for her lack of experience, her lack of political depth!
The McCain camp, in essence wants a canned debate!
Theres your McCain transparency! Theres your accountabliity!

MCcain' 26 year voting record for the lack of regulation/oversight regarding our nations institutions is well know and the consequence has been brutal-financial collapse!

Yet he wants to regulate the Biden/Palin debate!
Now we know the definition of "Maverick!"

Easy, Barracuda does not have baby fat in her tummy, she has a thick skin.

Let's review closely all the members of the House and US Senate and how they parachuted themselves.

We could have seen this coming after Charlie Gibson took all the heat for her interview of choice!

Which makes me think... why would any one want to ask her a question anyway if they know they will only be blamed by the entire RNC for being prejudicial and condescending?

We've just learned that this is only half the story.

This is not a campaign. It's a Dog and Pony Show.

I just read that McCain has set up for Palin to be introduced to a number of foreign dignitaries/ head-of-state at the UN. It's as if they have a checklist of VP qualifications and all they're doing is just going thru the motions; no real substance.

Republican VP Qualification Checklist
1. Have to met any foreign dignitaries/ head-of-state? [__] No [ X ] Yes
2. Do you have debating experience on national issues? [__] No [ X ] Yes
3. Have you ever traveled to a foreign country? [__] No [ X ] Yes

It takes more than checkmarks on a questionnaire to be considered VP material.

I willing to bet on Sarah Palin bringing her baby to the debate. Fox News and other unfair and Imbalance news media will highlight on her motherly side. Big Bad Biden is inconveniencing her on the debate of her mother duties.

BTW, everyone start counting on number time she will use the following words:

Lipstick
Pitbull
Hockey Mom

Oh great, the Republican's are already gaming the debates to spin it into Sarah the victim again.

Aleandra-J makes a valid point:

As for the dems going along with this, the only thing I can think of is they did it because they know it makes the McCain campaign look foolish.

I too think the Obama campaign knows that the McCain campaign looks weak for having to "dumb down" the debate for their VP candidate. If I were an Obama campaign adviser, I'd agree to the request too. Obama (nor Biden) have to say a word about it...just the request alone speaks volumes about McCain's confidence in his running mate.

But here's where I'm sure the Republics will start blaming the "MSM" for NOT burying this story (God forbid the media report the ugly truth), and will most likely go on to cry "sexism".

OH you guys are gonna love this.

Request for stand-in for 1996 Governor debates for Palin rejected

http://dwb.adn.com/news/politics/elections/story/8285340p-8181868c.html

OKC Dem.....GREAT LIL LINK.... I'll quote some of it....from the Ancorage paper...

Now the forum is scheduled for Monday, without Palin, who has events to attend in Cordova, according to her spokesman, Curtis Smith.

"If she could be in two places, she would," he said.

Palin's running mate, Sean Parnell, had offered to attend, but Knowles and Halcro refused, saying they believe the debate should be among candidates.

Knowles isn't running against Parnell, said his spokeswoman Patty Ginsburg.

"It's not that Sarah has to show, it's that she cannot have a stand-in," Ginsburg said.

Halcro also turned down Parnell because he is not running for governor.

"We all have scheduling conflicts. None of us are allowed to have pinch hitters," he said.

...It's true...legit news...amAAAzing....

correct, sir...If I may, from the Anchorage paper......Now the forum is scheduled for Monday, without Palin, who has events to attend in Cordova, according to her spokesman, Curtis Smith.

"If she could be in two places, she would," he said.
Palin's running mate, Sean Parnell, had offered to attend, but Knowles and Halcro refused, saying they believe the debate should be among candidates.
Knowles isn't running against Parnell, said his spokeswoman Patty Ginsburg.
"It's not that Sarah has to show, it's that she cannot have a stand-in," Ginsburg said.
Halcro also turned down Parnell because he is not running for governor.
"We all have scheduling conflicts. None of us are allowed to have pinch hitters," he said

. .....weird......

Wow, the articles just keep getting better and better...Next: "Obama seen walking on water" or "Palin requests to skip debate because she's scared of Biden"

It is really humorous how the fabricated garbage disguised as news here is even legal.

Jack, your comment;

It is really humorous how the fabricated garbage disguised as news here is even legal.

Jack, don't take my word for it. Are you so lacadasical that you would consider such a dated article as this possibly illegal? Have you gone to the source on this one?? Here it is again.... inhale....exhale....click...

lovetrust,

No, I am not at all lacadasical - the article I was refering to was the one at the top of this thread:

VP Debate Rules Changed to Compensate Sarah Palin

But since you provided the other article, I will now tie the two together as nothing more than the effort of nearly every last news reporter becoming campaign advocates for Obama. But I am sure that yourself, and the rest of the left posses far too much credulousness to ever admit to such a claim.

It has been clear for some time now that nearly all dated articles of garbage are constructed to shine on the left and shame the right.

Jack......again, you infer;

It has been clear for some time now that nearly all dated articles of garbage are constructed to shine on the left and shame the right.

....are you insinuating that the editors of the Anchorage news have gone back into their articles and made up some bit of dirt??? Sounds awfully contrived of you....Say the lie until it turns itself into the truth....I suggest that you're in the company of conspirators, sir....and, I believe this from first-hand knowledge of how that little game works....engage in deceit, accuse the other (the...egad...enemy) of the same, to distract and neutralize the victim from accusing YOU of the very same inference......which you ARE guilty to manufacturing.... Too bad.... I C U.....you're not hard to spot.....

Aside from you sounding like the narrarator of a Sherlock Holmes film, you must know that I conspire only to this notion: It is not anew the media bias that infects us dear Watson. Had the article been written in the days of your ancestors, it would not change the fact that the media has always leaned (on a steep angle) to the LEFT.

Say the lie until it turns itself into the truth

I believe this from first-hand knowledge of how that little game works....

Typical Democrats, and columnists for sure...

Just a Mat-Su "Valley Girl" trying to make good.

I'm disappointed. Despite what I wrote in #1.27, so-called members of the Hope and Change movement would rather continue to throw out self-serving political rhetoric, name calling and mockery rather then be fair and logical. Based on the votes, at least three times as many on the left would rather mock Palin as chicken and claim that this is proof of something. Probably more than three times, since I'm sure most of my 5 votes at present are from Palin supporters.

Question: Given your line of reasoning, why aren't all of you voting for #1.38?

I didn't vote for 1.38 because I didn't think it was accurate or fair.

1) Obama and Clinton faced each other over 20 times in debates, so what was the need to continue having debates? I think that's especially reasonable when you consider the fact that the two are so similar on most policies that a debate doesn't really do much after a certain point. People had seen enough of Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama to know who they were going to vote for.

2) The town hall style debates that John McCain was proposing would have been on John McCain's turf, playing with his rules, and designed to make him look good and Obama look bad. Kind of like the Rick Warren interviews. With so much work to do in getting ready for the convention, shoring up his base and wooing disaffected Clinton supporters, Obama didn't put a priority on having town hall debates with John McCain.

3) The GOP has asked that the rules and format of the neutral VP debate be changed to make Sarah Palin more comfortable. Obama never asked for such considerations for himself, and it was plainly obvious from the beginning that Hillary Clinton was much better at the debate podium than he was. So he rolled up his sleeves and worked to get better.

In short, 1.38 didn't get a vote from me because I disagree with the premise of the comment. Not because I'm partisan.

I think Sarah Palin was just upset about the Miss South Carolina Contest, and wanted to show the "U.S. Americans" she knows how to locate the U.S. on a map.

However, she was afraid that since she is going to meet with the President of Afghanistan next week, she would be asked to locate Afghanistan on a map.

Wait, Wait, Wait!!

I thought the Democrats were the whiners, complainers, who were full of excuses??

Lately, Palin can't be questioned because the media is sexist and biased in favor of Democrats, and she must be shown deference. She didn't know what the Bush doctrine was because... well, who the heck knows what the Bush doctrine is? She doesn't want to cooperate with "troopergate" because it's been compromised since she's been tapped for VP. And now, she can't be expected to do well in the debate so they have to completley restucture it for her because she is relatively new at debating as opposed to Biden who is experienced?!?!? And McCain picked this person who can't even participate in a regularly formatted debate without complaint because she'll help run the country how?

I'm just saying, if Obama said that McCain was more experienced with debates than he, thus he must restructure the format of the debate, that would be all over complete with the conservatives and Repubes yelling bloody murder, whining no good limo liberals blah blah blah...

Irony, Hypocrisy, Karma, call it what you want, but it's funny as hell!!

Hey, anything to keep Biden from those long-winded answers has to be looked at as a bonus for both sides.

What no one is mentioning from this article is that the media is setting the bar low for Obama as well.

From the article: "...His aides have been studying those debate performances to address one of his biggest shortcomings: his ability to deliver a tight answer. Already, his campaign is trying to diminish expectations for Mr. Obama's performance.

"Despite the fact that we got the chance to do this a lot during the primaries, these debates are not by any stretch of the imagination his strong suit," said Robert Gibbs, a senior strategist to Mr. Obama. "He likes to talk about a problem, give some examples that addresses some solutions and oftentimes that doesn't fit into the moderator's allotted time."

Is it too late to change the rules for the Presidential debates?

Oh, come on, you Palin defenders. It's documented that after McCain selected Palin, she did nothing more for two weeks than read off teleprompters. Then she had a follow-up moratorium on speaking to reporters, hence no interviews till the one with Charlie Gibson (which made her look foolish, e.g., the Bush doctrine).

It's obvious the McCain camp is afraid of what might come out of Palin's mouth. Sure, she can stir up a Republican audience, but when she comes under the scrutiny of the Fourth Estate, the McCain camp shuts her up.

Why is that? Try to tell us the truth. We dare you.

Hey, anything to keep Biden from those long-winded answers has to be looked at as a bonus for both sides. "[Obama] likes to talk about a problem, give some examples that addresses some solutions and oftentimes that doesn't fit into the moderator's allotted time."

Whaddaya know, a reasoned, thoughtful response doesn't fit the allotted time? And time is money, no?

There's a reason an AA degree requires two years, a BS or BA requires four years, a Master's requires six years and a doctorate can take as many as 10 years or more.

Intelligent, thoughtful answers to complex questions don't usually get spit out in a jiffy over a pilsner of beer.

Vision, it helps if you can get out your answer without 8 stammering minutes of umms, uhhhs, hmmms. There's no teleprompter in the debate. Although for the listeners, we might wish for one.

The point of being a clear concise thinker and debater is being able to condense mountains of information into a few simple concise answers. Boring lawyers who like to drone on and on lose the point of their speech if they can't come up with a coherent beginning, middle and end. Long expositions are fine if you are in a philosophy class, but in politics, that doesn't cut it. And what world leader is going to sit around and listen to endless stories and examples of foreign policy? They want a complete concise answer.

it helps if you can get out your answer without 8 stammering minutes of umms, uhhhs, hmmms.

Sure, in a perfect world, that'd be great. But the world is far from perfect.

There's no teleprompter in the debate. Although for the listeners, we might wish for one.

Not for this listener. I don't suffer from ADD. I want to hear an original answer, nothing scripted, thank you very much.

The point of being a clear concise thinker and debater is being able to condense mountains of information into a few simple concise answers.

Haha...then how did GWB get in the White House?

Droning on and losing one's point does not go over well in a debate. You're absolutely right. But the listener has to be able to follow a line of reasoning that lasts more than 90 seconds. We're in a fight for the future of our country, not a spelling bee.

Complete and concise answers, yes. Quick and thoughtless, no. And if it takes a little time to get to the "complete and concise" and the listener can't follow along, I think the problem is with the listener, not the debater.

I agree, but when someone hems and haws that much it is because they are making it up as they go. I prefer someone who doesn't make things up on the spot, shifts positions to the point of whiplash, and can state things in a clear and straightforward way. I don't care for flowery speeches that say nothing. Like my name says, just give me the facts. I don't want a lot of cute little stories or examples from someone's childhood, I want to know how you are going to fix the economy and be able to lay it out in five or six steps that are realistic. We all know life is more complicated than a 90 second soundbite, but if your soundbite is clear and concise, but packed with helpful information, then that is who I think is going to win. A sense of humor and quick wit also helps, which btw I think both candidates have. :)

This is such a joke.

Here again we have Sarah Palin saying: (quoting my friend ABD3)

I don't know any heads of state, but I did stay at a Holiday in Express last night.

This is what is really going on with Sarah Palin,

The Accidental Vice Presidency

Wait. McCain said she was experienced enough to be President. Why isn't she experienced enough to debate?

Also what male candidate has been granted similar perks? isn't this sexist... lol

What?! Wow, just one more example of how awful this VP pick was...

Does anyone actually believe she adds something worthwhile to this campaign? The only thing she's been able to do is spew back the typical media hype that the campaign managers are feeding her. Watch her when she's asked to clarify her views ... or when she's asked something off the approved topic...if she's as qualified as they say she is, and if she's actually as ready to be VP as they claim ... well then let her prove it. She shouldn't get any special treatment, she should be treaded just like everyone else and show everyone what she has to contribute [which in my opinion isn't much ... if anything at all].

So if, gof forbid, the republicans steal another election and McCain's health fails him, then Palin will have to deal with Putin, Chavez, Kim, the UN, NATO, Israel and Palestine, etc etc etc.
Will she also negotiate for them to ask her easier questions?
Oh, wait... she like most republicans would never speak to any of them anyhow.

Well, the VP debate is over now and although Biden won, it's clear that changing the debate rules benefited Palin. It's even more clear than before she can stay on talking points in structured settings. Thankfully, it seems that the McCain campaign will now let her interact a little more freely with the press, so the American people can get to know more about her "preparedness" to be VP.

 ?

Rules?  Palin did not follow them.

jakecatterson is correct. When asked specific questions during the debate, Palin answered nothing. Instead, she blathered on about the issues she believed would further mislead voters about Obama. To make it even worse, she openly said she was going to answer as she wished, disregarding the questions put to her by the moderator.

It was an incredible display of arrogance from a rookie.

Palin will also have the options of:

Ask the audience
Phone a friend
Pass the question
50/50

She will also get 3 "thanks, but no thanks" responses.

way too funny, but I heard her and mccain were to have ear pieces in.

Still waiting for her to say "Live from New York - it's Saturday night"

No sure about ear pieces, but I would be suspicious of the earrings.

Quote:
"She will also get 3 'thanks, but no thanks' responses."

-----

*golf clap*

Bravo!

LMAO!!!!! ABD3 - Absolutely the best and clever comment of the week!

Once in a while you come across a witty response that is worthy of political cartoon infamy.

ABD3 your response is worthy of that honor. Truly magnificent!

Marialsabella, you are so right. I would almost guarantee some system of lines fed to her.

Can we vote in ABD3 for Press Sec'y? Excellent response there.

No sure about ear pieces, but I would be suspicious of the earrings.

I'm betting it's super secret lipstick that causes her mouth to move by remote control, from Rove typing in the answers.

Maybe you really can put lipstick on a............

I'm betting it's super secret lipstick that causes her mouth to move by remote control, from Rove typing in the answers.

Lip-sync on a pig?

highlareusssssssssss....!!!! thanks, guys, for the laffs...

I did not make that statement to say either party is right or wrong. What I was trying to illustrate is each side will always try to negotiate these debates to their best advantage. Like Big business negotiating with union's and hoping they will come out on top. Both sides are correct in what they are doing in an instance like this.

ABD3:

Is Regis Phibin moderating this debate?

keave and andy... LOL

Does Palin have to stay in the "cone of silence" like McCain, while Biden gets his questions?

Can't you just picture Lindsey Graham negotiating this?

Seriously, I think that hidden amongst the absurd is a significant strategic move. By moving the economy to the last debate, Obama ensures the mindset of the voter on election day.

Bush may just start another war by then, but that's been a wildcard for 6 years now...

If there is one thing to take a voter's mind off of black and white, it's GREEN!

I also admit to liking Palin. I am sure that she is a very nice person, and I bet it would be lots of fun to have lunch with her one day!

However, that doesn't mean I think she should be VP.

I am very against this choice by McCain, but besides the way she's been marketed as a kind of shrewd person and the fact that I disagree with her on just about all of her political views, she seems cool enough. What's not cool? McCain choosing her to help run our country people!! What's also not cool? Palin answering "yes"!!

I can see in the future, before she meets with foreign leaders her "people" will give the them a list of things that she must not be asked about including but not limited to "geography, politics, domestic or foreign policy, and anything that can be interpreted as sexist. No follow up questions. And, you must also not debate with the VP, since she is relatively new at this". Afterall, you must show deference to the divine VP.

too funny

Someone please explain to me how anyone can still take her seriously as a qualified choice for the Vice Presidency.

This is a serious question. I would really like a rational thought on this.

Apparently, one of the things the Dems did was negotiate for points on the presidential candidate debats, along with this. They're going to be taking questions from the audience and over the internet.

I intend to send in a politely worded question, along the lines of:

"Sir, arguably, one of the most important decisions for your candidacy was the choice of your running mate. There have been a number of questions asked and concerns raised concerning her qualifications. Please enlighten us as to the vetting processed used to select her."

I haven't figured out how to politely ask if he REALLY thinks a person currently under investigation for the abuse of the power of an elected office should be permitted anywhere within five steps of the presidency, much less on deck in case a 70 year old president is unable to serve.

After her most recent interview its is clear she is The Stepford Vice Presidential Candidate

I don't know OKC, Dem; it seems to me the Stepford Wives had much more self confidence.

In one way of looking at it yes - ready on day one........to stay the course.

I can see her debating with the Russian, North Korean and other they will probably laugh. actually they are probably, rolling in there mansions now.......some one throw her a lifeline.

There's that "culture of low expectations" for ya, full throttle! The real question is gonna be how his campaign works in that infamous "green screen"!

I am thinking Word isn't into checking noun-verb agreement. It is all spelled correctly though... ;-)

See that's what I'm saying. If she can't handle the job of being the Vice Presidential candidate, how can she possibly handle being the Vice President?

MCLiepshutz, they don't want to do that. It is the current vp who is driving our country into the ground. If the vp has no power, we might actually pull together and get ourselves out of the hole before we go bankrupt. Why in the world would the GOP want that for us? Let's be serious now.

Somebody please tell me why is the McCain campaign always whining and crying about one thing or another. Geez! This is the woman who wanted to be vice president, did she think it was going to be a walk in the park? No! No! No! The Obama people should not allow her to be treated in such a S-E-X-I-S-T way (with kid gloves). The McCain campaign has cried fouled since the moment he unveiled her saying, the Obama people were not treating her right, but the minute she gets to play on a level field, not like at the GOP convention, they want her to be protected. I say NO, let her stand there like a man and take her medicine. Oh she is their attack dog with lipstick and she is so big and bad, well now she will be face to face with her opponent, let's see if she can take it as well as she gives it out. I, for one, will fell no sorrow for her. After all, she wants to run with the big dogs. (woof, woof, woof)

She is no Hillary.

I'm not sure but I think Tina Fey will be Sarah Palin's stunt double for the debate.

She is no Hillary

Is that a good thing or a bad thing? Funny how people's prejudices lead them to believe that everybody thinks the same way as they do.

I believe that the McCain said it best. She doesn't have the experience necessary to participate in the same Vice Presidential debate format that every previous Vice Presidential candidate has had to participate in.

OKC,

Kind've like McCain's advisor once declaring: "the candidate doesn't speak for the campaign," innit?

I believe that the McCain said it best. She doesn't have the experience necessary to participate in the same Vice Presidential debate format that every previous Vice Presidential candidate has had to participate in.

I'm not sure this is correct. Remember that in 2004, one of the debate rules was that you could not directly question the other candidate. The Presidential debates for 2008 allow for this; the VP debate does not. So I'm pretty sure that this format is congruous with the last VP debates. However, it's probably true to say the 2004 debates were different from the format of every previous one.

She is no Hillary.

She's not even Tina Fey

Tina Fey is set to appear next saturday on SNL. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next! Either way, it should be good.

Funny how people's prejudices lead them to believe that everybody thinks the same way as they do.

I wasn't a Hillary supporter, but I never disrespected her, either. Hillary doesn't need a debate dumped-down so she can hang. And, Hillary doesn't need to be put through a policy "bootcamp" to talk to the press.

That's totally different and you know it!! Hillary was a liberal! Liberal feminists are used to debating. Palin is a true conservative: polite, motherly, a reformer, and things of that nature. She can't be expected to know how to debate like a liberal Democrat, C'mon. Standards High Much?!?!

deliziosa, I sincerely hope that was a joke... lol.

Gipper had the best reply :

Shes not even Tina Fey.

I send you, Gipper, a high five on that one !!!

Yes Katie, That was my attempt at sarcasm!! The sad part is that it was believable, b/c those are the kinds of arguments thrown out these days to defend that whole campaign, lol.

High five received and returned, GrabanIdiot!

Well, the moose debate probably included firearms..................hm, now THAT would liven up the debates!!

NEWSFLASH - Vince McMann is going to host a match between "Sarah "the anvil" Palin against Hillary "the hammer" Clinton. All money raised from the event will go to pay off the national debt.

The "Thrilla in Wasilla"!

Someone should give the moose an AK and see how McBarbie does on equal terms.

Someone should give the moose an AK and see how McBarbie does on equal terms. -

As in, the lack of opposable thumbs gives you an upgrade to a fully automatic weapon?

They said it in the article. It will basically be an opportunity for Palin to parrot McCain's stance on different platforms. In other words she gets to have an oral test on everything she has been getting tutored on for the last 3 weeks.

So, remember that when you hear her debate. She won't be talking, it will be McCain's words. Not hers.

It'll be the Party's words ... not hers (and most certainly NOT McCain's.)

one party is not setting the tone. they both have to agree to the rules....the dems just backed down

Profchaos

one party is not setting the tone. they both have to agree to the rules....the dems just backed down

What are you talking about?

Profchaos

one party is not setting the tone. they both have to agree to the rules....the dems just backed down

After reading this article again and thinking about it overnight I have a slightly different take on this. It is clear based on the article that the McCain camp insisted on the change and the decision to change the format was between the McCain camp and the organizers of the debates.

The Obama camp, by saying they were comfortable with either format, were demonstrating with words and actions that Biden's abilities and readiness are not in question here. He is ready, regardless of the format, to lead or handle whatever difficult situation is presented.

GO JOE!

they both have to agree to the rules....the dems just backed down

Grasping at straws in another attempt to convince everyone that a turd is a gold nugget. The force has a powerful affect on the weak minded and they're puzzled that many don't see the "gold" that they do.

"Why do you keep calling her a turd?!"

one party is not setting the tone. they both have to agree to the rules....the dems just backed down

The Democrats didn't back down. They took the only real option left to them. This was essentially a win-win request for the Republicans.

Either the Republicans get an easier debate format where Palin stands less chance of harming her party, or if the Democrats refuse, the Republicans have a built in excuse to back out of the VP debate and keep Palin out of the spotlight entirely, which is probably what they were hoping for.

Either way, it's pretty obvious she's not ready to have her training wheels taken off....

I agree the Dems did back down.

They backed down because they know if they didn't, the whining Republicans were gonna cry "sexism" once again.

If they didn't agree, the McCain crampers would get all over the airwaves with their sarcastic tone saying that "Biden surely can't be threatened by little ol' Palin, we just wanted to make a few adjustments but Obama insists on keeping it one sided, instead of meeting us half way, *tear*), and then they'll throw in something about the 10 town halls, and McCain being a P.O.W., at which point we'll have to hear about "Is Joe Biden Sexist" in the news for at least a week!!

I was thinking the same thing...what example are they setting for our students? I am going to immediately request all of my daughters teachers give her "appropriate" questions to her ability...if they say no, I guess now I can challenge to a higher level citing this example. Perhaps if we all did it at the same time, someone would notice.

OMG I just realized!!!!!!!!!!! Palin is the newest beneficiary of NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND!

A little late for that isn't it?

Palin is the newest beneficiary of NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND!

Well, if that's true, then we have enough evidence to shut it down, 'cause it ain't a-workin'!

All the theatrics have blurred the substance. Thank God for overachievers...the "bar" has been replaced by a stripe on the floor.

I wouldn't really worry about it because by thenshe will probably have her manchurian implant.

It seems to me that there are students across this country that participate in debating teams and in some cases compete with one another. They must have a common set of rules and a debate format. Why don't we use that for all political debates.

We would get the added bonus of students getting to see their public figures doing the same thing they do. Maybe some of the top debating students could serve on the panel of moderators.

Douglasq, that is absolutely the best thing I've read tonight. That's one of those things that make me say "duh, why didn't I think of that!!".

Of course, no politician would ever go for it.

Ya know, I did competitive debate all four years of high school and fairly decent at it. The exact format of high school debate varies based on the two major types of debate we used, and neither would fit perfectly well for presidential debates, but they're a far cry better than what we're seeing now.

Also, I think the McCain camp made a huge goof here. First, as others have said, it's a tacit admission that Palin isn't up to the challenge, but second, and this is from my high school experiences, men are always at a disadvantage when debating women. When I was up against another guy, I could tear his throat out and no one would feel bad for him. But when I was up against a young woman, I had to completely change my approach because I didn't want to come off as nasty. And Sarah Palin has that perfect "I'm just a sweet, innocent girl" voice that says "why are you picking on me?"

The McCain camp could have scored more points than they lost if they let Biden rip into her for 90 minutes; she might have come out looking like an angel.

It seems to me that there are students across this country that participate in debating teams and in some cases compete with one another. They must have a common set of rules and a debate format. Why don't we use that for all political debates.

Excellent idea, but I believe evem that structure would leave her bloodied on the mat...by a 10th grader.

It is hard to believe that by acknowledging ignorance you can still imagine a way to appear informed.

The RNC, is really straining the concept of debate, discussion, hey it's not even a Town Hall.

But they are still determined to make her president over her less informed running mate, bless their soles.

I wonder if they're gonna follow the "every kid gets a trophy" rule? Wouldn't want her to lose any self-esteem.

23 debates now that is what I call acceptable. I was not paying that close of attention but if he did indeed say "enough" no problem I can see, 23 debates is plenty.

It seemed as if she was trying to wear him down ... LOL

Forget 23 debates. He waited until 6 days before he even made this request.

Sounds more like McCain got stuck on his own pitard and would like to be the one to cancel the debate.

The good news us that the last debate before the election will be on the economy and domestic issues. This election will be "it's the economy, again, stupid," so Obama will go into the final stretch strong. Hopefully it will be enough to get all those new voters as well as us oldies motivated to the polls, and enough to counter any Bradley-effect.

MariaIsabella, yes, it seems that the dumbing down of America is in the works. It doesn't help that republicans constantly pick on people who are intelligent as being "elitist" or "snobbish". It's pathetic that someone with a Harvard Law degree is less desirable to them than the idea of a good-ole boy or gal who "kin set back an' hoist a cold one" with you, instead of talk to you intelligently.

Sigh.

The GOP copped a dud for a VP nominee ... and the party knows it.

I now believe that the GOP is the party of change - they changed "No child left behind" to no politician left behind"

The dumbing down of America has been in the works for a generation. When schools spend more time teaching "just say no" and worrying about how to eliminate competition so that slow Johnny has as much self esteem as quick Tommy, instead of teaching kids that boring old school stuff like reading and and spelling and how to freaking add, how can you expect people to be able to discriminate between logic and a stinking sound bite?

Given the fact that for quite a few years, nobody has received a failing grade at Harvard, or any other "good" university, and most get an A grade, and are the people responsible for running our schools, and thus dumbing down America, I'd suggest that the thought that a good old boy who can hoist one might just be able to speak more intelligently than that Harvard law school graduate.

If you disbelieve my statement about university grades, just do an internet search on the subject of "grade inflation".

I'd suggest that the thought that a good old boy who can hoist one might just be able to speak more intelligently than that Harvard law school graduate.

While you're right about grade inflation, I can't help but wonder if you'd really feel more comfortable hiring a "good ole boy" for a senior management position than an Ivy League graduate.

Since we had the "good ole boy" for the last 8 years, I'll take the Harvard grad this time around, instead of the mutt and jeff ticket.

Possibly, depending on the job. I would never hire an accountant, attorney or any other specialist type for a management position, they tend to have tunnel vision.

Since we had the "good ole boy" for the last 8 years, I'll take the Harvard grad this time around instead of the dumb and dumber ticket.

Your "good old boy" happens to be a Yale graduate. How bout them apples, eh hon?

oldcrankyman,

If you disbelieve my statement about university grades, just do an internet search on the subject of "grade inflation".

I hear you loud and clear and as far as the whole self-esteem issue goes, if parents really wanted their kids to have it, they'd have guts enough to turn off the TV and Vid Games and say "read"...and not just the damn bible but serious literature.

But I realize I live in a magical fantasy land.

Since we had the "good ole boy" for the last 8 years, I'll take the Harvard grad this time around, instead of the mutt and jeff ticket.

Beavis and Butthead is more like it. :P

Crankyman, I always thought papa Bush and his connections had a hand in Dubya making it through Yale. If not, who in their right mind would fork out $35,000.00 plus annually sending their kids to a university that turned out that buffoon.

That was pretty much my point about "grade inflation". Evidently a lot of people will fork out that money so junior can get a mostly meaningless diploma. Regardless of how geedubya graduated, he did. I think that backs my point up nicely, thanks.

But I realize I live in a magical fantasy land.

Well then, welcome, there are a few of us here.

I'm only at this point in reading through this thread, and I have to give this thread/subthreads the Funniest Comment Thread of the Week award... can't wait to get to the bottom of the page. :)

- A Magical Fantasy Land Native

Wait a second. At least Beavis and Butt-head understood one subject, sex, drugs, and rock and roll.

Sorry thats three.

And, ummmm, they really didn't understand them they just .... enjoyed them!

Sounds more like Palin's kids.

At least Beavis and Butt-head understood one subject, sex, drugs, and rock and roll. Sorry thats three.

They're separate?
;-)

It doesn't help that republicans constantly pick on people who are intelligent as being "elitist" or "snobbish". It's pathetic that someone with a Harvard Law degree is less desirable to them than the idea of a good-ole boy or gal who "kin set back an' hoist a cold one" with you, instead of talk to you intelligently.

It is very scary. Someone complained about his Harvard degree and then going to be a community organizer. Which my reply was, "Yeah, why do we want a President who is intelligent and cares about the people? "

Your "good old boy" happens to be a Yale graduate.

Who got into Yale on the family name and struggled through to end up with a C average. I wouldn't brag on the old boy's educational credentials too much.

the mutt and jeff ticket.

Beavis and Butthead is more like it.

Jethro and Jethrine?

I'm only at this point in reading through this thread, and I have to give this thread/subthreads the Funniest Comment Thread of the Week award... can't wait to get to the bottom of the page. :)

I know! I have to take breaks from reading because I am laughing so hard!!

Given the fact that for quite a few years, nobody has received a failing grade at Harvard, or any other "good" university, and most get an A grade

Source?

Not a source on grade inflation; a source that directly substantiates your assertion.

Crankyman, you seriously cannot compare Obama to Bush when it comes to their Ivy League experience. Bush didn't have to grades to get into Yale. He got in solely because of daddy's money and connections. He maintained a cumulative 77 average. Now I would compare him to McCain. They both partied their way through school, both had poor grades, both got in due to family connections, and both are mental midgets. Obama had no rich papa or connections to get into Harvard. He got in on his grades, grants, scholarships, and financial aid. And yes, more than likely affirmative action. That only got him through the door. It's what he did once he got there that matters. He became President of the Harvard Law Review, no small feat, and graduated Magna Cum Laude, again, no small feat. He did it on his own, with no ones help. Sure, many who go to these type of schools get through because of their family connections, and get the grades they do because of family connections, but to say all do is insulting to many who work their butts off, who don't have those connections, like Obama. My brother-in-law got into Harvard in much the same manner as Obama, and he earned every high mark he worked hard for. The point I was making is there is no comparison whatsoever between Bush and Obama when it comes to intellect, regardless of what schools they attended. When I said I would take the Harvard grad, I meant Obama, not just any Harvard grad.

Marialsabella,

Hard work and brains, eh? No connections either? Do you have any idea how elitist that sounds? I mean, c'mon, somebodya putting forth an effort for something is the territory of a priveleged few.

It's regular folks that get everything handed to them.

Oh, wait! I think I hear the Palin crowd rushing to expound on her monumental effort at...uh...U of I....

Ire, what are you talking about? There is absolutely NOTHING in my comment that is elitist.

Regular folks get everything handed to them? I don't mean to be rude, but what world do you live in? I consider myself "regular folks" and I have never had anything handed to me, ever. I worked hard for everything. Most "regular folks" I know never got anything handed to them. They got where they are through hard work.

Marialsabella,

Sorry, I should have used the *sarcasm* identifier.

:)

LOL, I was wondering. I read your post several times thinking, what in the world is this person talking about. Thanks for the clarification.

I agree this was supposed to be our one and only chance to see Palin in action and now they change the rules. I am insulted and Sarah Palin should be also. They are clearly not happy with her progress in learning foreign policy.

Didn't she at some point make a statement to the effect that the presidency is not the place for on the job training or something like that?

The McCain camp just admitted his VP pick is not up to the task, if he himself believes she isn't ready and announces it to the American public that she isn't ready, wouldn't it at this point be prudent of the republican party leaders to ask her to step aside so he can be given a mulligan on the pick?

On The Mark.

Don't let us know her. Or what she knows.

Actually, regretfully she needs to be instructed quickly on some pretty serious issues, that even McCain has admitted not understanding.

That means only one thing ... her teachers will have to be the very insiders they are trying to run against.

Washington? Noooooo. BUSH.

LOL, well, I guess this qualifies as that "blink". More like a tic.

I don't think it's sexist, the Reps rewrite the rules as it suits them, as do the Dems. Just keep on voting for em and complaining. I can guarantee the the vote will get their attention much faster than the complaining.

Revolution is LONG overdue.

Kris:
Sexism is when one makes sweeping generalizations about all people of one sex based on the behavior of a few. The criticism directed at Ms. Palin is meant to describe a single person largely based upon her own actions.

Criticizing women in general would be sexist. Criticising a single woman for her own behavior is merely criticism.

I have read many more sexist remarks concerning Ms. Palin from Republicans than from Democrats.

Every sensible woman on earth should be insulted. That is not sexism.

Of the most influential women in the world, according to Forbes list of the Top 100 Women:

-- Only three U.S. politicians made the list (Clinton #24, Pelosi #30 something, and First Lady Bush #60 something)

-- All other U.S. women were corporate heads (and we all know neither McCain nor Palin are qualified to run a corporation!)

And as I recall

-- Every woman representing the entire rest of the world was THE TOP GOVERNMENTAL LEADER of their respective country. Or was being held in house arrest to prevent them from being such.

In terms of political sexism, I think this one is coming from the republicans. Heck. They've talked for years about running Mrs/Sen/Head of Red Cross/Beauty Queen Dole. Even that would have been more informed and less sexist than altering the terms of debate for the sake of including the other candidate.

If she can't swing the clubs then put her on the beginners course and not on the pro tour!

Forget the beginner's course ...

Miniature golf would seem to be more her speed. :P

Hey now, don't insult mini golf. And please don't send her to the beginner's course, that's where I play! On the other hand, I know I'm not ready for the pro tour.

You know (and I'm being serious) a pro putt putt golfer can clear $100,000 a year!

What about pitch & putt? I've been having a great time at the local par 3 courses.

Seriously though... There are people who fervently believe that Mrs Palin is a great choice for VP. Our country needs educated, literate and intelligent leaders. That people will vote for a McCain / Palin ticket scares me.

You know (and I'm being serious) a pro putt putt golfer can clear $100,000 a year!

I think it's time I break out the old Billy Baroo.

She really has become an international joke. My brother lives in England and he just told me last night that people over there are laughing their ass off at us over here. They say the whole I can see Russia comment has been the joke of the century over their. I'm the first to say that who cares what they think but in the day and age we are in it's somewhat important that the world doesn't think our VP is a joke.

I'm no Palin fan, but why would I give a rat's a$$ about what the Brits think? I'm fairly sure we decided their system of government was trash a couple hundred years ago.

The problem isn't that they think one of our Vice Presidential candidates is a joke, it's that they think the American citizenship is a joke for half of our population even giving her serious consideration.

Our enemies around the world are laughing thier backsides off at her and us for having her on a major ticket. She's become a international joke and a national embarrassment

I really hope you are not suggesting that it is only America's enemies who think Americans are more foolish than the candidate.

The most admired woman in Ireland, Mary Robinson, practiced law, challenged ALL of the most fundamental social issues of modern government -- women's rights, birth control, even GAY rights -- and then was elected President of Ireland. After two terms, to the massive dismay of the country she announced she was stepping down. Immediately she was swept into the United Nations High Commission on International Rights where she tackled every abuse around the globe and in the United States. Against the wishes of the United States she served there for two terms also, before stepping down from that role.

Internationally, it is understood and applauded that women can and do provide incredible new ideas and visions of the future.

I think they also realize that those women, just like their male counterparts, had to work their butts off to earn those accolades. And most ... had to work twice as hard. Like Mrs. Robinson who first had to secure women's rights before she could be a successful woman.

The world knows full well, women must work twice as hard as a man to earn her place. And is not in the slightest fooled by the wrong woman in the wrong place at the wrong time.

I guess you just have to be an american to understand this.

She really has become an international joke.

I've been laughing at some of the funny comments posted here, but I have to say as an American living and working abroad that people are not laughing about McCain's selection of Palin here in Spain. Bewilderment is what I see most. Of course, McCain's apparent confusion about Spain and Prime Minsiter Zapatero when talking to a Florida reporter the other day didn't exactly stop heads from shaking in disbelief. There'll be no welcome mat at McCain White House for Spanish leader

Even so, she'd probably still cry because, you know, they would have to stand on some principles...

No, I think she will look into their eyes, see their souls and, and, and....BLINK!!!

She could always start with, "Howdy neighbor!" to Medvedev.

I sure hope Ahmadinejad and Medvedev agree to take it easy on Palin and bend the rules in her favor

Medvedev might, because he'll be playing the good cop to Putin's bad cop.

She also could be Miss Mommy Romper Room too. Howdy Boys and Girls do you know what time it is?

Why its Magic Mirror Time.........

"Romper, bomper, stomper boo. Tell me, tell me, tell me, do. Magic mirror, tell me today. Have all my friends had fun at play?"

I see my very good pals Medvedev and Putin......howdy fellas!

Oh! And I see my Mr. Grouchy Face pal Ahmadinejad......I bet some of my homemade milk and cookies will cheer him right up!

Hey Boys and Girls, Look! It's Mr. Do Bee.......but you all know him as our President, John McCain....

He's here to teach you guys how to be better boys and girls. Put on your thinking caps and listening ears!
--------------------------------------------------------------
Every time I hear that woman utter a word, followed by that almost imperceptible "tsk" she has the aggravating habit of doing......I get this involuntary twitch.

"Every time I hear that woman utter a word, followed by that almost imperceptible "tsk" she has the aggravating habit of doing......I get this involuntary twitch."

YES! It bothers the heck out of me everytime I hear it.

Now if any of you still have doubts about how the debate might go and what she might say, here's the formula:

"I say thanks but no thanks to that bridge to nowhere", "I ruffled a lot of feathers", "I sold it on ebay", "I fired the chef", "I'm a hockey mom"... Now if you don't hear any of these words from the debate, expect snow fall in Florida and all latin America (and no John McCain, I'm not talking about Spain! lol)

LMAO...now I gotta deal with this image of John McDo-Bee! I'm definitely gonna need therapy after this thread.

ABD3.....McDo Bee......holy mother of God.....now that's funny. And I'm sorry you have to go into therapy, that wasn't my intention.....but at least you have a great sense of humor about it. :)

Do what I do, I twist my ears in opposite directions and shake your head vigorously, much like I would do with an Etch-a-Sketch and it works to at least temporarily get rid of images I dont want invading my mind and keeping me awake at night.

Anon Emus 1 - OMG! So I'm not hearing things. I thought it was my TV! LOLOL......it's like I want to reach up and flick her lips every time she does it.

Ooooooooooo its beyond irritating.

And you can bet by the end of the debate, everyone listening will know the moderator's first name.

Between her "tsk" and McCain's 'My Friends"

by the time the election happens Im going to be sitting in a corner, rocking back and forth, drooling from the right side of my mouth and twitching all the while 'tsk-ing tsk-ing tsk-ing and mumbling My Friends, My Friends, My Friends.

Twitch Factor 50

I wouldn't worry about that too much. If Mc Cain/Palin are elected, she'll never have to go up against any of our "enemies". They'll just continue the Bush/Condoleeza practice of refusing to talk to anyone they don't like. Their mantra is "Avoid diplomacy at all costs".

We've been headed for an idiocracy for at least a generation.

What should we do about it?

That's kakistocracy, crankyoldman, and how 'bout let's throw the bums out.

Yeah no blinking: eyes permanently closed.

Yeah no blinking: eyes permanently closed.

Mind apparently closed, too; but mouth definitely open.

I think they limit her because she says stupid stuff.

The other day they were in Cedar Rapids and as she starts her speech she says HELLO GRAND RAPIDS!!!, people tried to correct her, but she didn't stray off message to correct herself or offer apologies.

Can you imagine how the crowd felt? She never attempted to correct her mistake. Shameful.

I want my P and VP to have some good manners, and diplomatic skills along with intelligence.

I have a nagging, sinking feeling, she'll go to Israel and offer someone some really, really, good wild boar meat, that she and her husband hunted, dressed and prepared just for the occasion of her first trip to Israel.

What a Bullwinkle.

Or some moose-chip-cookie-dough ice cream?

Well if she can convince lemmings that are worshiping at her altar that she is one of them.....I'm sure they'll buy up gallons of moose-chip ice cream, believe it's divine...call it a sign from God......and be clueless that those lil' brown colored chips.......aren't chocolate.

:)

The McCain campaign is doing enough damage all by themselves.

The fact that Sarah Palin purportedly needs to have the rules of the debate changed in her favor speaks volumes about her lack of either experience and/or intellectual firepower as a VP candidate.

I think Mad Chef is right. The Dems are playing it right, let them change the rules. Just be sure everyone knows that they were changed and why.

Besides by having Biden agree and not make a 'fuss' he looks like a gentleman.

I am a woman, I can say this. No sexism intended.

How the hell can they get away with this? Why aren't the Dems jumping up and down!!! If the positions were reversed you would never hear the end of this!

Dems! Get some guts and fight this. refuse to let the Pubs dictate the terms of the debate

Gee what happened to the LIBERAL press?

You know ... I think we're going through a real bonding process here. Men and women across party lines are all incensed at how degrading this is to the Palin / McCain ticket. I think men and women across the globe are really joining this process too. You think for two seconds they want the Bush taught candidate to be any where near Washington for FOUR MORE YEARS?

And according to the article the McCain folks wanted even more concessions:

"On Wednesday, the commission unanimously rejected a proposal sought by advisers to Ms. Palin and Senator John McCain of Arizona, the Republican presidential nominee, to have the moderator ask questions and the candidates answer, with no time for unfettered exchanges. Advisers to Mr. Biden say they were comfortable with either format."

Thankfully the Commission stood up to that!

P.S. In the quote above, the emphasis on the "no" is mine.

Why don't they just admit they made a mistake?

Because admitting a mistake is viewed by ignorant people as a weakness. In case you haven't noticed, not admitting mistakes has kept the Reps in power for quite some time. They know how to work tv and email better than the Dems. Appealing to people's intelligence went out of fashion quite some time ago.

Just give me somebody to hate, and let me get back to "America's Funniest Groin Injuries Survivors".

Just give me somebody to hate, and let me get back to "America's Funniest Groin Injuries Survivors".

Oldcrankyman this reminds me of the movie "Idioncracy" where the most watched show was. "Ow! My Balls!"

Funny movie that, Idiocracy.

Stupid, but funny. And, quite possible. Yeah gads.!!!

Why don't they just admit they made a mistake?

Example, please of the "mistake"

Just say it Republicans: We were desperate and stupid enough to go along with this

We were desperate and stupid enough not to vote and go along with McCain only.

This Governor brings 3 Electoral Colleges like Delaware. This Governor is just a petite Barracuda among the sharks in Congress.

Satisfied?

Bill Maher asked a valid question.
With what you know about Gov Palin would you be confident with her as President right now?

oldcrankyman

Republicans don't admit to their mistakes because they don't make any.

They won't even admit any missteps here on Newsvine. And that's at the common-man level. Imagine what it's like with their elected officials.

Tough, 8 years ago, I might have seen it the way you do. Hell, even 4 years ago, I might have had faith that people would look around and ask themselves, "What the Hell just happened? Dude, where's my country?!?"

I don't know that enough people see the 'big enough mess' that we've been mired in for lo, these many years now...I hope to any deity listening that I'm wrong. I really do. But I'm getting my passport renewed, too...