Governor Palin is likable–and quite possibly entirely nuts
September 6th, 2008 by 
Ellen
I must be candid. When I first heard that Senator McCain had chosen Governor Sarah Palin to be his running mate, I laughed my head off. In fact, I laughed for about two days straight. Not derisive laughter, mind you. I laughed because the pick was audacious, savvy–and profoundly stupid.
Then, various pieces of information began to surface (nope, not going to go into detail about things most people already know, and which would further invade other people’s privacy), and the situation moved from funny–to bizarre.
Only, she turned around and gave quite a good speech. Far better than the ones by the other three members of the two tickets, in my opinion–and for anyone who didn’t get the memo, a vice presidential pick is routinely expected to be an attack dog. The fact that Governor Palin can be vicious–and still look so very cheerful and friendly at the same time–kind of appeals to me, and some (not all) of her criticisms of the Democratic nominee are concerns that I share. I’m also not going to pretend to be upset about the fact that, in November, either a person of color or a woman is going to be elected. How can anyone spin that into anything other than good news, and a sign of tremendous progress?
But, I have to say that if you kill wolves–or anything else, for that matter–you are not My Pal. Not now. Not ever. In fact, it made me scrape up some spare cash and send it here.
I have also–grimly–purchased an Obama/Biden 08 hat, but I haven’t worn it yet.
Nevertheless, I am not a fan of people who decide that if you don’t agree with them on every single issue, across the board, you are evil. Only the Yankees are evil. Profoundly evil. Inescapably evil. Even when the issue involves abortion and choice. I don’t like abortion, either. Is there anyone who does? But, the point, for me, is that people must be free to make their own choices about their own bodies and their own lives,and the government–or any religion anywhere–should not be involved. However, I still allow for the possibility that reasonable people can agree to disagree in a civil manner–and I’m damned if I’ll make an “of course, I support the idea of women in public office, just not this woman” argument. For people keeping score at home, that was the logic which destroyed Senator Clinton–who would probably have been a very fine President, and really would have won in November. Judging from the many articles and blogs I have wasted countless hours reading lately, no one is spewing more invective towards Governor Palin than self-described liberal feminists. What I have learned during this campaign season is that it is considered very, very bad if Republicans make unpleasant, inflammatory and divisive remarks; but, if Democrats do the same thing, it is excellent! And if they are passive-aggressive about it or use clumsy surrogates (see Obama, Senator Barack), so much the better!
I say, enough already. Governor Palin and I have many different beliefs. So what? I don’t have to vote for her. I don’t even have to be fond of her. But, I don’t have to spout out a bunch of spiteful things simply because we don’t share much common ground. Senator McCain was quite right when he said (I paraphrase) that Americans are tired of everyone yelling all the time. Although, honestly, we talk a lot about sexism and racism, and yet I can’t help wondering whether classism is what really rules this country–and this election.
Many Democrats seem to be enjoying having fun at Governor Palin’s expense, but I suspect it will all seem less jolly in November. Instead, they should really be afraid. Very afraid.
On a happier note, go, Patriots!
Posted in Boston Red Sox, Current Events, Gender, Issues, New England Patriots, Politics |
September 6th, 2008 at 10:48 pm
It is so refreshing to read a political post that is sane. Thank you.
September 6th, 2008 at 11:04 pm
Thank you!
I was nervously awaiting angry accusations of various kinds–so, it is pleasant to receive a compliment!
You just couldn’t make up this bizarre election, could you?
September 6th, 2008 at 11:20 pm
You are right on, Ellen. Am I the only one who watched Governor Palin deliver her speech and was reminded of Katharine Powers? The line that kept on popping in my head was “delivered with a smile so genuinely friendly that even her worst enemy couldn’t describe her as bitchy” (sorry, too lazy to go downstairs to get one of my two copies of The President’s Daughter.) Also, the continued reactions shots of her children, including the undeniably adorable Piper holding her baby brother, totally reminded me of Neal and his siblings.
Anyway.
I think Americans like to pretend that we live in a class-free society, but I think it really is the giant elephant in the room that no one wants to acknowledge.
September 7th, 2008 at 12:20 am
Classism. Absolutely. I’m surprised more people don’t bring this up.
John McCain says people are tired of people yelling yet he supports… oh nevermind.
Everything everywhere just feels like hypocrisy run amok.
bummer.
September 7th, 2008 at 10:25 am
Wicked bummer.
I’m hoping that Katharine Powers does a little less exploiting of her children–but, maybe not.
September 7th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
Sadly, when “our” candidate has children used in a photo op, its “how cute! how wonderful! awww.”
When “the other” candidate has children in a photo op, its exploitation.
September 7th, 2008 at 5:24 pm
Actually, I think the Obamas have been equally guilty–if not more so–of exploiting their children in a very unseemly way. You can’t say you’re not going to exploit them–and then turn around and put them on national television several times, and on the front cover of stacks of magazines.
September 8th, 2008 at 12:10 am
Agreed. They both do it.
However, I would say the “liberal” media is treating Palin’s situation with more delicacy than they would if Chelsea Clinton had turned up pregnant at 16.
I never felt like K Powers exploited her children, however you showed the presidency in so many shades of grey that many of us don’t understand.
I would say that children are doomed to become sad casualties of an ambitious politician’s life but the above mentioned Chelsea Clinton seems to prove otherwise. As do Meg, Steven and Neal.
I would say they’re prob all a little damaged but who isn’t?
Goodness, did any of that make sense? Prob not.
September 8th, 2008 at 11:18 am
I think my President went out of her way _not_ to exploit them. Neal probably gets thrown out there a lot, but mostly because he is so damn friendly and enjoys it.
Yes, damage is probably inevitable, in some form or other.
September 9th, 2008 at 1:38 am
Ooh, I feel like sending you flowers after today’s news. Sorry.
September 9th, 2008 at 8:09 am
Do you mean Tom Brady? Yes, it is very upsetting. Having missed the last month of my amateur co-ed softball league due to injuries–and finding it extremely difficult to _watch_ from the sidelines, I can’t imagine how awful it must be for an elite professional athlete. Tom Brady is arguably the best quarterback ever to play the game, so really, it’s a loss for anyone who loves football.
September 9th, 2008 at 10:26 am
I’m glad I’m not the only one who thought of Katherine Powers, and all of Maureen Dowd’s attacks only brought her to mind more. I’m not sure how truly intentional the exploitation of the children was. The Obama’s very carefully decided what context to show off their family, but Sarah Palin’s kids were clearly not thrust into the spotlight by their parents but by vicious liberal bloggers…then, they just rolled with the punches, and I’m sure are not terribly happy about it.
Still…you couldn’t make this election up.
September 9th, 2008 at 6:40 pm
Hmmmm…I never once thought of Katherine Powers when watching Sarah Palin because I was so livid that someone would be insulting of community organizers that metaphorically my ears were burning. I mean, I like Katherine Powers (for all her foibles) and Sarah Palin’s views leave me cold. Plus, her experience to me does not mesh with her rapid ascendency.
I watched “Real Time” on Friday and Bill Maher made the comment that if Barack Obama’s daughters were the ones that were pregnant, the Obamas would be excoriated in the press (see Bill O’Reilly commenting on Jamie Lynn Spears’ pregnancy and the about face with the Palins). Michael Steele, former lt. governor of Maryland (both Republican and black) agreed whole-heartedly. There is a double standard.
September 17th, 2008 at 10:05 pm
I agree with Brooke. Katherine Powers and Sarah Palin don’t even remotely link in my mind. Palin’s sppech at the convention was riddled with cheap shots, a technique I don’t think proves very effective as an attack dog.
Ellen, you said you’re strongly against the attitude that “of course, I support the idea of women in public office, just not this woman.” What do you recommend… voting for someone just because they are female? I do support women in office and I’m still reeling over the fact that Hillary Clinton is not going to be our next President, but I do not support Sarah Palin. As soon as you make a choice, you’ve said “just not this other person,” whether they are male or female. The issues are a means of identifying with one candidate over another, and to refute that sounds a little ridiculous. I also have a bone of contention with your previous posting, when you said you were upset that McCain would beg for money. Every candidate has to. It’s the way the game is played. The person with the most money who spends it wisely will normally win. Emily’s List, anyone? Anyway, to throw in something positive. I still love your fictional writing.
September 17th, 2008 at 10:51 pm
I don’t recommend voting for her, unless one chooses to vote for her. (which, I assume, many Republicans will do.) And while it would not be my choice in the voting booth, I would never criticize or condemn any fellow American for voting for whomever s/he chooses.
Why is it okay for Democrats suddenly to start acting like Karl Rove? I’m disgusted by it–and would never want to be associated with such behavior, against _anyone_. They should take the high road. Civility is still a nice thing.
I have no memory about saying anything of the sort about McCain–especially since I have a pretty good handle on fund-raising. Perhaps you misread it? Or maybe I was tired, and mis-spoke. In any case, fund-raising is a necessary evil–partially because McCain/Feingold, though well-intentioned, back-fired entirely.
Perhaps we are just on different pages. As, luckily, the First Amendment (we still have one, right?) permits.
September 17th, 2008 at 10:56 pm
In case anyone is wondering why I so rarely blog these days, _this_ is why. I feel as though too many people are simply incapable of accepting a variety of opinions these days–and spend an awful lot of time condemning total strangers.
It’s very troubling, and distressing, frankly. I can’t wait until the damn election is over.
September 19th, 2008 at 1:30 am
Well, as someone who has every intention of voting for Her Nuttiness, I totally respect you, your knowledge, and your opinions, Obama/Biden hat and all.
Have you considered maybe disabling the comments in these political posts? I think there are thousands of people out there who would love to hear what you have to say in a way that doesn’t cause you any stress, as much as I think we all appreciate you interacting with us.
September 19th, 2008 at 10:57 am
That is a thought, yes. And thank you for not saying anything mean!
I wore my hat yesterday (it is hard, but I am doing it) and a friend came up to me on the street and said, “Take that damn thing off your head! That’s worse than a Red Sox cap!” Which surprised me, because he was serious.
Then, someone else came up and asked what I thought of Sarah Palin, and I said pretty much what I said in the post above, and he told me I was the first woman in NYC who had been rational and hadn’t screamed at him.
People (especially Democrats) really need to grow up, and be willing to accept differences of opinion among their fellow Americans. Democrats aren’t necessarily always right, after all. They also don’t seem to understand that every time they insult people, they make it more likely that Senator McCain will win.
I would switch and become an Independent, but if I did, I wouldn’t be allowed to vote in primaries, so I can’t.
It’s sort of baffling to me that so many people (mostly Obama-bots, but still) think that anyone who disagrees with them–even about tiny things–is automatically stupid. I have begun to understand why so many states are red–and will remain so.
September 19th, 2008 at 5:29 pm
It’s definitely been interesting. I’ve been a Democrat since birth (and not a moderate or conservative one, either) and I’m seeing attitudes that are really, really disturbing. And coming from people I know and respect, it’s been especially…odd. I don’t know if it’s been going on for a long time and I never noticed it before (hell, maybe I was doing it myself before), or if it’s something new, but I know I don’t like it.
It’s to the point now where I’m getting so sensitive to it that I was watching The Simposons the other day and got annoyed by the portrayal of Cletus, seriously.
September 19th, 2008 at 11:03 pm
I’ve already been a _very_ liberal Democrat–think Russ Feingold and Mario Cuomo and Teddy Kennedy.
Now, in this election, our only two choices are a conservative, somewhat evangelical Democrat (Obama–read his books, if you don’t believe me), an old-fashioned centrist in Biden–and 2 right-wing Republicans.
They’re all too damn right wing for me, frankly.
September 19th, 2008 at 11:09 pm
I meant, I’ve _always_; not “already.” Where is an edit button when you need one?!
October 2nd, 2008 at 12:12 pm
I don’t believe in edit buttons. Which is probably why I’m in so damn much trouble so much of the time. I’m looking forward to the debate tonight and the two remaining debates to come, but I’ve pretty much made up my mind already, I’m just hoping for…justification? Absolution? Something along those lines maybe. It really, really bothers me that the Democrats have become the Republicans of 1998 and I don’t think that’s something I’m going to be able to get past any time soon because we’re supposed to be the Good Guys, dammit.