Ten thousand die-hard Virginia Republicans flocked to the Richmond
International Raceway, seeking inspiration from Sarah Palin, as a state that
last voted for a Democratic president in 1964 slides Barack Obama's way.
At the racetrack, a stockcar-racing temple of America's white working class,
were men and women, grandmothers and children, military veterans, gun-lovers
and abortion rights activists — everyone but blacks and Hispanics.
They came wearing their hearts on their sleeves and on their shirts, hats and
trucks. “Don't let the lipstick fool ya,” proclaim the badges and bumper
stickers. “I'm voting for the Chick”, “Sarah — Girl
Power”, “Unborn babies for Sarah Palin”.
Some had driven for two hours. They queued for an hour for security and stood
for another two hours in the hot sun awaiting the rally.
They did not rave about John McCain but they adore the Governor of Alaska.
They love her earthiness, her ordinariness, that she is just like them.
“She's probably one of the only politician who knows how to go to a grocery
store and budget,” Timothy Taylor, 25, an ex-Marine, said. “She's my first
political hero since Ronald Reagan,” declared Raymond Pace, 67, a former
estate agent.
None quaked at the thought of her in the Oval Office. She has run a state,
they said. Led a National Guard. She has more executive experience than Mr
Obama and Joe Biden, who have been only senators (like Mr McCain).
Their answers were uniform because they all followed the same right-wing radio
chat-show hosts and conservative bloggers. The “liberal media elite” is
enemy number two here. Only Mr Obama is detested more.
“Obama and Biden will take this country far too far to the left. They'll take
away the freedoms I've spent 40 years defending,” said Dwayne Schnakenberg,
40, a Navy veteran.
Others considered Mr Obama to be a subversive, terrorist- sympathising,
America-hating radical and covert Muslim. They cited his links to the former
Weathermen militant Bill Ayers, and to Jeremiah Wright, his fiery former
minister. Some claimed that he supported sharia in Kenya and consorted with
Hugo Chávez of Venezuela.
“What turned me off was the way he wouldn't put his hand over his heart for
the Pledge of Allegiance or wear a flag pin. I don't know how you can call
yourself an American if you don't do that,” Heather Zimerman, 39, a
substitute teacher, said.
“He's smart, articulate and beguiling but his supporters — his
inner circle— are radicals who want revolution,” Billy Benton, 55, an
estate agent, said. “I don't know what he was doing in Indonesia all those
years — hanging around with Muslim terrorists?” Madeleine Willis, 60,
a retired factory worker, asked.
Mr Taylor complained about the trip to Europe that Mr Obama took in July: “I
don't think the president of the US should go around saying, 'I'm a citizen
of the world'.” One beefy man wore a T-shirt proclaiming: “The difference
between Obama and Osama is just a little B.S.”
The warm-up acts began with a Republican official telling the crowd that the
liberal elite wanted it to give up. “No!” it roared back. A minister thanked
God for Mr McCain and Mrs Palin, who were “exactly the leaders we need in
troubled times like these”.
Finally the star arrived, accompanied by Hank Williams Jr, who sang a folksy
song comparing Mrs Palin to a “momma bear in Idaho ... If you mess with her
cubs she's going to take off her gloves”.
The throng wanted red meat. Mrs Palin pressed the right buttons but did not
quite provide. She likened the race to a recent stockcar classic where the
lead kept changing.
She slammed Wall Street greed, lobbyists, the Washington elite. She issued
pain-free prescriptions for restoring prosperity (mostly involving tax
cuts), and lots of what her fans would hail as homespun truths and critics
would call platitudes (“America is not something to apologise for. America
is not a problem. It's the solution”).
She led chants of “USA, USA” and “Drill, baby, drill”, slipped in the odd
“doggone it”, invited veterans to raise their hands so “we can honour these
guys”. She invoked Ronald Reagan, her son's service in Iraq and her Down's
syndrome baby.
The crowds booed every mention of Mr Obama.
She read from an Autocue however, her timing and pitch were a fraction off and
there were no truly incendiary lines, no repeat references to Mr Obama
“palling around with terrorists” or being “not a man who sees America the
way you and I see America”. The best she managed was a dig at his war
speeches — “Just once I'd love to hear Barack Obama say ‘I want
America to win'.”
In turn attacked, unleashed and accused of incitement, the pitbull has been
muzzled again.
At one point she thought that a distant section of the crowd who chanted
“louder” were protesters. It was an apt mistake for a confused campaign and
its bewildered supporters.
McCain/Palin have lied & distored facts since the very beginning from Ads to statements made by them personally. McCain was involved in a scandal & now Palin is involved in a scandal. Now they are involved in pinning Americans against Americans. Spreading hate & anger towards anyone not like them
Kim, Glendale,
Have you all forgot the principles this great nation was founded on? If you can't live by them, move to another country. Don't disgrace what they fought for. This was a country who loved life but now kill it if it gets in their way. Truth and honor was a way of life but not anymore. Who are YOU?
Marge, Pensacola, USA
Why are people even voting for Palin? She wants to take away your freedoms regarding abortion, and she doesn't even understand what comes out of her own mouths. I was appalled when I saw Palin's interviews with Katie Couric. How can you not know about the Bush Doctrine as a vice-president candidate?
Sahir Rama, Austin, USA
OMG, I can't believe how ignorant and bigoted people are. One interviewee claims that Mr. Obama wants to take away freedoms he fought 40 years defending. However, McCain-Palin wants to take away the most fundamental freedom---freedom of choice in regards to abortion. The intelligence level is sad!
Kimberly, Seattle,
I am an American, writing from Dallas. Let me tell you, lots of us are HORRIFIED by Sarah Palin! I can't believe McCain chose her, I can't believe how HYPOCRITICAL she is, and I cant believe the votes of the people interviewed for this story count as much as mine will! There should be an IQ test.
Susan, Dallas, USA
There is something deeply unnerving everytime Sarah Palin takes to the stage and speaks
I don't know what it is but there is something wrong with her style of politics. Something more sinister, more calculated
She knows hate and division are powerful weapons
And McCain fears this it as well
Alex, Kenilworth, UK
I'm confused. For self-proclaimed fundamentalists, why is it Mrs Palin and her supporters seem to have no concept of love, forgiveness and compassion? They only understand hatred and bigotry.
Obama has shown he is a true Christian and has the leadership qualities and intelligence needed.
Derek, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
You know, wanting to vote someone into the Oval Office because "she's like us" is a little like admiring your local barber because he also does brain surgery on the side (and barbers use to!). Wouldn't you want a highly qualified pro instead?
David, Athens, Greece
As an American teacher of ANG at the university level....I know how uneducated people are. It's shocking. Everyone should read the Constitution and most of our "christians" need a "Bible for Dummies." Southern Strategy worked..sadly.....
Stephanie, bentonville, America
Seriously, what's the point of having a "rally" at a speedway in VA? Palin is only speaking to those who are already firmly committed to voting GOP. Wasted breath if you ask me.
radman, NY, USA
I consider myself an American patriot who loves his country. I got my degree in Biochemistry and a minor in Diplomacy, and am training to be a Marine Corps officer. I honor McCain for his service and dedication to his country but Palin scares me.She is a demagoue and would be a disastrous President
Smith, Monterey, USA
I think everyone around the world is waiting with bated breath to see how America votes, as it affects us all. Some of the reasons given for not voting for someone are terrifying. All we can hope for is they use their intelligence, not their emotions.
If there was a god I'd be praying to him.
Gordon Philip d'Andilly, Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Cana, Spain
I was thinking about how many pitbull puppies in the US this year will be named either Sarah or Palin, and will the new owners try to put lipstick on them? will they run them for office? you gotta laugh sometimes no?
:)
david, new York, United States
Right-wing talk radio with its insistence on talking points over truth, along with a half-hearted (but loudly stated) pandering to the Fundamentalists have combined to make the modern "conservative" movement a sad shadow of itself.
John McCain threw his campaign away.
CK, Lawrence, United States
I'm voting for the Bright guy! homespun truths...foooey! She doesn't know anything deeper. aaaahg. I despair.
willem, london, United Kingdom
How are you voting? You live in the UK, not US!
How about voting for the person, not the party!
Elizabeth, Saginaw, United States
"...away the freedoms I've spent 40 years defending,” said Dwayne Schnakenberg, 40, a Navy veteran.
What freedoms were you defending as a toddler?
Nick, Brisbane, Australia
Not even toddler...he would have been still been cooking in the oven!!! Miracle!! Fetus joins military!
Elizabeth, Saginaw, United States
I think the US has lots to offer the world.Sadly we are all sometimes let down by poor leadership. We had Mr T Bliar and his entourage, who have spent 11 years assaulting our liberties.I personally find Sarah Palin a little scary but that's democracy at work (sort of). Anyone vote for Mr G Brown?
Chris, London, UK
America is a great place - as long as you have $5 mill - else you have to work 2 jobs just to stay afloat. I reckon the quality of life for the average european is far higher than the quality of life for the average American , but their ignorance of the rest world means they have no idea whats goin
peter, Dublin, Ireland
The comments in this article by ordinary Americans are absolutely frightening - how they ever became a super power in the first place is beyond belief!
m, london, uk
"He sounds too much like Jimmy Carter who lost both Iran and the Panama Cana"
Panama was stolen from its rightful owners and Iran never belonged to America. America's criminal behaviour in Iran - like engineering the coup that removed an elected leader - cost us the regime of the ayatollahs.
Neil Murphy, cromer,
I was born in Scotland and like to think I have some experience of politicians and their dishonesty but when it comes to Sarah Palin and her supporters I would give them the Gold Medal for economy with the truth( does this ring a bell) from Maggie Thatcher days?
Derek, Mebane, USA
These people talk about Obama being a terrorist, an arab, having no experience, taking away freedom with too much government-- do they even know anything about their own candidates and party???? Palin has no experience...the US will be a police state under her rule...they already stole our freedom
David , knoxville , USA
After the future gone GWBUSH any thing could be voted. but there's something far from comical near to ridicuous and pathetic in her pointless look. I just can perfectly imagine her pressing the red botton and smiling at the same time. where???? "who cares???"
paulo koenig, limbach, , deutschland
"This isn't a time for people whose doomsday scenario is a little less at the pump for Texaco and Shell. This isn't a time for people who say there aren't any energy alternatives just because they can't think of any. This is a time for American heroes and we reach for the stars." Beat that Sarah.
Jed Bartlet, Manchester NH,
Any other nation, faced with our current choice for President, would have the polls running with a much wider margin in favor of Obama.
Unfortunately, we are not a nation of strategic thinkers, but more a nation of sheep who like to be manipulated by politicians.
Guy, Fredericksburg, USA
Was Obama really born in Hawaii? I have my doubts. Obama has been active in Kenyan politics. He's a throw-back to the 1970s (Third World Militant) dressed up in a suit for his Ivy League handlers. He sounds too much like Jimmy Carter who lost both Iran and the Panama Canal.
Peter Ramsey, Salt Spring Island, Canada
Alaska Governor Sarah Palin is pro-life, pro-guns and conservative. What's not to like?
Peter Ramsey, Salt Spring Island, Canada
Palin - not so much a pitbull, more of a shitzu.
Tony Stephenson, Newcastle upon Tyne, England
"“I don't know what he was doing in Indonesia all those years — hanging around with Muslim terrorists?” Madeleine Willis"
Ms. Willis appears to be unable to research her concerns before complaining. Obama was born in Hawaii...a problem? He followed his parents to Indonesia and returned at age 10.
Tom Jannusch, Cedaredge, United States
Rob & Vince in London - Do you want to comment on politics in the USA with the sad state of the politiics in the UK? Guess that Rob feels 143 days in the Senate & experience as a "community organizer" qualifies Mr. Obama for President ? Congress has approval rating of 19% in US. She is 80% in AK.
Ray , Richmond, VA, USA
Obama is an eloquent, charismatic Socialist.
Get ready America for the rides of our lives. NEVER in history have we been a Socialist nation.
We want change??? We're going to get it. Just like Cuba and Venezuela..
Carlos, Miami, USA
When I read the insulting comments from Brits about America, I am thankful our forefathers had the wisdom to break away 230 yrs ago or we might also have ended up like a tired old actress, stubbornly obsessed with our past glory and the French!
Robert, Los Angeles, USA
Let the Brits and anyone else who wants to comment on U.S. politics. We believe in freedom of speech as a basic human right. So tell us what you think, world. There's a lot to say after 8 yrs of Bush! Perhaps the best thing to say is "Thank God it's ending." The world and the US needs Obama! NOW
Albert, Miami, Florida, USA
I'm afraid that the only way to put this is that an awful lot of Americans really are stupid. Not misunderstood, not unaware, but actually rather dim.
They like Sarah Palin because she is like them. That may or may not be OK as mayor of a small town, but not as VP of a nuclear superpower.
Rob, London, UK
"... They'll take away the freedoms I've spent 40 years defending,” Totally laughable and quite myopic. People seem to not care one wit that freedom has only eroded thanks to GB and Co.
And no, I'm not supporting the 'other guy.' I support the truth that doesn't seem to exist here, anymore.
Ken, New Castle, DE,
Enough with these young, "beautiful", inexperienced presidents of the most powerful nation of the world who have brought us only wars, confusion and recession. We desperately need an older decent man, mature in his old age.Mc Cain would be just right.
giuseppe savarese, naples, italy
Hi John, Chicago, no the word sharia does not ring a bell, and I am someone who reads the papers daily. There was a brief moment when someone (I forget who) suggested it may have some value in court cases, but that was a flicker that died immediately. We may have problems here but that ain't one.
Ian, Oxford, UK
My good angel says "One man, one vote". My bad angel says "We should have a minimum IQ to vote." Then Obama would win by a landslide.
Nigel, Berkeley, CA, USA
Forget the Obama-McCain clash tonight. What still intrigues me is that Americans are still very divided as they were a decade ago. Where is the America which solidly would say 'yes' and accept a true leader?
Ramesh, Port Louis, Mauritius
Beautifully put, Mark in London. But it might be best if Obama doesn't win. After the campaign run by "pitbull" Palin with such personal and atavistic bile, there's almost bound to be a lunatic who would try to get rid of a President Obama. It only takes one - and she seems to attract hundreds...
Vince , London, UK
Richmond VA is not the best place to test the temperature of the avarage American. It is not too hard to get enough "Red Necks" and I use the term in the context of the article, to say or do anything in support of one of their own, who would vote for Richard Petty before any Democrat. Nuff said
keith manton, houston , USA
Read up on the rules for our flag. One is not required to place their hand over their heart.
The Republican party seems to be full of hate right now and that is "scary" not Obama. Should we all be judged on the people we have known in the past?
Kathy, Denver, USA
Obama lived in Indonesia when he was a child!
He has never been a muslim. People, read about him before you believe these things! Please!
Kathy, Denver, USA
"She has no control with over spending; she left Wasilla floundering in debt and wasted the largest surplus AK has seen"
I see she's been learning well from the incumbent President.
Peter Brunton, Lancaster, UK
Right, Obama has no idea what a "budget" is and I'm sure he's never done his own grocery shopping given his wealthy, elite upbringing...
Christina, Cary, USA
I find it rather laughable that the Brits on this message board are insulting our country, our citizens, and our politics when you all have a big enough mess in your own country to clean up. Does the word "sharia" ring a bell?
John, Chicago, USA
The Uk elected a charismatic socialist 11 years ago - take a long look at the mess we are in now. Do Americans want Government surveillance on every street, an absentee police force only interested in gathering fines, stealth taxes on everything and a generation of young drunks on the streets?
Ted, London, England
For the McCain/Palin party to allow such presence of hatred, threats, and racial/social/religous unequality to be present during campaigns is an atrocity. If the Obama/Biden party threatend gender unequality they would be bury thier campaign. I'm amazed that the Republican party is still so close.
Rodney Segers, West Babylon, United States
I'm from Alaska. Palin is completley inept in every way. She shouldn't be in charge of a state, let alone an entire country! She has no control with over spending; she left Wasilla floundering in debt and wasted the largest surplus AK has seen!
Obama has a plan and doesn't want more of the same.
Tim Miller, Juneau, Alaska
Hank Williams Jr.
July 10, 2007
"Monday night Football" theme singer Hank Williams Jr. (whose legal name is Randall Hank Williams Jr.) was charged with assault to commit bodily harm after he allegedly choked and verbally abused a 19-year-old waitress.
Palin's pallin' around with abusers!
Evanski, Columbus, OH, USA
I'm Mad, I'm really Mad. How can anybody in there right mind vote for McCain? He doesn't run his own campaign, much less run the country. He's only actively running in several important swing states. How can he represent the US? $130 M, he's not personally worried about any ramifications.
John Williams, Greenville, USA
Wow, nice straight-ahead reporting without a hint of bias!
Bruce, Austin,
Palin is dangerous, well that is how she is presented to us. On the face of it Obama appears to be the more gifted individual, he is intellectual and has the persona of a statesman. Palin's image is more extreme, reflecting the hegative aspects of the US. I think Obama is the better choice.
Gareth Jenkisn, Pwllheli, Wales
I think what saddens me most is that words like "liberal," "progressive," and "elite" have become epithets in my country. I wish there were a way to take back those words. Jesus was a liberal and a progressive both.
Robyn, Roanoke, United States
How many terrorists did I pass on the way to work today? Not so many as there used to be when Americans were paying money to the IRA who to blow up our pubs, shops, office blocks. We grew up with terrorism. Reagans administration encouraged IRA fundraising and huge numbers of innocents died.
mike hall, Gosport, UK
It is frightening to think that these people are allowed to vote. They are so brianwashed that they need an education in the world outside of the USA
T Ellison, Bromley, UK
Frighteningly, Palinesque politics is pre-Nazism at best and at worst civilly destructive for America at a time when we need it to rebound & prove its supposed values obliterated by Bush. If anything, she's done the world a service in lancing the the simmering tarry civil-war boil that never healed.
Noel , London , UK
Sarah Palin is to the political scene what Britney Spear's life is to the tabloids, nothing more than opportunism and sensationalism. That she (and Todd) could be one heart-beat away from the presidency should terrify anyone with an IQ greater than their age.
Doug Blackman, Colorado Springs, USA
Conservatives see politics, and everything else, as a clash between good and evil. When George W. Bush said "you're either with us or you're against us," he wasn't just talking about that one moment in history. Conservatives think that about literally everything. Think that rally proves the point!
ted, london, uk
Only Americans could be so stupid to vote for Mrs. Palin. Her simple message horrifies me. I would rather vote for Lucrezia Borgia.
Langerwerf, Antwerpen, Belgium
http://www.idrewthis.org/ Look at the Fear and Loathing post-it's an excellent synopsis of why the Republicans seem to hate so much, and regard others as the enemy. And it's deeply worrying too.
ted, london, uk
You mock those who speak of "liberal elites" as if such a class did not exist. The biased, condescending tone of your article contradicts this assumption.
Will, London, UK
I am sick to see how people talk about Obama. I have only one thing to say RED NECKS and JOE SIX PACKS wake up.
Cat, Toronto, canada
“America is not something to apologise for. America is not a problem. It's the solution”
What frightens me is not that a politician says that. But there's enough people down the stage to "roar" at that.
Andrea, Cork, Ireland
This woman and her supporters are proof positive that America is the problem...I'm voting for the Bright guy! homespun truths...foooey! She doesn't know anything deeper. aaaahg. I despair.
willem, london, United Kingdom
I must grudgingly admit that John McCain showed good judgement when he stood up to the lady who called Obama an 'Arab'. I say 'grudgingly' because I will never, never vote for McCain. He is all wrong for the job.
But I wonder. How would Sarah Palin have responded to that woman?
sskapur, Smyrna, GA, USA
Winston Churchill once noted "Democracy is the worst form of government except all those other forms...tried from time to time."
As in the rest of the world, Sometimes people who talk more than they think or learn, like Bush and Palin gain office. Then we have to work harder at the process..
James, Oak Ridge Tennessee, USA
Obama & Biden have No grand plan for the change they advocate.Neither can guarantee they will better steer the USA out of economic turmoil.
Economys are driven not by popular hand-outs and at this volatile time only McCain/Palin can be trusted to influence big and small business to restore/deliver
Ivan, Wahroonga, Australia
The author nailed the current kwaziness with his found quotes and astute observations.
This Palin rally in Richmond represents all that is backward and stubbornly stupid in American life.
Karl Rove pulled off victories, however suspect, with a similar yahoo in '00 and '04. It's not over yet.
Adrian, Seattle, USA
..And Americans wonder where Europe gets this 'lopsided' view of their country from??...
mike, Rennes, France
I must applaud you on this style of journalism; it is profoundly effective. No commentary is necessary within this article, as merely relaying the events and statements of the people paints a vivid (and indeed dire) picture of just how radical and detached from reality many in our populace are.
Rod Weathers, Sacramento,
Love how these people from "across the pond" want so much to elect Barack "President of the World."
You have a PILE to take care of in your OWN back yard.
How many terrorists did YOU pass on the way to work today?
Alec, Centre Island New York, USA
I urge all Palin supporters to listen to any solutions to problems that she has to offer. We have not heard anything positive come out of this womans mouth. As a Republican I am tired of her smear campaign, I want and think I deserve more from my party. Instead we get Punchline Palin. Disgraceful
G, Marfa,
America has become socialist under both Republican and Democrat rule..
Truth is we are global now and under the mercy of the World Banking system. We've been traveling this road for decades and we are only now feeling it.
Our freedoms are under attack. Who can be free under debt?
jj, ftmill, usa
Sarah Palin has been thrust into the mayhem of national politics and she has had to weather vicious and malicious attacks from the left, and has handled it like a champ. I'm not afraid of Obama, it's the intolerant thugs that support him and the hypocritical radicals that surround him that I fear.
John, Gurnee,
Palin would make a great vice president. McCain would make a great President. Period. Obama is frightening and none of us know exactly what he is going to do. Most of us Alaskan's do not think Palin is over her head. She can handle what ever needs to be done. Both are extremely qualified .
L. J. Maxson, Eagle River , Alaska
I think the Republicans had there chance for 8 years and they failed. It's time for change. McCain/Palin are constantly bashing Obama, but maybe they should spend a little more time focusing on their campaign.
Betzy Colon, Gainesville, FL, USA
The tone of the campaign and the statements by potential McCain/Palin supporters re-affirm my belief that the typical American voter fails to THINK about what the parties are doing to them and their prejudices. They reflect the state of education in the US = deficient.
Most are poorly educated.
Gunther Steinberg, Portola Valley CA, USA
Yes it is true, Mc Cain is too nice of a guy. I would like to know where Obama got all the money for his world trip, College and then Harvard Law school. After he visited the mid eastern countries?? Obama and his men are the only ones bringing up the race card.
Carl, Ruskin, Fl, USA
“Obama and Biden will take this country far too far to the left. They'll take away the freedoms I've spent 40 years defending,” said Dwayne Schnakenberg, 40, a Navy veteran.
What freedoms were you defending as a toddler?
Nick, Brisbane, Australia
Statement that BHO wouldn't put his hand over his heart for the Pledge of Allegiance is a lie, He always puts hand on heart during the Pledge. He didn't do so during the National Anthem, when it is not required to do so. As for the flag pin, many don't wear them. McCain didn't at the last debate.
John Lane, Phila, USA
I think Sarah Palin is a wonderful choice. For those of us that watch politics closely, we appreciate her concern for the small businessperson.. she understands the tax problems we face and the mounds of paperwork. We appreciate that she has common sense and her no "BS" approach.
Lucky, Walnut Creek, US
The communists will try to spin it anyway they can, but the facts won't change. Her followers are the true Americans, his focus is right on American point, her presentation is perfect American. She is exactly the right person at exactly the right place at exactly the right point in time.
John US Law, Waco, USA
I did not attand the McCain rally here in VA. I think VA has seen that this party (Republican) is not capable of running this country. This is evidenced by the makeup and comments of the crowd. I hope that the entire country sees that Obama has defined plans that will help us not McCain. God bless.
Kwame Smith, Petersburg, USA
Let's face it: it takes an exceptional person with intelligence, analytical ability, dignity, statesmanship, respect for others to be President. A President must be informed, articulate, and knowledgeable about how the world works. Sarah Palin, like George Bush, has none of these qualities.
Karen, Seattle, USA
For Hank Williams Jr. In Idaho it is illegal to kill a female black bear with cubs. This has to do with ethics, the cubs cannot take care of themselves and starve to death. Under Sarah Palins predator control program in Alaska it is legal to kill female bears with cubs. How unethical can one get
Frank Renn, pocatello, U.S.A
The bigoted and ignorant statements Sarah Palin makes are an example of the policies of "American Exceptionalism" which have been followed for too long. It's time to make a change and realize we are just like everyone else in the world...and perhaps learn something ourselves!
Meg, Apex, NC, USA
Too bad the good folks in the UK can't vote in the election. You know that Barack Obama will be an excellent president. (uh oh, guess the Repub Party will call me un-American for saying this).
Lisa, Santa Cruz, USA
Rich of Alaska, Gov Palin is the Commander in chief of your 4000 National Guard.The vitriolic hatred directed at Palin is intriguing& reveals more about her spiteful critics than about her.As VP she was given a job to do by the McCain camp, which she carried out effectively, otherwise why the howls?
Dr Andris lielmanis, Brampton, Canada
4 years from now America will be even more divided than it's become over the past 8 years whether Obama or McCain are President.
Ian, Calgary, Canada
John McCain has said several times"No on the job training"to Barrock,has this man lost it all together,Sarah is learning like paint by numbers.Add up all her experience in total see what you get,Then throw in the attitude,The W.H. is where she & Todd hope to live thats all that counts for her!!
Mandy, Toronto, Canada
As a partial AmericanMuslim, I am not surprised at all by the scripted racist apppeal th\o this dumed down and ignorant audience, nor its fevrush response to her bigotry.
Only in America! Land of equal discrimination and hate for all!
Aiman Abdullah, Selangor, Malaysia
There is no smear on anybody. Gov. Palin is telling the truth.
The slanted media is being UNFAIR to try to shut her up using false accusations.
Where is the report on Obama's supporters wearing ObsceneTee-shirts?
Gov. Palin will win despite media bullying.
ReuelT, Melbourne,
Mrs. Palin refers to her son serving in Iraq. Is it true that he was given a choice of jail or Iraq by a judge because of acts of vandalism.
Helen Chenier, New Brunswick,
Palin was a bad choice. She riles up the worst from her followers. Her only clear stance is on abortion, appealing to a small contingent of voters. She has no other clear vision. Even if she did, she couldn't articulate it. McCain's poor VP decision has put Obama on his way to the White House.
James Stroud, Los Angeles,
For Hank Williams Jr. In Idaho it is illegal to kill a female black bear with cubs. This has to do with ethics, the cubs cannot take care of themselves and starve to death. Under Sarah Palins predator control program in Alaska it is legal to kill female bears with cubs. How unethical can one get
Frank Renn, pocatello, Idaho
The thought of this politician anywhere near the WH is just too scary. Mc Cain is a decent man with heart felt views that are based on integrity and experience. Palin is an accident waiting to happen. I don't trust her or her followers, and, by association, Mc Cain attracts the same fear.
Bruce Robinson, Plymouth, UK
Could you possibly make it more obvious that you hate Palin?
Could we too not resort to the kind of biasness ness that affects and polarises the American Public?
As an impartial Muslim observer I feel saddened at this spectacle.
Decrying Racism but spewing Sexism is hardly a level platform.
Robina, Leeds, West Yorkshire
She has nothing to do at all with the National Guard. She only has 18 months experience as Alaska Governor. Most of us Alaskan's think she is in way over her head. This has been Karl Roves biggest mistake ever. She is simply not qualified to run for Vice President. What a horrible choice.
rich, Anchorage, USA, Alaska
Sarah Palin is no more qualified for office that a bad Sunday school teacher.
She may relate to the "y'alls" but that hardly makes her a political figure of importance; and given that she's worth at least $2 Million, I am sure even having a beer with her would feel pretty akward.
Brandon Walters, Osh Kosh, USA
There are many people who do not wish to vote for Obama for reasons that are not related to his Race at all.
A GOP poll suggested that Colin Powell was the most popular choice for President, but he did not take the mantle. Condoleeza Rice was courted for the Presidency but she refused.
Robina, Leeds, West Yorkshire
Now more than ever we need to be a country that is unified, strong, and patriotic. I'm ashamed of the McCain/Palin party for igniting a match. We're people with open hearts, we listen to those who we admire. They could've addressed the issues we are facing, no instead they chose a smear campaign.
Rodney Segers, West Babylon, United States
How pathetic are some of the McCain supporters, I do hope Obama wins, His smear campaign and Sarah Palin? Who? They say Obama has no experience so he's not right to lead, but 95% of americans Hadn't heard of Palin til she was appointed VP.
Kyle Beeson, Westbury,
The more I read about Obama's opponents, the more I believe the world will be better off with him as US President.
Mark, London,