Veepstakes

Alright - last night was the one and only VP debate and according most of the news media and pundits out there both candidates essentially did no harm to themselves or their running mates. I agree in principle but the problem is that there were different objectives for both. Biden was required not provide the stupid sound byte for the Republicans to hammer on and Palin was supposed to just be able to last the entire night without falling flat on her face. Both did that, but aren't we setting a low bar for Biden and essentially putting the bar on the ground for Palin to just walk over. This debate wasn't for a treasurer of the touchdown club it was for the second most powerful person in the country!!!!! Just don't screw up???

In my assessment (I am unqualified like most) I feel that on the important items and the issues, Biden made a strong showing. He was informed, specific, confident, and most importantly - for the most part he answered the questions asked. When the night was done I felt confident that Biden could be our commander in chief if necessary. As an aside, I personally think any of the four candidates would have mopped the floor with GWB in these debates. That brings us to Palin, she has got some fire and some spunk and that resonates with a lot of people but is that all we want? I take nothing away from her record in Alaska and the executive experience she had in that market but this is the national and international stage. She has to sharp and ready for anything not just be a cheerleader for "regular people", John McCain, and the social conservatives. She needs to answer the questions asked and not divert back to the topics that are in her wheelhouse. Remember that John McCain is the oldest candidate ever seeking office for his first term, more than Biden, she literally is a heartbeat away from becoming the leader of the free world. Darn right she got cheers from all the moms out there. Did she get love from pro-life people, you betcha! But really who is ready to assume office?

I know that not everyone votes on the issues (I don't like this but its a fact) and Sarah Palin is easier to identify with then Joe Biden. Biden has been in the public sector over 35 years now but he was once a regular guy with real problems albeit further in his past than Palin's. The problem I have is that Palin's appeal attracts the same type of voter that put Bush in office. The whole crowd that likes their personalities, saying that they are everyday regular people. Everyday regular people are not supposed to be president or vice president, the liquor store clerk is not going to be able to set up a budget and head an appropriations committee. We've got to draw a line between likability and electability. Sarah Palin is wonderful for a state government with the local speak and kitchy appeal, but this is an international job that I don't feel she is ready for. I think that she was selected at least partially to take some of the focus off of McCain but it stands to reason that there would have been more real competition in last night's debate if Biden had to face off with Mitt Romney.

The same job should require the same aptitude from it's candidates.