Opinions on the VP debate

I just finished watching the U.S. Vice Presidential candidate debate between Sarah Palin and Joe Biden.  I must say that Palin must have received round-the-clock coaching for at least the past two weeks.  I had the feeling that she was preparing for the big beauty pageant AKA the debate.  She looked great.  Her experience as a broadcaster shone through as she spoke to the camera confidently.  The big beauty pageant was a success because she looked great and was able to give canned answers with confidence and poise.

I am deeply disturbed by the fact that the U.S. presidency can potentially be won by preparing for a beauty pageant.  Memorizing lines and spouting them regardless of what questions were asked at the time or whether or not the statements were true is not, in my book, winning a debate.  My definiton of a debate must be wrong.  I always thought it involved actually debating; point and counterpoint; having arguments that are grounded in logic and reason (and truth would be nice, but I know it’s not a requirement).

I had no problem with Biden’s performance at all.  He’s a great speaker and an incredibly smart guy.  Nobody can accuse him of sexism or condescension after tonight (although the McCain camp most likely will).  His experience will be an excellent asset for Obama should they have the good fortune of governing as President and VP.

As far as governing is concerned, I’m not sure who scares me more: McCain or Palin.  In the end, all of this political theater crud really isn’t going to matter if we wind up going to Hell with those two at the helm.  Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be canvassing and registering voters for the Obama campaign this weekend to make sure that Maverick Man and Captain Mooseburger don’t get to steer our ship!

Oh, and one more thing, Mrs. Palin.  About that “team of mavericks” that you plan to have leading our nation should you win: I wonder how well a team of “lone dissenters who take an independent stand apart from their associates” will govern.  Probably about as well as our current Congress who deservedly have a low-approval rating.  Yet another angle to bring up the whole “more of the same” theme!