wow I made it through live blog withdrawals……hello everyone

I think the process McCain went through to choose Palin as his running mate raises serious questions about how he would staff his administration. To select someone he only met in February and spoke to once since to possibly lead this nation is inconceivable. I’ve had more interviews than that for a lateral position in a company I’ve worked for over 29 years. This causes me to seriously question his character.

Good evening Anderson and all best bloggers. Lots to discuss tonight. Hope you can get it all in Anderson and make sure you get out of New Orleans before the storm makes its visit. Anderson how did you enjoy your DNC experience?

I agree totally with Paul Begala - one has to seriously question McCain’s judgement in selecting Palin after meeting her ONCE? He barely knows her!

I wanted to start by talking about Mccain’s VP pick. This is a deliberate attempt by mccain to steal the Hillary supporters from the democrats and if this works it shows how uninformed American voters can be. We need to open our eyes and started voting for what represents our interests personally and politically. Look, I know a lot of people were looking forward to the first female president this election
but you need to understand Mccain and Palin are Hillarys polar opposites and we need to start voting on the issues NOT for gender or race.

McCain absolutely stunned me today by his choice. I just can’t believe he would practically hand the election over to Obama. McCain can never bring up experience again. Thank you for the present on your birthday McCain

Sure doesn’t feel like 3 years ago…

On the Palin note: I totally agree with missy. This was a cheap shot to get some media attention.

John McCain is desperate with this pick. The other ones he had considered are far more experienced. What a dumb move - but that’s good for us Obama supporters.

I totally question his judgement now. She seems like an awesome woman, but there were so many people more qualified!

Hello everyone. I’m completely surprised by McCains vp pick. It seems like he picked her out of thin air.

Well Obama has absolutely no experience and he is at the top of the ticket. So Obama supporters can’t down Palin too much!

Cindy..Ga.

dang scandal already and republicians want her to be VP

I thought McCain scared me before today. Now I know he scares me. This man meets one time and is willing to entrust the nation to a person. I must say I would question that judgement. Not to take from his VP choice because I know nothing about her but I do question his judgement.

Wow, McCain surprised me. This is a shocking indication of what he thinks would be a great step in if something happens to him?

John McCain would rather win an election than put his Country First!!

Yes, Cindy, but McCain has been complaining about Obama’s lack of experience since the beginning so why would he turn around and pick her? It doesn’t show much judgement to me. How can you know if someone will do a good job if you’ve only met them once?

you should know and trust your running mate with all of your heart can you honestly say that you trust someone to run this country if youve met them once!

She has experience in a state with a population that you can fit into Chicago at least three times. There were more people at that rally today, than the population of the town she was mayor of. At least Obama has more experience than that.

As a Hillary Democrat, I am appalled if McCain thinks that by picking a woman I would be swayed to vote for the McCain/Palin ticket. I am not that shallow. I want qualified people, regardless of gender or color to lead this country.

I had not made my mind up about Obama, but I would sure as heck feel more comfortable with Binden as a heartbeat away from the presidency than with Palin a hearbeat away.

Personally, to me, the experience thing doesn’t bother me about Obama or Palin it’s just McCain’s hypocritical attitude about it.

I am one of those women who agree with the fact that I find this reckless and impulsive…typical McCain…

Instead of talking to pundits and surrogates who really know nothing about her, why don’t you do as PBS did and interview Alaskan press and legislators who actually know her.

Comparing her to the Obama is ridiculous. He has been vetted for nineteen months by the voters and media and has received accalades from legislators that have actually worked with him.

Trying to tie her to Hillary because she is a woman is ludirous.

David Gergen knows his stuff. Hit the nail on the head. The “Pant Suits” will be insulted by McCains selection. McCain has taken the gamble of his lifetime. If it blows up in his face he will have handed the election to Obama without even a vote.

Paul Begala just hit the nail on the head…..this is almost petrifying

Now there is finally a person with governing experience on any ticket. A youthful, gun-toting, former beauty queen, and successful soccer mom-type who leads an entire state, not to mention being a conservative who believes in the core, wholesome values that has helped build America, yet still is tough enough to stand up against big government and special interest groups. Is she the modern-day Annie Oakley of government who, with Maverick McCain, will help reform the government and establish fiscal responsibility in the government finally?

I know McCain wanted to throw out something that would get people talking about the Republican parties but this move shows that McCain reacts and not thinks about the big decisions. What a sad move for the Republican party.

Paul Begala is right this is a poses a scary situation for all americans not just democrats. Mccain drops she is in charge…thats crazy

I agree with everyone. Gov of Alaska is the next Veep? NO WAY! This is crazy and I think McCain blew it. I am shocked. How does he plan to win the major states???

I think this is very insulting to the women in his party with experience. I saw Kay Bailey Hutchinson this morning at a loss for words to say one thing about this woman.

Ken, I think McCain already handed Obama the election.

I am surprised at everyone’s reaction. Is it because she is not from Washington D.C.? Doesn’t she deserve a closer look before everyone decides that she is not worthy? How can you say that she is not qualified after making the case that Senator Obama is?

I like McCain’s choice. As a democrate I will vote for McCain and Palin. I would rather take a chance on her maybe becoming president than Obama being president.

Did anyone else notice that when McCain was announcing his v.p. choice, that he had to look down at and read her name? He apparently didn’t know what it was and had to read it to remind himself. He just looks so old and forgetful.

Crazy, what a day it has been in the politcal side of things, John McCain is nuts!

I am keeping an open mind. Everyone has the right to vote for the candidate of their choice. And we’ll all do that in November. We don’t know Palin enough to rip her to shreds.

I was a Hillary supporter but it was because of her position on the issues so why would I vote for the McCain/Palin who’s positions are the exact opposite? Just because she is a woman doesn’t make me vote for her. Obama believes in what I do and I will vote for him because of that, not because he’s black nor did I support Hillary because she was a woman.

Hi everyone!
Simply because Obama didn’t pick Sen. Clinton as a running mate this doesn’t mean that McCain’s choice will guarantee him those 18 million votes from Hillary’s supporter — or rather those 13% (maybe 9%?) of Hillary’s supporters who might not vote for Obama. What’s more, McCain is losing the opportunity to go against Obama for his “lack of experience.” Rather “irrisponsible,” as Begala said. Not very well thought; predictable almost. What is his pretext going to be now that he’s chosen a running mate with no experience whatsoever?!
The next two months will be fun — filled with debates that run in circles.

I am a huge Hillary Clinton supporter and I can tell you I am not insulted by Gov. Palin’s selection. I doubt that I will vote for McCain but I am not voting for Obama either. I am very proud to have a women in this presidential election. You go girl!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You tell umm Susan - Oklahoma and Kim. I am insulted by his selection and I am not a woman. I saw it as a slap in the face of all the women who were supporters of HRC. To me it was sending the message “Come vote for me. I will PUT a woman on the ticket for your vote” That is insulting.

I am not crazy about McCain’s choice of Palin in the VP spot, but I have more problems with Obama in the top spot.

as a 68 year old women, I will not vote for mccain. putting a women on the ticket feels like he’s conning me. I, like many tonight feel that the vp in this day and age should be ready to be president from day one. no on -site training.

This is putting country first huh? This just shows he will do whatever it takes to win this election

Senator Obama has been vetted for the past 19 months by we the people and was elected into his position. Ms. Palin was not. As a Democrat, I am completely with Paul Begala I think this is the greatest choice McCain could have made!! I am thrilled. He made it that much easier for Obama to prove McCain has incredibly poor judgment.

I’m a conservative and I am torn. McCain threw a Hail Mary. He sure did shake it up. He was tied w/Obama. If he were 20 points down then throw a Hail Mary. But when the race is this close play it safe and go with Pawlenty or Romney. I like what I have learned about her but I question her age & qualifications.

If this is McCain idea of a rounded ticket, he is terrible mistaken. It is an insult to Hilary Clinton and to the american people that Palin can be position at the same level as Hilary. She is no Hilary and cannot even pretend that this woman is qualified to be commander in chief.

All McCain did with this choice is point up his age, his past cancer, and playing politics.

So what does Anderson think of Governor Palin? LOL

If Mr. Obama is correct that “change does not come from Washington but to Washington” then Ms. Palin is the only choice on either ticket who is not from Washington. By his own logic, it seems we should all vote Republican.

There is no way John McCain put “country first” with the choice of Sarah Palin as his VP! It is all about him, and politics. Karl Rove will use anyone in order to hang onto power! John McCain is his puppet!

Paul Begala didn’t want Obama, but “democracy” prevailed in allowing a guy without any experience to run at the top of the ticket?

I am one of the soccer moms both sides wanted - you what - this VP selection sold me.

McCain’s senate record and Palin’s gov record show me that do more than talk the talk like Obama/Biden - they WALK THE WALK. They are exactly what America needs right now.

McCain’s VP Pick: No Way - No How - No Who?

This is crap. As a woman, I am completely offended by McCain’s choice. If he thinks that THAT woman would appeal to Hillary Clinton-ites, then that just proves that he is unqualified to make decisions for our country. That woman could not be more OPPOSITE than Clinton. NRA member? Hunter? Pro-life? Socially conservative? This is just ridiculous.

I am pissed Sarah is no Hillary by a long shot and McCain is selling us a McGimick!!!

John McCain has just proven that his age does matter because he has just contradicted every thing he has said about Obama. McCain has just showed his judgment can be persuaded. Obama showed strength and judgment when he did not fold from the pressure to pick Hillary as his VP because truly Biden is the strongest choice. Likewise McCain has let Rush Limbaugh and the gangs force him into a bad decision for his VP selection. And by the way, Hillary supporters are to smart to fall for this under minding gimmick.

Eric
Albany, Ga.

David Gergen, I agree whole heartedly with your thoughts, and Paul Begala, I absolutely feel your emotions and frustration. My sister and I were just talking about what a joke this is. But none the less, what a scary joke if god forbid, McCain wins. I can’t think of one good reason I would vote for McCain. What concern me is people like my mom, who were huge Hillary supporters so much that they will turn to McCain. When asked what she will do now, after learning about Palin, my mom said it made her even more sure she would vote for McCain. Like Paul, I am petrified!!!

As a woman smack dab in the middle of the demo McCain is shooting for (sorry for the bad pun), but this just isn’t working for me. While I’m sure Palan is a fine govenor, not so sure about VP. Please don’t insult me by putting a woman as VP just to have a woman on the ticket. I deserve better than that. Especially given McCain’s medical history and age. I’m pretty sure this undecided vote has swung Obamas way.

I was very impressed with McCain’s bold move today, but could you just imagine if the unthinkable happened and after all the “blood and guts” that Hilary put into her campaign, Sarah Palin turned out to be our first woman president!!!!!!!!

Cindy: Do you feel comfortable about supporting a candidate you know absolutely nothing about as a legislator? What is her stand on health Care? does she support Georgia? What does she propse to do about Iran?Does she want to reduce nuclear arsenaols? What about Darfur? What are her experiences outside of Alaska?? to name a few……

Watching the Republicans try to sell Palin is rather funny……just not that effective

It’s clear that John McCain picked his VEEP to win this election -not the person who would work well with him and certainly not be the best person for the job.

I don’t understand why he would undercut his strongest argument against Obama (experience) while raising the previously taboo subject of his age.

This wil certainly be the most interesting election in history. I hope our you people can really appreciate living history, this will be in history books in great detail.

As a woman I am highly insulted by McCain’s VP pick.This is an obvious ploy to get the women’s vote.I am truly afraid as a woman because Palin is an extreem pro-life person.She want’s to outlaw abortion even if a woman is raped or if it’s incest.McCain is against equal pay for women and Palin is also against gay rights.This is truly frightening to me to have two people who are so non-inclusive.How dare she tell any woman who might be raped or the victim of incest what to do with their body.This is taking us back to the dark ages.

Frankly I am just at lost for words about McCain pick.
This is supposed to be a man that thinks of his country first.
Putting someone in the second most important place of our lives is just crazy.
He doesn’t know her, just of her.
I feel more safe with bush!

Let’s give her a chance to make her case.

I find it curious that most of the compairisons are between Palin and Obama and not between VPs…or Ps for that matter.

Since John McCain has voted against equal pay for women. I wonder how Gov. Palin feels about this issue?

Once again we see what type of Judgement Mccain has. This is scary…Paul you could not have said it better….

David and Paul are right! This was a very wreckless and poor judgment choice! If he wins I will be extremely scared! Obama may not have a lot of experience but he has surrounded himself with someone with great experience and also he has proven himself with how well he has conducted himself through his campaign!

I am totally with Paul Begala and I think all democrats need to drive the message and doubt to voters that if something were to happen to Mccain at this age,there would be a void in the White House with this inexperienced woman.

As an ardent Hillary supporter (and a self-proclaimed feminist), I wouldn’t vote for McCain Palin because of a woman VP candidate. I wouldn’t pick a completely different platform because of a candidate. After all, Obama is part of the Democratic Party. Technically, the public chooses the party behiind him. Obama might be charismatic and inspirational, but he represents his party, after all.

Anderson please tell me this is a McGimick!!! I am a woman and I am offended by this to say womanare stupid.

WOW, and this comes from an Independent who really wanted to watch BOTH conventions and really do my homework before voting this time. I never heard of her . But no, John had to go and insult my intelligence, as if all he needed to do was place a woman on a ticket to get the woman’s vote. But, to even try to convince me this is another Hillary is even more insulting.
Oh well, no need to watch the next convention now.
PS. Hi Obama, what can I do to help you out.

I think that even John McCain has now realized by Obamas magnificant speech, ideas and policies that he is the best choice for president so he has made his ticket so horrible that nobody will vote for him! Its his own way of supporting Obama!!

My main issue is McCain, and his judgement. He picked someone who has less experience than anyone on his shortlist. After criticizing Obama, who has more experience than her. He hired the wrong person. I think she’s great, I can’t wait to see what she does in the future, I found her inspiring in her speech- but it shows McCain’s lack of judgement right now. He is not putting the country first. He could have had a ticket full of experience, a very strong one, but he chose not to do that.

I don’t know John McCain went with his gut after meeting her one time, maybe he knows what he’s doing.

Loved the final night of the Democratic convention. Democrats made through a difficult summer.

McCain proved he doesn’t get it. It wasn’t just about having a skirt, or pantsuit: it’s for choice, against war, for gun control, etc. etc. And the demographics aren’t even there: she’s too young, McCain! More a daughter to us who handed out petitions in the 70s for the ERA than a peer. You don’t get us!!

how insulting to women that a political trick is supposed to garner our vote? i am not comfortable with this tactic nor the choice of sen. mccain to seek votes from sen. clinton.

A woman is what this country so desperately needs! Everyone knows a woman can handle more than a man-in every aspect of life. She is one tough cookie (and I thought Hillary was at first) and she will put this country back in shape the way it should be!!

It’s about time–talk about change–Washington will indeed get the much needed change it so needs and deserves! Go Pailin!

Have you not seen a woman in action? Have a seat and enjoy the ride!

Palin seems to be a fine mother and governor, however, her positions on issues do not match where I think the country should be. A woman’s right to choose, the economy, the war etc are far more important than electing a woman just because she’s a woman. It’s nothing personal against her, it’s just her politics.

As a woman who does not believe that Obama is capable outside the ‘rock star’ arena, I am thrilled with Palin’s selection. Her resume is one of being courageous in housecleaning the politics of Alaska. I learned more about her character today that is positive than I learned about Obama in over a year of his inspirational messages. Thank you McCain.

Have you ever heard of anything so ridiculous to have a candidate that has never even served in either of the legislative branches of the US….a part time mayor of city with a population of 6000, and under investigation by her own state; a full time mother with a infant who has special needs….yes she would be up at midnight…… to get her infant a bottle….Is this wisdom or is this just a political ploy by the republicans to upstage the democrats.

Everyime Republicans are asked whether Palin is more qualified to step in as Commander in Chief than any others on the VP short list, they totally evade the question and start ranting about what a great governor she is. Obama has served on the Foreign Affairs comittee w Biden, and has excellent diplomatic instincts - as proven by the change in the Bush strategy. She hasn’t been into the Iraq thing !!!

Let’s not forget who is top of the ticket, and who is not. Palin has more executive experience than Obama. Obama has never run anything in his life.

k, plenty of time to report on McCain’s VP choice, lets get to the hurricane, those of us south of I-10 want to hear what cnn has to say about it.

knock knock….who’s there….gustav….gustav who….a gustav wind just blew my roof off!

knock knock….who’s there…hanna…hanna who….hanna me my keys, I gotta go!

I just thought a little humor could be used around here in NOLA. It is an amazing sight…neighbors cooking up hotdogs for neighbors…trying to relieve the stress of everything. Proud to be New Orleans!!!!!

Hi Anderson,

While I usually favour the democrats, to be honest and realistic Palin can potentially give democrats a run for their money. She has the best of both worlds - young and fresh (something that attracts Barack Obama supporters) while being a staunch conservative (something that will please the base of McCain’s party). If Republicans want to temper the momentum Obama is supposed to get after the convention, they can give a lot of credit to McCain’s pick.

I think that the first most important executive decision you make is picking your VP and it tells what type of President you will be. In my opinion Sarah Palin is a very risky choice. Senator McCain is 72 and from reports I’ve seen becoming President excelerates the aging process and I don’t see Palin as being someone I would be comfortable with being a heartbeat away from the Presidency.

Is Obama too inexperienced? I’m surprised nobody in the media has mentioned that the undisputed, most visionary U.S. President of all time, Abraham Lincoln, had served only as an Illinois state senator and one term in the U.S. Congress before being elected President and leading the United States of America through the greatest change in its history.

I, too, was stunned by McCain’s choice for vice president. i will listen and give her a chance. However, i can’t help but wonder, if she was chosen because everyone else said NO

Lori Ann, I agree and although I have many opposing views I will try to give her the benefit of the doubt. The only trouble is there is not much time for people to get to know her.

i am frantically trying to find out who this person is.

she left her town millions in debt because of her bad adminstration

Are you kidding me? This is not only stupid but it is scary!!!!!!!!
Anderson, you guys in the media better start doing your job and tell the American people the truth. ENOUGH with the fluff. This woman is not ready, give me a break.

I am more than bewildered. How could he have selected a running mate whom America does not know? Obama was darn right when he asked how could you select someone by chance of 10%? Very disappointing choice. Won’t get my vote on this one.

I visited Alaska for a month from Dec. to Jan, and I have several friends who cannot afford to put fuel in their furnaces. September 15, will be a short relief for my family members and friends to get their dividend checks and a surplus check to heat their homes for 2 months. The lower 48 as we call it and Alaska are 2 different worlds I know the life styles and governing skills are different. I don’t need a beauty queen I need someone with lower 48 experience.

Bill Clinton said in his speech that one of the ways we could tell what kind of president Obama would be was by his first Presidential choice: who his VP would be, and that he “hit it out of the ballpark” with Biden. What does this say about how McCain will run this country???? To me, it says that he’s selfish and is solely thinking about how he can win the presidency, rather than thinking of the status of the coutry, both nationally and internationally.

I think that most women are going to be offended by his choice. It’s completely out of line and I think that Obama is really going to benefit from this.

I don’t like that she’s pro-life and anti-gay marriage.

McCain doesn’t even know her! How does he expect to possibly work closely with her for four years? I just don’t get it…

I can’t believe that Palin actually talked about Hillary’s 18 million cracks comment. They’re not even attempting to hide their real motives.

I like McCain’s choice. She has done more in her limited time in office than Obama has in his 2 years in the Senate. I just find it amusing that the Democrats are suddenly concerned with experience when their candidate clearly lacks it.

As a suburban woman, I am insulted by McCain’s selection… Does he think women are that shallow and stupid that any woman will suffice in a job???????? Has he forgotten that the vice president just might have to run the country if he is incapacitated for even a small procedure?????Can she run this country??????? This is a disgraceful selection and I am even questioning all republicans now if they accept this choice……..All woman are not alike……..
Republicans need to reject this choice at the convention

McCains selection of Palin is showing us how to be a maverick and give obama the election without a vote being cast! Thanks, John. Anderson, stay safe in “Nawlins”..

Obama has argued that experience does not matter. How can he attack Palin’s? It just points out his own lack.

I think John McCain actually wants to loose this race for President,
he must feel that Obahma is the better choice, otherwise he would not choose in such an irresponsible way. God forbid that anything would happen to him, could I feel safe and trust that Ms Palin could run the country????!!!!!!
This certainly is not the caliber and quality of Hillary Clinton. I am insulted as a women with a brain that this has become just a matter of women vs. men.

What does this say about McCain’s beliefs? He has talked for months that he believes Sen Obama is not qualified enough to be president because of his lack of experience. His pick for VP reflects the fact that he does not actually believe that (and instead it’s just him playing politics). What does this say about his other things he says he “believes” in? How many other things is he just playing politics with?

This young woman has a very young child with Down’s Syndrome. How can she be a good and caring mother for her baby and be a heartbeat away from the Presidency at the same time. How could she even consider taking this on? It is totally ludicrous and a very bad move by McCain. I think that it is a disgrace to women. She is a mother!

Now how would he know all that after only meeting her once! And plus she’s under investigation for abuse of power just like Bush and his cronies! Please America this is a very dangerous choice! She may be a dynamite person but she’s not ready!

Evening….
Sarah Palin reminded of Tina Fey at first glance this morning.
But, like many, I too am confused by this choice. And a co-worker from across the office said out loud “Who the hell is she?” and he is a die hard Republican, he was confused too. I do not know what to make of it.
From what I have been hearing and reading all day, I’m still sort of “what the-?”

Selecting a woman who has goverened a population Half the size of Orlando, to possibly be the leader of the free world is insane. She’s outside the beltway, and Mccain’s out of his mind.

It was obviously more important to him to energize his base rather than pickup moderate and Independent voters. I can’t help but feel that the evangelical base of the Republican Party would have turned out to support McCain if only to prevent an Obama win. By choosing such an inexperienced running mate and particularly such a social conservative, McCain has left all of those moderate and independent voters out in the cold. I’ve been a McCain supporter for years, but I can’t help feeling a little offended at this choice. Obama has my vote.

I wonder if John McCain would have chosen Sarah to be his running mate if Obama chose Hilary as his VP. I doubt she would have been his choice and feel this is a game of checkers….your move, my move.

Ingrid D, You have a good point. Maybe we should wait until we see a Biden/Palin debate before passing final judgement.

Thank you Senator McCain….what the democrats would not do, you have done. Governor Palin is an awesome choice.

I’m a woman and yes I am insulted.This is just pandering and anyone who can’t see that is blind as a bad.She doesn’t represent my values and McCain is just about winning which is what he said Obama was.This is pandering for votes and reckless.

I agree with everyone. This lady can’t be compared to Hillary Clinton.

If you are a woman and feel so strongly about Hillary and so negative about Gov. Palin, you wouldn’t have voted for Senator McCain anyway. I have a lot of respect for Senator Clinton, I was disappointed that she wasn’t chosen as the VP. I have not make my choice yet and refuse to make it before I have all of the facts.

She only has 63 days to make her case. I am not a McCain supporter because I don’t think he has the judgment or the temperment to be Commander in Chief and this proves it.

How can Obama be quilfied to be a president with bo experiance and
Gov.Palin not qulified even though she has more execitve experiace than all the men on the ticket

So McCain really is the flip-flopper the Dems have been saying he is. No surprise there. Remember Senator, was Kerry’s speech? The “old” McCain verses the “new” McCain

Why does anyone think that she has the credentials or the right to put her name anywhere near the list of great men that have occupied that office. It’s an insult to this country and to the great men who founded it.

I wonder how many countries are laughing themselves silly over McCains vp pick. Does anyone think that this will improve the way we are viewed world wide. I certainly hope the USA is not judged by one old foolish mans choice. Shame on McCain.

It’s funny….McCain gets knocked for trying to get Hillary’s voters, but Obama doesn’t receive any grief for picking Biden, who one could say is a strategy for trying to appeal to military with his son in Iraq. You can disagree, but that’s the way I see it. Maybe McCain picking someone who describes herself as a “hockey mom” is just what this country needs because to me the government is way out of touch with the middle class. They have no idea how different policies affect the average person. Maybe a well qualified “hockey mom” will have the touch. I’m more comfortable with Palin being a heartbeat away than with Obama being the actual President!

Paul Begala is SOOO RIGHT!! This is not only scary it is petrifying to think that this woman could be president should McCain drop!!! What is he thinking?? Oh I forgot, he’s not thinking! Does he think so little of women, that he actually believes he would receive their vote just because his VP choice is a woman?! I find that not only insulting, but ludicrous! I think McCain is in for a rude awakening…and what about her children? Who will be caring for her youngest while she’s on the campaign trail???

McCain and his surrogates hit Obama hard claiming he does not have the experience to be President. Taking that into consideration Obama named a VP choice with a ton of world experience. Now here you have the conditions where a VP can give advice to the President but with McCain’s choice if anything happens to him she has no VP in place to give her that experience and knowledge she needs on day one. She would have to wing it and I do not like the idea of our country being run on a wing.

A very sad day for GOP,,,,McCain really underestimate Americans women voters by thinking that they will just vote for somebody he just met once. You kind have to wonder how bad he would like to get this job…

2 meetings, are you kidding me. As a woman I am insulted and pissed off.

McCain is obviously grasping for those middle ground voters and Hilary supporters. It seems like he was shooting for the shock value to get momentum for his campaign going into the GOP convention. It seems to be working as everyone is talking about how shocking the choice of Palin truly is, where as we have barely had time to take in Barack’s speech. This I fear may be a stunt to get those votes just to get to Washington. He’s just adding appeal. I am excited to see what she’s got in the VP debate in October.
Paul, Denver

Behind closed doors, I wonder what the other Republican VP wantabees are thinking?

I have lived through a lot of elections…and I am seriously in shock. Does John McCain think this is a joke? He doesn’t even know her! What is wrong with him? I hope even republicans come to the realization that this guy is a loose cannon. I hope nobody goes easy on her because she is a woman…we need to find out who this woman is…no one went easy on Hillary Clinton!

Sorry Amy… I don’t need the cute and folksy…I need to know this woman is capable leader in a scary world.

I agree with Michelle from CA…this has shown me that John McCain has shown poor judgment.

gotta disagree w/Amy Holmes assesment. where are those figures coming from? I’m a married women and I can’t remember the last time I voted republican.

I’d like to thank John McCain for handing over this election lock, stock and barrel. This was one of the most irresponsible decisions I’ve ever seen a Republican make. No wait, it’s just like the last eight years.

Once again: John McCain — More of the same!!!

I think this is McCain’s way of trying to make history on his terms. I am a Hillary supporter,but I wasn’t voting for her because she is a women but because I know her.The good and the bad. I know what to expect.

I’m deeply concerned that McCain made a bet on our country with this selection and believes that we as former Hillary supporters are so ignorant that we would vote for a woman just because of gender and not on the issues. If you remember, Hillary said” did you vote just for me? or did you vote for me because of the issues?” Be careful, do your research, Obama Biden has more experience, credentials and more well rounded than McCain and Palin combined.

I think when Biden and Palin debate Biden is just going to eat her alive.

McCain is going at the womens vote from a different direction, that’s all, also balancing the ticket in some ways. Alaska is a big state.

Have to say, I feel that the democratic party showed it’s big heart at the convention. Kind of uplifting. This hand wringing about McCain’s vp pick sort of a contrast.

I wonder if he is actually trying to lose by doing this. Maybe he, too has gotten cuaght up in the “DREAM” of possibilities and “CHANGE for a better way of life for all Americans and not some. Just maybe this John McCain’s way of subtly trying to lose without dropping out. May John McCain is secretly an Obamamanian like mikeself. LOL!

At this point I can say with total honesty that I do not feel like I’m being represented by anybody currently running. I’m not a Rep so McCain and his vp pick don’t change how I feel.

Enough with politics this weekend, your keeping up with Gustav, is fine. The big question we should be asking is: Is FEMA ready? prepared to move like lightning, fully facilitated, competently planned for the various potential outcomes of Gustav and/or the next weather
catastrophy? Let’s get some answers on tonight’s 360.

She is also under investigation (for the firing of a town official? did I get that right?) Was she not vetted?

Paolo: Believe me there is nothing in Palin’s resume that will attract Obama’s supporters!!! A VP pick has to be picked for other considerations than just giving you a bump in the polls.

I think McCain is insane and this move just proves it. Does he really think Hillary supporters are going to drop the ideology she represented and vote for his ticket because he adds a woman? She has no fundamental similarity to Hillary except that they are women. It’s insulting and further proof that Obama/Biden is the way to go in November.

Is McCain kidding. I understand trying to get the female vote, but I thought experience mattered! It is quite possible that his VP will be running the country, and honey, this ain’t no soccer game!!

The Democrats may have been united at the DNC, but those at the convention center and in that stadium in Denver are not the entire country.

The Dems are united! All is right in the world. Regardless of who we wanted to win.. between Hillary and Barck we all want to win the White house!

After last night’s acceptance speech, could it be that the McCain camp knows they’re beat and are simply putting forward a new, fresh face for the future? If so, their irresponsibility to our nation knows no bounds.

As a woman I am insulted. As an American I am scared. As an Obama supporter I am delighted. This is not about Palin, this is about McCain and his jugdement or lack there of. He met her once or twice and she was not vetted. He only chose her to win. If winning was the only thing Obama cared about he would have chose Clinton. Obama is putting his country first.

The McCain/Palin ticket will bring a good check and balance team. Love you reporting from New Orleans post Katrina. Pre-Gustav. I hope the storms won’t be too strong. After a week of Hurricane Fay Fatigue in Florida the wet weather I wish would be passive.

Anderson, The pomp and circumstance may have been spectacular, but the speech left a lot to be desired.

John Mcain thinks the VP of the United States should be a two term mayor of a city the size of a NY City High School and a 500 day Governor of a state with the population of Charlotte, NC. Oh Yea, he’s talked to her twice in the last 6 months. He’s not a maverick he’s got a touch of senile dementia

Obama’s speech was good, but he’ll never be able to deliver 10% of what he’s promised.

As a Democrat who has backed Obama from the beginning this McCain choice makes me happy and terrified at the same time. What is McCain thinking? Hillary supporters are now going to be running over to the Obama Biden ticket. I just have to believe that the American people are smarter than McCain thinks.

John McCain’s $5M figure will stand up until he actually answers the question. McCain dodged the question. So much for straight talk. What does McCain think is rich versus middle class?

I will never understand why John McCain would even joke about what middle class is……just tasteless

This hurricane season is looking like a nightmare. Gustav, then Hanna and two more potentials behind them. Hope that everyone in the areas involved stay safe.

As a woman I cannot agree with the choice of Palin. I see McCain and Palin hugging, but am unsure of the basis of their relationship. There is not enough time for non-Alaskans to get to know who Palin is. McCain’s choice placed the Republican voters into the height of uncertainty.

I couldn’t believe it when Nagin told Anderson that he didn’t know what “shape” the levees were in or if they would even “hold!” Wow, what has he been doing for the last three years?

I live in Anchorage Ak. I know that when Gov. Palin was mayor in Wasilla Ak there were issues with her there. She could not be reached for meetings and misc. other goings on. They were even trying to get her out of office.

I’m terrified that Gustav is going to do a lot of damage.

In April Govenor Palin called Hillary a whiner to Newsweek and today she is openly pandering to her voters. Give me a break! There is only one reason McCain chose her. I am just surprised he didn’t go with one of the more accomplished women with some foreign knowledge expertise. Today she told a reporter that she hadn’t thought about Iraq much? What would she do as Commander and Chief?

Sen McCain is an honorable man. He has picked a lady as VP who is a Governor. Senator Obama has no experience. Senator Bidon has experience in the senate. I like Sen mcCain.

I really pray the Gulf Coast is spared. I hope all of Texas is ok too. Lets hope they get all the people out and to safety if it hits.

my goodness…..a Cat 4. my prayers are wiht all in the Gulf Coast

As a Republican and as a family man, I am APPALLED of Senator McCain’s pick for the vice presidency of this great nation. Just imagine that you meet a person once, and you leave your future and the future of your children in his or her hands???

It is absolutely ludicrous to think of Sara Palin as a Commander in Chief, and we will definitely be the laughing stock around the world if god forbid and Sara Palin becomes the next president of this great nation.

I am delighted in McCain’s selection of Gov. Palin. She deserves the same respect and opportunities as her male counterparts. Just because she’s a mother doesn’t mean she can’t do the job. Women are much better than men when it comes to work, parenting and keeping the family household running. Maybe this country would be better off if a woman was in charge. Oh….and Obama, Biden and McCain are fathers.

In the last 3 years, I think we can now see that President Bush’s “promises,” like rebuilding New Orleans bigger and better, are mostly cheerleading and wishful thinking. If only we’d known then what we know now. Gulf Coast, we’re praying for you — PLEASE evacuate if there is a threat in your area!

Susan said: “Behind closed doors, I wonder what the other Republican VP wantabees are thinking?”

Probably the same things the Clintons think about Biden.

I live in Houston. What happens if Gustav comes here. Does anyone care?

The irony…the lead story during the republican convention is a hurricane heading toward New Orleans.

thank god gov. blanco is gone, jindal is a small step above her. and for the past two days the track has said gustav would land in the parish i live in. hopefully he will take advantage of the margin of error.

I really think that it is reckless not to have a shelter of last resort.

Oh I hope we don’t have to go through a Katrinlike situation again. That was so painful to watch.

It’s really good to hear of all of the preparations. I hope, if Gustav does hit NOLA, that these preparations really work.

I appreciate that ya’ll talk about NO, but what about everyone else in the path- the rest of LA and TX? How are they preparing for the storm? Are they evacuating?

New Orleans does seem to be getting ready, but I hope the hurricane doesn’t hit another area that just might not be so prepared. That could spell another disaster in a different location.

I’d be concerned that there are truly enough options to get everyone out of NOLA, if need be.

Biden should NOT go easy on Palin in a debate simply because she’s a woman–if she thinks she’s qualified enough to step into the job of president if it becomes necessary, she ought to be able to face Biden head-on in a debate. Hillary certainly could stand up to any Republican candidate without needing to be coddled.

Rick in Anchorage, you might know a bit about this — is it true that Gov. Palin’s kids are home schooled? By whom, I wonder? What will her stand on public education be? Will she simply parrot McCain’s parroting of the Republican line, or does she have her own views? Are there national issues she particulary champions?

It would be great to get some clarity from Alaska citizens who have some notion of her personal platform.

I hope the New Orleans levees do hold, maybe the storm will move to the west like James Carville says, less populated, more easy to evacuate, hope so, still dangerous though

Shot of the Day! Food fight..I guess even the four food groups can’t get along. Vote that tomato out.. Good Friday evening