Sarah Palin is an abomination. If she is elected vp, she will have McCain killed and try to bring about WW3. Any woman who votes for her deserves to lose all her rights.

I am seriously thinking of leaving the US if she and McCain win.

HELP!!! What am I missing? The economy is in shambles, people are losing there jobs and homes in record numbers, we are in a war that we shouldn't be in, we have no energy policy, Wall St. is hanging on by a thread. Katrina was an embarrassment. McCain picks a VP who he had met once. Now Freddie and Fannie Mae is going to cost tax payers billions. Yet with all that, there are people out there who want more of the same. I just don't get it. Shouldn't they all be fired?

I do understand that the addition of Palin to the Republican ticket might bring new energy and passion to the McCain Campaign by strengthening the Republican base and attracting independents. As a relatively emotional person myself I understand why people are drawn to the idea of having the Governor of Alaska, a fresh face, added to the GOP ticket. However life has proven that in these cases it is better to think with a cold head and in a more logical manner. Do we know where she stands on those issues that will affect our daily lives today and tomorrow?? Does she have the necessary understanding of the economy to lead in case she becomes president or even as the vice-president? This past weekend she made a statement on the housing crisis which had economists and analysts saying that it showed a lack of basic understanding about a key economic issue affecting the American people. Many of us liked George Bush when he was elected; we were guided more by our tastes and impressions than by logic and knowledge. We cannot make the same mistake now, especially now. On the other had why isn't CNN showing the video where Palin states she does not know what the vice-president does? If it has been broadcasted, it obviously has not been broadcasted enough.

This is a very important news story. People need to know what “Changes” Palin stands for in addition to changing laws that: Protect a woman’s right to choose by banning abortion under any circumstance including safety of the mother, rape, and incest. Protect the freedom of religion law by trying to make public schools change by teaching using her own religious beliefs instead of the current curriculum. Protect the freedom of speech law by trying to ban books. McCain and Palin keep saying “Country First”. But I wonder what country they are talking about. Because when they do actually talk about certain issues, they sound more and more like leaders from other countries that do not welcome diversity and freedoms that are welcome in the U.S.A. Palin’s views do not reflect that of mainstream America. She is welcome to her views, but she does not have the right to change laws to try to turn America into a nation of Evangels. And any solutions McCain has proposed to help fix our countries’ problems, will not work. This is because he wants to run the country the same way Bush did, right into the ground.

even as a christian, i STILL don't believe that religion has ANYPLACE in politics or government. what is more troubling, however, about this ticket is how the gop continues to lie and dissemble about everything. palin is a proven liar so i don't see how she could claim she's a christian. she largely changes her position based on political expediency and her claim of family values is clearly bogus. she is a noted bigot and has encouraged/expressed racist, sexist and anti-semetic views. mccain/palin would not serve this country - in the same way that palin does not serve god.

Oh Lord!! Yo gotta love those preachers. Wonder if there is any room on that deserted island with the good Rev. Idiot.(Reverand Wirght) IIf this years elections do not make you believe that there nneds to be a separation of church and state nothing will. God help us all!!!!!!!!

I used to beleive that John McCain really did speak his own mind. I am afraid now though that he has picked a running mate for the party, and not for him. As an american female I struggle with our double standard for women in politics, but Sarah Palin is no Hilary Clinton. I have yet to hear her discuss how she will put into action the "changes" she and John McCain are proposing. My only hope is that people really tune into the debates and listen for the real answer from all the candidates.

Palin's faith will help her in this election for two reasons: 1) It will energize the Republican Base, particularly Evangelicals, and 2) The majority of people in the US have at their core some spiritual belief in goodness and the greater good, allowing Palin to connect with them on some level. The media has a tendancy to show spirituality and/or religion in politics as if it is a bad thing which it is most definitely not! Most moral and ethical decisions affecting governmental policy does not happen in a vacuum. It is made with the most careful consideration which embodies all of one's life experiences and knowledge including spirituality and religion. Obama, the Democratic contender, had highlighted this point during his debate at Saddleback church. So if the skeptics think Palin's religion and spirituality makes her a bad candidate, they should also apply this line of reasoning to Barack Obama.

This woman has gingerly tried to make her first public statements on issues and has indicated she doesn't understand the first thing about the mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac. There are rumors that she completely mishandled her fairly simple budget as mayor of Wasilla, hired a lobbyist to INCREASE earmarks, has supported for re-election the indicted Ted Stevens and numerous high ranking REPUBLICAN politicians in Alaska familiar with her work have gone on record to say that she is not qualified for the VP position. Where are these stories? Where are these interviews? The press has become a laughing stock that will cow-tow to John McCain's feigned indignation for fear of upsetting corporate sponsors.

Do you jobs.

If this article is true, are you kidding me? What was McCain thinking? The woman is a fanatic.

Please look at the Anchorage Daily News which reports that the Alaskan taxpayers paid for that trip to the church. They have the itemizations that show no separation in church and state exists in her government.

Why are you not pounding Joe vogler of the Alaska Independant Party Story like you did the Rev. Wright story? I am sick and tired of the media just giving McInsane and his trophy VP pick a free pass. You never call them on all their lies. All of you have become just tabloid reporters, not interested in the facts- thanks for serving the people. How do you sleep at night knowing how biased you have been through this election process? Tell the truth!

I am a 38 year old Catholic woman who voted for Bush! However, I am very disappointed in the Republican party! Does McCain think that I am going to vote for him just because he choose a woman for his VP. I am not impressed with Palin. I would not feel safe with her answering the red phone at 3:00 a.m. I am a working mother of 3 and know the demands that is put on a woman today. Not to mention, her lack of experience with Foreign Policy. If she is a heartbeat away from the white house, I am really scared. God help us if that happens.

If I'm not mistaken, our Constitution very clearly provides for separation of state and religion. Those citizens who came before us knew perfectly well what it meant to live in a place where religion dictated government issues creating the abuse of power by religion and lack of religious freedom. We, the people of the United States of America stand firmly for freedom of religion, creed, race, ect. Faith based government has no place in our nation. Thomas Jefferson fought for this vehemently – if I am not mistaken, because of him, Catholics, Jews, and Quakers were finally able to run for government.

Religious freedom was the inital precursor for braving tough and unchartered waters. If we believe in "country first", then we should uphold those truths that our forfathers believed "to be self-evident".

I'm glad Obama and Biden haven't started attacking Palin. The real Mrs. Palin is slowing unfolding which is something McCain should have investigated prior to his pick. McCain should be questionable in the minds and hearts of everyone.

Was the entire of America asleep when they thought this woman would save us as our VP? Didn't the Christian ultra-right conservatives put Bush into office? And now do they think that was a good idea? This woman will walk over anyone to get what she wants-she's already proven that she will and can do it in Alaska, and McCain will be her first hit. Do we really want someone who thinks she has some divine providence to save us from ourselves and the world making decisions about our personal rights, and setting policy (yes, she will) on economic issues and foreign relations? America had better wake up- it's just about 60 days until your rights, according to "God's will" will be GONE – particularly for women!

When are the media going to go after this fraud! I'm for them asking tough questions on both sides and for the McCain bunch to quite hiding behind her skirt.

A question for Randi:

Do the Palin kids celebrate Halloween? I have a few neighbors who are Pentecostal; they don't celebrate Halloween (or read the Harry Potter books) because of their faith. I think that would underscore just how serious she is about her faith; I suspect it takes a strong faith to say no to trick or treating.

Judging from the CNN polls today showing Palin is solidifying the older, white male vote more than females, I think her target audience is the
VIAGRA VOTE.

V O T E R S of A M E R I C A:

Go out and find 5 random people (friends, coworkers, or college mates) and ask them if they share, identify, or support the sentiment of some of Palin's comments above; however, don't mention these comments came from Palin's mouth.

My bet is that all 5 will:

1. Ask if you are crazy or kidding.
2. Walk away slowly without comment.
3. Report you to the authorities or HR.

Enough said.

The corporate media has given Palin a pass due to fear of being called sexist. Meanwhile, no one really mentioned the sexist pins being worn by men and women at the RNC (Hoosiers for the "HOT CHICK" and The Hottest VP from the coolest State). How is not setting women's rights back a few decades?

Please start reporting and start vetting. You can stay away from most personal issues and look at policy. How about her gaffe on Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae? How about going after her religious beliefs like you did Obama?

p.s. and American should realize how selfserving McCain is. He picked a woman he met once and knew relatively little about other than she was good PR to help him WIN! I want a president more interested in saving the world than winning it for his own ego, and a vice president more interested in saving our country than the souls of people who don't believe what they believe.

Hi Randi, it's good to see you guys covering this. No, religion has no place in government. And yes, Palin's religious beliefs will affect policy–at least that's what her most ardent supporters are counting on.

Along with this pastor controversy, I really hope CNN also looks into Palin's involvement with the Alaska Independence Party. Its founder, Joe Vogler, has said some things about America that make Reverend Wright look tame by comparison. Palin has courted this group over the years and her husband was a member. As the number two person on a ticket that pledges to put "country first," this is very relevant.

Wow Mary. YOU scare me. Not Sarah Palin. Maybe it would be best if you do leave. Do you realize that you are potentially accusing the next VP of the US of being a murderer? Whatever it is that you stand for, I do not want to be a part of. Enough about you though, that is not why I logged on.

The recent news about Sarah Palins' affiliation with a church and the beliefs are not all accurate. First of all, one church is mentioned over and over verbally but another is displayed on screen. Is this an error or intentional? Either way it leaves a lot of room for scrutiny in the information we receive over the airways. Secondly, if Sarah Palin is praying for our troops, praying that this is the direction that keeps us in God's blessings, then I ask how is this bad? If you don't believe in God than so what. Within your belief system it won't matter anyway! If Sarah Palin's decision making is based on a foundation of true right and wrong and that led her to go against even her own party, that led her to love her child and move forward in a way that is best for the innocent life that is involved... then that is the kind of leadership I want. It doesn't mean that I will always agree nor will I always get what I want, but when we are talking about our country it isn't always about ME! If you are of the belief, to each his own, or tolerance, then where do you draw a line? Who will draw that line? Who might say doing drugs is okay if they are not hurting someone else... so you think it's okay for them to hurt themselves? If I were the one hurting myself, I certainly don’t want you in charge. No one person elected will be in office to serve only you.

This is SO SCARY! I will be in Canada if McCain/Palin get elected.

This religion stuff is WAY TOO MUCH! This is such a farce!

She is a religious lunatic. I hope the American people wake up!!!

Let's worry about the economy and jobs. This is the Vice President of the United States!!!

CNN is ready to jump at the chance to criticize Sarah Palin regarding her religion but I don't remember them having anything to say about Barack Obama's left wing nut Pastor or the radical church he attended ! I watch all the networks and CNN is always on the side of Obama. Their bias is so obvious!!!!!

Randi,
OK...I don't know what you are trying to do or say here but let me tell you something...a pentecostal is a Christian! It seems that you need to go and look up the past of Christianity because it's very obvious that you have no idea what you are talking about.

The truth is that the early Christianity went from Jesus, to the apostles and formed into four branches...the Eastern Orthodox, the Roman Catholic, Assyrian Church and the Oriental Orthodox. The Roman Catholic branch eventually split up to form Anglecanism and Prostestantism...which is where the Pentecostal come from.

So you see your trying to down Palin by using religion is pointless and absurd when you have no idea what you are talking about!

Pentecostal is just as much of a Christian religion as Catholicism is. Next time do a little research before you try to down someone else on their religion!

Cindy...Ga.

I am truly concerned with the reporting of the news. If we are going to continue to focus on entertainment value and not truly informing the masses by fact, then it must be a bit more balanced. How did we go from finding the facts about Sarah Palin to creating her new image and providing her celebrity status? The McCain Campaign really scared you guys didn't they? I remember the coverage of Obama and Pastor Wright. I remember the coverage of "Bittergate" and countless other stories that went viral. I'm sorry but this woman is out here talking about Fannie Mae and she is misspeaking like crazy. Not to mention no firm mention of where she stands on the issues and the troubles she caused as Mayor of Wasilla. No virus yet? And, the McCain campaign owes the major news stations some gratitude for all of the free spins of their commercials. We are all being played. The media by McCain and the Republicans and the people by the media.

Religion should not have a place in government. When I hear elected officials implement policies because doing so is “the will of God,” it really scares me. They are no different than religious fanatics who tell their followers to kill others or themselves because it is “the will of God.” Seriously, what is the difference?

Lilibeth
Edmonds, Washington

Religion has no place in government, and I do not trust that Palin will govern with a belief in separation of church and state.

She so far has not shown that she has the knowledge, education, experience, or intellect that is sorely needed right now.

Frankly, the thought of her being president scares the hell out of me!

If Carl Rove pulls off another Republican win, we will really need to start praying.

Talk about the base of the right getting fired up about Pain. I am a Independent Voter and I am now fired up to fight against this ticket. I was nurtural and now I will do all that I can. I can't stand that woman. Her sarcastic ways and she does not meet my image of the top office in the world.
I also feel sorry for Maccan having put all his heart into this campaign only to have the " Base" railroad him into this choice. So, I will vote against the base and not Maccan for making such a bad choice. A choice that is only good for them and not the country or the world. Talk about putting country first. The base can't put country over their guns or abortion issues. If it's not there way it's the high way. This thinking never works and any setting. Bush has a 34% approval rating and I bet it is the "Base" that makes up this number. Please, some one tell me why should we trust their choice in Pain, when they think Bush is our man.

I understand our country was founded on religious freedom. I also understand the importance of the seperation of church and state. I think who ever becomes Pres and vp of this country needs to keep in mind that they are representing each and every one of us, and it goes out without saying we all have different religious views and different political views. I hope who ever it is can be reasonable and realistic and not impose their religious views into policy and decision making. I hope they really keep one nation with freedom and justice for all in mind. These people need to realize that they are representing all of America. Fine believe what you want but realize it's a honor and be humble and tolerant.

Meh, this is just a novelty act, and its not sexist to say so, its a blatant ploy to get to those disgruntled hillary voters, and it definitely wont work. This woman has terrible executive experience, took a town of 6000 people and ran it into debt! Once people look at her policies and world views (thats if Karl Rove ever lets her talk about them) then men and women everywhere will see what a joke this nomination is.
And its not a sexist attack when you point out the obvious facts her record and the nature of her pick (McCain had ONE conversation with her, and had no idea of any of her background), its obbious that it was a knee jerk reaction to Hillary not being picked and I think its MORE sexist to assume that women are sheep and will simply throw away their morals and common sense just the person on a ticket has a uterus.
The novelty will fade in a week, and Biden will expose her in the debates.

When will this madness stop already! I don't care that Obama is black or Biden had a speech problem or McCain was a former POW or Palin is women. I don't care about their religion, what school that graduated from, how many earmarks that requested, how many times they flipped flopped, how many kids they have etc.

I know this may sound lame but the only thing I care about is the future of this country. Who is the best person to bring this country forward and reclaim our status in the world? Who is the best person to bring about "real" change? This is a very important election and people need to wake up and get serious. Vote on the issues. Not because the person is black or has a woman on the ticket. We lost over 800,000 jobs in one month alone!

My husband works 2 jobs and I work full time and we barely make enough to make ends meet and we both are college graduates. This is crazy! My daughter has to go to private school because the school she is zoned for ranked last in the state in all areas. And if it wasn't for my daughter we wouldn't have health insurance because it's too high! Wake up this isn't a game!

During the entire GOP convention, I seen the signs "Country First" but they failed to mention one time how they are going to help everyday working Americans like myself. This entire election has become a joke. Now I understand why most of Americans has given up on politics. It's not about us "the people" its all about them. Give you an example: "Let me give my ole' friend the position of director of FEMA (Brownie) don't we all know how that played out. This the same thing as McCain appointing Palin to VP. What will happen if something were to happen to McCain. Is she really qualified to be a heartbeat away from President. What a complete joke! I wonder what other countries really think of us?

I am an Independent. It amazes me that people hold Obama to one standard when it comes to religion and Palin to a completely different one. Why is this? She sat in a church all her life where they believe in crazy extreme things and speak in tounges and crap and that is ok? Pretty soon they will be replaying the Rev. Wright stuff and the Dems need to play video of Palin's extremist crap............not to mention McCain's close to refusal to speak about religion.......what's up?

Oh. sorry...............no..........religion doesn't belong in Govt. But, they make it a big deal to sway the masses of evangelical voters..........sad but true...........

Did I hear Sarah Palin correctly? I believe she said that the war in Iraq was God's will?!? Perhaps I missed something along the way but I was under the impression that the war was the will of George Bush and his cronies (here's lookin' at you Mr. McCain). They were itching to invade Iraq and even went so far as to lie to the American People so they could get their way (read: weapons of mass destruction, imminent threat, etc. etc) To even suggest that it was the will of God... to me that reeks of the same extremism that we're trying to fight. Mixing religion and politics is a dangerous road to travel. I cringe at the thought of any religion having the power to tell me what I can and cannot do. It should NOT be allowed, not in this century.

I am so glad to see someone is finally looking beneath the surface of
Palin. I saw those videos on You Tube and it really is frightening. The
undertones of Alaska as the "chosen" place of end times should make any American stop and take a second look. Also, didn't Palin keep all of the money that was for the bridge to nowhere? I have read that she is building an access road to that bridge!! People need to take notice, she has already been caught stretching the truth from her
very first speech (or at least her speach writer is). All the stations should be showing all of the video on her before it is all hidden away.
The fact that Republicans can be swayed so easily shows what a desperate state their party is in.

I am truly afraid for this country if McCain/Palin win this election! A person cannot know another after one meeting. The citizens of the U.S. deserve someone we can trust. There is no way I would vote for McCain after his VP decision. If she was chosen to bring the women voters over to the Republican side, I am disgusted and insulted. Why did so many people tune in to hear Palin's speech last week? I believe it's because no one outside of Alaska had heard of her. I applaud the U.S. citizens for wanting to be informed in their choice for President/Vice-President.

Guess she's like obama; sitting there for 20 years listening to anti-white pro marxist racist dogma. No wonder HRC wasn't his pick for vp, the African-American church would not be giving him the 98% vote.

Agree, CNN is being very bias and for Palin. The only straight shooter is AC 360. However, they need to show the video where Palin declares that she is ignorant to what a Vice-President does. Additionally, Palin acts like she is running for President by "reading" the speeches written for her bashing Obama. She is Biden's counterpart and she speak to her qualifications to be VP. She has already said grass root (community) organizers are beneath her and have no responsibilities. I guess we shouldn't expect to see her and McCain speak up for the little guys in the communities.

Palin should realize that McCain and the republican good ole boys are only interested in the nice skirt outfits she wears. She will set women back 50 years because she will get no real respect from senators or representatives in the house! Stop with the Obama bashing and have class like him and speak to the issues!

Religion should be kept out of politics. There are too many different denominations and beliefs in this country to be able to satisfy even the majority of people if you pulled religion into government/politics. I frankly discount any politician who feels like they have to tell me what a good Christian they are and what their belief set is. Its none of my business – just like mine is none of theirs. Your religious beliefs should be kept private and not trotted out to give someone a political advantage.

Annie Kate
Birmingham AL

Anderson, I am outraged ! What are you people doing to counter the latest McCain ad with this blatant lie about the "bridge"?? This is not an omission, but a flat out lie which has been documented over and over again! I want you to mention the FACTS in every program, several times per hour, because that's the only way to counter these lying hypocrites! The Bush/Rove strategy was always repeating lies over and over again, until the public believed it. IT IS YOUR job to REPORT the FACTS! CNN was accused of being biased, unfair, harsh, just because they,[especially Campbell) were exposing the lies and searched for truth in the beginning. Are you all so intimidated by the bullies, that your integrity is taking the backseat? Are you afraid of these bullies, is CNN afraid of retribution? Where is your impartiality? No more kid gloves, a lie is a lie and stays a lie! This is the most blatant spin I've ever seen and it is YOU, the media who can reach millions, to stop this travesty and expose Palin and MC Cain for what they are, LIARS!!

The McInsane camp is saying the media is two hard on Palin. She want to play with the big boys, let's play. Palin has no idea (by her on admission) what a VP does. McInsane will follow the Bush agenda regardless of what he says, he wants everyone to think he is pushing back against Bush, (WINK-WINK,meet me behind the rose bushGW).
America do not be fooled by the lying PUK-licans. Stand up and let them know ENOUGH! We are mad as h*** and will not take it anymore.
OBAMA/BIDEN

The scariest thing about all of this is that we have heard SO little from Sarah Palin herself and the election is less than two months away from today. Trying to guess a candidate's beliefs by videos and things her minister said is unfair now, as it was to Obama.
BUT it is worrying to not know where this woman stands on national and international issues.

The nation is obviously anxious for access, to ask her these questions. Let the free press do its job, and ask the questions that the American people need the answers to. McCain, Obama and Biden have been under the glass for over a year, answering the hard and sometimes painful questions from the press and the people. It's Palin's turn.

Step up and speak for yourself, Palin!

Cindy "Next time do a little research before you try to down someone else on their religion! " We will be glad too when someone can lock up the preachers or ship them somewhere for the duration. The gril's religion is the least of my many concerns. Her passion for banning books (I am going to assume Harry Potter was on the hit list), her lack of knowledge and understanding of people who are struggling and need some help along with her dismissal of and ridiculing of the very people thtat provide the majority of the assistance these people need and depend on for survival, her uncanny resemblance to Dick Cheney everytime she opens her mouth, her questionable ethics. (I will give her the trooper. That guy did not need a badge from all I have seen.)
these are just a fews concerns I have. Never heard how economy was going to be fixed or about insurance reform during the whole convention.

Does a god that promotes fear,guilt and shame be long in politics. Does a god that excludes people for having personal preferences that are different from Adam and Eve,be long in politics. Does a god that raises billions of dollars tax free and allows their representatives to molest young children be long in politics. Does a women whom has disgraced this great nation with her nominee to a position she is incapable of handling be long in politics,NO WAY!

If a politician or anyone else truly believes that they are acting upon God's desires, then that leaves no room for negotiation or compromise. Religious extemism can lead to groups such as the Taliban or al-Qaeda who also think they are following God's will.

In the immortal words of Bob Dylan, "You never ask questions when God's on your side".

I want leaders who I can look up to. I want leaders who are accomplished and educated. I want leaders who will listen to the experts and who know how to negotiate and compromise. Sarah Palin is none of this. And by picking her, John McCain has shown that he isn't either. He's just a cynical, self-serving politician without principle.

Tammy...

I agree.... but Bill Clinton isn't running...

Hmmm..... Using God or another supreme being as the reason behind an act of war....where have we heard that before? On the tapes from the planes that hit the World Trade Centers??

she said she would help the children with special needs when she
gets to washington but passed a bill to cut funding

What was it Pastor Wright had to say about God and white people?

when will she talk to the press by her self

CNN is ready to jump at the chance to criticize Sarah Palin regarding her religion but I don’t remember them having anything to say about Barack Obama’s left wing nut Pastor or the radical church he attended !

Then you've obviously suffered a head injury and should seek treatment with a doctor immediately. Are you kidding me?! CNN was all over the Wright story.

Palin is actualy worst that Cheney. And McCain is worse than Bush.

What more do Americans need ot know about this woman? Isn't it all as clear as crystal? This is very concerning after hearing about her stringent views on the Abortion issue, sex education, and her arrogant way of leading Alaska. Wake up America before it's too late!

For you all that are bashing Palin for her beliefs you better take a look at Obama. Because the form of preaching that Wright does is the pentecostal way, well without the racist junk added in. They are known for their hollering, screaming and what not. In fact pentecostal preaching started in black churches. First came here in America from the Welsh in 1904 when a pastor went there and came back to hold revivals in the U.S.! Do you really know Obama like you think!? FYI...the name of the church he went to is the Trinity. That is the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, same as what Sarah believes in btw! HMMM...maybe you ought to delve into that!

And also a lot of other religions hold some of the same thinkings like the Roman Catholic, the Baptist...you all need to get a clue. It's not just her or the pentecostal that holds these beliefs.

Cindy...Ga.

What happened to separation of church and state??? Religion has NO place in the White House. Bush said that God told him to invade/attach Iraq...Palin says that it's God's mission. People need to wake up, this country was built because we wanted Freedom...not someone telling us what to do and after 200 plus years this hasn't changed. I like the fact that I can go to the PUBLIC library and read any book that I want. I like the fact that I can form my own opinion. Palin is scary!!! and we better watch out b/c McCain is old and doesn't have the best health record.

Randi:
Is Sarah Palin the Barbie Doll of the Right Wing or is she just a messenger with John McCain telling Republicans that the conservative right is being represented?

Does the Republican Party represent all citizens of the United States or just Christians?

As a Christian, please understand that the Republican Party doesn't represent ALL Christians. To me, it's about love and hope, NOT power and politics.

An individual’s religious views will impact their decision making and therefore religion will always have a place in government. What is important to me is how the candidate will use their religious views in governing.

When ask when life began, Sen. Biden stated that he accepts the Catholic position that life begins at conception. However, he said that belief will not determine his decisions in governing, in the case of abortion (and other issues). Since I know how Sen. Biden will use religion in governing, I can (with lots of good reporting from the press) test whether his political decisions have matched with his statement.

Gov. Palin's religious views will obviously impact her decisions, as she has carved out an anti-abortion stance. Further, Gov. Palin has set out her religious values as a window into her life and how she will act. Therefore it is imperative that she provide detailed answers about how her various religious beliefs will impact her decision making so that I, as a voter, can make an informed decision.

I am not troubled that a leader's decisions will be informed by their religious beliefs. I am troubled when candidates and their party make religion a tenet of their campaign but refuse to answer questions. I am troubled when a candidate and party refuse press interviews because they believe the legitimate news media is not treating them fairly. I am troubled when candidates and their party make a critical piece of selecting the right candidate part of the political game.

When a candidate will not fully discuss how religion shapes their decisions and allow appropriate media scrutiny, then religion has no place in government.

Sorry but I think we have to question the judgement of any politician that believes that they are doing God's will. They can think they are doing what is good and God would want based on their religious philosophies but to think they are some kind of agent of God just seems not sane to me. I have never and will never understand why things like the paranoia and delusiosn of beliving in antichrists and end days isn't seen as a form of mental illness, for he just doesn't seem sane to me.

Even GOD Himself gives the people of the earth their FREE WILL to CHOOSE in all things before us. It is beyond her AUTHORITY to take the free will of the people to CHOOSE BIRTH CONTROL NOT BY HER FORCE. GOD HIMSELF DOES NOT TAKE FREE WILL FROM THE HUMAN RACE TO MAKE THEIR CHOICE IN LIFE. You can NOT force people to serve God according to religious practices , people have to have the heart condition and the concious to guide them NO MATTER IF THEY GO TO CHURCH EVERY DAY OF THEIR LIVES.

Palin seems awfully extreme to me – banning books, supporting the teaching of creation in schools (thank you I can teach my children their religion myself), her belief that global warming is a farce – she just doesn't seem to be in step with anyone except perhaps the far extreme right conservatives. Her speech at the convention with its sarcasm and belligerence really turned me off. Religion should be kept out of government and Palin should be kept out of office.

nobody cares about her religion, this is not news. Just let the cards fall.

We've had 8 years of a failed Republican administration with a hardcore religious conservative as President - and in the process, our country has gone down the tubes. Why anyone would want to vote for another four years of this nonsense is way beyond me. Is this country really that stupid?

During the darkest hours of our nations history, WWI, WWII, etc., it was those with strong faith in their Country, in God, and in a greater goodness beyond themselves that allowed this Country to persevere and endure the pain and suffering of our lost soldiers in battle. The only reason why these bloggers who mock faith in politics have the ability to say their piece is because those with faith who died in battle ensured their freedom and prevented the Nazis and other enemies like them from destroying our nation. Faith does have an important role in Government!

Yes I believe Palin's religious beliefs will affect the way she would govern if McCain was elected president. Why have your beliefs if you're not going to stand by them? Your personal beliefs are who you are as a human being and affect how you make your judgments. I wanted to be a priest until I was 19. After 9/11 I wanted to understand the new war and why we were fighting against each other in the name of God. As I learned more and more, I slowly began to lose my belief in organized religion all together. I'm still seeking answers but have found none. Because I'm on this self awareness journey, I now find myself being told I will GO TO HELL from some of my own Christian family members. These are the same people that I've grown up with and that I've helped financially time and time again. If I had said nothing to my family members, all would be well and business as usual. You can make good sound decisions and live a good moral life without religion. Religion can make a person turn on you in a split second and without warning. And in this case, it could make a VP turn against a group of US citizens for their beliefs or another country.

Sarah Palin's comments and ideas will set our country back 50 years. I agree with the others. The first time I heard her speak, I told my husband we are moving to Canada if McCain wins the election.

What is wrong with these people who believe something just because McCain and Palin say it? They are obviously too lazy or not bright enough to research the facts and make an informed choice.

Now, after watching the video of her speaking to her church congregation I am truly scared. If she believes what she said, then it goes without saying that she believes that she is also "a part of God's plan". What worries me most about this, is that people who strongly believe something is destined to happen, will make it happen. Sound familiar? I believe our current president thought along the same lines. What is this about change again???

Lord help us.

Religion has ZERO business in government and I find people like Palin who want to use their religious beliefs to change how I live i.e. censorship of books in a library and no abortion in case of rapes or incest to be an infringement on my rights for freedom FROM religion.

Gov. Palin has never spoke in tongues, according to Randi's report on the Situation Room. Gov. Palin has never banned books, according to the internet reporter on the Situation Room. Yes, while campaigning for Governor, Palin did support the bridge to nowhere. But once she was elected, she realized what a waste of money it would be considering the many additional needs of the residents of Alaska. So she fought Sen. Ted Stevens (Congress) and ended up using the money for other more demanding needs.

Maybe everyone should remember what the Executive branch of the government does. It signs bills into law. It has the power to veto bills that do not have an overriding majority of the vote. A President can propose legislation, but it is Congress' responsiblity to vote on these bills. So for those of you who are afraid of what our next President can change, that will depend on Congress.

The Vice President only casts a deciding vote when there is a tie in Congress. When Palin questioned what would the VP do, she was questioning how, or if, McCain would actively involve her as part of the Executive Branch.

Cindy,
Pentecoatal is not a given religion, it is the name of a feast day [ Acts 2:1]. It was during this pentecost feast, that the followers of Jesus were seated in the Upper room, awaiting the coming of the Holy Ghost, which had been promised to them by Jesus [Luke 24:49].

Also Jesus never called his followers Christians, that name was given to the apostles by people of Antioch [Acts 11:26] Jesus told his followers to be sanctified [John 17:19], and called his followers by the name saints[Romans 8:27; 1st Thess. 3:13] Also religion is not the life you live but the services that you give[James 1:26-27]

The many denominations, you see today, exist because everytime one came up with a different interpretation of the scripture, they separated themselves, and gave their group a different name. So what you see is a great schism among the followers of Christ.
But knowing the mind of man, Jesus knew that his followers would be called Christians, so before the name was given, a judgment was set forth for those who would call themselves Christians[ 2nd Chron 7:14]
Therefore the name of the many denominations came from the mindset of mankind, but the life we should live was set forth by the doctrine of Jesus Christ [ Matt,5:1- Matt.7:28]
And as for the results of the presidential campaign, God will give the victory over into the hand of Barack Obama.

These extreme views by Governor Palin are absolutely unacceptable. We cannot put some in one of America's highest offices who does not respect the separation of church and state. Further, she has not answered any questions about where she stands on the very extremist positions of her church. Before even considering Sarah Palin, she needs to publicly denounce these statements made by her pastor.

Jessica,
Minneapolis, MN

When Obama subjected his children to the rants of Wright and Pfleuger, this show covered it and moved on. The Obama supporters said it didn't matter, that Obama wouldn't be influenced, that all was well. Let's not even get into the Muslim rumors/reality. Now all of a sudden, Sarah Palin is a Pentecostal, and the world will end. What a joke. If Obama listening to racism and stupidity for most of his adult life and saying the man who brought it to him brought him to Jesus doesn't scare you people, nothing should. For the record, many Roman Catholic Charismatics speak in tounges, fall out, and believe in healing services. I know because as a former Roman Catholic I've been to the services, watched the priests in action, and been prayed on at them. Maybe you should ask Joe Biden how he can belong to a church that speaks in tounges and supported for the longest time by omission the rape of innocent children by clergy? If he can put up with that, if being Roman Catholic formed him, how does that influence his policy as a leader negatively? Once again, CNN plays the double standard in this election and the lemming viewers follow blindly.

Here we go again! Mixing politics with religion.

In all my 52 years, I have never seen so many politicians running on
the basis of the zeals of religious beliefs, or either plugging for their
(religious) vote.
I think many American's have lost it for voting on such platforms as religion. As a matter of fact, I think that many of the so-called religious are merely using the pulpit for a political platform instead of what it was actually intended.
The current generation must have completely forgotten, or did not learn the history of politics, and cannot possibly reflect upon it either; The politicians are meerly playing on the fresh new meat of the ignorant..
I for one do not want to turn back the clock and undo our progress, nor do I wish to repeat history,
What can I say, there were those in the past who supported Stalin and Hitler even though the truth about these men were well known.

I like what Bill Maher said, paraphrased here, "I think we are too dumb to be governed" I'd add..."become too dumb, and also...these days."

If we do not oust these so called Conservative: "Flag in one hand,gun in the other,while quoting from the bible nut jobs" who seem to fall for anything that comes down the pike (by voting instead of what is actually right for our country,) then we in this country will be like a snowball headed for the proverbial Hell, that the zealots hope to avoid.

I fear, that America has already reached its peak, and after one reaches the top there is only one way and that's down. The sad thing is...that we let it happen by our internal ignorance and complacency.
Vote Obama/Biden!

Does religion have a place in government? I don't know how you can separate it. No matter what an individual believes (Christian, Atheist, Muslim etc.), it affects their worldview and how they make decisions.

Separation of church and state was never meant to keep an individual's faith out of their public life. It was intended for freedom of religion, not freedom from religion.

I didn't see the same jump on criticism or "vetting" of Obama's radical religious leaders' views by CNN as with Governor Palin. This piece seems very biased.

I am a life long registered democrat, who's father was a life long politician and a very proud democrat. The CNN bias appears to be peeking out more than a bit? I don't believe this media strategy is going to help your Obama cause you (uncomfortably) seem to be championing , not to mention it's blatantly unethical.

I am a veteran journalist who longs for the old days where opinion was not a part of general news reporting and opinion was carefully labelled.

Is this the reporting wave of the future?

FROM SHIRLEY:
"CNN is ready to jump at the chance to criticize Sarah Palin regarding her religion but I don’t remember them having anything to say about Barack Obama’s left wing nut Pastor or the radical church he attended ! I watch all the networks and CNN is always on the side of Obama. Their bias is so obvious!!!!!"

To shirley: YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING! All the media did was send loop after loop of Rev. Wright. They are not doing the same thing with Sarah Palin. The media with exception of Campbell Brown are giving Sarah Palin a pass because they are afraid of being called a sexist. If they can make us watch loop after loop of Rev. Wright, then play the tape of Sarah in her church. The only difference is Sarah actually spoke on the microphone in front of the congregation. So, she can't say that she was not there or was unaware.

Sarah Palin should be able to speak on her own. Otherwise, the republicans are saying that she is not ready on Day 1. They can not encase her in a glass tower and only bring her out to spout hatred which only serves to mobilize the Republican base. I got news. Everyone does not share those extremist views. McCain is the one trying to reach out to people outside the base. However, he is having a difficult time trying to sell change to me when he voted with George Bush over 90% of the time.

It is not sexist to ask Sarah Palin or surrogates what her stance is on national security and foreign policy (please don't tell it is because she in charge of the Alaskan national guard). It is not sexist to ask her to give me an example of her fiscal responsibility (please don't tell me it is because she sold a jet plane that did NOT sell on EBay). These are just some of the legitimate questions that I have to ask of Sarah Palin. Guess what, these are same questions that are asked of ALL of the candidates! No way, No How, No McCain, No Palin!

ALL this consternation over Palin yet when Barack's minister spews God Damn America and preaches marxist agenda, and his friends include terrorists, and Rezko - you still worship at the alter of a man who wants to create and finance a civilian army, and voted for partial birth abortion – to spell that out – it means when the baby being aborted survives outside the womb, Obama supports KILLING the baby.

If you had checked Palin's voting record re gay benefits, you'd know the truth about how she voted....which is NOT as is being presented here, which is why a very large group of gay Hillary supporters are voting for Palin.

Mary – claiming that Palin will KILL the McCain proves you are one sick woman SEEK HELP.

As a religiously zealous VP , Sarah Palin is sure to hold a special place at the table for those that share her views. Sarah Palin has already demonstrated that her extreme religious convictions deeply influenced the civil, social and education policies as both Mayor and Governor.

Worse still her policies spill over into seemingly secular areas. She has already asked fellow congregants at her Church to pray for an oil pipeline contending that its contruction was "Gods will." How can we expect progressive energy policy to be supported by someone who does not believe that oil comes from dinosaurs (she doesn’t believe in dinosaurs). More frightening, she believes that Alaska is a sanctuary for true believers following the apocalypse, or end of days (which true believers like herself look forward to and prepare for), which she believes will come from an eruption of violence in the Middle East. This is what informs her foreign policy. Can we afford to take this chance at this time?

I bet Sarah is wishing she went to a nice, normal church where the pastor gyrates his hips imitating fornication, tells his congregation that the American government created the AIDS virus, calls American the US of KKK-A, takes the side of Osama Bin Laden in the 9-11 attacks and shouts G-Damn America!

The Battle of the Church Videos is ON!!!

Even Jesus Christ said religion had no place in government. "Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's."

Why is it necessary to have a U.S. President profess a believe in God? Why is it necessary to have a U.S. President cling to religion? If the Bible influences a U.S. President, we will expect genocide like in Exodus or the slaughter of children. If a U.S. President believes in rapture, should we not expect he or she to look gleefully toward destruction so that they may return "home?" I say that religious belief has no place in public office, especially when it is a stone throw from the commander and chief.

I will take her church, a bit off base i admit, over Obama'a racist anti American church in a heart beat. What is comforting to know;t both sides claim a deep spiritual base, what is alarming; the press and much of the country seem to be more afraid of a rural based small church than a deep pocket, big city church that preaches hatred of our country.

Who cares about god how they Gona take care of us ?

Palin is over the top with her religion, too sure of God's will. Anyone who thinks they know God's will before it happens is crazy! She should be feeling guilty for her vanity and ego! If all she is, is a pit bull with lipstick, then she needs to be put in a dog pound.

Hope there are intelligent women and men in this country not voting for this fiasco team. Shame on Mcain to pick an inept only to improve his chances and with no consideration for the country!!!

We tend to equate strong religious beliefs with strong moral values. As a nation we have embrassed Palin on the basis that she must be a good leader because she has strong religious convictions. Any attacks on her are seen as attacks on all Christians nationwide.

On August 17th she sat in her church as David Brickner, the founder of Jews for Jesus spoke to the congregation. He told congregants that terrorist attacks on Israel were God's "judgment" of Jews who haven't embraced Christianity. Brickner said, "Judgment is very real and we see it played out on the pages of the newspapers and on the television. When a Palestinian from East Jerusalem took a bulldozer and went plowing through a score of cars, killing numbers of people. Judgment - you can't miss it."

Can you imagine if another candidate had listened to such devisive comments in their church. They would be admonished for ever attending such a house of worship. It must be OK to view Jews as such failed people worthy of God's wrath for their views.

Her views on a woman's right to choose and a belief that gays and lesbians can change their ways only lead me to believe that we will endure greater intolerance towards alternate social values.

How can such devisive views compliment a senator promising to reach across the aisle.

Maybe we can look forward to Pastor Hagee as our next secretary of state. McCain never said what aisle he was going to reach across – why not the aisle of the evangelical church.

I don't see much difference between radical Muslims and Fundamentists except for the violence and bloodshed. Both groups are intent on changing the world to suit their point of view.
Our founding fathers understood the rabid nature of true believers and specifically opted for seperation of church and state.
Sure do hope the McAin bid fails!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I agree with Don! I think he said it all.
I have no problem with Palin, but I think that McCain picked her for all the buzz issues that have been mentioned (woman, teen pregnancy, family values, abortion...etc). I don't say that she isn't qualified, I just think it craps to use someone to benefit oneself....like I believe McCain has done.
If I were to ask myself who would "Want and Try" the hardest to change the current state of affairs in this Country, my gut tells me Obama.
Problem is...we have tooooooo many people voting on, trading their particular cause (hand-shake or back washing) for any change to take place regardless of who's at the top --Obama or McCain-for it to happen.
We set up a system to protect against a crazy at the top who could do things that were not in the public's best interest, but that's biting us in the backside everyday.
I'm voting for Obama, and I truely hope that "We the People" can make a change with a man that wants the same.

No, I do not think religion should be a part of government. I think this can get real scary. I have a hard time with Palin stating the Iraq war is the will of God. I don't think God gives her any more insight than anyone else. I would like to hear what Palin really thinks of the issues facing American people today instead of what she thinks the will of God is.

You know, every time people do this it hurts the democratic ticket. Let's see, you say, they are extremist, but there are over 18 million of the just the largest Pentecostal groups, this does not even include the small independent groups. There are a number of other groups that identify with many of their policies and beliefs. As a Catholic, I do not follow or believe in much of it, but honestly, it seems rather ridiculous to argue that people won't identify with her. All this does is remind people of the Father Phleger comments and the Rev. Wright comments in a church that Obama spent over 20 years in and wrote about some of these beliefs. If you won't to argue that she shares the beliefs of her church, then I guess he shares the beliefs of his church and hers are a lot less out of the ordinary. I mean a lot of people are going to have some serious problems believing that if you make religion an issue that the a church that preached that the government created the Aids virus to eliminate black people is somehow more mainstream than the church that speaks in tongues and prays for God to have his hand in their decisions and daily lives.

Mary, if you plan to leave the US. Make sure the door hits you on the way out. You are no longer welcome here.

Where does she get off saying it is God's will and plan that we are in Iraq? Her comments are so off the wall it makes my head spin. Every time she opens her mouth something incredibly stupid comes out. Why in the world did McCain pick her? As a woman, I would never vote for her just because she is a woman. Both she and McCain are scary. If they are elected, I can not even imagine what will become of the U.S.A. Lets keep religion out of politics, PLEASE!!!

I just have one question...When is Senator McCain going to start running for Presidency? When will he begin to talk about “what the change is he is proposing?” And how will it benefit the American people? I really would like to hear from Senor McCain himself and not from his pawn.

I don't have a problem with Governor Palin (I’m sure she is a unique individual), she is holding up her end of the bargain the “marionette.”

Kim Fields
Underside Voter

When she gets that three o'clock call from God, won't she hasten everybody's journey to the "refuge state" of Alaska? Are Americans ready to let a deadender come this close to the button?

How is this ticket ahead in the polls? OH PLEASE WAKE UP AMERICA!!!!! Red flags EVERYWHERE!!!

In reference to all the separation of church and state defenses – read the constitution people – that is not stated in the first amendment. The phrase ," wall of separation between church and state" was originally penned by Thomas Jefferson in a letter. Oh wait – how would most of today's generation have any idea of the origin of the phrase? They are the product of the current Marxist education system where they are indoctrinated with radical and non-American ideas. History and truth are not a priority of the current education system – fairness in the outcome and political correctness are the order of the day.

oh no, who is this wacko of a VP nominee? Can we say, all together, negative come back down to earth week for Sara Palin?

What's scary is NOW all of you are against asking for God's guidance. Go back and read Obama's Wailing Wall prayer. Hypocrites!

Know what else is scary? Nobody cares that Obama can sit in a Black Separatist church for 20 years and not know they're theology. If he gets elected I hope he can figure things out faster 'cause he will have only 8 years MAX.

Your shock and horror is laughable.

Get off ot this woman's religious case. She is a woman of faith. Although I am voting for Barak Obama I take offense to your ignorant unqualified evaluation of her theological understanding. I'd rather for a person to have fired up Christian convictions who can intelligently compete in the marketplace of ideas than many weak as water under committed people who only lie and you say that you can completely separate your beliefs from your service. You are being untrue to yourselves and your audience.

This election needs to be covered in prayer!!!!!

You seem to fail to know anything about the beliefs of our forefathers. This nation was founded solely for the purpose of religious freedom, and ALL of our founders believed in the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

Now, I'm a Baptist and tend to think that the Pentecostals are a bit kooky, but I'd like to see these scary and horrible goings on from Palin's church contrasted with MR. U-S- of KKK -A. Or would your prefer the G.D. the USA? What? Unfair, you say? Well, how about the idea that the U.S. government created AIDS to kill black people?

Oh, that's right. The only bad religion is the one that YOUR political opponent believes in. Well, I guess that's just politics. However, you folks have shown your own silliness. Good work! Keep it up

This is ridiculous . . . all Christians believe in "faith healing" and "end times" – it's in the Bible – it's just that Pentecostals are more vocal about it.

You people must really be scared of losing . . .

Sure... You can call June of this year "Sarah Palin's Pentecostal past" if you like, but for my part, it's as recent as her relevance on the national stage.

Let's see... Governor Palin believes in the God of the Bible, prays, and asks like-minded people to pray with her and for her on a number of major issues. According to polling from Barna, Gallop, and others, this is pretty mainstream stuff (the majority of Americans similarly do likewise, including most past presidents). Christians of all stripes hold these things in common. Pentecostalism might be somewhat on the edge compared to more mainstream Christianity, but it's not a cult or anything like the church of Rev. Wright. Besides, Palin changed churches six years ago. I'm not sure what the purpose of this story is other than to strike terror in the extreme left who think any deeply held religious beliefs are dangerous (except earth-worship and deification of self).

I think that what ever she beleaves in is right as long as she beleaves in the blood atolement and that it should be threw out into public because what she beleaves in is her beleave and all beleaves is right if they beleave in the blood atolement

Let's just face it. They ALL follow a niche and say what we want to hear. Has anything really changed as a result of politics. We need seekers of truth and not more verbage that muddy the waters even futher. The new reality series:Campaign '09

Just what we need in the White House, another religious lunatic. Bush is a born again christian and look what his insane speaking in tongues beliefs got the world into. Born again christians speak in tongues too. I've personally seen it and it's disturbing. Not because "the lord" is speaking through them, but rather that they fake this ritual at all.
There is absolutely no difference between American religious right wing radicals and Islamic radicals insofar that they let their beliefs in something that has not scientific or factual basis guide their decisions.

Separation of Church and State.
The last thing we need in our governement is a right wing religious nut.

I think you all are exagerating! Come on! Her religion is her religion and she has a right to believe what she wants. This is america.
You all are turning mountains into mole hills.
Do you remember the radical things Obama's Pastor said? That the American Governemnt created the AIDS virus to get rid of black people. How sad someone would say that– and how sad that people ARE so ignorant that they would believe that.
LET ME TELL YOU it is a big mistake for liberals to focus on Sarah Palin's religion- because all it does is remind many of us of Obama–and his religion. And he is the one who would be PRESIDENT whereas palin would be VICE PRESIDENT.
Democrats need to leave palin alone, it is only hurting them.

Palin has been in government for many years now and has a 80% approval rate here in Alaska. She has not gotten here by espousing some of the stuff that you guys claim. C'mon people. Ask the people of Alaska is they are happy with her and if she is "wacko" in policy making. If 80% of the people here like her, then she must be doing a good job. You reporters take her words out of context. I watched the YouTube video. She was requesting prayer that politicians would do God's will, and that people would pray that the war is in God's will. She was not decreeing that the war is a divine mandate. You guys are ridiculous. You are trembling and afraid of this woman who has done a wonderful job in her own home town and state.

This is the first time I have read this blog and after having done so I am saddened and disappointed. I had hoped to see a little more integrity and balance instead of so many inflammatory responses. What a person believes in, whatever their core values are WILL affect decisions they make whether they are a Democrat, Repubublican or Independant. That is not something you can separate. Walk around Washington D.C. and read the inscriptions and quotes on the monuments. Read the writings of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln and then discern if their beliefs affected their policy.

Thanks for digging into this underqualified woman's pentecostal past. From her convention speech alone, it was evident that she speaks in tongues .... forked tongues.

Just imagine the sorts of rightwing fundamentalist Supreme Court justices this woman might appoint. McCain's appointees would be bad enough, but this woman's picks would be tragic for generations of women whose rights would be set back to Victorian times.

The people who think she's hot stuff should be embarrassed for failing to use their critical thinking skills.

Why isn't everyone terrified? Why are the polls so close? I have no doubt that with McCain's penchant for "walking his own road", and Palin's barely veiled extremism that their government will be isolated from the larger global community, reactive, and ignore the rights and needs of the American people. I am truly scared.

Thank God (and I am a believer) that you wrote this article. For the first time in my life (I'm a senior) I am fearful for the outcome of an election – not because of politics or economics, but because of the threat to separation of church and state. With Palin, the intolerant are out of the closet and ready to dictate to the rest of us of all faiths, including their own. This is a nightmare, and I pray daily that the American people will recognize the deeply un-American strain being sounded by McCain/Palin and reject it.

The person that I would be frightened of is the pastor that is obviously seeking publicity and maybe some more offerings in his gold plate. Ooo..you mean she may believe in the end of times. Hello!!!! So do Catholics! How can you people be so obliviously blind by reading an article from a third party in lieu of getting the information straight from her. I grew up Lutheran, but that doesn't mean that I believe everything that Martin Luther stands for. You say religion should be out of the election – well, she didn't bring it forth, the media is allowing it be part of the election. But, for all your political peeps, do some historical digging and you will see most all (if not all) Presidents were religious – had a minister on staff and many even had a psychic on the payroll. Vote the issues. Vote smart.

Sarah Palin proves the wisdom of our founders in establishing the separation of church and state.

Shirley you must have been in a blackhole for the past years or so if you can actually say that CNN has not covered Obama's religious associations. I watched CNN for a week constantly looping Rev. Wright. I am so sick of all of you right wing nuts complaining about CNN's coverage. As far as I can see it is slanted towards everyone against OBAMA but that's politics and I understand who controls what they say. Make a point about the subject being discussed if you are intelliegient enough to do so. It's really about the economy stupid!!!

This "news' story is devoid of any substance. If you knew what a Pentecostal was you would know how ridiculous this story is. But it seems lack of knowledge breeds fear and that is what CNN hopes to accomplish. Creating and spinning the news will only work against you in the end and the media backlash will continue.

The public has no real access to the candidates – we can shout out questions, but they just ignore us. It is up to the media to ask questions and demand answers, and don't stop asking until there are answers. I would like to know from McCain why he continues to say that Obama will raise middle class taxes when O's policy papers clearly show he won't (and has been verified by reliable economists) I also think McCain should be pressed and hard on why he hasn't denounced the two books attempting to "swift boat" obama – "Obama Nation" by Swift boat co-author Corsi and "the Case against Barack Obama" by Freddoso. And if he won't comment on these things, I want to know why. McCain and Palin are so selective on what they discuss – they are thoroughly programmed to deliver their message and only their message. It's quite exasperating.

Who cares!! I mean honestly! So both Obama and Palin go to crazy churches........let's concentrate on something else....called issues!! It is amazing to me that with so much going on in our economy and in the world today, we can not divert our energy to solving the problems that matter and effect our everyday lives. We spend so much time on this meaningless jargon, we will be beat out by the other global powers because we are focusing on slamming each other rather than how to get out of the mess we are in. Shame on both and moreover, shame on the media. You set zero example...

We don't need another George Bush in a skirt in the whitehouse.... bible thumping and dopey! Sometimes I think that Bush is talking in tongues but I am from NY so it might just be his accent. Palin is a former sportscaster who knows how to fake it until she makes it . Seperation of church and state. I am not sure it is possible for someone that thinks the Iraq war is God's will.

Can the media be any more hypocritical?! If the mainstream media tried to vet Obama like they are the GOP's VP pick, HRC would be running against McCain. Besides, Palin USED to go to a pentecostal church but she left BEFORE anybody made an issue of it, unlike Obama. This is not comparing apples to apples. What her church believes can all be found in the Bible–unlike crazy "Rev." Wright, who simply espoused unbiblical racial hatred from his pulpit in the name of God. Thanks, AC. When you're done with this tomfoolery, go do your job and vet Obama in the same way. He's got more skeletons in the closet than the NYC morgue.

What gets me is...what made thousands of people fall to Palin's feet after one speech?????????

How is that possible in a free thinking society? The American people are oblivious to who she is!

Not that she's bad, good, or indifferent, but who the hell is she?? Keep up the good work CNN!

I thought America was supposed to be finished with dishing on someone's religion? Isn't this out of line? How is this OKAY?

Mary:
Me too! We are getting new military orders in June and I told my husband to request overseas if McCain and his beauty queen win!

the media needs to stop making her a victim and let her sink her own ship. The republicans can continually make her sympathetic because of the supposed attacks that have been leveled on her (which will only get worse if she becomes the VP). People do not know her record and i don't think that she will hold up against the scrutiny that she will be under for the next two months. Leave her alone, the media is not doing the democrats any favors...

Who cares if Sarah is a Pentecostal or not? Can she help shake up this run away Washington Country Club. Lets give her a chance by listening to the things she has already done to the good ole boy network in Alaska. Obama attended a church for 20 years that taught him to hate America. Is that an acceptable religion. I think Americans can see through all the one sided scrunity of the media. It is very obvious that most of the media is pulling for Obama because they share his views on big government. There are a lot of well meaning folks who do not see where all of this leads: higher taxes, slower economy, weak defense, jobs leaving the U.S. This is not a change; this is the same old things that have been going on in Washington for decades. If Sarah can help turn Washington around, she should be at the top of the Republican ticket.

McCain campaign continues to let out cry-baby about the media not treating Palin right. It is so obvious that there is so much that the American voters need to know about McCain's judgment and Palin's extremism (here in the name of God) and how much we don't know.
Palin represents another Bush in her policy, values and governing style. Anybody who wants another Bush, go for it.
For the rest of us, vote Obama/Biden, who think thoroughly, act responsibly and truly bring change to the country.

At any other "normal" country, if the president or VP candidates invoke their religion, they will be ridiculed at best. Everybody needs to read "The Handmaid Tail" by Margaret Atwood and see where this country is going to end up one Palin is in charge (after McCain kicks the bucket).

Good to see CNN isn't wasting any time trying to demonize this woman and try to portray her as some sort of nut. Totally expected; totally predictable.

Whatever tongue speaking may go on in Pentecostal churches, it cannot hold a candle to Jeremiah Wright.

If the candidates running for office "might" be influenced by their religion, ie the message of the sermons they heard preached from the pupit of their chosen church – Americans best pray that Sarah Palin part of the winning ticket and NOT Obama.
I'd love for those in the media posing this proposition of religious influence to do a comparison of the sermons Palin may have listened to and the Jeremiah Wright hate filled, anti-government, anti-US sermons that Obama and his lovely Michelle listened to for TWENTY YEARS.

Finally, the mainstream media is investigating her church like they did Barack Obama's. I hope you guys make as big of a deal out of it. Not because I wish her to be judged unfairly...just because I wish her to be fully vetted, which includes how she responds to your investigations.

Palin in mainstream and so is her church.

As for her church, the Assemblies of God is one of the largest and most respected church denominations in the world.

The media will help Palin if they try to make an issue of her church, as it will rally the evangelical even more.

How can Palin believe in creation, be anti abortion, believe in war and hunting for sport all at the same time.????I'm so confused, what kind of Christian is she????

Are you kidding me???? Show me some video of her pastor spouting anything remotely as hateful/disturbing as Obama's former pastor and then you might have a story. The real question is how will Obama's time with Rev. Wright, Father Pfleger, WIlliam Ayers, etc. influence Obama's policy making. Better start asking the same questions of Obama or CNN will be the next network in need of a shakeup (cough...cough... MSNBC).

Mike D.
Registered Independent
"Bitter" Pennsylvanian

May I recommend that you spell Randi Kaye's first name properly in the "Program Note" section. We could accept such carelessness from FoxNews, but not from the great CNN!

As for my real comment, it is nice to see CNN investigative jouurnalism expose Palin for the evangelical whack job that she really is. John Ascroft lives on in a different tongue as a pit bull hockey mom–who is pretty good at throwing it around!

Leave Sarah Palin alone! This is America or did you forget! Her religious beliefs are not for you to pick at. Why don't you do some real reporting. Thanks.

Religion has no place in government, unless we choose to include all 5000 religions in the world. None have a right to the truth more than any other. How can we have religious freedom if one particular view permeates our government? Keep religion in the churches.

Someone, Some REPORTER, please ask Palin to quote the "establishment clause" of the First Amendment.

Then Someone, please require a test for these power hungry
politians to take. We don't know what they know. Make them
take a TEST to qualify for the positions they are seeking.

Make them PASS THE TEST before then can run, before they
are picked as VPs.

What am I missing here?

Ok, when do we get the piece about Joe Biden's religious upbringing and an interview with his former pastor?

Wow my kind of Blog!! This proves the American people have had ENOUGH!!! We are paying attention! We are not STUPID!! We will not let the GOP scare us this time! We will not accept MORE LIES!!!TIME IS UP!!!! OUT with the OLD!! In with the NEW!! OBAMA/BIDEN/AMERICAN PEOPLE 08!!! YES WE CAN!!! YES WE WILL!!! Don't believe the polls only the electoral map counts!! Obama is ahead! Get out the vote people!!!!!

The Rev Wright story was run for months over and over and over again.It is only fair to question Palin on why she was in the pew when that man talked about Jews deserving being attacked.And why she belonged to a church that believe Alaska is "chosen".This is way too dangerous and extreemist.Her pastor himself said he had no doubt she would use her religious beliefs to govern.She already said she wants to outlaw abortion even for rape and incest victims.This means if a 13 year old girl is raped or becomes the victim of incest that she has to have the baby.This is just too dangerous and too much.
WAKE UP AMERICA!CAN WE REALLY BE THAT STUPID?

It seems like gays, abortionists, liberals and atheists can't stand Sarah. A perfect reason to support her! The vast majority of our founding fathers believed in Jesus Christ so why are you so intolerant of this? I can't wait till she addresses the topic of religion.

Did this woman really say that the Irak's war is in God's plan???!!! What an abomination. This is an scary person...

First of all, the article states Palin left the Pentacostal church 6 years ago for something more mainstream, so she has apparently given some thought to views expressed ... and maybe the pastor of this church has a gripe with her leaving and its a smear campaign. We all know preachers, pastors, ministers, priests, and bishops are HUMAN even if they haven't figured that out. But, whoever or whatever is 'up there' and I know I shouldn't suggest there is actually a GOD, but I do pray from time to time and actually a few of those have been answered ... I would much rather have a VP who believes than one who doesn't. The role of VP, even President of the United States is not a dictatorship. Yes, policy decisions are made and a system of checks and balances is in order, and the Supreme Court is always there ... and nominations are scrutinized, so get off this idea that Palin is single-handedly going to ban abortions, allow creationism to be taught in schools (and what's wrong with a little bit of equal time with that?), etc. etc. Why is it we don't debate the right of the President to worship while he's in office? Every one of them has attended church services in D.C. Shouldn't we request that they put that issue aside for four or eight years? Maybe we should establish a guide on what the proper religious affilitation should be for our leader. Now that I think about it ... wasn't all that freedom of religion stuff our forefathers fought so hard for to ensure people could believe what they wanted and worship as they chose without being hung in public.

And for the record, I know a few Baptists that don't allow their kids to trick-or-treat, I even know one Baptist church that went so far as to have a Halloween carnival where the kids dressed up like angels and 'forgave sins' of other kids who went through the heaven and hell maize they'd set up.

You know, on one hand, I don't think this should matter. But the truth is, all the rules changed when everyone made such a big deal out of Rev. Wright's statements.

OK, if pastor statements belong in political campaigns, they belong there for both candidates. Let's hear Gov. Palin herself address the comments made by her former Pentecostal church as well as the comments made about Jews at her current church. Does she condemn those comments, will she quit the church? Let's apply the Obama standard.

What is fair is fair.

There is only one consideration in the instance of considering Governor Sarah Palin's religion and that's if she is a Christian. That has been established by word and action, so end of discussion. This does make one wonder what else are they going to try to dig up that will sink this woman. Truth is, all this was tried on Hillary, but it's not going to work this time. Why? Because after all the trashing of the Clintons and the roar of the crowd for Obama NOT to name Hillary as his Vice Presidential running mate, everyone now wonders why he let such a jewel get away. It all comes down to the old saw, be careful what you pray for. Go McCain and Palin!

A public servant that ties her religious beliefs to what the tax payers fund is unconstitutional.

As a non christian tax payer I not only expect but demand that all religious beliefs be kept out the the business of the state and the American people who are the state.

This woman is not welcome in my countries government and I feel the same as many have expressed.

I would rather live in Iran where at least I know religion and politics legally intertwine.

Isn't it time we had a test before anybody can run for high office? You want to be a doctor – then study for years and years – become an intern, a resident and after at least a decade or more you might be qualified to practice. Want to be a lawyer? – get a degree, then another one, and take a very difficult Bar exam. And then become an associate for years and years (working 18 hours a day) and you might just make it.

You want to be a Governor or VP? Grab your lipstick and put on a good pitbull attitude and you can do want ever you want! Don't know a thing about economics, foreign policy, or the constitution (who needs that silly old thing anyway?) – no matter! As like as you can dress sharply, sound sassy and snarky, then you too can be a VP!!!

Is this really a Democratic country or are we in one giant Truman-like reality show? Do we wonder why the rest of the world laughs at us?

But what we REALLY want to know...
is she a snake handler???

Nikki asked – I wonder what other countries think of us? In Europe, many want to like the citizens of the US – but they question our intelligence for electing George Bush not once but twice. They feel our aggression. through Bush's actions in Iraq, has jeopardized world peace, and placed all in danger of terrorists acts. I will be out of the country from end September to mid November, and the logistics of voting in this critical election are difficult. When our Italian landlord was asked if we could use his address to obtain an absentee ballot he said "I know you have to vote for your next president. In Italy we know everything about your election... in Italy we are for Obama" Our first hand international experience, sadly has shown the world's citizenry much more informed on American politics than or own citizens.