Who is Sarah Palin?
Well, if John McCain has his way, she just might be the next Vice President of the United States. With this surprise announcement comes a flood of questions, let’s sort through some of the basics.
1. Who is Sarah Palin?
Sarah Louise Heath Palin is the Governor of Alaska. The 44-year-old politician is only three years younger than Barack Obama, but 28 years younger than her running mate John McCain. This is interesting because McCain has been quick to target Obama’s youthfulness as a sign of inexperience. Hypocritical? We’ll let you decide.
2. Does she have experience?
Of course this will be a hot topic. The short answer is: sort of. Palin was tapped as Governor less than two years ago, making her a relative newcomer to big-time politics.
3. Is picking a female VP a wise move?
Again, this is pretty subjective. However, this might be a good opportunity for McCain to win over some voters left cold by Hilary Clinton’s removal from the presidential race. It may also help him soften his image.
4. Is Palin the first female VP candidate?
No. In 1984 Geraldine Ferraro was on the Democrat ticket. Palin is the second candidate representing a major political party.
5. As Gov. of Alaska, what’s her position on drilling for oil?
From 2003-2004 Palin was a member of Ethics Commissioner of the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. She eventually resigned in protest over what she called the “lack of ethics” of fellow Alaskan Republican leaders, who ignored her whistleblowing complaints of legal violations and conflicts of interest. After she resigned, she filed formal complaints against Alaska’s Republican partychairman, Randy Ruedrich and former Alaska Attorney General Gregg Renkes, who both resigned; Ruedrich paid a record $12,000 fine.
6. Um, Alaska?
Alaska became a state in 1959. Known for its natural beauty and resources, the secluded state has become a hotbed of political debates regarding the possibility of drilling for oil on protected lands. Alaska is also the home of folk/pop singer Jewel “Who Will Save Your Soul?” Kilcher (the host of Nashville Star recently wed longtime beau/rodeo star Ty Murray). Free Jewel mp3 music downloads, here.
We’re sure tons of other questions will pop up over the coming hours and days, so check back for more information as it becomes available.
Do you think Palin is a good VP choice?
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