Newspaper Article

Some conventional wisdom on presidential contest

Greene, Keith

2008

Overview

A. [Barack Obama] deflected McCain's frivolous \"celebrity\" attacks pretty well, not by denying that he, Obama, is a celebrity, but by sharing his life story -- from humble beginnings to the possibility of the presidency -- and stories about common, struggling Americans he has met or known. Obama stated in his acceptance speech, \"I don't know what kind of lives John McCain thinks that celebrities lead, but this has been mine. These are my heroes.\" A. It's too early to tell. McCain's attempt to woo woman voters, especially disgruntled [Hillary] supporters, may ultimately backfire, as thoughtful woman will vote for the ticket that they perceive as best for their families and the country, not gender. So far [Sarah Palin] offers no expertise on important national and international issues; and she appears to stand on the side of overturning Roe v. Wade, which most women favor. (Women gun enthusiasts will love her, however.) Moreover, questions are already buzzing in the media about Palin's alleged ethics and hypocrisy. Even though the good folks attending the RNC have circled the wagons around her, if most voters -- men and women -- perceive Palin as a weak candidate with extreme views and character issues, then McCain's judgment in his selection of a running mate -- someone he met only briefly before selecting her -- might do him more harm than good. Voters will be able to better judge Palin's credentials after she is allowed to give press conferences with the national media and be interviewed on \"Meet The Press.\"

• Publisher: South Bend Tribune Corporation
• Subject: Colwell, Jack / McCain, John / Obama, Barack / Palin, Sarah