About Sarah Palin: an e-mail from Wasilla
A suburban Anchorage homemaker and activist — who once did battle with the Alaska governor when Palin was mayor — recounts what she knows of Palin's history.
Editor's note: The writer is a homemaker and education advocate in Wasilla, Alaska. Late last week, Anne Kilkenny penned an e-mail for her friends about vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin, whom she personally knows, that has since circulated across comment forums and blogs nationwide. Here is her e-mail in its entirety, posted with her permission.
I am a resident of Wasilla, Alaska. I have known Gov. Sarah Palin since 1992. Everyone here knows Sarah, so it is nothing special to say we are on a first-name basis. Our children have attended the same schools. Her father was my child's favorite substitute teacher. I also am on a first-name basis with her parents and mother-in-law. I attended more City Council meetings during her administration than about 99 percent of the residents of the city.
She is enormously popular; in every way she's like the most popular girl in middle school. Even men who think she is a poor choice for vice president and won't vote for her can't quit smiling when talking about her because she is a "babe."
It is astonishing and almost scary how well she can keep a secret. She kept her most recent pregnancy a secret from her children and parents for seven months.
She is "pro-life." She recently gave birth to a Down's syndrome baby. There is no cover-up involved here; Trig is her baby.
She is energetic and hardworking. She regularly worked out at the gym.
She is savvy. She doesn't take positions; she just "puts things out there" and if they prove to be popular, then she takes credit.
Her husband works a union job on the North Slope for BP and is a champion snowmobile racer. Todd Palin's kind of job is highly sought-after because of the schedule and high pay. He arranges his work schedule so he can fish for salmon in Bristol Bay for a month or so in summer, but by no stretch of the imagination is fishing their major source of income. Nor has her lifestyle ever been anything like that of native Alaskans.
Sarah and her whole family are avid hunters.
She's smart.
Her experience is as mayor of a city with a population of about 5,000 (at the time) and less than two years as governor of a state with about 670,000 residents.
During her mayoral administration, most of the actual work of running this small city was turned over to an administrator. She had been pushed to hire this administrator by party power-brokers after she had gotten herself into some trouble over precipitous firings, which had given rise to a recall campaign.
Sarah campaigned in Wasilla as a "fiscal conservative." During her six years as mayor, she increased general government expenditures by more than 33 percent. During those same six years, the amount of taxes collected by the city increased by 38 percent. This was during a period of low inflation (1996-2002). She reduced progressive property taxes and increased a regressive sales tax, which taxed even food. The tax cuts that she promoted benefitted large corporate property owners way more than they benefited residents.
The huge increases in tax revenue during her mayoral administration weren't enough to fund everything on her wish list, though — borrowed money was needed, too. She inherited a city with zero debt but left it with indebtedness of more than $22 million. What did Mayor Palin encourage the voters to borrow money for? Was it the infrastructure that she said she supported? The sewage treatment plant that the city lacked? Or a new library? No. $1 million for a park. $15 million-plus for construction of a multi-use sports complex, which she rushed through, on a piece of property that the city didn't even have clear title to. That was still in litigation seven years later — to the delight of the lawyers involved! The sports complex itself is a nice addition to the community but a huge money pit, not the profit-generator she claimed it would be. She also supported bonds for $5.5 million for road projects that could have been done in five to seven years without any borrowing.
While Mayor, City Hall was extensively remodeled and her office redecorated more than once.
These are small numbers, but Wasilla is a very small city.
As an oil producer, the high price of oil has created a budget surplus in Alaska. Rather than invest this surplus in technology that will make us energy independent and increase efficiency, as governor Sarah proposed distribution of this surplus to every individual in the state.
In this time of record state revenues and budget surpluses, she recommended that the state borrow/bond for road projects, even while she proposed distribution of surplus state revenue: Spend today's surplus, borrow for needs.
She's not very tolerant of divergent opinions or open to outside ideas or compromise. As mayor, she fought ideas that weren't generated by her or her staff. Ideas weren't evaluated on their merits but on the basis of who proposed them.
Comments:
Posted Tue, Sep 2, 4:04 p.m. inappropriate
Forward this to everyone you know: The media will focus on the fluff, people need to know the meat. Forward this to everyone you know and let them make their own decision.
Posted Tue, Sep 2, 6:28 p.m. inappropriate
Ambition feeds the rumors: Here is a link to the story of little Trig's birth, from KTUU, the same TV station where Sarah worked once as a sportscaster:
http://www.ktuu.com/global/story.asp?s=8194634
What kind of ambition is that? Sarah says she was at an oil conference in Texas (with Cheney's inner circle) and they offered her a chance at the vice presidency. She says her water broke, but she gave her speech anyway, and then flew all night, back to Alaska (8 hours) in premature labor with a Down syndrome baby, and then drove to a distant medical center (2 hours).
The baby was born at 6:30 AM. She claims her doctor approved the flight. People didn't believe her, and neither do I: no physician ever did any such thing, of course. So either she lied or she lied, and either way she looks nuts.
If she really delivered the baby, all she has to do is show people her hospital records and introduce them to the doctor. She doesn't have to hide behind her daughter.
I am not convinced of any of the dates she gives. She acts like a pathological liar. Right now, her need is to cover for her own bizarre behavior, whether it was concealing her Bristols's pregnancy (or pregnancies) or her own. I have not seen "liberals" attacking Bristol Palin: Sarah launched the issue and is using it to present herself as a defender of her daughter, attacked by phantom Democrats.
Posted Tue, Sep 2, 9:25 p.m. inappropriate
She's a clone of Washington State's/King County's/Seattle's government leaders: So Palin has a non-progressive tax agenda. And she signs off on huge piles of new debt. She jams through sales tax increases.
She's being advised by the same municipal financing consultants and lawyers the local and state politicians running the show around here get their advice from. OK, that's just a guess.
Chopp, Gregoire, Nickels, Phillips, Constantine, the Murrays, et. al, et. seq. - that's EXACTLY how Washington's political leadership behaves.
Posted Tue, Sep 2, 10:09 p.m. inappropriate
Slimecut: A an admittedly biased smear job. Don't lose your reputation over this, Crosscut!
Posted Tue, Sep 2, 10:09 p.m. inappropriate
Any comparable perspectives on Sen Obama?: I am curious, are there any first-hand perspectives from people who worked with Sen Obama or who were his neighbors? Perhaps some people who benefited from his community organizing, or from his constituent service while he was in the Illinois legislature?
I think the NY TImes had something about his law school teaching, and the Houston Free Press had the perspective of a reporter who covered Sen Obama while he was in the legislature.
The email from Alaska is indeed illuminating. There are plenty of points of view on anyone though.
Posted Tue, Sep 2, 10:26 p.m. inappropriate
the email may be fake!: if you want another but more fair report:
www.nytimes.com/2008/09/03/us/politics/03wasilla.html?em
Keep in mind people are trying to cut her off at the knees!
Posted Tue, Sep 2, 11:30 p.m. inappropriate
Librarians Against Palin: I am writing a blog where Library Staff and Library Lovers can unite against Sarah Palin. Sarah Palin is a censor, and she believes that she knows better than you what you can read.
Please join me at http://librariansagainstpalin.wordpress.com
Posted Wed, Sep 3, 1:23 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Librarians Against Palin: Funny: when I first read your comment, I thought it said "library staff and liberty lovers." But it might as well have. Sarah Palin is definitely not from the libertarian wing of the Republican Party. I can't imagine they're thrilled with McCain's pick. How many will go big-L and vote for Barr this fall, I wonder?
Posted Wed, Sep 3, 7:35 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Slimecut: This piece was neither. A smear job is a lie told cynically in order to manipulate the gullible. If the writer of this email is lying, please show us how. And as for bias--are you suggesting that the writer wants to hate Palin because of Palin's race or gender or religion or political party--wants to hate her so badly that she makes stuff up or ignores facts just to justify hating her? It doesn't read that way to me. I think she's critical of Palin based on a lot of experience and observation, not biased against her.
Posted Wed, Sep 3, 9:41 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Librarians Against Palin: Here's one that's leaning that way, but not because of Palin. McCain lost me with McCain-Feingold. He obviously has no qualms about brushing the First Amendment out of his way when it suits him. Obama might get my vote if he follows Nixon's age-old maxim and moves to the center to govern (and to win the election). As it is, exchanging big-government Bush for big-government Obama isn't change, it's just re-arranging the deck chairs.
Posted Wed, Sep 3, 11:04 a.m. inappropriate
thank you for speaking out: I have been trying to find out about her - the press has been so focused on gossip including the religion angle- they still have not learned we the people want substance in reporting. I still have no idea about her beliefs on foreign policy issues, commitment to energy independence( you can debate global warming, but not the fact that our national security and economy are linked to energy independence issues- Oil drilling in Alaska or not will not accomplish energy independence- what is her big picture?)
Look at the Soviet Union- its all about oil- they have it, Europe does not- they are feeling their power- power today is energy- not military strength- currently you can stop an army or country if they have no fuel.
We need broad flexible thinking in our President with an eye to the long term - not just their personal party future.
I finally found someone posting details that can be researched and verified. Thank you - we only preserve freedom by using our freedom to vote wisely.
-an avid Obama supporter, from the middle, who was thinking she might have potential in the future if she chose to gain experience- but now I am not too sure- she is too risky in a time McCain is statistically unlikely to live to 80 as a male in the US.
Posted Wed, Sep 3, 11:32 a.m. inappropriate
Truth more damaging: The Writer's claims of Palin's vindictiveness seems to be corroborated by today's NYT article about Palin's roots. ("Palin's Start in Alaska: Not Politics As Usual.") Many of the residents of Wasilla that the writer of that piece talked to refused to comment. On reading that piece I wondered if they were afraid of retribution. On reading this piece, that feels like a justified reaction.
Her governing style seems to prove that one book she would (did?) read is the Karl Rove Handbook of Wedge Politics.
(OK, is it just me, or does Palin remind you of Christy Alley's character in the movie Drop Dead Gorgeous–the ex-beauty queen now beauty queen mother that kills all of her daughters competitors?)
Do we really want someone who worked at banning books in position to be President? I'm sure there are some who do, but for those of us who think Democracy requires freedom of information this seems a bit extreme.
Posted Wed, Sep 3, 7:25 p.m. inappropriate
Palin????: When I watched Sarah Palin with her family behind her, I laughed so hard at her poor daughter. I thought that she was just another normal teenager embarressed by her parents.I wondered why she was holding the baby in such an unusual position. Now, I figure she was hiding When I found out she was pregnant, it wasn't funny. I felt so bad for her. I thought How I would feel if I were 17 and found myself pregnent. I would be so embarressed when my family and freinds found out. Her mother has put her out there for the whole world to see. Is this what she (Ms Palin)calls "family values"? Bless her daughter's heart. Shame on you Ms. Palin.
Posted Wed, Sep 3, 8:10 p.m. inappropriate
Thank you so much, Mrs. Kilkenny: Mrs. Kilkenny, what you are doing here is nothing less than the solemn duty of every patriotic citizen of this nation: you are speaking what you know to be true based on the facts of the matter, and you have pulled no punches. This is what allows our country to function. Thank you so, so very much. People need to follow your example (and your grammar!) whenever they wish to say something useful. You have stated your points clearly, with no particular venom or invective to distract from the sobriety of the facts, and you have provided a method for checking where your numbers and facts derive from. This is more than many self-styled "journalists" do these days, and I applaud you for this.
Thank you,
James Tyler
Duncanville, TX
Posted Wed, Sep 3, 11:26 p.m. inappropriate
Thank you!: Thank You Anne Kilkenny! Thank you for not being silent! Thank you for coming out and letting us know your views! Thank you for putting the country first!
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 7 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Truth more damaging: JUST CURIOUS, DOE'S ANYONE KNOW WHAT BOOK SHE WANTED OUT OF THE PUBLIC LIBRARY ?
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 7:04 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Palin????: Not sure I understand your comment about Mrs. Palin putting her daughter out there for the whole world to see. Her mother didn't get her prego. A 17 yr old get's pregnant it is there fault, not the parents. As a parent myself I can only point and guide my children in the right direction. What they choose to do away from there home behind closed door's is there choice.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 7:19 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Any comparable perspectives on Sen Obama?: Sure...the Chicago Reader is a free newspaper...
http://www.chicagoreader.com/obama/
They have a list of old Obama articles that say a lot about him.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 7:25 a.m. inappropriate
A Political Agenda Poorly Disguised: I'm not a political person by nature. But this "letter" allegedly from an activist housewife in Alaska doesn't pass the smell test. It reads more like an agenda...
SHAME ON THE CROSSCUT EDITORIAL STAFF for not performing your journalistic due diligence and contributing to the widespread posting of this urban myth across the Internet. Do you not have to check your sources? Must be easier than working at a network or print publication where editors require such things as veracity in their content.
I'm neither Republican nor Democrat, so I'm weighing the evidence before choosing. I can tell a snow job when I see it.
This letter is likely a subversive political attempt by the Obama/Biden campaign (or advocates thereof) to pass off an attack against an opponent as a first-hand report from an average citizen. If so, then it counts against them in my consideration.
I'm sure the team that cooked up and composed this letter patted themselves on the back so much that they almost dislocated their shoulders. Ultimately, this kind of thinly veiled fictionalized journalism is insulting to your readers and the voting public.
It shows a disregard for our intelligence and an elitism of those writing (and publishing) it for thinking they could pass this rhetoric off as fact.
Shame on them and shame on you, Crosscut.
Now go get a real job and make me a tall caramel macchiato.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 7:51 a.m. inappropriate
RE: A Political Agenda Poorly Disguised: Give Ms. Kilkenny a call. She's listed on Whitepages.com. See if it's a "subversive political attempt" or a person expressing her opinion.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 8:03 a.m. inappropriate
Let's see--who gored your ox?: I have to agree with Independent1--this one doesn't pass the smell test (shame on the rest of you posters for accepting it at face value!). I have heard from multiple Alaskans--Republicans, Democrats, Independents, liberals, conservatives, apoliticals--and to a person, they tell a consistent story of Sarah Palin. Except Ms. Kilkenny. Her enemies don't like her, but they (now) respect here. As one noted: the Alaskan landscape is littered with the remains of people who've underestimated Sarah Palin.
If this "exposé" were based in truth, don't you think we'd be hearing from more than one individual? You just can't keep secrets from the media in this day and age (and if you think hundreds of TV, cable, print and radio news organizations don't have researchers scouring Alaska for this kind of dirt, you haven't been paying attention).
So, again, I ask you, Ms. Kilkenny: it's obvious Sarah Palin gored your ox--tell us the rest of the story. What really inspired this vindictive diatribe that doesn't jibe with the experience of the rest of Alaska?
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 8:24 a.m. inappropriate
Alaska visit: I have to disagree with aceroinix. I was just in Alaska last week when Ms. Palin was selected. I spoke with twelve old, dear, respected friends, and they all had similar viewpoints. They all thought that she did a great job initially, particularly against the good ol' boys, but her true colors eventually showed through. They all urged me to tell everyone I know to not trust Ms. Palin and look past her flash.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 8:42 a.m. inappropriate
Doesn't add up: Something doesn't add up. This email from Anne Kilkenny contradicts itself, almost always a sign of inaccurate information. And it's convenient the numbers can't be verified, another classic excuse to just accept what was stated. What isn't stated is what Sarah did to you Anne. There's always two sides to a story. We have yours, we don't have hers. This smacks of cattiness, not much more. Contradictions and unverifiable facts mark this as unreliable.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 9:33 a.m. inappropriate
Thanks so much!: Thanks so much for this article. I came across it through a post on The Stranger; I myself am from Chicago, and have forwarded this article to tons of friends + family.
We have desperately needed facts about Palin, because all we've seen since her nomination has been smoke-and-mirrors: Vote for me because I'm a good person because I did not abort my Down's syndrome baby! Vote for me because I am making my 17-year old marry her boyfriend who impregnated her and that makes their teenage sex OK! Vote for me because I am a hockey mom!
Empty, empty rhetoric that does NOT have any place or meaning as regards being a heartbeat away from the Presidency. And especially after her speech last night, she is "full of sound and fury / Signifying nothing."
Her policies and actions whilst being a mayor and governor show just how she would govern as a VP. Blind, ruthless ambition based on fear, ignorance, and misinformation.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 9:43 a.m. inappropriate
Classic Disinformation: I got this email. Unfortunately for the "author" it was in a Word format. Cluelessly, the writer forgot that one can click on "properties" and ascertain who created the document, or, at least, who owns or owned the software. When one does this the name "Caroline Cochener" comes up along with "JAC Development". Google these terms and you'll see who's behind this screed. Crosscut is showing its bias as usual.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 10:17 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Palin????: Ranger Dave, nobody should argue with your thought that Palin's daughter has to shoulder responsibility. And fortunately the Palin family is there to support her. However, gogogranny appropriately points out that the girl didn't need to have her personal life highlighted in front of 300 million people IF Palin had turned McCain's offer down. An argument can be made that she put her political ambitions before her family's well-being, unless of course the Palins are all good with the public exposure. Me, I would have passed for the good of my daughter, because both of my girls are that important to me. But, as with most personal decisions, we really don't know what the deal is within the Palin family on this. Let's take Sen. Obama's sage advice on this one--it's their life, involves her daughter, and doesn't have a place in the election. If a reader doesn't like Palin's politics, take her on politically.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 10:36 a.m. inappropriate
We need more than a change Osama! Ooops, I mean, Obama: Well anytime some lil thing comes out about the candidates it's always funny to see the things the media nit-pick at. I'm sorry, but for someone who is to be writing almost a critique of a presidential candidate, this seems pretty one sided because it's basically a story of a "person scorned", I mean the author openly admits that some of their facts are wrong and they also openly admit that they can't back up their accounts of the true numbers not to mention that the author is an "enemy", shall I say, of Mrs. Palin. I'm sorry, how about a new rule mmmk? How about accept the fact that basically all the candidates, republican and democrat, all have their own skeletons in their closets and blowing things out of proportion. But when you ultimately look at the candidates side by side it becomes obvious that the stronger ticket is the McCain/Palin ticket. I'm tired of this "I'm ready for a change" "It's time for a change"...what is Mr. Obama goin to change? The color of the office? And I say that with no prejudice but open facts. He, as a senator, passed absolutely nothing...nada, it's like he was just chillin', so to speak, to build up his resume' of doing nothing in office. I mean honestly, when did selection of who is best come down to race/religion/gender? I have friends that have openly admitted that they are only voting for Barack Hussein Obama, because he's black...wow, come on people, pull your heads out of your rear and look at the facts. I guess that's it for now.
Thanks
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 12:05 p.m. inappropriate
Cheney and the offer to become Vice President.: The blogs told a different story that she was offered it in January 2008, and he 'coached' her. Do you have any information regarding Cheney's involvement?
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 12:17 p.m. inappropriate
RE: Truth more damaging: Im guessing Harry Potter lol. She looks like the Laura Mallory type
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 12:23 p.m. inappropriate
You can fool some of the people...: To Alaska Visit:
Not sure where you were in Alaska, but sounds like you were in the Southeast. They don't like her much there because she's talked about moving the state capitol from Juneau to Anchorage. For a read on how they feel about her back home in Wasilla (which is, after all, where Ms. Kilkenny alleges the "sins" occurred), check out this AP video from this morning:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zf-y6luFRw8
Like I said before, if there were the massive discontent you or Ms. Kilkenny allege, the media would have found it by now. As Abraham Lincoln noted: "You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you can not fool all of the people all of the time."
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 12:34 p.m. inappropriate
Jealousy: Sounds like the woman is jealous of Palin. Obviously disgruntled about something.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 1:37 p.m. inappropriate
RE: We need more than a change Osama! Ooops, I mean, Obama: We need more than a change Osama! Ooops, I mean, Obama
I think we can effectively disregard anything you say, and miss not an iota of fact or meaning.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 1:48 p.m. inappropriate
RE: A Political Agenda Poorly Disguised: I talked to Anne Kilkenny for 45 minutes and the phone, and we did a background check. She's for real.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 1:52 p.m. inappropriate
Yes - RE: Any comparable perspectives on Sen Obama?: There's a blog by a guy who used to work with him at Business International, and several other co-workers find it and they've formed a group since at Linkedin, but most describe him as a remote kind of guy. And, of course, one can't know which among them are even real.
http://tinyurl.com/obama-bus-Int
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 1:55 p.m. inappropriate
-- We received it in e-mail form.
-- We did a background check on Anne Kilkenny.
-- I talked to her on the phone for 45 minutes.
-- The Anchorage Daily News also looked into the matter and interviewed her.
She's for real, and so is her e-mail. Is everything provably true? No, but she also tells you so in a fairly detailed disclosure at the end of the article.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 1:55 p.m. inappropriate
Updates for political history: I'd posted the note a couple of days ago when I found it in the middle of lots of Comments on a monthly but didn't want to link people to try to find it so gave it a single page also.
I've been updating it when I find political histories for Palin that came out after the letter. Some are interesting and there's a good reference site for her stands (with quotes by her).
http://www.andrys.com/palin-kilkenny.html
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 2:38 p.m. inappropriate
RE: About Anne Kilkenny's e-mail: The point isn't that Anne Kilkenny is real, it's that the whole smear is a put up and unlikely written by her. Find out who Caoline Cochener is and track the relationship.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 5:16 p.m. inappropriate
Bravo Anne Kilkenny!: I applaud Ms. Kilkenny's courage in writing this letter. Coming from a small town as she does and seemingly Palin is popular in parts of Alaska, it just seems very honorable and courageous for Ms. Kilkenny to tell the truth about Palin. The truth shall set you free and clearly we as Americans need many more truth seekers in order to help us to see the way to restore our Constitution and renew our nation in the manner in which our Founding Fathers dreamed. (Including separation of Church and State!)
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 5:22 p.m. inappropriate
RE: About Anne Kilkenny's e-mail: did YOU find out who she is bob? because I could copy and paste her email into a word document and send it to all my friends and it could eventually make its way to you and then you'd think I wrote it. wait, no you wouldn't, because I don't think my microsoft word is registered under my name. i think you already pointed that out, but the point is even if you can make a connection its still pretty meaningless. Besides, it sounds like people have already questioned her about writing it.
As for this being a smear campaign, everything in here is easily verifiable. It's only been 2 days; I'm sure we'll be getting the info to prove/disprove these allegations shortly. And whoever was picking on the self-professed inaccuracy of the data that couldn't be verified, who gives a shit whether she was mayor of a town of 5,000 or 5,300.
Posted Thu, Sep 4, 9:12 p.m. inappropriate
Kudos for Kilkenny: Ms. Kilkenny's recitation is a breath of fresh air in the midst of endless political rhetoric. Let the truth be told~
Having been employed by both state and federal governments, I can attest to the inner "workings" and "good-ole-boy" syndromes that abound. It seems like yesterday that I was training the commissioner's ____________ (fill in the blank with any relative's description) to be "my boss" so that they could collect six-figures a year pushing paper (and b.s.) from behind a desk. Do people actually think that this issue is isolated?
It amazes me that some cannot see that Ms. Palin would not be where she is today if she were not the ruthless, conniving, cut-thoat, game-player she clearly has to be. Just think, if McCain - at his tender age of 72 - suffers some sort of health issue or even death, where exactly would we be? Hmmm... Well, we'd be stuck with a woman who offers virtually no experience (unless you count town council) whose major aspiration was to be a sportcaster for ESPN! Can you say "smile for the camera?" Now, doesn't that just make you feel warm and fuzzy all over? (gag)
For those of you who claim that Ms. Kilkenny offers nothing more than smear tactics, I feel pity. Clearly, you've either just removed your head from the sand or you choose not to see the truth as it is. Just keep looking through your rose-colored glasses and tell yourself that it'll all be OK, right?
Shame on YOU, Palin supporters. Do your homework. Don't be so caught up in the God almighty "party" wars. America can't afford a McCain administration and this VP nomination is just a sad statement of what misery lies ahead. - OBAMA FOR CHANGE -
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 1:25 a.m. inappropriate
RE: About Anne Kilkenny's e-mail: This is silly, Bob. Use some common sense. Don't let partisan bias cause a mental block.
Caroline Cochener is the person at JAC Development who copied and pasted Kilkenny's email into a Word document.
Did that really need to be explained?
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 7:03 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Doesn't add up: Actually, it's well known by those who study liars that those who are telling the truth often contradict themselves and that liars very often have their story straight.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 7:20 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Classic Disinformation: You GOT this email? What email would that be, Bob? Are you a friend of Ms. Kilkenny?
And what precisely are we to divine from the suggested Internet search? I'm not finding any smoking guns.
What are you smoking?
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 7:29 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Librarians Against Palin: Apparently the Republicans largely lost the Libertarians in 2006. I hope the Democrats can keep them -- since Obama at least partially follows Chicago-school economics, there is some chance he will make good on his promises to balance the budget and shrink the corruption out of the budget. Libertarians might help counter some of the autocratic intuitions some of the left can sometimes display & make the Democrats into a better party. I hope they are given a place at the platform table.
But this explains why the Republicans really need to hold onto the religious extremists. It is actually a natural partnership for the party of landowners -- they use religion to explain why some people deserve to own more property than others. I don't mind it if someone excels and becomes rich through contributing to society and the economy, but I'm not crazy about small numbers of families inheriting all the power & wealth. But you could see also why this used to fit in with the libertarianism -- there's a part of that philosophy that says "I got mine". But the Bush end of the Republicans want a big government to keep giving them more & protect what they have.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 8:19 a.m. inappropriate
Someone with an ax to grind: This article would be relevant and interesting except for one thing. If all of this were true, why in the world would Sarah Palin have an 80% approval rating. Me thinks that this woman has an ax to grind.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 10:08 a.m. inappropriate
Ruthless characterization fits GOP to a T: While I can not verify the content of the email I can easily believe much of the characterization of Ms. Palin. The ruthless nature of the GOP over the last eight years seems ready to be continued with the likes of Ms. Palin who certainly appears to have what it takes to silence anybody disagreeing with her.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 10:12 a.m. inappropriate
Anchorage Daily News confirms email's authenticity: For unbelievers.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 10:24 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Someone with an ax to grind: Ted Stevens had a high approval rating, as well. Then again, being head of the Senate Appropriations committee, he was able to throw so much pork at Alaskans that they have the highest per-capita federal spending of all states.
Now that I mention that...do you think her high approval ratings could be attributed to the $1,200 extra dollars that Palin gave to each citizen of Alaska after passing a windfall profits tax?
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 10:28 a.m. inappropriate
Who is kikenny and what is her agenda?: I did a little research. Anne Kilkenny describes herself as a "reasonably well-informed housewife". But there is a little bit more to it than that, Kilkenny is a Berkley graduate, liberal activist, and political gadfly who once ran against Palin as a write in. She despises Palin and supposedly has attended every city council meeting since Palin was elected, no doubt to cause trouble.
Kilkenny lives on the public dole since her husband was forced to quit working (leukemia - now in remission thank God). So this Berkley graduate chooses be a political gadfly while sucking from the public trough rather than putting that expensive Berkley education to good use.
Kilkenny also has strong views on taxes. She wants them increased and says that citizens have a responsibility to support government. She is openly critical of elected officials who try to reduce the size of government or cut back on spending.
Kilkenny stated in the article: "While Sarah was Mayor of Wasilla she tried to fire our highly respected City Librarian because the Librarian refused to consider removing from the library some books that Sarah wanted removed."
But the Wasilla website has documents from Palin's tenure as Mayor including a library document that says NO CENSORSHIP (or any attempt to do so) ever took place.
What other distortions and fabrications has this woman fed us? Better check this out a bit more before disseminating it futher.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 10:39 a.m. inappropriate
RE: About Anne Kilkenny's e-mail: So it is okay to write lies and post a disclaimer! Why not just tell the truth??
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 10:41 a.m. inappropriate
This seems legit to me: I admire the writer's courage and really appreciate her posting this.
I'll add that there was a less-than-flattering piece in the New Yorker a few weeks ago that did some similar work on Obama, discussing his early career and the enemies he's made. I'm mentioning it since a few people seem to be wondering if such a thing exists.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 11:01 a.m. inappropriate
Listing for Kilkenny: I was bugged by the fact that I could find many references to Ms. Kilkenny on Google, mostly regarding the famous letter, yet there seemed no conclusive proof that she exists. Initially I took the multiple references as proof... but they were just reprints by and large of the letter with various people attesting to her authenticity. I decided to google the Wasilla phone book... here's what's printed there:
Anne L Kilkenny
BOX 870163
WASILLA, AK 99687
Phone Unpublished
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 11:32 a.m. inappropriate
Ms. Kilkenny: is jealous or has an "axe to grind" with your darling Sarah...? How well do you know Ms. Palin..met her personally..been friends with her a long time, have you..? You like Pres. Bush and what has become of your country..your wallet..? But there you are again..all ready to drink the kool-aid and happy to be fooled again...because you are Republican..and no matter how much the GOP lies to you and fools you, you are just so proud and protective...! Bet you have convinced your self (with the help of the Kool-Aid) that its all the Democrats and liberals fault..and that Obama is a Muslim..right? Shame on you for being so "easy" to manipulate...so uninformed...so blind..so one sided you will only listen to hate mongers like Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity and Bill O'Reilly...don't you care enough, aren't you patriotic enough..don't you love your country enough, to open up your minds..listen to both sides and make an informed decision..or are you to far gone, wrapped in potective layers of hate, religion and misconceptions...
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 12:01 p.m. inappropriate
Is Kilkenny telling the truth? Is there truth?: I'm flabergasted at the back and forth comments of (paraphrasing) "Anne's lying" and "She's a brave woman by telling the truth." Anne is providing one person's opinion. Even when someone is telling "the truth", it is colored by their perceptions, at minimum. It is, inherently, biased. Did everyone miss Psych 101? It is impossible to be unbiased, because we are human. So you're shocked that Anne is a democrat? She's from UC-Berkeley? She would seem to have an axe to grind with Palin? Not surprising at all. Do you honestly think Keith Olberman or any politcal comentator is unbiased? She is speaking from the heart, she was there, she knows Sarah on a first name basis? Doesn't remove her bias in the least. It is all bias and reflects their opinion. It is each of our jobs to render our own opinion. This is why the 1st Amendment exists. {sigh} Psychology and Civics lessons over. I feel better. Hope you do too.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 12:14 p.m. inappropriate
I've heard this one before...: Charming, good-looking and charismatic?
Rose to early success based on dazzling style rather than substance?
More concerned about herself and her career than the people she claims to serve?
Avoids tough positions and takes undeserved credit for popular ideas?
Very little actual experience?
She sounds like Barack Obama.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 12:55 p.m. inappropriate
RE: I've heard this one before...: I HAVE heard this before.
McCain must be spelled Obama in neo-con land.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 1:10 p.m. inappropriate
RE: Palin????: A child makes a mistake - the parents usually don't publicly humiliate the child. They are usually sensitive to their child's feelings - Its called compassion.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 1:26 p.m. inappropriate
RE: ruthless characterization fits GOP to a T: Tell me how the McCain/Palin ticket, that just perpetuated viscious and nasty lies about Obama and democrats, can possibly claim to be the candidate that will be best at bi-partisanship. What happens when a campaign so blatantly claims the higher moral ground, implies that Obama is in the race for self interest and not for America, and repeatedly seriously distorts the truth? It creates animosity - an animosity that will continue past the election that will make it hard for the country to unite behind a president. Shame on McCain and Palin - she especially seems cast in the same nasty mould as Guilliani. Watching her I can easily believe Anne Kilkennys email.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 1:42 p.m. inappropriate
RE: Classic Disinformation: I'm not sure why you would find this email hard to believe. It is a depiction of Sarah Palin's politics, which are definitely verifiable and in the days that follow we will see what unfolds in terms of its validity. But also very important, it sheds some light on her character. I am a skeptic about most anything I read on the internet, but this article has one thing to back it, I don't see this description of Sarah Palin's as being inconsistent with her speech. After the way she conducted herself in her speech, would you really think her to be someone of great compassion for others. To mock the work of a community organizer (which Obama did in his 20's) is an insult to anyone who has the heart and empathy to reach out and touch the lives of others. The fact that Cindy McCain shows up in attire that adds up to over $300,000, McCain is still focused on all things Military, and Palin is mocking those who work in the community, goes to show they really are out of touch with the needs of this country.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 1:58 p.m. inappropriate
RE: We need more than a change Osama! Ooops, I mean, Obama: Your title is offensive and racists. Clearly, you are the type of ignorant voter that is dangerous to this country's well-being.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 3:22 p.m. inappropriate
RE: Ms. Kilkenny: We're "wrapped in protective layers of hate"? Maybe you should read your post again.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 3:35 p.m. inappropriate
Mothers need to speak out: Thanks Anne, for this honest portrayal of your experience of Sarah Palin. I am a mother of five and Obama supporter who is a little irked at the way Palin is being portrayed as having the lock on the Motherhood Vote. I have just formed a nation-wide "Mothers of Five for Obama" group. Any women out there with five kids please email me (erika.munson@gmail.com) and we can show the country how much more Barack has to offer the next generation.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 5:05 p.m. inappropriate
RE: A Political Agenda Poorly Disguised: You probably think that NPR is a communiist conspiracy as well, but they met with her and she is authentic. Check it out: http://tinyurl.com/649y82
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 5:12 p.m. inappropriate
no wonder she hates "comminity organizers": after reading this the title sociopath comes to mind, I have worked under women like this, and I found another job before they slipped poison in my coffee. May God deliver us from this evil one!
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 5:31 p.m. inappropriate
Sarah in the grocery store: The last time I saw Sarah she was in the grocery store with me. My wife is a cook and fed her in the hospital after she had her child {Trig}.
I just wonder how you would like life with 65% less oil in the United States? We all love to argue. My belief is that if the Islamic world wanted it, we could be forced to run our Armed Forces and infrastructure on 35% of the oil that we produce in the United States every day.
You must realize that without gas, natural gas, oil or electricity, you will be helpless.
A vote for Obama is a vote to create a third world America. As many may dislike the G.O.P., as I have in the past, wake up and understand that a timid Democrat WHO does not want America to stay free, and be free from terrorist oil producers. Are there problems with the G.O.P. ticket? Sure, do you want to give up your comfort for an America that willingly funds both sides of the war on terror?
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 5:32 p.m. inappropriate
Sarah in the grocery store: The last time I saw Sarah she was in the grocery store with me. My wife is a cook and fed her in the hospital after she had her child {Trig}.
I just wonder how you would like life with 65% less oil in the United States? We all love to argue. My belief is that if the Islamic world wanted it, we could be forced to run our Armed Forces and infrastructure on 35% of the oil that we produce in the United States every day.
You must realize that without gas, natural gas, oil or electricity, you will be helpless.
A vote for Obama is a vote to create a third world America. As many may dislike the G.O.P., as I have in the past, wake up and understand that a timid Democrat WHO does not want America to stay free, and be free from terrorist oil producers. Are there problems with the G.O.P. ticket? Sure, do you want to give up your comfort for an America that willingly funds both sides of the war on terror?
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 5:43 p.m. inappropriate
a question for Ms. Kilkenny: Hey if Ms. Kilkenny knows so much about Ms. Palin, what about the rumors that she had an affair with her husbands business partner? I normally dismiss anything that comes from the National Enquirer, but they were right about John Edwards so maybe there is something to this? I think it is an important question since she is running as a social conservative with family values and potentially just one step away from the Presidency if McCain should win. We need to know if she can be trusted and if she cheated on her husband I would question her ethics and moral character.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 5:44 p.m. inappropriate
this is the best, most real assessment I have read: I am a 27 year resident of Alaska, I don't know Anne or Sarah, but all the statements (and yes, opinions) of Ms. Kilkenny ring true. Although I have never attended a Wasilla city council meeting, the records and actions of Palin as related are accurate, My first reaction on hearing that Palin was running for mayor was: Wasn't she the one who closed the library? I had it wrong; it was the museum.
The scariest part of Kilkenny's story is Sarah's vindictive nature. I too have a personal story of how she retaliated against someone she did not like once she had the power to do so. But I'm guessing there are alot of stories out there just like it.
As so many people are saying: don't underestimate her; and get the facts out there!
Thank you, Anne Killkenny for providing something to inform us, not slander Palin with.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 6:03 p.m. inappropriate
Liberals will believe anything...: Great to see liberals are getting political and fiscal education from an email written by a childs teacher. Go ahead, study it, misinterpret it, and email it to every simpleton you can find voting for Hussain.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 6:11 p.m. inappropriate
The strength for the race: With Palin's religiosity having been brought into prominent view in her introductions in the past week, I can't help but have a similar question occur to me with regard to Anne Kilkenny.
Is there anybody who can fill us in on this?
Her civic involvement would certainly suggest an involvement out of a strong faith orientation, although I have know people including some of my own kin who have had the former without the latter, and neither its absence or presence is qualifying or disqualifying with regard to other views.
I don't want any privacy to be violated, but Anne Kilkenny would seem to have a strong and very public faith, whether we know what it is (unlike Palin's what seems like a very however mature ostentatious evangelicalism).
In any case, Ms Kilkenny has provided an even, candid voice in the election discourse which is a credit at its best to what it is to be an American citizen, of whatever party affiliation or political persuasion.
I, for one, am deeply grateful to her for her witness and her example.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 6:15 p.m. inappropriate
RE: The strength for the race: Dear Mrs. Kilkenny,
Thank you for your bravery and for speaking out. Your courage and honesty makes me proud to be an American.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 6:26 p.m. inappropriate
The shadow tyrant: The more I read and hear about Sarah Palin, here and elsewhere, the more she sounds like a prime tyrant in the making.
Which had Americans rather have, a tyrant and oil, or a democratic republic that finds other resources within itself and among its citizens to find new ways of running?
It's their choice, and from recent history I'd say it's a toss-up.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 7:13 p.m. inappropriate
RE: Truth more damaging: I think it was a copy of the Bill of Rights
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 7:18 p.m. inappropriate
RE: About Anne Kilkenny's e-mail: Face it, the mccain campaign did not vet her at all. They were on the record saying they vetted her thru google and didn't follow up until after she was named vp candidate.
anyway, my ms word is registered to my nephew b/c he installed an update when using my pc. enough w/ your stupid conspiracy theories.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 8:30 p.m. inappropriate
Verification from the Alaska State Fair: I live in Anchorage and overhead several women from Wasilla commenting on Sarah Palin and life with her in Wasilla. They didn't speak too loudly because they felt they would be pressured to keep silent if they didn't go with the majority view of Palin as the great savior of Alaska. Most of what I heard rang true with the posted letter and in fact, I heard lots more. It is a small town and much harder to hide the truth. I also attended Hobo Joe's set at the fair and he, along with most Alaskans, are quite proud and happy Sarah is the VP candidate - not so much because they like her, but they think it'll be great to have an Alaskan to educate the lower 48 that they "really are a state." She's brought a lot of attention to a state where the entire population is less than the size of most metropolitan areas in the lower 48. And so people who are speaking the loudest and in public are supportive. And those are the people the mainstream press are interviewing and listening to. Prior to the Internet, Americans relied on that same press for information about candidates and it was far easier to hide the negative stuff, especially if you live in a state dominated by wilderness, moose, bears, and very few mainstream reporters. With the Internet, everyone can access millions of others with the click of a button - which doesn't mean the content is any less reliable than the mainstream press or that anyone is out to trash anyone else. It means that candidates and others can't hide as well and their past is much more transparent. Witness the trash-mouthed hockey boyfriend who's My Space was immediately changed as soon as the GOP recognized the potential negative impact on their desire to present a Disneyland version of reality.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 10:42 p.m. inappropriate
RE: Palin????: Gym and Gogogranny,
Imagine yourself as a teenager and you do something really stupid like get pregant. Now imagine your Mom giving up a chance of a lifetime to hide your stupid mistake and spare you public humiliation. In the shorterm you might be glad your Mom gave up her dream to spare your humiliation but don't you think that for the rest of your life you would feel guilty about causing your Mom to have to give up a once in a lifetime opportunity. Sarah Palin did think about her daughter's welfare and chose to pursue the VP spot rather than subject her daughter to a lifetime of guilt. You both are sexists, leftist, parisan hacks no doubt. Oh and did I mention that you are both stupid.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 10:48 p.m. inappropriate
Be very afraid of Sarah Palin: There was a very good reason that the founders of this country required a seperation between church and state. Individuals cannot practice their religion (or practice no religion) in peace when politicians are rabid fundementalists who would impose their belief systems on others.
Those of us who are free thinkers and value this freedom should be fearful of the McCain / Palin ticket. Not because of McCain, but because of Palin.
As I see it, our fundemental liberties are at risk with Palin on the ticket. I was not a whole hearted Obama supporter in the past. In fact I was very undecided until Palin was named. I am very fearful of this woman. I sincerely believe that she is closed minded to the beliefs and desires of others and that she will not represent the people as a whole. She is a primative choice for a running mate. My vote, my work and my dollars are now with the democrats. McCain is a clown to have chosen Palin.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 10:59 p.m. inappropriate
RE: Thank you!: to vb and all you other jackasses on this post: You all praise Killkenney about coming out of the closet with this earthshattering information but not one of you idiots has ever questioned Obama's association with known terrorists like William Ayers. Only Sean Hannity of Fox News has pushed this story. No mainstream media outlet has pursued this story nor the story about Obama and Tony Rezco. Just like the Media was silent about John Edward's affair. The Enquirer broke this story about Edwards two years ago and we are just now finding it in the mainstream media. Investigative journalism only applies to those with Conservative leanings especially around election time. Killkenney has an obvious agenda if you want to see it. She freely admits that there is animosity between her and Palin over the library issue. Small town gossip and backbiting can be vicious. I know this firsthand. Killkenney admits that Palin is extremely popular throughtout the State of Alaska and was even voted to a second term as Mayor of the small town. On one hand Killkenney admits how well-liked Plain is and how she was elected to a second term as Mayor and then on the other hand she blasts Palin for various issues. Something doesn't pass the smell test here at all. You people are blind if you can't see that. Also, I love the way everyone is critical of Palin's experience or lack thereof but no one on this blog or in the mainstream media challenges Obama's lack of experience. Obama is going for the number one spot and Palin is going for the number 2 spot and yet no one is critical of Obama's lack of experience. What a friggin joke! Palin has more experience than Obama. What the hell does a community organizer do anyway? Give me a break. I know Obama was the legal counsel for ACORN. This get out the vote organization is as corrupt as they come. Look them up if you don't believe me. You might be able to say that Obama and Palin have about the same experience level but to me that's a stretch. Compare Obama's experience to McCain's and McCain wins hands down.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 11:09 p.m. inappropriate
RE: A Political Agenda Poorly Disguised: Independent1 ,
I totally agree with you. I smelled a rat the minute I started reading this crap. It's so obvious that this was totally contrived by the Obama campaign. To think that some lowly poor old housewife in Alaska wrote this just to save all of us poor dumb smucks from the big bad Barracuda Palin is nothing more than a fairy tale. I wonder how much Killkenney was paid by the Obama campaign/DNC to spin this tale. I am voting for McCain/Palin for sure now. Thank you for making my mind up Kilkenney.
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 11:11 p.m. inappropriate
RE: Let's see--who gored your ox?: To Aceroinix I say "Right on, Right on!
Posted Fri, Sep 5, 11:21 p.m. inappropriate
RE: Thanks so much!: Hey JJ,
All you got was smoke and mirrors from the Republican convention so you need more information about Palin? This I understand. So now you have one person in the entire State of Alaska who has something negative to say about Palin and you hang on every word. Are you kidding me? Your mind was made up about Palin and McCain from day one and you know it. You are a joke. Kilkenney was paid off to provide the Obama campaign with this hatchet job and if you are too blind or ignorant to see it then you derserve to get that inexperienced, elitist Obama as your President. Sometimes I am blown away by the ignorance of so many people in this country. It's scary. Never underestimate the power of stupid people in large groups
Posted Sat, Sep 6, 12:37 a.m. inappropriate
Keep The TRUTH Coming!: We all need to copy this article, and email it to every silly conservative voter that we know.
Only Together Can We Impale the Career of This Sarah Palin!
Stand up for the Truth! Stand up Againt Sarah Palin!
Posted Sat, Sep 6, 12:40 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Slimecut: Don't be a FOOL!
Posted Sat, Sep 6, 12:56 a.m. inappropriate
RE: a question for Ms. Kilkenny: konakimcherry kool-aid drinker,
I thought screwing around on your spouse was okay? It was okay for Bill Clinton according to all you Libs. Suddenly you have an issue with it? What a hypocrite
Posted Sat, Sep 6, 1 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Be very afraid of Sarah Palin: Hey "Woman Afraid of Palin",
I've got two things to say to you. "Don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out, and good riddance!
Posted Sat, Sep 6, 1 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Palin????: And you are :: RUDE!!!
It bothers me that people like you feel it necessary to become belligerent to ANYBODY you disagree with!
God forbid you act decently towards others!
Maybe you don't believe in christian Values --- Which is the most beautiful, decent thing about Christians! --- or maybe you're just not a (good) Christian?
Since you spout this Hate you couldn't possibly believe in Christ, nor Values of ANY type!
People who Hate like You lead such sad, small lives...
What a terrible waste!
Posted Sat, Sep 6, 1:21 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Classic Disinformation: That is FALSE!
When you Google :: Caroline Cochener :: NOTHING like that comes up at all! ABSOLUELY NOTHING!
I don't know what type of Lies you are trying to Spin, but it's NOT working.
Isn't is Amazing how many people will Lie to Protect the Republicans? They must be getting really desperate.
In this election they've used Nothing but Lies against Obama! Guess what? It's not going to work! The American People are Sick & Tired of The Republican Lie Machine. After 8-Years ---- We've had enough!
Posted Sat, Sep 6, 2:12 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Thank you so much, Mrs. Kilkenny: I couldn't agree more, and for once in my life I don't feel that I could have said it any better. Here! Here! Both to Mr. Tyler, and Mrs. Kilkenny. Thank you both very much.
Sincerely,
Teresa J.N. Barbour
Novato, CA
Posted Sat, Sep 6, 2:29 a.m. inappropriate
RE: A Political Agenda Poorly Disguised: I find it interesting that you consider yourself to be so even handed, and so "psychic". First of all Cross Cut did not print this letter originally. Secondly, if you were to bother to take the time to do any research into the allegations made by Mrs. Mckenney, you would find that most of what she has said is verifiable. Also, that while admitedly liberally leaning, NPR interviewed this woman, as have journalists all over the world. She is intelligent and well spoken, this letter was not written for the general population but was written in response to requests from friends who wanted to know more about Palin,a woman thrust into the National attention only weeks before a Presidential Election, her friends found the information credible and shared it. In searching for informatio on this Palin woman, what are we supposed to do, just take the Republican's word for it that she's a viable VP candidate? Because, they have been so forthcoming and truthful with us over the last eight years.
It is also interesting is that your accusations actually sound more like a cooked up spin created by the Republicans to keep people from asking too many questions about this woman.
If you don't believe it, why don't you do some investigating yourself, Mrs. McKenney has nothing to gain from her truthfulness, but Palin may have everything to lose by the truth becoming common knowledge.
Enjoy your elitist, overpriced, self-indulgent coffe; it suits you.
Posted Sat, Sep 6, 3:35 a.m. inappropriate
RE: Keep The TRUTH Coming!: This women of five should understand family values. I have five, and am voting for John McCain. The women that wrote this original article has zero credibility. She wrote this because Sarah "Hates her." How childish. She has an axe to grind. Her port barrel program probably got cut.
Posted Sat, Sep 6, 9:02 a.m. inappropriate
A CONFUSED BRITISH RUN OF THE MILL SOCCER DAD !: Dear People of the USA,
I am a regular British dad, watching and listening to all the political comment avaliable in the media regarding the forth comming election and frankly am confused over the proposed role of Sarah Palin and how it appears the the USA have so quickly accepted her into their hearts ?
Who exactly is running for President in the Republican Party, sorry GOP ? Since the announcement of Sarah Palin for VP nominee, it appears as a UK spectator, that Mr McCain has fallen off the radar and his running mate is the true induvidual being looked upon as the future "Commander in Chief" of the USA.
Mr McCain, at least from where I am sitting if elected, is certain to suffer ill health of some kind during the 4 year term, simply due to the riggors of the job entailed, leaving the USA to rely on the VP to take over the role.
Have the Republican Party seen this comming and hence started backing the VP in anticipation ?
Secondly is it common for folk in the USA following a single speech to automatically accept a nominee into ones heart, despite knowing that the Mr McCain has met the candidate less than 3 times ? Her background is still largely unknown, apart from what she wants us to know, and currently she is not exposing herself to the usual media circus that surounds any election in the first world. Does this not make anyone ask the question WHY ?
In comparison Mr Biden, appears to have taken up his role of mouse !
I hope for the sake of the world and the future of our children that America makes the right choice in the forthcomming election be it GOP or Democrat.
I myself, like Palin am confused over the global warming debate and mans effect on the planet, but realise that everytime I run my car black carbon soot comes out of the exhaust, I dont know what happend to it ! I conclude therefore if we burn all the oil and gas on the planet it probably wont be a very nice place to live, look at the Olympics and the smog issue.
I think its a great thing that people shoot an eat their own food, its very grounding, but doesnt that image also look very Russian ?
In the UK, we believed our political betters to discover 10 years later that they had sold us to the dogs and spent the profits, giving away control of our lives to whom ever has the cheapest Oil and Gas, to find that we are now all paying the price rich or poor. The promise of alternative energy solutions has been promised but alas that as far as we have got.
Political prudence on the part of Tony Blair ment that he jumped off the ship and has now left it to sink in the hands of a political party that is more concerned with it's own future, rather than the voters that put them there in the first place.
We have a Maverick Prime Minister MR Brown, he has so far lost the respect of his public, smashed the public purse and then had the cheek to say it's not his fault, it was the bigger BOYS !!!
To have a Maverick on your team is a good thing, however, Hollywod tells us in TOP GUN, that the ICEMAN usually comes through on top to lead the team as the Maverick just takes too many chances.
Posted Sat, Sep 6, 10:01 a.m. inappropriate
RE: A CONFUSED BRITISH RUN OF THE MILL SOCCER DAD !: For our cousins across the pond, think Sarah Palin = Margaret Thatcher.
Maggie was dismissed as merely the daughter of a grocer who was raised in a flat above the shop. But she ended up besting the lot straight away.
I love the old joke about Baroness Thatcher and her cabinet:
Maggie Thatcher was out to dinner with her cabinet. The waiter asked her what she would like.
"I'll have prime rib," she said.
"Fine," said the waiter. "What about the vegetables?"
"They," Mrs. Thatcher said, "will have the same."
Sarah Palin will be very effective at dealing with a lot of the vegetables in Washington, D.C. I can't wait to see her preside over the U.S. Senate and cast a few tie-breaking votes as Vice President!
I can hear the bleating now.
The Piper
Posted Sat, Sep 6, 10:09 a.m. inappropriate
the wrong idea: I, too, am a little confused. I seriously think that the american people get so caught up in who they are AGAINST, that they don't realize who they are FOR. This can be said for both sides, red and blue.
This thread is not about John McCain. It is not about Barack Obama. It is about Sarah Palin. So to all the hateful attitudes thrown around toward the presidential nominees (and their defenders here), you are all missing the point. You, very seriously, have the wrong idea.
For me, it is my job as an informed voter to be educated as much as possible on the record of possible candidates. One HAS to question sources, and there is nothing wrong with that. It is how we gain our information. However, it is also my job as an American, to vote for a person that I can personally trust. That I can relate to. That I BELIEVE in.
This is why I do not believe in Sarah Palin: I am a mother. Plain and simple.
I cannot imagine taking on the second most important position in this country WITH A FOUR MONTH OLD! especially not a four month old that has special needs. With a newborn, your focus should be on the special needs of that child, and not the special needs of the nation. I ask myself, who will she get to step in and do HER job? It just seems so selfish.
I also cannot imagine dedicating everything to my own professional advancement at a time when another one of my children should be working on theirs. If my 17 year old was just graduating from school, it is my job as a mother to make sure that she begins her own career, either academically or professionally, with as much support as possible. I had my turn to advance; as our children reach 18, it is their turn. It just seems so selfish.
Then there is the possibility that my 17 year old was pregnant. If she was, it is my job from one mother to another, to make sure I teach her to rear her children in the best way possible. That would be my grandchild, and we all know that children having children is difficult enough as it is. By not being there in full support (and don't tell me that the Vice President of the United States has the time or energy to be there as a trusted, constant support system for ANYONE), she would be doing her daughter a disservice. I don't know, it just seems so... what's the word... selfish.
so above and beyond her experience, her past, or the allegations around her, i stop as a voter, and a person, and as a mother to think about why i would or wouldn