A post-debate party report

by Lawrence Albright


Like many others across the nation, I joined with friends and neighbors to watch the debate between Senator Joe Biden and Governor Palin. We were a diverse group, and I suppose we might even be thought of as a motley crew. Several were liberals, including one who has been increasingly gravitating toward the center. We also had a few Republicans, a quintet of self-avowed independents, and one Libertarian who isn't voting that way this year because he can't stand Bob Barr (yes, the same Bob Barr who as a Republican was one of the most strident advocates for the impeachment of then President Bill Clinton), and one Communist (me, in case you haven't guessed)

I wanted to share some comments from our group:

* "Isn't this why there is a debate?" (A very annoyed liberal-centrist following Governor Palin's comment that she wasn't going to answer the questions posed by moderator Gwen Ifill or Senator Biden, but would talk "straight" to the American people).

* "Has she (Governor Palin) answered ANY question she's been asked?" (the Libertarian)

* "Biden clearly has more substance, but I wish he wasn't so 'wooden.'" (An independent and undecided voter)

* "I am not going to vote for the Republican ticket this year because Palin isn't qualified to be Vice President or President. I could possibly accept her as the wife of a President or Vice President but even that might be a stretch." (The speaker of these words was a woman who has voted for the GOP every election except for 2004).

* "Why is Palin smiling when Biden is talking about Iraq?" (Another independent)

* "How is she going to preside over the Senate if she doesn't understand how Senators think and work?" (An enthusiastic Obama supporter -- and former Republican)

* "If she winks one more time, I am going to throw up." (a retired Teamster)

When the last comment above was voiced, it made me think about my post here a few days ago ("The Wrong Palin") that referenced Monty Python's Flying Circus.

Nudge nudge, wink wink, SAY NO MORE!