Sally Quinn
Washington Post reporter

Sally Quinn

Washington Post journalist and author of several books, Quinn is founder and (with Jon Meacham) co-moderator of On Faith.

 ALL POSTS

Palin's Pregnancy Problem

My first reaction was shock. Then anger. John McCain chose a running mate simply because she is a woman and one who appealed to the Republican's conservative evangelical base. Now, with news that Palin's 17-year-old unmarried daughter is pregnant, McCain's pick may not even find support among "family values" voters.

It has happened before, of course. Geraldine Ferraro was chosen as the Democratic vice presidential nominee in 1984 because she was a woman, but that was 24 years ago. I thought we were past this. Apparently not. McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate is a cynical and calculated move. It is a choice made to try to win an election. It is a political gimmick. And it's very high risk. I find it insulting to women, to the Republican party, and to the country.

This is nothing against Palin. From what little we know about her, she seems to be a bright, attractive, impressive person. She certainly has been successful in her 44 years. But is she ready to be president?

And now we learn the 17-year-old daughter, Bristol, is pregnant. She and the father of the child plan to marry. This may be a hard one for the Republican conservative family-values crowd to swallow. Of course, this can happen in any family. But it must certainly raise the question among the evangelical base about whether Sarah Palin has been enough of a hands-on mother.

McCain claims he knew about the pregnancy, and was not at all concerned. Why not? Not only do we have a woman with five children, including an infant with special needs, but a woman whose 17-year-old child will need her even more in the coming months. Not to mention the grandchild. This would inevitably be an enormous distraction for a new vice president (or president) in a time of global turmoil. Not only in terms of her job, but from a media standpoint as well.

McCain's cynical choice has created a dilemma for many women. For still-angry Hillary Clinton voters, they will have to decide if they want to vote against their concscience and political interests by voting to elect a Republican woman who's even more conservative than McCain.

Evangelical women also will have to decide if they will vote against their conscience by voting to put the mother of young children in a job outside the home that will demand so much of her time and energy.

Southern Baptist leaders like Richard Land and Al Mohler have praised McCain's choice. But these are the same men who support this statement from the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message:

"A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She, being in the image of God as is her husband and thus equal to him, has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to serve as his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation."

Palin's lack of experience and her family situation are both valid and vital considerations here, especially when she will be running with a 72-year-old presidential candidate who has suffered four bouts of a deadly cancer.

And by the way, how can McCain call Barack Obama unqualified, inexperienced, not ready from Day One, not able to be commander in chief, and then put someone like Palin in a position that is a heartbeat away from the pesidency?

I don't blame Palin for accepting the position. How could she or anyone turn down such an opportunity? I was once in a similar position. After four years of reporting at the Washington Post, I was chosen by CBS to be the first network anchorwoman in America, to co-anchor their Morning News. I had never been on TV a day in my life. I was 32. There were women at CBS who were much more qualified than I was and certainly other men. They chose me because they wanted a woman. I didn't even want the job, but I didn't feel I could turn it down. Of course it was a disaster. I lasted four months. I wasn't ready for Network TV. Palin isn't ready to be leader of the free world.

The calculation on the part of the McCain people is clear. Palin's candidacy could draw some of the 18-million Hillary Clinton voters who are not happy she lost and who want to vote for a woman on a national ticket. Palin is not of Washington and that will be appealing to some. Most importantly for McCain, Palin is decidedly anti-abortion and that will keep the Republican base under control and appeal to some evangelicals who might be considering Obama. She has a son who is headed to Iraq.

Those are positives for a McCain-Palin ticket, but what about the negatives?

She has no national political experience, especially in the area of foreign policy. That fact that she is not of Washington also will be difficult for her. Barbara Bush once told me that her husband had been a congressman, UN ambassador, ambassador to China, and head of the CIA and they thought they were prepared for the vice presidency (under President Reagan). But she said nothing can prepare you for the criticism and scrutiny of being in the White House. Sarah Palin is not prepared for that.

Is she prepared for the all-consuming nature of the job? She is the mother of five children, one of them a four-month-old with Down Syndrome. Her first priority has to be her children. When the phone rings at three in the morning and one of her children is really sick what choice will she make? I'm the mother of only one child, a special needs child who is grown now. I know how much of my time and energy I devoted to his care. He always had to be my first priority. Of course women can be good mothers and have careers at the same time. I've done both. Yes, other women in public office have children. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has five children, but she didn't get heavily involved in politics until they were older. A mother's role is different from a father's.

These are dangerous and trying times for the entire world. This is no time to to play gender politics. The stakes are too high. And given McCain's age and history of health issues, the stakes for choosing a qualified vice presidential candidate have never been higher.

Maybe this will work. Maybe McCain will win with Sarah Palin as his running mate. But if he does, it will be for all the wrong reasons.

By Sally Quinn  |  August 29, 2008; 4:03 PM ET  | Category:  Religion & Politics Save & Share:  Send E-mail   Facebook   Twitter   Digg   Yahoo Buzz   Del.icio.us   StumbleUpon   Technorati  
Previous: Divine Impulses: Barry Lynn | Next: Vodoo Helping to Heal New Orleans

Comments

Please report offensive comments below.



"My first reaction was shock. Then anger...This is nothing against Palin...But is she ready to be president?" Quinn is all about opposites, pulling in disagreeing arguments from opposite extremes, where the only unifying point is support for her conclusion that Palin is no good. From shock to anger, from nothing against Palin to having something against Palin, Quinn just doesn't make any sense. It doesn't make sense that Quinn objects to Palin at the bottom of a ticket over her inexperience, given that the top of the other ticket has even less experience. Quinn's mutually incompatible arguments smack of dishonesty. She should just admit that for none of the reasons she's given, she just doesn't like Palin. Quinn is for Obama, probably, as she's a religious reporter, because Obama's spiritual mentor of 20 years, Reverend Wright, rants on a moral wavelength that resonates with her outlook. Quinn should be honest about why she opposes Palin, and then she'll be able to provide reasons that make sense.

Posted by: Sense Ability | September 17, 2008 1:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Bristol Palin is only following her mother's example- Sarah Palin was pregnant before marriage. She eloped August 29th, and had her first child less than 8 months later. Having the child is an honorable, personal decision for Bristol Palin, but it is unfortunate that Sarah Palin was unable to educate her daughter on the importance of abstinence. Presumably, the decision to abstain was not something she could justifyably preach when she had not practiced this herself.

Posted by: Shilpa | September 15, 2008 1:26 AM
Report Offensive Comment

This column is profoundly disappointing to me. "Her first priority must be her children." A man's first priority does not have to be his children?
In the CNN interview Ms. Quinn says we are "beyond the idea that there are no differences between men and women." Of course there are differences and that was never doubted by most people. But over the past 30 years the society has moved in the direction of eliminating artificial restrictions place on the opportunities available to women. If the differences between men and women make women less capable of political leadership, then it is hard to imagine any endeavor from which women could not be similarly restricted.
Men can take care of children and men are taking care of children all over the country.
There are many reasons that one may oppose the election of Sarah Palin to the position of Vice President. That she should be home with the children is not one of them.

Posted by: Joe | September 14, 2008 10:38 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
Are you so confident in who you are that since
you didnt last 4 months that you hold Palin
to your standard?
Also it amazes me that liberal thinking people
are the first to jump on the fact that a women should stay home and take care of their children as opposed to running for vice president of the United States. Yet( in reality) they are not wanting a pro-life woman candidate for vice-president. Come on!
The question should be. "Should a mother stay home and take care of an unwanted baby or should she get rid of it so she doesnt have to stay home?
The latter would be the easiest way out.!

Posted by: breana | September 14, 2008 5:54 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am so glad to see another Christian professional woman come to the same conclusions that I have. God Bless You!

Posted by: Pediatrician in Texas | September 12, 2008 8:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sarah Polin was a great choice for VP. She might win the white house if she was running for President.

The problem with the Republicans which I am one, also a disabled veteran who worked to get Bush elected. Bush started a war based on lies and deception, everyone around the world knows this. As a veteran I trust the President or I did in the past.

When a man starts a war, then him and Rumsfelt betrays the fighting men and women of this nation by trying to cut disability benefits. You can not sink any lower. McCain had to know it was a deception, we watched it on TV and knew yet he supported it. A war that thousands killed and disabled for life, a war that destroyed this nation and put thousands out of work.

Now McCain wants to let France build our airforce tankers, it will cost the tax payer billions and crerate thousand of jobs forfrance.

Obama has a bill in the senate that Biden tried to ram rod throught before being asked to be VP. The bill gives ther UN 3/4 of a trillion dollars under the pretence of globel poverty. Bush al ready gives billion. The Obama bill would force us to pay .o7 percent tax to the UN, it would also put us under the UN gun Ban.

If you are not aware of this go to, http://www.dove777.com, you can read it for your self.

As you see we have to pick the lease of two evil.

If McCain continues to ignore America and the American people he will lose the election.

Obama can win by a land slide if he is telling the truth about restoring the economy and this nation.

Oil companys are ripping of the American people and causing great damage to this nation, the democrats refuse to drill, One democrat wants to add another .50 gas tax.

Senator Feinstein from California supports the Obama bill.

This election could make or break America, make sure youknow the facts.

Sincerely, a disappointed veteran!

Posted by: Robert Banton | September 12, 2008 4:38 PM
Report Offensive Comment

your just another feminist woman hater. get over it, Sarah Palin has everything you will never have and that is brains and hot legs.

don't be a hater!

Posted by: zolapoyet@yahoo.com | September 12, 2008 10:30 AM
Report Offensive Comment

your just another feminist woman hater. get over it, Sarah Palin has everything you will never have and that is brains and hot legs.

don't be a hater!

Posted by: zolapoyet@yahoo.com | September 12, 2008 10:30 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Just because you couldn't handle being a TV anchorwoman doesn't mean that Sarah Palin can't handle being VP. Going from a writer to being on TV is quite different from going from governor to VP - as a mayor and governor, Sarah Palin is used to leadership. Being an anchorwoman and leading the free world are not quite on the same level.

The same website that says that, "A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband" also indicates that,

"The husband and wife are of equal worth before God, since both are created in God's image. The marriage relationship models the way God relates to His people. He has the God-given responsibility to provide for, to protect, and to lead his family."

So maybe SP's husband should take control of the family while she works on helping run our country. Their family and their daughter's pregnancy and their grandchild-to-be are not all SP's responsibility. If the phone rings at 3am, her husband can answer.

This might not be the time to play gender politics, but doesn't B. Hussein Obama have a family and young children that need looking out for ? What's he going to do at 3am when one of them is sick ?

Posted by: Rachel | September 12, 2008 2:54 AM
Report Offensive Comment

my answer to sally quinns cheap comments about sra palin are nasty and mean, sally quinn's hates any woman who is against abortion, sara and her husband decided not to abort their child simply because he would be born with down symdrome, she and her liberal's only have one agenda hate all conserveratives and ahte any woman who decideds not to have an abortion, they relish in the fact that babies can be murdered, they have no soul or heart for any woman who decides that her family means more than her pleasing the sicko liberals, Mrs Palin cam handle her job and her family, nobody questions any man who has 5 children and a career who is to say that the man can do it better I don't think so for thousands of yeaers women have take care of their families and other duties, in todays world a strong minded and a strong willed woman can do anything she sets her mind to and she sure doesn't have to have the approval of a flunky like sara quinn, try walking in Mrs. palins shoes for 24 hours ms quinn and see if you can handle it, you can't even cary her lipstick. proud to be a woman and mother a working woman and a strong conservative so Ms quinn try being supportive of women who decide to keep their babies and not kill them
linda siler

Posted by: linda siler | September 10, 2008 9:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, I see it's very easy for you to question Palin's experience but ignor Obama's. What is with you liberals. Obama is the guy that voted against making English our official language. This is the guy that wants to divide this country with diversity instead of unity. What is wrong with the language used for our Constitution, our Pledge, our National Anthem, our Laws, etc. Why do we have American/Native American, American/Hispanic American, American/Afro American, etc.? What the hell is wrong with just plain AMERICAN? One country, one flag, one language, "One Nation Under God". Is this the United States of America, or the Divided States of America. The last time I checked, English was the language used in every states charter. Men and women have died so we can continue to speak English instead of German, but Obama can't find the guts to vote for our language or put his hand on his heart. Unity is strength Sally.
Sally, you better check on Palin's experience, status, and position with our national defense team in her own state. How long can silly Sally ignor Obama's experience level at 175 days (Congress in session), and then question Palin's experience. Our kids get more experience in preschool preparation for kindergarden than Obama has for President. Talk about audacity. Thanks to liberals like yourself, many of us will continue to boycot you and send e-mails to every sponsor/advertiser we can find. You approach to fairness is a joke. You have your own agenda, so you stick to it Sally.

Posted by: Ken Corbin | September 10, 2008 8:01 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Why are you pushing the clock back on woman?

Posted by: sally | September 10, 2008 8:00 AM
Report Offensive Comment

> "Maybe this will work. Maybe McCain will win with Sarah Palin as his running mate. But if he does, it will be for all the wrong reasons."

If they win I hope it will be for all the right reasons.

your judgment about Governor Palin's prepardness her prepardness appear to be tinted by your own political agendas and therefore worthless.

Ms. Palin is a strong woman who lover her country and her family and it appears that she has accepted the circumstances of her pregnant daughter as a challenge to be made the best of rather than a problem.

What fits the definition of "problem" is the entrentched self serving crowd in Washington in which Mr. Obama would too easily find comfort. I certainly hope that John McCain and Sarah Palin can prevent that from happening. That's the right reason.

Posted by: John in Kansas | September 10, 2008 3:02 AM
Report Offensive Comment

During Senator Obama's acceptance speech, he specifically stated several times that he was his brothers keeper, but has a half brother in Kenya living in a hut on less than $1 a day. If he won't take care of blood kin, do you really think he will take care of us?? Thank you, but I'll stick with family values and trust Gov Palin to do what's best for her family and our country.

Posted by: ROBERT | September 10, 2008 2:08 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Thank you for coming forth with integrity and truth about our role as woman, wives and mothers.

Sarah is at a cross-road in her life where the roads of self, responsibility and duty meet at the intersection of the brass ring that all its notoriety and financial security.

All woman and men come to this place at some point their lives. Some of us on more than one occasion face a choice to choose "personal principles", over something that is shiny and appealing, however, we have to ask ourselves what are we being asked to pay. Then, there are those moments when its dark and its just you and God, when we have to analysis things and decide to stick with our personal principles and choose the unknown.

We all know that all things are not what they seem when offered, there are bad people without conscious lack character in the pursuant of self gain and use others to get it; then there are the nicely packaged deceptions with a bow with fine print that reads you are my scapegoat; my fall guy, etc.

Then there is the question of "Character".
I want a woman or man in office who I believe has the ability to represent all the peoples of these United States. The rich, the poor, the needy, those with special needs, those of varied religious interests and belief systems and those that don't necessarity have to look like me to represent me.

In Sarah, I am witnessing a person that does not represent the character of the nation founded by our forefathers who built this nation along with its freedoms; nor the people who have fault and achieved their places in a country that was not their own who came to believe that the American dream is for everyone.

I will let my vote speak along with the voices of my ancestors who as slaves and freed people without the right to vote who died to give me the right. So on November 4, 2008, along with many Americans who have achieved this great honor I will vote on what matters, based on principle, not gender or color, on who will represent those who believe in America like me as well as those who do not -- but I will indeed join with a nation echoing the voices of all its people.

I will cast my vote for the leader who "thinks" and "has an agenda" that represents the United States at home overseas.

At the end of the day we are all still woman, men, seniors and children -- "people", with families, on a journey of world peace, a little laughter and a lot of joy, that starts and ends on our personal principles.

I haven't seen this ideal coming from the White House in a long, long time.

Thank you for saying it out loud Sally Quinn so eloquently and in the fasion of a real lady.

Posted by: BBRN,CA | September 9, 2008 8:15 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Just one comment as I am sure a lot of this has been covered. Give me a break regarding the all-consuming job of VP. Does anyone actually think the job of VP is much more than a perfunctionary role. Even if it was a function that demanded a lot of time, I am sure the Palin family can figure out how to manage. I am a father of child with severe disabilities due to a regressive disorder which primarily affects brain cells - slowly taking all life and function from a person. My wife and I manage quite well with our daughters care as do all the persons I know with children who have disabilities. Does it mean we don't get out much alone or do everything we would like to - yes. Does it mean our lives are unmanageable - no. Like most Americans (I hate when politicians use that phrase) we do what we have to in order to have some quality of life and provide the best we can for our children. Also it seems to me the older daughter is getting married and will be setting out on her own journey through life. We all have issues and we all learn to deal with them and balance our lives. To Ms Quinn I simply say get a life! Where is all that liberal gender equality now?

Posted by: Rob, Frederick MD | September 9, 2008 7:13 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow - so much for the glass ceiling. You've just reinforced that ceiling which Hillary and so many of us women have worked so hard to crack. So are you saying that only women of non-child bearing years have a right to expect equal treatment and have careers? You are a hypocrite! If Ms. Palin had been a Dem + the RNC had made the same comments as you - they would have been labeled chauvinsts.

Posted by: KB | September 9, 2008 5:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment

THE REPUBLICAN PARTY JUST CAN'T UNDERSTAND THAT THEY NEED TO CHANGE THEIR VIEWS TO FIT IN WITH THE TIMES. INSTEAD, WITH THE CHOICE OF SARAH PALIN THEY ARE GOING BACKWARDS. BACKWARDS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, EDUCATION, WOMEN'S RIGHTS, ETC. I'M FRIGHTENED.

Posted by: JANET HOWE | September 9, 2008 3:30 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Most of the time, I agree with you, but in this case, I feel that you are incorrect. I have read that her marriage is a strong one and that her husband has taken the roll of stay-at-home dad and will continue to do that if she is elected VP. I think that although in most cases it is best for a mother to raise her children, the Lord gives special talents/abilities to women and expects them to use them for the betterment of all. Staying home to raise her kids may not be what the Lord wants in her case and she may just be doing exactly as he directs.

My immediate impression of her is that she's not a career-oriented go-getter-at-all-expense type of woman, but a family-first type of woman who has the unique challenge of receiving an enormous opportunity to effect the lives of millions of people in a very positive way. There will be a cost on her family, of course, but having a loving partner who will sacrifice his own career to be at home for the kids is, in my opinion, worth the good she can do for our country and the world (if she is what she appears to be = selfless, a fighter, and good).

Sincerely,

Jason Mount, MD

Posted by: Jason Mount | September 9, 2008 10:17 AM
Report Offensive Comment

you mention mccain's treatment for skin cancer-i have been wondering for a long time about any concern for obama's long history of smoking cancer causing cigarettes (which apparently he still does even though "trying" to quit. in addition, his mother and grandfather both died of cancer.

Posted by: nan fallon | September 8, 2008 5:30 PM
Report Offensive Comment

you mention mccain's treatment for skin cancer-i have been wondering for a long time about any concern for obama's long history of smoking cancer causing cigarettes (which apparently he still does even though "trying" to quit. in addition, his mother and grandfather both died of cancer.

Posted by: nan fallon | September 8, 2008 4:40 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Oh, Sally, you might better understand what happened to Chris and Keith at NBC. Folks are getting tired of you people always giving your opinion and not reporting. Are you called a "reporter?" If so, report! You are not a policy maker and no one cares who you like and don't like. You are a hateful person. You say you are for women's rights. No way, Sister. You are a OJ: back stabber! Maybe CBS will soon wise up!

Posted by: Don Tedder | September 8, 2008 1:15 PM
Report Offensive Comment


This has been the most exciting Presidential race I have ever experienced. I can’t wait to see how it turns out! Regarding Sarah Palin’s nomination for Vice- President…


To quote and second Dr. Laura’s reaction, “I am stunned.”, but not for the same reason. I am truly stunned by the “feminist” reaction to the news. I first learned of Sally Quinn’s interview on Fox, August 30, 2008, after John McCain and Sarah Palin announced her candidacy for Vice-President. Sally Quinn, feminist extraordinaire of the seventies and eighties, defender of womens’ rights to do anything and be anything that a man can be; writer of uncountable columns and articles denigrating the oppression of and cultural bias against females and equal rights in this country; regular decryer of antiquated attitudes about roles of the sexes, stated in her blog “On Faith” August 29, 2008, “McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate is a cynical and calculated move. It is a choice made to try to win an election. It is a political gimmick. And it's very high risk. I find it insulting to women, to the Republican party, and to the country.” Cynical? In no way. Calculated? Absolutely. Of course it’s a choice made to try to win an election, as is Biden. Insulting? I am insulted by her knee-jerk reaction, which makes her real agenda remarkably transparent. She is skeptical that Sarah could be focused on the job, considering her five children. Again she states, “Not only do we have a woman with five children, including an infant with special needs, but a woman whose 17-year-old child will need her even more in the coming months. Not to mention the grandchild. This would inevitably be an enormous distraction for a new vice president (or president) in a time of global turmoil.”


As I listened to Sally’s interview defending the blog she had written deriding the nomination, my disbelief turned into something closer to disgust. Unable to simply state that Sarah Palin is a conservative with whom she disagrees politically, (and Sally has rarely agreed with political conservatism that I recall), she pulls out the gender card. (Sally, of all people!!!!!!) She states, “A mother’s role is different than a father’s.” For those of us old enough to remember the old Sally, that statement alone is hilarious. Of course, a mother’s role is different than a father’s, but what does that have to do with this issue?


Let me be clear about this point. I am a mother. I would have been unable to hand over the primary care of my children to another, even a loving, responsible father, for the amount of time that Sarah may be required to do so. I worked most of my children’s growing up years, out of economic necessity. But, if not economically necessary, I would have had to be involved in other pursuits for at least part of the time, as I know that I am here for more purposes than motherhood. However, there are alternative family set-ups that are successful. Mothers and fathers are not interchangeable units, but there are certainly families in which the father is the more hands-on caretaker and the mother is the dragon-slayer. There are also families in which the parenting roles change back and forth over time depending on the family’s situation. As far as we know, the Palins appear to be one of these. How prejudicial for Sally to announce that the Palin family couldn’t possibly handle the family and vice-presidential demands, essentially because Sarah is a woman/mother. There is no denying if Mark Palin were the vice-presidential candidate, his family responsibilities would be a byline story only. The newspaper and magazine articles would show smiling family photos, describe how Sarah had quit her job on the birth of their fifth special-needs child to stay home and quote her stating how proud she is of her vice-presidential nominee husband. NO ONE would be questioning how he could possibly focus on the country, when he was so busy with his own family. How anti-feminist is that? How far do we still have to go on the gender gap?


Many people appear to ignore the fact that for at least the last ten years Sarah Palin has been an extremely busy woman who has already been balancing public and family responsibilities. She is a GOVERNOR, for Pete’s sake. Think she gets to work at 9 after dropping off the kids and picks them up at 3 to take them home and make dinner? Are you kidding me? She will handle her public and private responsibilities as well or as poorly as anyone with a family who holds public office. If the Sally Quinn’s or the Dr. Laura’s were to be heeded (who ever thought that Sally Quinn and Dr. Laura would be on the same side of a gender responsibilities/rights issue????) NO mother, only fathers, could hold public office until their children were grown. Children need and deserve our first priority, but this is never questioned in a male candidate. Was this one of Hillary’s most important attributes to her liberal base, that her daughter has reached adulthood?


I am hoping this is a brief hiccup in our progress to equal opportunity and responsibility regardless of gender. Since this vice-presidential selection took us all by surprise, opinions and positions had not been well thought out yet, and the reactions have been tossed out willy nilly. I am going to believe that most of the working mothers and fathers in this country look at this situation with a smile and a silent cheer. Nearly all of this country’s leaders have been working parents. I am going to give the Palins’ the benefit of the doubt, the same as I have always done for candidates of high public office - that they will manage their family, without my having to pay it any consideration whatsoever. I have faith they are quite capable of taking care of their private responsibilities.


Sadly, Sally’s apparent shadow agenda has come to the front with this event, cloaked in the more politically palatable assertion that she is really considering the children and/or nation.

It appears that she believes that equal rights and opportunities should be de rigeur for women who have liberal political convictions, and conservative women should stick to less demanding jobs (tell that to a woman who works two or three jobs to support her family) until their children are grown. I am confident that she would not have had the same reaction, had Obama chosen a Democrat mother of five for his running mate. Sally would have been her biggest champion.


Posted by: Melissa Sibert | September 8, 2008 12:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Everyone keeps harping on these 5 kids, but no one else seems to have noticed that she only has two children under 14 that are 7 (?) years apart. The older three are or are practically out the door. And she has lots of help. It's probably difficult for people in east coast cities who are either too busy or isolated from their extended families to understand what it is to have a family and community network. If anyone is setting us back, it's the elitest east coast feminists I went to school with (womens college) who only want equality for certain women (i.e. those who think like them). Regarding Andrew Mitchell, she looked like she had sucked on a lemon after Palin's speech the other night.

Posted by: Marge | September 8, 2008 12:29 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The only "cynical" ideas that come out of this post come from Sally Quinn. She is not upset about that fact that a women can get to the top of the political scene, but rather that a women can get to the top without the help of the feminists. She is implying that if McCain gets elected, that he is going to die or be unable to carry on the duties of the President. As for her quoted comments of Southern Baptist leaders, who says she isn't a helpmate to her husband and who says that she can't be hands on. I detect a bit of jealousy from Mrs. Quinn with her inablitiy to multi-task and be on TV. Don't be intimidated Mrs. Quinn, women are more capable than you give them credit for. And I hope that women do not depend on your "input" to make informed decisions.

Posted by: B. Thrift | September 8, 2008 12:20 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I wonder if Sally Quinn would still publish the same editorial comment (8/29/08) on Sarah Palin today.

Posted by: Tom Lull | September 8, 2008 11:36 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I can not even rationalize her pro life stance with her record considering she slashed funding for programs for teen moms (20 %) and special needs children (62 %).

Posted by: Mary | September 8, 2008 6:41 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I believe Gov. Palin expressed very poor judgment when she chose to fly on commercial flights 14 hours from Texas to Wasilla, Alaska, when she developed very serious pregnancy complications in her seventh month. Her values dictate abstinence? So then, getting pregnant while serving as Governor is allowed? And, getting pregnant again while serving as Vice President or again as President would be allowed? I do not want my President and leader of the free world meeting with heads of state having to excuse herself because of morning sickness. There are now some very complicated lines that need to be considered. As if we don't have enough to do. I, also, am angry at Sen. McCain and I’m not even a Republican.

Posted by: bmw | September 8, 2008 12:31 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I am a registered Independent and am still not certain about whom I will vote in November.

I have my issues with Obama and have continued to research, read and KEEP AN OPEN MIND.

The same sentiment for McCain.

Palin's introduction into the race has been interesting and gives me more to have to ponder. Woman to woman, I would like to give her serious consideration and I am at this point. I am Pro Choice, so her stance on that issues does present a problem for me. I do also struggle to understand how some seem so "accepting and supportive of her daughter's pregnancy, yet some of the same people were ready to burn Jamie Lynn Spears at the stake.

I am however as I stated, keeping an open mind.

I guess I am a bit confused by some of the posts on here that are so unequivocally for someone, whom most have only seen and heard from once or twice. There seems to be no one on this site, other than hard core Dems who even question whether she is the right person for the job. Why is that? Simply because she is conservative?

I am amongst that small minority that both parties need to win this election, so I guess I am in the cat bird's seat, as I still am in the position of uncertainty.

So please someone who is OPEN MINDED, please tell me why I should pull the lever for the Republicans, seeing as I am middle class,biracial, pro-choice and yes, a mom who is struggling in hard economic times.

Thanks


Posted by: D. Douglas | September 7, 2008 11:09 PM
Report Offensive Comment

On the comments section we are asked to "Report Offensive Comments". I am reporting that your column, Ms. Quinn, is entirely offensive. Your hypocrisy is incredible. Your attack on a candidate’s child and the statement that the candidate may not have been a good parent is outrageous. I thought perhaps the conservatives were just bellyaching about unfair treatment but when I read your nonsense myself, I discovered that if anything the case has been understated. Your comments are beyond offensive – they are putrid.

Posted by: William O | September 7, 2008 10:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment


Thank you, thank you. I know you are a big deal in a couple of zipcodes, but your hatchet job on a 17-year-old girl has generated a backlash in STATE after STATE ! ! ! Please keep it up.

You have started a brushfire.

To impress your beltway friends, you have shown yourself to be vile, vicious, vindictive, venal, vitriolic and self-serving to a fault.

Thank you, thank you. Say hello to Andrea Mitchell. She too has been impressive.

Chuck

Posted by: chuck b | September 7, 2008 10:32 PM
Report Offensive Comment

S.Quinn, your 2nd appearance on Fox did nothing to improve your reputation.
You continued to state that Gov. Palin should not be running for such a high level role due to the # of kids she has.
As a professional female, I am appalled at your stance and you are a disgrace to the working women of
America.

Regardless of party, this is a ridiculous stance.
AGAIN, this is 2008 NOT 1958!!

And to all of the leftist liberals commenting, have some balls and list your name.. not just "anonymous"

S. McLeod
Wilmington, NC

Posted by: S. McLeod | September 7, 2008 7:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

NO MORE YEARS!
USA AND PROUD!
OBAMA WILL WIN!
MCCAIN WILL RETREAT!
DEMS WILL RULE!
SARAH WILL BECOME A GRANDMA IN 3, OR IS IT 4 OR 5 MONTHS?


BE THERE FOR THE PARTY FOLKS!

Posted by: Anonymous | September 7, 2008 6:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

SARAH THE SCREEEEEEEEEEEECH PITBULL MAY HAVE SOLIDIFIED THE BASE WHICH UNDOUBTEDLY HAS MCCAIN BY THE BALLS, BUT SHE WILL NOT SWAY THE HILLARY SUPPORTERS NOR THE INDEPENDENTS WHO ARE TRADIONALLY PRO-CHOICE.

NICE TRY FOLKS, BUT NO MORE YEARS

Posted by: Anonymous | September 7, 2008 6:11 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sarah may solidify the base which has McCain by the ball, but she will NOT sway the Hillary supporters like myseLF OR the majority of the independents, who typically are PRO-CHOICE.

Nice try folks, but NO MORE YEARS!

Posted by: Anonymous | September 7, 2008 6:07 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Both John McCain and Gov. Sarah Palin are not just talking about improving the way Washington is run but have examples of reducing taxes, fighting earmarks, reducing deficits, and have actually been a leader of the National Guard and the military. That is experience. She is a good choice for all of those reasons in addition to her belief in the right to life.

Posted by: Barb Hail | September 7, 2008 2:39 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Both John McCain and Gov. Sarah Palin are not just talking about improving the way Washington is run but have examples of reducing taxes, fighting earmarks, reducing deficits, and have actually been a leader of the National Guard and the military. That is experience. She is a good choice for all of those reasons in addition to her belief in the right to life.

Posted by: Barb Hail | September 7, 2008 2:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Mrs. Quinn,
You are at the same time being cynical and disingenuous concerning the issues surrounding Mrs. Palin. You are very cynical in that you believe wholeheartedly that she was Mr. McCain's choice for only one reason--that she is a woman. Why do you choose to discredit both Mr. McCain and Mrs. Palin in such an anti-intellectual manner?
Second, how can you raise these questions about Mrs. Palin when you have ignored the same issues about other, more liberal, politicians? This is overtly disingenuous.
The validitly of your commentary has been diminished to the level of being worthless.

Posted by: smiledoc | September 7, 2008 2:09 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I believe that you are a disgrace to women in America. I just watched you on the late edition of Wolf Blitzer spewing the same talking points as written above. To say that a woman is unable to lead America because of the guilt she must feel for leaving her children is absurd. Would you argue the same theory for Joe Biden, who served in the senate after the mother and caretaker of his children passed away? Or that Senator Obama has two young children to raise with a wife that works for a $350,000 a year job at the University of Chicago? Why don't you keep your eye on the ball and talk about the issues that are important to the American people. Stop trying to distract voters and be a little more objective and a little less irresponsible with your words.

Posted by: Suzy | September 7, 2008 11:09 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Who let Sally Quinn out of the mail or laundry room?

Posted by: johnlgoff@bellsouth.net | September 7, 2008 10:38 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn - what a joke you are.

I have NO respect for you, and am not surprised at your instant dislike of Sarah Palin.

This is why most Americans despise the newspaper and television reporters. You have no ethics, are biased and . . . . outrageous male bovine excrement artists.

Posted by: Donna Campbell | September 7, 2008 6:54 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Please stop thinking that women want you to speak for us. We don't. I speak for a great many women, and we are tired of you thinking we are a bunch of man hating, abortion begging, shrill women. We know when life begins....we know how to keep our legs crossed before we are married and we know our way home after we are married.....Thanks but no thanks Sally...
Sarah rocks, she is one of us, the bed rock women of America.
Donna

Posted by: Donna Tagliaferri | September 6, 2008 11:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I can appreciate that you were willing to go back on O' Reilly and admit you prejudged Palin and YOU WERE WRONG, SALLY.

And thanks, too, for the good laugh. When you said that you as a citizen needed to know if she was going to put her family or her country first because "she can't do it all," you were clearly projecting your own limited abilities on to Palin. YOU, Sally, can't do it all--phony, elitist snobs like you have "the hired help" to make sure you never have to--but it's obvious Palin can do it all, evidenced by the fact that she is. Sarah is an inspiration. Sally, you're NOT!

Posted by: in Aspen | September 6, 2008 9:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I can appreciate that you were willing to go back on O' Reiley and admit you prejudged Palin and YOU WERE WRONG, SALLY.

And thanks, too, for the good laugh. When you said that you as a citizen needed to know if she was going to put her family or her country first because "she can't do it all," you were clearly projecting your own limited abilities on to Palin. You can't do it all--phoney, elitist snobs like you have "the hired help" to make sure you never have to, but it's obvious Palin can do it all, evidenced by the fact that she is. Sarah is an inspiration. Sally, you're NOT!

Posted by: in Aspen | September 6, 2008 9:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Who is Sally Quinn? I've never even heard her name before today after hearing comments she made about Sarah Palin. Get a life lady.

Posted by: Pam | September 6, 2008 4:51 PM
Report Offensive Comment

As a Southern Baptist preacher, I am sorry that you quote my fellow preachers to make a point that they personally disagree with.

"A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She, being in the image of God as is her husband and thus equal to him, has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to serve as his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation."

What part of "equal to him" do you not understand? And why did you not also include the responsibilities of the husband to love his wife and to give his life for her, even as Christ gave his life for the church?

Ms. Quinn, with all due respect, you are not qualified to comment on my faith.

Posted by: Tim | September 6, 2008 4:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are absolutely despicable in your reaction towards Ms. Palin. You are of the Washington Elite. You and yours ordinarily love the non-traditional family. You love throwing working, unmarried mothers, with 5 children in our faces. This is so remarkably, surprisingly conservative of you to be so concerned over Ms. Palin's family and general welfare. Who the hell are you the mother police now?? Ms. Palin needs to report to you that she is putting her family first before she decides to run for VP? Did you ask that of Nancy Pelosi or any other female Dem with children? Your arrogance is absolutely astounding. I guess you radical liberals really are threatened by our soon to be VP!!

Posted by: Cheryl Lyon | September 6, 2008 3:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, you are such an embarrassment, as a journalist, as an American, and as a human being.

Posted by: Tom | September 6, 2008 3:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What a complete idiot you are. But....you can be proud. You belong to the mindless in media. Your parents should be so proud.

Posted by: Lon Faison | September 6, 2008 2:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Guess you called another one wrong, eh Sally. Also, the Down Syndrome little boy is 5 months old. Try getting your facts right some of the time.

So, now you're an authority on "faith"! Makes as much sense as most of all that is written in the WP and comes from a similar uninformed perspective.

Like so many of today's pretend journalists who think they can sit down and string some alphabet together any way they choose with nothing to back it up, you do our country a grave and dangerous disservice.

Posted by: Penny Parker | September 6, 2008 2:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

" A mother's role is different from a father's."

Try telling any feminist that one. Your problem with Palin is the fact she is a conservative, plain and simple. And even after covering religion for a while, you really don't get it. An essentially modern pagan covering religion, who has used her marriage to advance herslef, calls someone else unqualified. You have got to be kidding me. Hubris knows no gender.

Posted by: Joe | September 6, 2008 2:11 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn has been on various news shows this week saying she doesn't think Sarah Palin can handle the pressure and responsibilities of being vice President because she has five children, one with Down Syndrome. Ms. Quinn noted in one piece I saw that she has one child who had disabilities and it was hard. I actually found myself laughing aloud because we have eight sons, two with challenges (1 deaf, the other type1 diabetes since a baby) , and the boys have never held me back. Neither did being a caregiver for my husband until he died. So I got to thinking. Maybe some of us women here in the West where to survive one better be strong all the way around, the women who soar so well, have a genetic make up that makes them do it all well, type people. Or maybe we simply marry better and have better husbands who see us as real equals, and as such are more than 'part time' Fathers who play a the role but don't do the job. I hate to say it but Ms. Quinn is either a snob, or needs to realize that unlike herself, some women are do it all well type women. Ms. Quinn is a pampered media person, a Washington D C insider, who needs to think outside the box. Not all women are like her or the elite liberal bunch.

And having seen Ms. Quinn on Bill O'Reilly where she said she had handled guns years ago, I will also suggest there is a HUGE difference from handling guns years ago and using firearms of all kinds on a regular basis as we hunters here in the West do. That's like someone sharing they baked pies with their Grandmother growing up, but haven't baked a pie since then.

Justice Sandra Day O'Connor was a lawyer and working Mom of three sons, and it wasn't until she was well into her seventies when with a husband with Alzheimer's she retired from the bench. But he had had Alzheimer's for years and she still served on the Supreme Court. Perhaps as another wild west cattle ranch woman, she had that gene that makes for special can do it all women.

Maybe thats why Ms. Quinn and those like her end up living in nice areas of cities, while some of us end up choosing to live in some rugged area of the United States.

Posted by: MotherLodeBeth | September 6, 2008 1:45 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I may not agree with everything Sally has to say, but I am skeptical about the selection of Palin. Skeptical about her being a heartbeat away from the Presidency. Being a pitbull in lipstick, half decent looking is nice, BUT it is clear that what some would like for us to believe about all her experience is overrated. She has done some things but worthy of being the 2nd name on the ticket? Get real. Why has the McCain campaign insulated her from the media and the real questions? Becaus they cant afford a VERY LIKELY gaff. Until recently she didnt even know what the VP did, for goodness sake. If she needs this much of a crash course, she my friends IS NOT READY! Let her come back in 2012, more seasoned, kids older and run against Hillary. NOW IS NOT THE TIME. Remember, ready on DAY ONE? Barack has limited experience but his administration wont be much different from the Bush/Cheney arrangement. Anyone with half a brain knows Cheney ran the White House, not GW. If something happended to Bush, the person who was really in charge would have simply stepped to the plate.

Same would be with Barack. Now on the other hand, if something happened to McCain, I am not comfortable with a smiling hockey mom, having a fork full of moose stew in front of her, kids running amuck and her hand on the button. Just dont. So before we all go hog wild over the very nice woman from AK, lets put our thinking caps on.

In a world crisis, where our President is off doing his job, who is better to hold down the fort? Biden or Palin? If you say Palin, my advice to you is to back away from the kool aid and sober up before November.

Posted by: VA VET | September 6, 2008 12:54 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally is so wrong.

Posted by: Mom | September 6, 2008 12:51 PM
Report Offensive Comment

uxvqkj unixp shqdkuv jfnyi mrbntwoxy nulqbhfj iugpnvy

Posted by: phsjfzdxe svdaq | September 6, 2008 11:41 AM
Report Offensive Comment

uxvqkj unixp shqdkuv jfnyi mrbntwoxy nulqbhfj iugpnvy

Posted by: phsjfzdxe svdaq | September 6, 2008 11:41 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Please get this NEWS out!!

Does Sarah have 4 or 5 children. We “the people” need a simple fact check! If you want to know the truth about the Sarah Palin pregnancy HOAX, check out this website which has all the links and facts/lies in one place. Give yourself an education and then you can judge for yourself! These are almost all news articles and some simple mental conclusions.

http://www.ourchiropractic.com/sarah-bristol-fake-pregnancy-hoax-links.html

Posted by: glenncz | September 6, 2008 11:07 AM
Report Offensive Comment

SALLY QUINN, YOU WROTE EXACTLY HOW I FELT.THE PICTURE THAT I HAVE OF MRS.PALIN IS ONE WITH THE SAME SORT OF MENTALITY LIKE THE WOMEN OF UTAH!HOMELY.SHE IS NOT READY TO RUN THE US OF A.TRUTH CAUSES CONFRONTATION, AND WHAT YOU HAVE SAID IS THE TRUTH!
ENOUGH ABOUT MCCAIN'S MILITARY RECORD. I RESPECT HIS SERVICE TO THIS COUNTRY, BUT WHAT ABOUT ALL THE SOLDIERS WHO ARE RETURNING HOME MINUS THEIR LIMBS AND HAVE TO BEG ON THE STREETS AND LIVE IN CARS, NOT HAVING THE CARE THAT THEY TRULY DESERVE?NO PSYCHOLOGICAL,EMOTIONAL AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT? MCCAIN HAS ALL THAT AND MORE. I DO NOT WANT TO HEAR ANOTHER WORD ABOUT HIS MILITARY RECORD.IT IS NOT GOING TO CHANGE MY MIND.

Posted by: Carol A from queens N.Y | September 6, 2008 11:04 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Saw you on O'Reilly last night and was happy to see you trying to water down your ridiculous article.

Funny thing though, that same morning when you were on CNN with Kiran Chetry you hadn't changed your mind yet. So.... what happened?

Did you get a tap on your door from the boss that said something like this, "Sally you better get your head out of the sand and make peace with the ladies"?

BTW - Your constant blinking on O'Reilly told all the viewers what a phony you really are.

Posted by: Sara Michaels | September 6, 2008 10:07 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Shame on Sally for such a diatribe. I just ignored her publicized opinion at first but when I saw it time after time on various shows I thought it is time to say something. She obviously thinkS she has something worthy and of value to say. Sally is quite frankly a pompous and ignorant A$$ to think that she could credulously transfer her abilities onto the Palin family. What she should be saying is that "Being the mother of 5 and the VP would be impossible for ME". I truly think that the Palin family is a unique family that possesses the qualities of tough mental fortitude, stamina, drive, etc. Those are required qualities to win that 2000 mile snow mobiling race that Todd Palin has won 4 times!! Sally, you probably couldn't even dream of competing in that race but Todd Palin won it 4 times. To him, it wasn't impossible. Obviously Sarah has those winning qualities too. Cream rises and both of them have been extremely successful in their endeavors.
Also, to say that perhaps she wasn't a "hands on enough" mother because her daughter was pregnant. Sally, are you saying to the millions of women who have had teenage daughters that got pregnant, that they may not have been hands on enough? Are you seriously saying that teen age children would not get pregnant if their parents were more engaged?!! If that is your stance,honey, you are foolish. News flash, even great parents can have this happen.
If you really want to get right down to the meat and potatoes of teenage pregnancy, why dont' you examine the affects of all of the acceptable and mainstream sexuality on TV these days, which can be factually said to be a product of the "left wing" elite in the TV & movie business. When teenagers see show after show of blatant sexual talk and action, it becomes "normal" and "acceptable". But this isn't a response to that...I am blown away by your judgement of a woman who has risen to the top of all she does and yet and still you want to limit her. By saying that she couldn't possibly be a good mother to 5 kids (one with down syndrome and a pregnant 17 year old)is an affront to all of the hands on fathers of the world. In this case, an insult to Todd Palin.
Let's just call a spade a spade Sally and admit it. YOU wouldn't be able to do what Sarah Palin does....but YOU aren't Sarah Palin. Put your ignorance to rest. Those who have achieved greatness, many times, do it in spite of the naysayers and doubters. YOU are one of those naysayers and doubters. YOU are one of the ordinary. GO SARAH GO!!!

Posted by: Jackie Cunningham | September 6, 2008 9:43 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms.Quinn,I watched you on Fox News and agree with your statement that Women should rule the world and will very soon rule and be in charge.

Posted by: James | September 6, 2008 6:26 AM
Report Offensive Comment

You are a great thinker, writer and teacher. And I prayerfully pray that the Unwashed will one day, appreciate your intelligence for the greatness that it is. Please, for the sake of Humanity, have your Attorney (Levin Bred) insist on a clause in your next contract with the Proust, which demands that all of your writings be etched into the tripe of a fatted calf, sealed in a mayonnaise jar and locked in the vault of the famed archivist firm: Dewey Cheetum & Ho.

Posted by: St.Paul | September 6, 2008 12:44 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn - Your viewpoints of Gov. Palin are blatantly anti-suffragette. Have you forgotten that, during WWII, with so many men overseas, women had to fulfill duties to country and home by WORKING in factories and raising their children on their own or with the support of their other children? Are you simply transferring your own weaknesses onto Gov. Palin? For goodness sake woman, Kings and Queens and other monarch types haven't had to stay at home to tend to children....Please reconsider your myopic viewpoints.

Posted by: lobokitch | September 5, 2008 11:50 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Maybe I missed the response, but I have taken the liberty of reposting someone else's post.


RESPONSE??

ANYBODY???

Pav

Since the selection of Sarah Palin religious conservatives have done a 180 on the primacy of mothers staying home. The same people who for decades condemened mothers who worked outside the home -unless they were on the verge of being homeless (these arguments are a luxury for poor and working class mothers)- are now endorsing a mother with small children and an infant- to the second highest office in the land. Religious conservatives would encourage single mothers (or even married couples) with children to move back in with relatives if that was what was necessary to keep the mother home with their children and out of the workforce. Married parents were encouraged to live on one salary so the mother could stay home. Parents were told they should make whatever financial sacrifices were necessary to keep mothers home - vacations, second car, new cloths, dinning out, cable tv, home gardens and bartering for goods and services to reduce the need for cash. Biblical arguments were made for mothers staying home;societal arguments; financial arguments- the sum of the costs of second car, insurance, wardrobe, daycare, higher taxes ect.. might equal or exceed the second income. Fathers working overtime and second and even third jobs is what you do if necessary. Only in the most dire circumstances were mothers grudgingly not considered selfish for not staying home. If financially strapped families are expected to follow this model what's the justification for it not applying to Palin? Mothers were also encouraged to stay out of the workforce since it "hardened" them; a mother who took abuse from a boss all day is stressed out and not going to be the nurturing caregiver when she goes home to her husband and kids- so says James Dobson. Military service for current or future moms is even worse- how can someone who has been trained to kill be the nurturing caregiver of life? Where are these past arguments now? How are Christian families going to have the man as head of the household if his wife is the breadwinner?

Posted by: Anonymous | September 5, 2008 11:45 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
With your hate-filled attack on women, I expect that you will resign from your job, whip up a dinner for me every night promptly at 6PM, clean the dishes afterwards, and ensure my house is spotless. You will serve breakfast at 7AM and carry out my every whim and desire. I would expect you to perform your womanly duties but, you know, you're old so I'll let you off the hook. Since I am a man, you will recognize that I am your superior and you are a second-class citizen.

Is this really what you want to achieve with your misogynist rant? You meant to question Palin's fitness but the person who was really revealed as incompetent is you.

Posted by: Mustafa | September 5, 2008 11:43 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Thank you so much for expressing much of what I have been feeling. I think a mother of five can certainly work...don't see how that is an issue...but I also think she sacrificed her eldest daughter to the media. Of course, I disagree with her on issues (disagree with McCain too) so she wouldn't get my vote no matter what.

Posted by: Pam Green | September 5, 2008 11:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Thank you so much for expressing much of what I have been feeling. I think a mother of five can certainly work...don't see how that is an issue...but I also think she sacrificed her eldest daughter to the media. Of course, I disagree with her on issues (disagree with McCain too) so she wouldn't get my vote no matter what.

Posted by: Pam Green | September 5, 2008 11:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Thank you so much for expressing much of what I have been feeling. I think a mother of five can certainly work...don't see how that is an issue...but I also think she sacrificed her eldest daughter to the media. Of course, I disagree with her on issues (disagree with McCain too) so she wouldn't get my vote no matter what.

Posted by: Pam Green | September 5, 2008 11:40 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sarah Palin sold her child on ebay.

Posted by: lol | September 5, 2008 11:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Cant compare Pelosi to Palin and I am NO fan of Pelosi-

Nancy "was pregnant for a good portion of the 1960s", having five kids, born in six years and one week.
Source: Cbsnews.com

Nancy was a stay-at-home mom while raising their five children. She was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1987 and elected to serve as the first female Speaker of the House in January 2007.

Kids born in the 60s, Mom to Congress in 1987.

You do the math.

Posted by: SpokenTruth | September 5, 2008 11:13 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Has anyone ever questioned Speaker Nancy Pelosi's not putting her children first, her 5 children, over her career in politics? I thought not.

Posted by: Cathryn | September 5, 2008 10:24 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Respectfully Ms Quinn...? In Regards To Your Appearance On The OReilly Factor. You Really Should Find Out About Things, BEFORE You Offer “Your Learned’ Opinions. Once Again You Have Spoken Too Quickly. This Time Re: Mrs. Palin & Her Lack Of Understanding Re: Time & Special Needs Children. As I Myself Learned On Day Three Of The RNC, Sara’s Sister Has A Special Needs Child That Is Around 13 That Mrs. Palin Is MORE Than Familiar With.
I Expect…? That Many End Up On Your Site Looking For Information. Wouldn’t It Be Nice…?If They Left Your Site Well Informed? Rather Than…? Ohhh… I Don’t Know? Filled With Gossipy, Opinionated, Tabloid Style Innuendo.

I Came Across Your “Previous Opinion” Soon After You Made The Verbal Mistake That It Was. Sad…
I Thought The Newsweek/Washingtonpost Was A LEGITIMATE News Organization.

Take Heart That Sarah… Is Most Likely Not Bothered The Least By The Treatment. Sarah’s Own Words Re: Some Of Hillary Clintons Past Complaints Suggests That Reasoning.
The Mothers & Fathers, Of Millions Of Daughters Though..? Most Certainly Are.

Be “Old School” Ms. Quinn! If You Think Before You Speak…? You Should Be Satisfied With The Person You See In The Mirror Every Morning. We Can Only Hope…
=^_^= I Hope Next Week Goes Better For You.
(Leif... Pronounced “Life”)

Posted by: Leif From Fairbanks, Alaska | September 5, 2008 9:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I saw you on O'Reilly and laughed out loud when you mentioned George Romney as a better choice for McCain's vice presidential running mate. You are showing your age. George's son, Mitt was who you meant.
P.S. You should not have received Communion at Tim Russert's funeral. As a Catholic, I know you had no right to do that. It just tells all about your arrogance and lack of understanding of ordinary people.

Posted by: Jeanne McCabe | September 5, 2008 9:39 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"This is no time to to play gender politics."

Which of course is why this column is dedicated to doing exactly that. You are a transparent weasel.

Posted by: PA | September 5, 2008 9:27 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Att: Sally Quinn

I am outraged by the sinful comments you have made of Sarah Palin What unacceptable statements. Nursing a child? I think people of poor character during this race will go nuts, after all going to such a low level to talk about a female because she has kids the way you have is sad. Sarah Palin's son is defending my USA my USA so I guess if she put her kids 1st he would not be signed up. Do you have kids in arms way?
Are you saying men don't love their kids as much as women? Faith! You must be kidding. Are you one of those people to use Religion to make money? Don't worry someone else knows the answer. Cynthia


Posted by: Cynthia Denman | September 5, 2008 9:20 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Since the selection of Sarah Palin religious conservatives have done a 180 on the primacy of mothers staying home. The same people who for decades condemened mothers who worked outside the home -unless they were on the verge of being homeless (these arguments are a luxury for poor and working class mothers)- are now endorsing a mother with small children and an infant- to the second highest office in the land. Religious conservatives would encourage single mothers (or even married couples) with children to move back in with relatives if that was what was necessary to keep the mother home with their children and out of the workforce. Married parents were encouraged to live on one salary so the mother could stay home. Parents were told they should make whatever financial sacrifices were necessary to keep mothers home - vacations, second car, new cloths, dinning out, cable tv, home gardens and bartering for goods and services to reduce the need for cash. Biblical arguments were made for mothers staying home;societal arguments; financial arguments- the sum of the costs of second car, insurance, wardrobe, daycare, higher taxes ect.. might equal or exceed the second income. Fathers working overtime and second and even third jobs is what you do if necessary. Only in the most dire circumstances were mothers grudgingly not considered selfish for not staying home. If financially strapped families are expected to follow this model what's the justification for it not applying to Palin? Mothers were also encouraged to stay out of the workforce since it "hardened" them; a mother who took abuse from a boss all day is stressed out and not going to be the nurturing caregiver when she goes home to her husband and kids- so says James Dobson. Military service for current or future moms is even worse- how can someone who has been trained to kill be the nurturing caregiver of life? Where are these past arguments now? How are Christian families going to have the man as head of the household if his wife is the breadwinner?

Posted by: Pav | September 5, 2008 9:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment

How do I get to the comments?

Posted by: marty@historicrealestate.com | September 5, 2008 8:51 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow, Nice Back-Pedaling on O'Reilly. How about picking a side of the fence and staying there.

Posted by: June Forest | September 5, 2008 8:47 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Why can't I pull up the comments?

Posted by: Marty Byrd | September 5, 2008 8:45 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I saw your interview with Bill O'Reilly and I agree with you 100%. I am a 66 year old mother of 2, grandmother of 5- 4 of them pre-schoolers. I was a teacher and was fortunate to be able to have the same holidays as my sons and most days saw them off to school and was home when they arrived. Now I look after my grandchildren while my daughters-in-law work-one,part-time, the other a teacher like me. Too quickly go the years when your children are young and you can miss so much.
Second,Bristol is marked for life as the pregnant,unmarried teen of the v.p candidate. The whole world knows her situation and will follow with morbid curiosity her life, even if her mother is not elected. Good luck to them all.

Posted by: Barbara Pettigrew | September 5, 2008 8:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am glad you have decided to give Gov. Palin a chance.

Believe me, All my friends are just THRILLED with the idea of McCain/Palin. McCain could not have picked a better person.

I cannot believe the women liber's reaction. Who do they think they are fooling. We may live in the south, but believe me, we didn't fall off the turnip truck!!

Just a loving grandmother in Jacksonville Florida

Posted by: jean parrish | September 5, 2008 8:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am very concerned about the arguements you have made here. I believe that there are valid reasons
with her lack of experience being the most significant. I have 2 adult daughters and the idea that today there are intelligent people like you saying that neither could become a CEO of a large company, or an attorney in a high pressure job because they have children is, to me, a very sexist and degrading remark.
It is quite in keeping with the former idea that women would not be promoted because they have children, or may have children. This belief, now illegal but probably still practiced to some extent today, is just as ridiculous when the VP job is involved. Men today, certainly a minority but a growing number of men are very willing and able to take over the responsibilities of caring for the children. Or are men not supposed to do that because they are genetically unable to do so?

Posted by: Tony | September 5, 2008 8:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment


Lighten Up America. Take a moment to laugh

http://www.youtube.com/SaraBenincasa

Posted by: LightheartedLassy | September 5, 2008 6:56 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Keep up the attack, Sally. The more you attack, the more will vote for McCain-Palin!!! People's eyes are being opened to your viciousness!

Posted by: Jude | September 5, 2008 6:52 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn's commentary about Sarah Palin and her family is SO SEXIST I would think it was written by a man. How many mothers who are totally involved in their children's lives have seen a child become pregnant? Even a so-called "good mother" can't be with a child 24 hours a day. You just pray they will make the right decision at the right time. After all, isn't this the 21st century and don't all the "left-wing" liberals believe in letting children run the show? Who gave Sally Quinn, a mere "woman" a job as a journalist? Did the magazine need a token woman?

Sally, you owe Mrs. Palin and all other women in this country a BIG apology.....

Shirley Gorman
Sun City, AZ

Posted by: Shirley Gorman | September 5, 2008 5:03 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
I followed your career. Your right. You were not ready for prime time @32 years of age. You still aren't today. I wish Ben would take away the pen he gave you long ago. The American Mom has grown a lot stronger since yours and I'm not surprised you wouldn't notice the difference.Sarah will do just fine. Relax Sally, you have been irrelevent for years. You don't need to remind us why !

Posted by: James M Irving | September 5, 2008 4:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear Judy Martin,

As a man I take offense that you believe I could not tend to the special needs of my son while my wife assumes important responsibilities out side of the home. You have no basis to intrude upon Todd Palin's willingness and desire to meet that need. Your comments are not only sexist against women but also against males who lovingly and willingly decide to meet their children’s needs as a partner with their wives and the father of their children. Your stereotypical and sexist comments are not appreciated. So---no---Sally Quinn doesn’t get it and neither do you.

Posted by: Eric | September 5, 2008 1:00 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Oh Please Ladies... Give the Husband/Dad a little credit. Men are just as capable of caring and loving their children as women. Maybe Todd Palin would be the better caregiver, gasp!

Posted by: Steve | September 5, 2008 12:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I couldn't agree more with Sally Quinn. I definitely believe that a mother's responsibility with a special needs child is to be with that child and tend to it's special needs and not traveling all over the U.S. trying to win the position of V.P. I definitely believe Sarah's priorities are in the wrong order. I also shudder to think of her running the country if McCain wins and then dies. Sally's last sentence stating that if McCain and Sarah win the election, it will be for all the wrong reasons is right on.

Posted by: Judy Martin | September 5, 2008 11:39 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear Sally,

I'm sure all your women readers agree we should keep women barefoot, pregnant and in the kitchen. After all isn't that what progressive women have been fighting to achieve for the last 40 years?

So you think a women’s family will be …. “an enormous distraction for a new vice president (or president) in a time of global turmoil” but would not be a distraction for a man?

Just listen to yourself ----

--- “Is she prepared for the all-consuming nature of the job? She is the mother of five children, one of them a four-month-old with Down Syndrome.”

--- “A mother's role is different from a father's.”

Your message to women with young children is STAY HOME WHERE YOU BELONG.

No one would ask if a male candidate was qualified for office because his family commitments. You would think only male chauvinistic pigs would ask such questions. But no - - it’s a liberal democratic woman. Isn’t Gov. Palin the epitome of the liberated women? What ever happened to the Virginia Slims slogan “You’ve come a long way?” You would prefer to send women, at least conservative women, back to the Stone Ages for men to drag around by their hair.

Four you Sally Quinn, the truth is not a constant, at least when it’s your political ox that’s getting gored. Keep it up….it will just give the McCain-Palin ticket more votes. You are so transparent.

Posted by: eric | September 5, 2008 11:18 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear Sally,

I'm sure all your women readers agree we should keep women barefoot, pregnant and in the kitchen. After all isn't that what progressive women have been fighting to achieve for the last 40 years?

So you think a women’s family will be …. “an enormous distraction for a new vice president (or president) in a time of global turmoil” but would not be a distraction for a man?

Just listen to yourself ----

--- “Is she prepared for the all-consuming nature of the job? She is the mother of five children, one of them a four-month-old with Down Syndrome.”

--- “A mother's role is different from a father's.”

Your message to women with young children is STAY HOME WHERE YOU BELONG.

No one would ask if a male candidate was qualified for office because his family commitments. You would think only male chauvinistic pigs would ask such questions. But no - - it’s a liberal democratic women. Isn’t Gov. Palin the epitome of the liberated women? What ever happened to the Virginia Slims slogan “You’ve come a long way?” You would prefer to send women, at least conservative women, back to the Stone Ages for men to drag around by their hair.

Four you Sally Quinn, the truth is not a constant, at least when it’s your political ox that’s getting gored. Keep it up….it will just give the McCain-Palin ticket more votes. You are so transparent.

Posted by: eric | September 5, 2008 11:16 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Hey Sally!

So could you provide us with a list of jobs that women who are mothers can have oh wise and omnipotent one?

How about explaining to Katie Couric why she should have never taken the anchor position with CBS as she is a single mother and could not possibly be taking care of her children as she should according to you.

Sally - you are proof - as is Obama that just because you have an college degree doesn't qualify you as intelligent. In fact it shows just how badly you got ripped off in your quest for smarts.

Thanks for setting women back 50 years oh bright one.

Posted by: Nunya | September 5, 2008 10:49 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, Sally, Sally,I don't know whether to laugh, cry or throw up after reading your toxic nonsense. I guess we've come to the conclusion in our country that women can not play a role in leading this country because parenting is their main responsibility. Sarah is not a single mother, she has a husband that will work with her on the home front.
Now for the appearance of a double standard. Let's see, as I recall Robert Kennedy was the father of 11 children. What was he thinking when he ran for President! How dare he leave his wife at home to care for all those children.

Posted by: Katherine | September 5, 2008 10:30 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I agree with you. Your writting makes a lot of sense.

Posted by: Rob | September 5, 2008 9:42 AM
Report Offensive Comment


JJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJ

Posted by: Massguy | September 5, 2008 9:39 AM
Report Offensive Comment


You are the and your elite martini crowd are the exact reason John and Sarah will win this election. They are real people with real values who care about womens rights, even if the women is a conservative, unlike yourself who only cares about a womens rights if the women is a left wing liberal.

Posted by: Massguy | September 5, 2008 9:34 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, Why is it that you would not support another woman that has shown the amazing ability to balance Family, Personal Achievement and Happiness?

I can't help but point out that your article has a tone of jealousy. Instead of comparing your own life and career struggles, maybe, try to see beyond yourself and give Sarah Palin the support and credit she deserves. She is a terrific role model for her children, and has given all women a reason to walk taller today.

Posted by: Joan Riley | September 5, 2008 9:26 AM
Report Offensive Comment

As a professional woman with children I am appalled by your unbelievably ridiculous argument that a woman cannot do this job if she has five children. ( or even one or a baby or is breastfeeding etc..)it is simply not fair and not the relevant issue. The professional women I know bring an incredible amount of personal empathy and experience that comes from working and raising a family. I admire them. I would never want to be judged unfit to do my job because I chose to have a family.

Posted by: apple | September 5, 2008 8:06 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn set's a whole new standard for sexism. She has set the clock back 50 years with her ignorant statements regarding who loves their country more, men or women? Sally needs to pull her head out and walk through the door of the 21st century.

Posted by: Janeece | September 5, 2008 7:57 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Get a grip Sally. You have got your priorities wrong. For the first time in history, we have a very smart, savvy woman in the running for vp. Get off her back, how can you NOT support someone from your own sex who was born to lead...obviously? I am an ex Democrat/pro-choice woman, who has the utmost respect for Sarah Palin, and am married to a man who has been an extraordinary father, and it seems as if, if you haven't noticed, Todd Palin and Sarah Palin are wonderful parents, with a great family. So, fyi, single for 39 yrs, Democrat most of my life,she AND the running mate for President, John MacCain have my vote. And for the first time ever, I made a donation to the RNC

Posted by: Barb von Netzer | September 5, 2008 7:56 AM
Report Offensive Comment

A mean-spirited article. Ms Quinn, how do you want to be remembered? A writer with no integrity? A writer with worthless legacy?

Posted by: Irek Janus | September 5, 2008 6:06 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow, so if I understand you correctly, because Gov. Palin has children she my not be able to do her job if the phone rings at 3:00am. If that were the case, how did she run the large state of Alaska (while pregnant even) and maintain an over 80% approval rating. To say you know little about her amazes me. I found out more about her in a few short minutes than I have about Obama in the almost 2 years of his campaign. What I have learned is not pretty. He wants change. He will be the president of change if elected. Change to a socialist society. He has no experience whatsoever. Even Biden himself said he lacks the experience to be president. Oh, that was when Biden was for Hillary. Now, I guess, Obama got experience. Oabama hangs with the lowest of the low and how smart is a man who sat in a church for 20 years and claims he had no clue that Mr. (he doesn't deserve the title of Rev.) Wright was an angry, angry black man who hates white people. By the way how did Biden hold his position, being a single dad, taking the train for hours a day, and not a single dem or rep questioned his ability to do that. Obama has no experience and for the hundred and some odd days he spent in the senate he accomplished nothing. He spent 4 years in a muslim school and personally I find him a very scary individual. We are now living in a great country with the media controlled by liberals. Oh yes, we do have our talk radio that the liberal dem are trying to shut down. Maybe you should listen to Gov Palin. You could learn a lot from her. It may even take some of the venom out of your fangs. Maybe you and your party are walking on egg shells and fear you will find Obamo lost come Nov. It is amazing with all the lies and unbalanced reporting from the media and people like you that the Rep stand a chance. With all the negative reporting concerning the rep and all the hype you give the likes of Obama won't you feel foolish in Nov when the rep win the race of the century and we have a female a heartbeat away from becoming commander in chief. Can you list any accomplishments of Obama as he is getting desprate and added running his campaign to his resume.

Posted by: Jane Clemens | September 5, 2008 12:04 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Having spent 30 years working for women's equality

I am shocked and disgusted that someone in your position to do so much good has chosen instead to

be stereotypically mean and catty and spiteful

toward another public woman - GOV. Sarah Palin.

How dare you tell someone she has too many children.
You would NEVER say that to a male.
How disgusting! Shame on you. You have shown yourself to be a little woman a silly woman>

Shame Shame Shame. You know better.

Professor Helen McCaffrey

Posted by: Prof.Helen McCaffrey | September 4, 2008 9:39 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Why is Sally Quinn so angry at Sarah Palin?

Could it be because Sarah Palin achieved her position through hard work that earned the trust of
people in flyover country? Perhaps Ms Quinn would be happier if Sarah Palin got ahead using the Sally Quinn method -- marrying a big shot.

Posted by: Mike W | September 4, 2008 8:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I have bought the last Washington Post and Newsweek I will ever buy (and I have bought plenty). The column was shameless.

Posted by: maria north | September 4, 2008 8:38 PM
Report Offensive Comment

How insightful!!!!!Did you go to school to learn to write like that?

Posted by: Barack JoeMamma | September 4, 2008 7:53 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Really appreciated your sharing with us your own personal experience. EXCELLENT articulation of why Affirmative Action is a bad thing both for those who are granted positions they haven't earned and for the rest of us who are forced to suffer their incompetence. People should NOT be given a position based upon either the color of their skin or their sex.

Cliff

Posted by: Cliff Cloonan | September 4, 2008 6:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally was so obnoxious on Fox news last night talking about Sarah Palin. The remark about her breastfeeding and difficulty running for VP......geez....get real! The only conculsion I came too is that you are jealous. Pull on your big girl pants and get over it!

Posted by: marinemom | September 4, 2008 6:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I find it extremely ironic that a liberal woman, would chastise another woman, by essentially saying she should stay home and take care of her kids. Even more shocking this woman (Sally Quinn) criticizes her (Palins) lack of experience, when everyone knows she (Quinn) married her way to the top. I guess Liberals think the idea of women advancing politically is their exclusive domain.
Ha Ha Sally, wrong again. Palins going places and she doesn't need a dayglo orange pantsuit to get there.

Posted by: Poe | September 4, 2008 5:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Very well spoken. As a conservative Christian woman, wife of a Pastor and seven children, first grandchild on the way, where is the mom in all this. She will teach women a feminist position although Christian. Deborah sat under a tree to judge and the people came to her, she did not go out except to encourage a man to move forward. This double standard in the Christian community is a little discouraging but expected.

Posted by: Michelle Hensley | September 4, 2008 5:28 PM
Report Offensive Comment

So you think she should just stay home and be "barefoot and pregnant"? Would you say the same thing if the candidate were male?
I am a Democrat and all for Mr. Obama, but your comments about Mrs. Palin and just wrong! Are you jealous or just plain mean? Shame on you!

Posted by: Mike Oxard | September 4, 2008 5:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
Some of your criticisms are warranted re: Palin's qualifications, and everyone is entitled to their opinion. As a conservative, I wish McCain would have made a different choice. However, re: your view of evangelicals, you are clueless. Yes, there are those who think a mother should be home with the kids. I know several fairly liberal women who feel the same, and stay home with their kids. So, it's not just evangelicals. Where you are clueless is the fact that many evangelical women work, and many serve as ordained ministers. I know, I have a family full of them. And personally, I am home with my kids, right now, while my wife, a Major in the Air Force, and evangelical, works and serves our country. As a social worker who has worked with children and families for 20+ years I find some of you Feminists laughable. 30 years ago you wanted into the work-force, which I support, and for 20+ years you've defended the notion that 2 women or 2 men could raise children just as a mother and father (I know every side of that argument and understand). Now, suddenly, you're questioning this woman's ability to serve as Vice President as a mother. I think her husband is a part of the equation. Can Barack be a worthy father as President. Was Hillary much of a mother during her Co-Presidency with Bill? Is this situational ethics, or have you found yourself through this election, just like Barack , and Hillary?

Posted by: Michael Jay | September 4, 2008 4:45 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally

You are clueless

Posted by: Robert | September 4, 2008 4:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment

WHAT? Her first priority has to be her children? Says who? A mother's role is different from a father's? Not when you're the vice president. Is Sally Quinn serious?

Palin's husband who has a labor job in Alaska would obviously not continue working in his career once they moved to Washington. No steelworker jobs in DC.

So, who's to say that he couldn't just be a stay-at-home dad and be the primary caregiver of the kids? I mean, does Sally Quinn ACTUALLY think that Sarah is going to be the one getting up at night to tend to her baby when he wakes up in the middle of the night?

This is so bizarre.

Posted by: Cristina Portuondo | September 4, 2008 3:45 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Quinn employs a sexist double standard in her consideraton of Sarah Palin's candidacy. She's concerned that Palin cannot manage to be a good mother and a Vice President because Palin has several small children. Does anyone think, even for a moment, Quinn would have criticized Joe Biden in 1972 when he began working as a young U.S. Senator, with two small children, within months of those little boys being traumatized by their mother's untimely death? Did anyone seriously contend rearing two small boys--without a wife--disqualified Biden form high office? We all know the answer to that question.

Simply put, Quinn despises Palin because Palin has strayed from the liberal plantaiton. Just as Quinn cannot accept African Americans, like Clarence Thomas or Condoleeza Rice, because they reject traditionally liberal causes and beliefs, she can only condemn a woman who denounces abortion. The fact that Palin favors gun rights, increased oil exploration and drilling, and small government, only serves to aggravate and incense Quinn all the more. Just as Colin Powell is not really "Black" because he does not subscribe to the civil rights grievance politics championed by the NAACP, so too is Sarah Palin not really "female" because she does not worship at the altar of the freedom most dear to liberal feminists like Quinn--the freedom to kill unborn children.

Posted by: Dan W. Taliaferro | September 4, 2008 3:30 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I have recently moved down to the USA from Canada and cannot believe that people actually support the Rep. Although, I do not agree with everything that you have written in your article, I do believe Paulin is not qualified. If the Rep. take a look at themselves in the mirror and hold up to the same standards they are putting against Barack - how can they say this is a good choice for VP?? This is simply a selection to try and steal Hillary Clinton supporters.

Posted by: foreign insight | September 4, 2008 3:28 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am disgusted and outraged with Sally Quinn's recent article about Governor Palin (Aug. 29, 2008, "Palin's Pregnancy Problem"). Instead of applauding, or even acknowledging, Gov. Palin's many accomplishments, Ms. Quinn's arrogance and snarky "know-it-all" attitude can allow her only to demean and denigrate.

Perhaps, being a wife and a full-time working mother is "too much ... too difficult" for Ms. Quinn. But, it is not for Gov. Palin, and it is not for millions of other women.

Ms. Quinn, maybe if you occasionally would leave the rarified atmosphere of your mansions and estates in the Hamptons, Maryland, and Georgetown, you can see real women going about their daily lives doing what they have to for their families -- all without the benefit of your opinions.

Posted by: Jan | September 4, 2008 3:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are such a through back to the 50's!! that a women has to choose to stay home with the kids just because she with a HUSBAND chose to have 5 of them is absurd!! Are you living under a rock?
What happened to the women's right to work? Do you not know about day care or nannies? Is it still not true about quality time vs. quantity? If this family has chosen this route or ANY family chooses to have working parents and the kids are tended to - how arrogant to pass judgement on what is a personal family decision.
I suggest you poll your employees at the Post and see how many of them share your archaic perspective!

Posted by: elaine S. | September 4, 2008 3:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I can't believe how you're criticizing this lady & her family. How would you like it if they did this to you. Stop trashing people!

Posted by: Carol | September 4, 2008 2:52 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I will never visit the Washington Post again. How in the world you receive a salary from such a prestigious publication is beyond me. I disagree with you 100% and after all of the attacks on McCain, I am simply done with you guys. I would come back if the Post was to never publish your rubbish ever again. You are a complete joke and screaming for attention. Being original isn't a crime but it requires vision, don't be such a follower of the mainstream media.

Posted by: shane | September 4, 2008 2:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Good lord Sally! As an ardent feminist, I have to say that this piece is incredibly offensive and sexist. So tell us, where was Ben when your son was being raised? In your attempt to bolster support for the Obama-nation, you have only disparaged women. Are you and Maureen Dowd pen pals? By the way, as a Hillary Rodham Clinton supporter and I can probably speak for many others, it wasn't so much about the strongest candidate losing, as it was about how the game was played - by the corrupt DNC, the many foul Obama supporters, the "white uncles" of current and previous political scenes, and the "race card playing" surrogates (hello Rep. Jim Clyburn).

Posted by: What a load of cr@p | September 4, 2008 2:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

She is WELL qualified--much moreso than Barak. This sounds like feminist hypocracy to me.

Posted by: gina | September 4, 2008 2:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

How unbelievably smug this sounds coming from you. You clearly are threatened by her, and you and your DNC brothers and sisters are scared to death that Sarah Palin just sealed victory for John McCain. All the strides that powerful women have made, and you try to tear down Gov Palin because she's a republican. If she were a democrat, she'd be the poster child for assertive, powerful women, who multi-task with children, careers, husband, etc. If you must be so overtly against a republican woman, you should do mankind a great favor and resign from the Post. You're a disgrace to women everywhere, and worse yet, you're a complete political stooge for the liberal agenda.

Posted by: abear35 | September 4, 2008 1:20 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am horrified with your questioning and judgment of Sarah Palin as a mother. Is this not 2008? Hasn't the feminist movement supported all women with their choices in regards to career and family? You may not agree with his choice for VP, but to insinuate that she is not a good mother is outrageous. It is so disappointing, especially coming from a woman. I feel your column set us back decades.

Posted by: Carla Blake | September 4, 2008 1:10 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear Ms. Quinn,

You are a "feminist" hypocrite of the first degree. Gov. Palin, unlike you, has had a real job in a real small town. She has not rubbed elbows with the DC gliterati at Kennedy Center chablis and brie parties. She gets it, you don't.

My wife works and we have 3 children. One of them has had severe medical issues since birth. We have coped fine, and our family is all the stronger for it.

Wake up. Drive down 95 South to a small town in VA or NC and meet some real people. But be sure you "dress down" and leave the Italian designer clothes back home. I wouldn't want you to get insulted by the "unwashed" locals whom you would no doubt not understand either.

Sincerely,

Tom Neale

Posted by: Tom Neale | September 4, 2008 12:35 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Apparently Ms. Quinn lied about her skills with a gun to Bill O'Reilly, because she sure shot herself in the foot. Good thing (for her) that she was able to extracate said foot from her mouth beforehand. Please get out your Better Homes and Garden Cookbook and go back to being a Washinton hostess. Leave the work to the real women, and we'll bring you the moose steaks.

Posted by: I Want Moose for Dinner | September 4, 2008 11:51 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Apparently Ms. Quinn lied about her skills with a gun to Bill O'Reilly, because she sure shot herself in the foot. Good thing (for her) that she was able to extracate said foot from her mouth beforehand. Please get out your Better Homes and Garden Cookbook and go back to being a Washinton hostess. Leave the work to the real women, and we'll bring you the moose steaks.

Posted by: I Want Moose for Dinner | September 4, 2008 11:49 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I am sure what you are really referring to is that you, Ms. Quinn, would find it personally difficult to balance a large family and a high profile and demanding position. It is understandable since it would require a temendous amount of ability and stamina. What you and many of your conceited pen pals are suffering from is fear and envy of powerful women. That, too, is understandable. Get over it.

Posted by: J F Rector | September 4, 2008 11:36 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear Ms. Quinn:

You don't know the Governor, yet you pretend to know that she is unqualified and was chosen simply because she is a woman? Please give me one-half hour with both Sen. Obama or Sen. Biden, and I will use my knowledge and background as but a simple small town attorney and CPA to make them look utterly foolish about tax policy and business and economic issues. 95% (or 80% or whatever their statistic is for the day) of Americans will receive a tax break? Rubbish. Every dime that comes out of ANY U.S. taxpayer's pocket (individual and business) is a tax on ALL Americans, because it is that much less that goes back into the economy to acquire capital goods, provide employment, grow the economy, and actually promote savings by the few people who do not squander their paycheck on Bud and Camels. But that hardly makes them unqualified, as Messrs. Obama and Biden will rely upon their advisors. Just as Governors Clinton, Regan, Carter, F.D. Roosevelt, T. Roosevelt and some 15 other governors did when they ascended to the Presidency.

More disturbing, however, is your obvious projection. Your admitted professional failures (at CBS, for example) and your concession that you would be unable to manage your family and workload as well as, say, Sarah Palin, hardly support your argument. In fact, I can count many, many women who've accomplished far more than you or even Gov. Palin and managed a family just fine. One woman in particular I know is VP of a huge global public corporation, has several young children, runs marathons and competes in triathlons, devotes significant time to charitable work, oh, and yes, is a cancer survivor. And, she's Gov. Palin's age! So while you've been honest about your visceral reactions (shock and anger), it may well be jealousy that causes you such discomfort.

A mother's role is different from a father's? Wow! In that case, I hope you do not advocate same-sex marriage or parenting, because obviously you cannot believe children raised in such a situation could ever receive an adeqate upbringing. Or do you advocate only lesbian partner parenting, because you really mean fathers are superfluous? The last time I checked, the only thing I could not offer my children is breast milk. I trust Gov. Palin when she says she's got that under control.

Posted by: Scott L | September 4, 2008 11:30 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn is an advocate for women...just as long as they are LIBERAL women! She was brave to appear on "The Factor". Why? Because she had to know the majority of O'Reilly's viewers were looking at her with utter contempt and for just reason after the "sexist" column she wrote about Sarah Palin. Last night we saw Sarah the Barracuda "ImPALINg" the opposition including far leftist critics like Sally Quinn!

Posted by: James A. Webster | September 4, 2008 10:45 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn is an advocate for women...just as long as they are LIBERAL women! She was brave to appear on "The Factor". Why? Because she had to know the majority of O'Reilly's viewers were looking at her with utter contempt and for just reason after the "sexist" column she wrote about Sarah Palin. Last night we saw Sarah the Barracuda "ImPALINg" the opposition including far leftist critics like Sally Quinn!

Posted by: James A. Webster | September 4, 2008 10:45 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Geez, Just when I thought the days of "woman slavery" had ended and us women had gained our due freedoms to work outside the home......along comes Sally Quinn with these totally absurd remarks about Palin. Two of my daughters got pregnant before marriage, I worked full time and still managed to be there for them, my other children, my grandchildren, my husband, my church and various committees in my community.

Posted by: JoAnne | September 4, 2008 10:18 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I cannot recall reading a more dogmatic, hypocritical, self-absorbed, and blatantly sexist opinion piece - what a leap backward from decades of progress in women's equal rights and respect at work and at home! You should be ashamed of yourself.

Posted by: Jim Byrom | September 4, 2008 10:18 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I thought Sarah Palin was everything the "feminists" have been telling us women can be for years now. I guess it only applies to liberal/democratic women. How sad and old Ms. Quinn sounds.

Posted by: Susan Emrick | September 4, 2008 10:11 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Geez, you get paid to write this garbage?

What have women been screaming for all these years? To be recognized as being able to achieve and do some things men can do.

And now one is there and you write this drivel?

You're a moron. You really can't believe you are to be taken seriously?

Posted by: Stephen | September 4, 2008 10:02 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn has cited the Southern Baptist Faith and message, but obviuosly she does not understand SERVANT leadership. That term is not denegrating to the one being led but connotes the leader being a servant to the one being led! That is a great thing in marriage and would be great in government!

Posted by: Lisbeth Turner | September 4, 2008 9:50 AM
Report Offensive Comment

How dare you. Would you spout this type of hate toward a man? No, I doubt you would. Nothing like a woman who is a true sexist! You should be ashamed of yourself. She is a mother who works. Just like many others. Her gender is not the issue, the issue is that close-minded and simple people like you are not happy unless the woman is a three-time abortion using godless liberal.

Posted by: Robert | September 4, 2008 9:47 AM
Report Offensive Comment

How ironic is it that the left-slanted media (and this is by no means all media) such as Sally Quinn may have just taken down the democratic candidates for president in the 2008 election? With a sitting Republican president enjoying an approval rating of 33% http://www.pollingreport.com/BushJob1.htm and an unpopular war in two Mideast countries HOW COULD THEY SCREW THIS UP? They may have just found a way. Obama's message of hope inspired me and I was on the fence until now. Thank you Sally Quinn!

Posted by: John M | September 4, 2008 9:46 AM
Report Offensive Comment

You my dear are a hypocrite! Shame on you for berating a Mom who has raised her children with morals, we parents cannot make every decision in life for our children. We parents give guidance and hope. Teen pregnancies happen everywhere in every lifestyle, rich or poor, religious and atheist. I give the Palin’s credit for standing by their daughter giving her love and support. She made a mistake.

You, Sally need to go to the local high school and listen to this generation and not be so judgmental when you have no idea what is out in the real world!

Her daughter and her boyfriend made the choice and now will reap the consequences. It is not only up to the girl to prevent pregnancies but the boy could have too! He is just as responsible!!!!!!!

Posted by: Janine Halsey | September 4, 2008 9:14 AM
Report Offensive Comment

You my dear are a hypocrite! Shame on you for berating a Mom who has raised her children with morals, we parents cannot make every decision in life for our children. We parents give guidance and hope. Teen pregnancies happen everywhere in every lifestyle, rich or poor, religious and atheist. I give the Palin’s credit for standing by their daughter giving her love and support. She made a mistake.

You, Sally need to go to the local high school and listen to this generation and not be so judgmental when you have no idea what is out in the real world!

Her daughter and her boyfriend made the choice and now will reap the consequences. It is not only up to the girl to prevent pregnancies but the boy could have too! He is just as responsible!!!!!!!

Posted by: Janine Halsey | September 4, 2008 9:10 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I am an Evangelical Christian, I also work as a computer analyst for a major defense contractor. I am also a retired veteran, with 22 years of Army Service. My wife is a store manager for a worldwide retail firm. My wife chose her career in part based on my career, as I had been in the Army five years when we met, and she took a career that she liked and at the same time would not interfere with my career, we discussed this before we got married, in otherwords, we discussed the issue and reached a mutually agreeable 'compromise'. My wife is not subservient to my wishes, and nothing in our religion says she has to be. In matters of our relationship we discuss and act on nearly everything. Granted, when I went to college she didn't pick my major, I did, but then I don't tell her how to do her job either.

Based on my experience, and the experience of others, with whom we associate, Ms Quinn, knows little about real Evangelicals, nor does she seem to know anything about the average family. Perhaps the world she is discussing matters pertaining to evangelicals inside the beltway, a world of it's own that holds little resemblance to most of the real world. Then again I could be wrong, Ms. Quinns bizzare description of evangelicals may simply be her own fantasy.

Posted by: Jon Weiss | September 4, 2008 8:41 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Palin was the attack dog that all at the RNC had hoped she's be.

Dems at home, Biden and Barack included were probably at home screaming "GAME ON!"

That said, let the games begin. Sarah is NO SHRINKING VIOLET, so please lets let her get out there and fight her fight, without others coming to her rescue when it may appear that she is smacked around.
As a woman I LOVE a feisty, outspoken, confident woman who can handle her own. What I DONT like is when such a woman isnt winning round for round, she sheds a few tears to get sympathy or calls in her big brothers to come to her aid. Will Sarah play that game? I hope not. But in order to keep the "women can do it all" label for ALL women, she has to be consistent. Duke it out with the big boys, go for the jugular, but be able to stand strong when you get backhanded by your opponent without crying foul. I do caution her from here on about parading the family around because she runs the risk of it backfiring. Its great that she is a mom of five, running a state, etc. However if she routinely parades Bristol and Trig, she makes them a part of the discussion and that invites criticism from the other side and rightfully so, it will come.
Personally, I would love to get an interview with Levi and his family. They too are effected by this sudden fame.As a mom of a teen son I can only imagine how rattled he must be at this point.

To paraphrase a true tough woman, Bette Davis "Fasten your seatbelts. It's going to be a bumpy TWO MONTHS!"

Posted by: AmericanandProud | September 4, 2008 8:37 AM
Report Offensive Comment

"McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate (...) is a choice made to try to win an election."

What a shock! What candidate for President has ever chosen a running mate that would help him win the election?!

"(Palin) seems to be a bright, attractive, impressive person. She certainly has been successful in her 44 years."

Impressive argument not to vote for her... I guess.

"Palin's lack of experience..."
When someone mentions 'lack of experience of someone trying to get elected for office' Palin is NOT the first name to come to mind. Guess what is.

"There were women at CBS who were much more qualified than I was and certainly other men. They chose me because they wanted a woman."

Wait... rewind.

"There were women at CBS who were much more qualified than I was and (...) They chose me because they wanted a woman."

So, there were other women more qualified but they wanted a woman so they chose you?! Judging from this post, no wonder it was a disaster.

For the record, I'm not supporting McCain/Palin. The first and only reason is that I'm not even an american voter (I'm portuguese). But articles like yours sure make me wish they win.

Posted by: Joaquim | September 4, 2008 7:23 AM
Report Offensive Comment

From one Sally to another, Quinn's interview on O'Reilly last night gave me the creeps. This self-important, self described hostess of D.C. came off as, best described, skanky. Sarah Palin shined the light on Quinn who, by now, has crawled back into the woodwork.

Posted by: Anne in Northern Atlanta | September 4, 2008 6:20 AM
Report Offensive Comment

From one Sally to another, Quinn's interview on O'Reilly last night gave me the creeps. This self-important, self described hostess of D.C. came off as, best described, skanky. Sarah Palin shined the light on Quinn who, by now, has crawled back into the woodwork.

Posted by: Sally Northern Altanta | September 4, 2008 6:20 AM
Report Offensive Comment

From one Sally to another, Quinn's interview on O'Reilly last night gave me the creeps. This self-important, self described hostess of D.C. came off as, best described, skanky. Sarah Palin shined the light on Quinn who, by now, has crawled back into the woodwork.

Posted by: Sally Northern Altanta | September 4, 2008 6:19 AM
Report Offensive Comment

From one Sally to another, Quinn's interview on O'Reilly gave me the creeps. This self-satisfied and self-proclaimed hostess came off in no other terms skanky. Sarah Palin shines the light on Quinn, who by now has slunk back into the woodwork.

Posted by: Sally in Atlanta | September 4, 2008 6:15 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Give me a break! This is exactly what liberal feminists have been touting as the perfect female life choice -- you can have it all -- husband, kids, successful career! Now that the example of this is a conservative woman liberals are ready to take back everything they've said they staunchly believed in. I also wonder why the first reaction to a woman being chosen for vice president is shock and anger. It seems sexist to assume that a woman being chosen is automatically for political marketing gain and not just because she was the best choice.

Posted by: E. Luke | September 4, 2008 5:45 AM
Report Offensive Comment

When a person attacks the press, the free press, the media, journalism, reporters, liberal press, liberal media, call it what you like -- when you attack the press you are not being a good American. You are being an angry person, maybe even an angry American, but most of the time you need to calm down and think. What does it really mean to stand up for America?

Remember the soldiers who die for our freedoms. Freedom of the press is one of those freedoms. Some of you should be ashamed. You wave a big flag but our flag is more than an attack flag, it's a freedom of expression, freedom of the press and freedom of religion flag, too. You don't need trinket jewelry on your lapel to uphold the flag. You need to uphold what the flag represents. Stand up for a free press, don't be attacking the people doing their jobs. What do you want, regulate the press by intimidation, force them to tell only the stories you want people to see?

Let the media do its job without going ballistic. If you don't like one newspaper, do what real Americans do -- go read a different newspaper or start one of your own.

Or express your contrary opinion, but do it with reason, like the writers of the Federalist Papers did when they put together a little something we Americans refer to as the Constitution of the United States of America. That's what your candidate suffered for in Viet Nam. Ask him. That's what either McCain or Obama (may the best man win) will swear to uphold, as they have done, and always will. Ask them.

I realize a lot of the "attack mode" messages here are meant to be part of a strategy to suppress the media to the advantage of the presidential candidate you prefer. You want to win votes for your favorite person by making sure no one hears anything but your side's opinion.

When you do that, you are trying to take away my right to consider facts and opinions, reasonably expressed, and to make a free choice on election day. That's not what America stands for. Listen to reason, sometimes it really does speak softly and carry a big stick.

"The world has always been more impressed by the power of our example than the example of our power."

Posted by: Citizen of Chicago | September 4, 2008 5:42 AM
Report Offensive Comment

so what kind of foreign policy did hillary have? ducking for shots that werent fired? to make her look good, self admitted..oh, because she had bill arouned i see, well palin would have many more educated that are going to let bin laden go the way bill did. he was a terrible president, and you would give him another shot at helping wreck the country more than he already has on so many levels..

and obamas only experience is hanging with a bunch of anti american rev wright who thinks we deserved 911, and bill ayers which who he was on many committees, and hung out together, many parties, and obama campaign was launched from ayers house..someone who said he didnt blow up enough govt blgs, that tell me eith he thinks like all these crooks and crims, or he has bad judgement

Posted by: zsa | September 4, 2008 5:30 AM
Report Offensive Comment

so what kind of foreigh policy did hillary have? ducking for shots that werent fired? to make her look good, self admitted..oh, because she had bill arounmd i see, well palin would have many more educated that are going to let bin laden go the way bill did. he was a terrible president, and you would give him another shot at helping wreck the country more than he already has on so many levels..

and obamas only experience is hanging with a bunch of anti american rev wright who thinks we deserved 911, and bill ayers which who he was on many committees, and hung out together, many parties, and obama campaign was launed from ayers house..someone who said he didnt blow up enough govt blgs, that tell me eith he thinks like all these crooks and crims, or he has bad judgement, either way he isnt fit to be a senator let alone president...disgusting

Posted by: zsa | September 4, 2008 5:26 AM
Report Offensive Comment

so what kind of foreigh policy did hillary have? ducking for shots that werent fired? to make her look good, self admitted..oh, because she had bill arounmd i see, well palin would have many more educated that are going to let bin laden go the way bill did. he was a terrible president, and you would give him another shot at helping wreck the country more than he already has on so many levels..

and obamas only experience is hanging with a bunch of anti american rev wright who thinks we deserved 911, and bill ayers which who he was on many committees, and hung out together, many parties, and obama campaign was launed from ayers house..someone who said he didnt blow up enough govt blgs, that tell me eith he thinks like all these crooks and crims, or he has bad judgement, either way he isnt fit to be a senator let alone president...disgusting

Posted by: zsa | September 4, 2008 5:25 AM
Report Offensive Comment

so what kind of foreigh policy did hillary have? ducking for shots that werent fired? to make her look good, self admitted..oh, because she had bill arounmd i see, well palin would have many more educated that are going to let bin laden go the way bill did. he was a terrible president, and you would give him another shot at helping wreck the country more than he already has on so many levels..

and obamas only experience is hanging with a bunch of anti american rev wright who thinks we deserved 911, and bill ayers which who he was on many committees, and hung out together, many parties, and obama campaign was launed from ayers house..someone who said he didnt blow up enough govt blgs, that tell me eith he thinks like all these crooks and crims, or he has bad judgement, either way he isnt fit to be a senator let alone president...disgusting

Posted by: zsa | September 4, 2008 5:25 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally for the sake of the country I am praying John McCain does not win. There are too many issues that needs to be addressed and he is playing games with the presidency. I do not know of any Hillary voters who does not see this as an insult. It is a sad time for america, McCain will make us Prisoners in our own lives.

Posted by: Heather Dyce | September 4, 2008 3:25 AM
Report Offensive Comment

First of all doesn't Nancy Pelosi have 5 kids?? Ms. Quinn go back and read your bible evangelicals are not taught to be "subservient" as in doormats. Biblical principle teaches submission only to husbands who are submitted to Christ and love there wife as Christ Loved the church.(Ephesians 5 and Proverbs 31) So this religious rhetoric your trying to discredit Palin with is erroneous! It's outright hypocritical especially since the Dems/ liberal left don't uphold to the same values. So what if she has 5 kids, if she can handle it and hubby supports it and will be home with the kids it's none of our business. Aren't you feminazi's the first ones preachin women can raise a family and run a country? Or does that only apply if your a "liberal"?

Posted by: Breal | September 4, 2008 3:14 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,

I saw you tonight on Bill O'Reilly or whatever his name is. I thought you held your own and then some. I did not know that is was a qualification to be able to use a rifle to lead our country but, you surprised him with your comment. You have totally struck a cord with me on your opinion. I am an independent and totally not a political person. But, this issue of picking this woman with her lack of experience along with more family issues than any of us can even imagine shows to me a total lack in the decision making from McCain. I can only imagine what process he would use to pick our next Supreme Court Justice. Even more alarming to me is that this woman who had a special needs newborn baby and another baby on the way from her 17 year old daughter would even for a minute think about taking on a role of campaigning and possibly becoming our VP or President of the US. She should of said thanks but no thanks as any good mother would do. This to me is very alarming in that the far right and Republications think she is a role model who preach that they are the party of family values. Her family needs her a lot more than the country does. It really makes me question how good of a mother she is to put her family and her pregnant daughter on the front stage and in the middle of the media storm. Shame on John McCain and the Christian right wing for applauding her. I as a woman think she is a pawn and has a huge ego. When this is all over all that will remain with be a bunch of tabloid covers of her pregnant teenage daughter. I am now convinced that I will vote Democratic and McCain's ploy to put up a token woman to attract the Hillary vote backfired. And guess what I was not even going to vote for Hillary anyway and I was even considering voting for McCain. Women can make informed choices and are smart enough to realize that this woman does not believe in any of the issues Hillary supported. I think John McCain does not respect the women voters and does not realize that the first thing we women look at is a person's character and how good of a mother or family situation they have and then next what issues the candidate represents. Sarah Palin fails in the character role in that her newborn child and forthcoming grandchild need her. Her next failure is that she would out her unwed teenage daughter for the sake of her own career. Her last failing is that most of the mainstream population do not agree with her extreme views such as no sex education only abstinence (it did not work in her home). We do not just vote for a candidate because she is our same sex we do have a brain John McCain.

Posted by: susan | September 4, 2008 3:08 AM
Report Offensive Comment

For someone who is running on a family values platform, she has the gall to tell everyone else what they should do with their kids and their bodies while she admits that not all families are perfect and excuses her own parenting skills.

The stories about her daughter, though unseemly, are definitely relevant -- especially when she seems okay parading the unmarried couple all over the RNC for political purposes. It's also relevant when your platform is pro-family. The self-righteousness of Republicans, to me, smacks of elitism.

Posted by: IE | September 4, 2008 2:30 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Hey Sally,

You and your little petty backbiting commentary are getting more laughable by the day.

Did you see the Palin speech? Coming out there after you creeps in the mainstream media have been piling on for days trying to break her spirit? Coming out there and casually swatting you despicable left-wing hypocrites aside like a nuisance fly, and commencing to give an excellent, perfectly delivered, rousing speech -- and making it look easy. She stood there with perfect aplomb and showed shrewdness, presence, and command. She was confidence-inspiring.

How's it feel, Sally, to be one of the pretentiously sanctimonious hypocrites -- how's it feel to be a sham? How's it feel to be doing the dirty work for your sexist smarmy old-boy liberal Democrat overlords?

Pretty low, I would think.

Posted by: Jimbo | September 4, 2008 1:56 AM
Report Offensive Comment

You know what I haven't seen covered in the press? How hands-on of a dad is Mr. Palin? Sure, he's a busy guy, but if he is there to fill in the gaps left by Ms. Palin's career, what's wrong with that?

Of course, there are a lot of things wrong with Ms. Palin as a vice president, and I don't think I'd vote her ticket. BUT, singling her out for being a working mom . . . how hypocritical can you get? Let the evangelists wrestle with their consciences as they will. Do YOU dislike her because she's a working mom? Or do you dislike her candidacy for other reasons?

The voters are smart enough to see through ridiculous arguments like this . . . aren't they? Aren't they?

Posted by: M. Haller Yamada | September 4, 2008 1:34 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Jean Oneill writes: "Watching the Republican Convention tonight, with flashes between those beautiful young children and that nasty, pushy woman was too much. No mothering instincts whatsoever."

I have to respectfully disagree with your comment. I think she has outstanding mothering instincts. She is a role model to all women, young and old and in between. She showed restraint while the media and critics questioned her family's moral values, and her parenting skills.

In her speech, she refuted each attack with poise and dignity.

As a mother of two daughters and a son, I want my daughters to be self-assured and assertive. I want my son to take take an active role in nurturing and raising his children.

I applaud Sarah and Todd Palin.

When will we stop perceiving women who are confident and decisive as being aggressive and "nasty"?

Posted by: julie | September 4, 2008 1:06 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Is the rumor true that she will quit?

Posted by: Is Ms. Quinn resigning? | September 4, 2008 12:55 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Palin was excellent. She spoke to the base with her attacks on the Dems. She was feisty, almost cocky, but effective. Pitbull with lipstick. Thats a good thing and a bad thing. Good- The audience got their RED MEAT. Bad- its game on now from the Dems prospective and no one can scream sexism or try to come to her aid,etc. She stepped to the big boys, so now she has got to be able to take the punches without anyone else coming to rescue a damsel in distress.

Posted by: TruthSpeaker | September 4, 2008 12:32 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sounds like a bad case of sour grapes!

Posted by: Mark | September 4, 2008 12:17 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I am glad I can read for myself what all the noise was about. I kept hearing Sally Quinn said this and Sally said that and how awful...etc etc

It seems to me, unfortunately, that all the Republicans have to run against is the liberal media. They have no issues to bring up otherwise, having given away the experience card.

I like Ms Palin and with some additional experience she would be a very very formidable political force. Provided she held open meetings, she would make a good energy czar.

But back to Sally..this article raises good, tough points which people should consider seriously, especially Republican women if they can get past the "media elite" garbage and take in a view that actually might be what they truly believe in but just need to read it.

Posted by: Charles Zwilling | September 3, 2008 11:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I just watched Sarah Palin's speech and am shocked at how impressive she is compared to the misogynistic stereotypes peddled by Sally Quinn. As a female with an advanced degree, an executive position, and two children, I do not agree with Sally Quinn that I should be compelled to give up my job to a man so I can waddle off and cook and clean. Shame on Sally. It appears her child was the one with a special needs mother and not vice versa.

Posted by: Sue | September 3, 2008 11:56 PM
Report Offensive Comment


Sally:

Keep attacking Sarah Palin! She'll chew you up and spit you out. That lady stole the show when she got an opportunity. If my memory doesn't fail me, I think you failed miserably under similar, but much less stressful circumstances. Says a lot about you. You're no Sarah Palin.

Sarah Palin for PRESIDENT!

Posted by: Bobby D. Allison | September 3, 2008 11:45 PM
Report Offensive Comment


Sally:

Keep attacking Sarah Palin! She'll chew you up and spit you out. That lady stole the show when she got an opportunity. If my memory doesn't fail me, I think you failed miserably under similar, but mucy less stressful circumstances. Says a lot about you. You're no Sarah Palin.

Sarah Palin for PRESIDENT!

Posted by: Bobby D. Allison | September 3, 2008 11:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment


Sally:

Keep attacking Sarah Palin! She'll chew you up and spit you out. That lady stole the show when she got an opportunity. If my memory doesn't fail me, I think you failed miserably under similar, but mucy less stressful circumstances. Says a lot about you. You're no Sarah Palin.

Sarah Palin for PRESIDENT!

Posted by: Bobby D. Allison | September 3, 2008 11:43 PM
Report Offensive Comment

After having had a chance to watch, listen, and
think about McCain's choice for V.P. I concur
with your comments to a "T." Sarah Palin is not
Hillary Clinton, and I believe McCain saw an
opportunistic moment to grab up and throw in a
virtual "unknown" to the political scene solely
on gender and relative youth. She does not appear to have the breadth and depth of experience that many of candidates who ran in the primaries. I am surprised at his choice and not pleased.

Posted by: Madeleine | September 3, 2008 11:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Watching the Republican Convention tonight, with flashes between those beautiful young children and that nasty, pushy woman was too much.

No mothering instincts whatsoever.

jean oneal

Posted by: jean oneal | September 3, 2008 11:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

one question for you Mz. Sally Quin--HOW DO YOU LIKE SARAH NOW???????????

SHE IS MY HERO! she is more woman than you will ever be!

Admittedly, I am a Republican that was wavering on her vote and questioning my loyalty to my party. I was almost sucked in to believing the "brainwashing" techniques of a slick and smooth orator--Obama!

Shame on me! Sarah Palin just sealed the deal for me--I'm voting for McCain.

Just a little "FYI," I am a woman, I am a wife, I am a mother, I am a Christian, I am a Business Administrator for a church, I am a volunteer, I am also a voter!


Posted by: HOW DO YOU LIKE ME NOW | September 3, 2008 11:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Shame on you for your baseless, sexist attacks against a woman. This is not critical journalism or even informed opionion, but just plain mean spirited bias.

You point out that Sarah Palin has no foreign policy experience. Please note that she has as much foreign policy experience as Barak Obama does, but she is the Vice President candidate, not the Presedential candidate. I can only assume that John McCain will be setting the policy for awhile, giving Sarah a chance to come up to speed. Barak would have to delegate that responsibility to his VP.

It is a shame a woman would take such an outdated and unfair view. This is not part of the America I hope for for my neices.

Is this the Washington Post or the Huffington Post?

Posted by: Dale | September 3, 2008 10:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The truth comes out. Liberals celebrate the anniversary of the sufferage movement yet, when a conservative woman is given this honor and opportunity you downgrade it to insulting politics and call her "unqualified." The truth is, if Obama had nominated a Palinesque woman, she would be hoisted atop all the liberals shoulders, and they would have screamed we are the party of unity and we are finally breaking the glass cieling. The suggestion that McCain is being insensitive to the needs of Palins family and using her as a political tool is insulting on numerous levels to McCain and Palin. My last point is this. Had a conservative black man like Alan Keys won the Conservative nomination, no liberals would be talking about how great it was that a black man would be president. They would simply discredit him.

Posted by: David | September 3, 2008 10:21 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn,
It's Okay. You don't have to worry about the Republicans. You have your hands full worrying about the mess the Dems and the liberal media (you included) are getting themselves into by exposing their own hatred, intolerance and hypocrisy.

Cause guess what!! Now moderates and independents (like me) clearly see that liberals don't care about women, don't care about ordinary people, don't care about babies, don't care about children.

I'm also sorry to have to tell you this, but Washington party circuit isn't going to be the same soon. There are going to be some real, normal people coming to town -- some from as far away as Alaska.

And I hope they slam the door in your face.

Posted by: kittiewan | September 3, 2008 9:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sarah,
By explaining that Sarah Palin's husband Todd is an inadequate caregiver to provide for their children and by advocating that all mothers stay home rather than seek an education or work, you've also delivered a powerful argument against gay male couples raising children. After all, when a child is sick and there is no mother to attend, how will two grown gay males provide nurture to a child? All that's missing from your article is an explanation of when you demand that the Democrats pass a law mandating American women must wear burqas. Or are you waiting for a Constitutional Amendment outlawing the female gender?

Posted by: Mustafa | September 3, 2008 9:46 PM
Report Offensive Comment


You are a hateful person. I think you are a little
jealous of Sarah Palin. I can read it between the lines. I thought someone as acclaimed as you would
not have written such a column. I am disappointed.

Posted by: Annette Trent | September 3, 2008 9:45 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn, Army brat and feminazi hypocrit.

Posted by: Jayne | September 3, 2008 9:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The idea that Sarah Palin can't juggle the VP position with family life is ludicrous. Why should Obama be any more able to juggle his presidental position with fatherhood than Palin her position as Vice President? Aren't fathers just as important to a family network as mothers? If Palin has her support network in position (and I think she does) then there should be no problem.

I was a stay-at-home mom. That was 1968 through 1988. However, that was then and that was me. Times have changed! I have friends now who are working fulltime with the support of their husbands with no real problems. One of them is running a large foundation, has obligations which take her out of town frequently and yet she still has had time to raise a family. She has four children, none of which are love deprived . . . . they are all fantastic kids, and her relationship with them is very strong. She has a very hands-on husband and a very competent MANNY. Yes, if it weren't for the support of these two men her job would be very difficult.

I don't think it will be any different for Sarah Palin. She will have the support of her husband, family and friends. Plus, I'm sure that she could get extra paid help if needed.

Don't count anyone out just because they may be doing it differently than you!

Is Sally Quinn jealous or what?

Ann Dewey

Posted by: Ann Dewey | September 3, 2008 9:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
I totally agree with this article and the views you have stated.
I am a mother of 2 college age sons that are very independent now but I know the time I invested in getting them to this point in their life.I also work.

I also believe no one is talking about the true facts about teenage motherhood. We should not be celebrating this.The boyfriends don't hang around for long and the babies are supported by the grandparents or the child has to go on welfare. We have a segment of the population in this country that thinks this is okay. Mrs. Palin stated she was happy on her daughter's future marriage to this 17 yr. old. I question Mrs. Palins judgment and her values ,if she is happy about her 17 yr. old getting married. We do not need to send this message to young people.
We have a huge underclass in this society that does not value education and this attitude validates their lifestyle.That lifestyle also keeps people in a cycle of poverty.
Motherhood is about more than just giving birth.
She made the decision to have 5 children and she needs to make the right choice now. What mother or father allows their 17 yr. old daughter to be in this media firestorm? This is so hard on a teenager even when you don't have the world chasing you around. I am questioning the party I have been supportive of for 25 years.

Posted by: susan Frazier | September 3, 2008 9:29 PM
Report Offensive Comment

'CHANGE IS GOOD! (but only if it serves our own agenda)

Kudos to Sally Quinn!

It's reassuring to know that, in times of uncertainty, we can always count on the Democrats' consistent message, which is:

"We are here for the average person--we will help the hard working Middle Class, we will speak out for equal rights and equal pay for women, we will support single moms, and minorities, and we will fight for the right for a woman to CHOOSE, but only if you CHOOSE what we believe!"

Sally Quinn will spare no cost when it comes to winning--even to attack a woman and mother(Sarah Palin) who has spent her entire life teaching her daughter, by example, that a woman can:

CHOOSE TO BE SINGLE OR CHOOSE TO BE MARRIED
CHOOSE TO HAVE A FAMILY
CHOOSE TO HAVE A CAREER
CHOOSE TO HAVE A CAREER AND A FAMILY
CHOOSE TO HAVE SEX OR CHOOSE TO ABSTAIN
CHOOSE TO BE ACCOUNTABLE FOR OUR ACTIONS
CHOOSE TO LOVE YOURSELF
CHOOSE TO FORGIVE YOURSELF

Way to go Sally!

Posted by: I CHOOSE TO HAVE A CHOICE | September 3, 2008 9:27 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You truly do not have a clue and are a classic case of how intelligence is not synonymous with wisdom or just plain common sense. As G. K. Chesterton said, and in his honor I'll paraphrase him rather than look up an exact quote here, "children are mankind's way or saying the world should go on." I'd take the average mother of five to run this country any day over 98% of the politicians in DC. And the job would be a step down for the mother, not a step up - I doubt you folks inside the beltway with your messed up measuring sticks get this.

Posted by: Kevin Ryan | September 3, 2008 9:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The position you've presented here offends me. As a 40-something mother of 3 - all special needs, all girls, and small business owner with my husband, I would never seek to impose my opinions of what other women should or should not do onto them.

. We are blessed in this country to have the ability to make a choice about how we live our lives - we are not chattle, as women are still considered in other parts of the world.

. We are blessed with the intelligence to make choices that do not always follow the beaten path, to discover wonderous opportunity - that spirit is what drives American women to move ahead and embrace leadership roles.

While you made a choice you felt was "disastrous" and was simply because you are a woman, other women make choices every day that help open doors for the women that follow them. Are we, regardless of the reason, to remain in the seats of secretary, teacher or nurse while men assume C-level positions? I think eBay's CEO Meg Whitman might have something to say about that.

We all make decisions in life based on our experiences and personal situation. When I married and then had children, I set out to change the traditional role of husband and father. I wanted my husband to be involved, to feel the same pride and joy I experienced - and he has and does.

To suggest in any way that Sarah Palin would win for "all the wrong reasons" is to reveal a serious flaw in your objectivity. There are women out here who believe every woman should be given the chance at anything if they want it - should we not be supportive of other women's choices? After all, unless we have walked in her shoes or anyone else's, we are in no position to know what anyone wants or can achieve.

I want as many strong, talented female role models for my girls as possible; I would never want them to think others in the public have control over their decisions. They will most likely experience the glass ceiling when they grow, years in the future, if nothing changes.

As Senator Fred Thompson pointed out during his address at the Republican National Convention, change is more than empty words.

Changing the role of women in society starts with us - and every woman counts. Perhaps you could reconsider your position after you have provided her with a chance to share more about who she is and what she wants to do, as Bill O'Reilly suggested.

Posted by: Melanie | September 3, 2008 9:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am a 62 year old woman who feels like I went to sleep one night and woke up 45 years earlier when women were nurses and teachers (I happen to be a teacher). I have since raised 2 daughters, both of whom are successful businesswomen. One of my daughter's best friends is a highly paid executive with a technology firm ($1 million a year) whose husband stays home and takes care of their 2 children. This is a common situation and should be a common situation--it depends entirely on the marriage choices of the couple. I am furious that we seem to be losing all that we fought to gain. You have certainly motivated me to get out and campaign for Palin--and it looks like I am also once again fighting for equal rights for women (thought I had been there and done that)!

Posted by: Carol Hunt | September 3, 2008 9:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am a 62 year old woman who feels like I went to sleep one night and woke up 45 years earlier when women were nurses and teachers (I happen to be a teacher). I have since raised 2 daughters, both of whom are successful businesswomen. One of my daughter's best friends is a highly paid executive with a technology firm ($1 million a year) whose husband stays home and takes care of their 2 children. This is a common situation and should be a common situation--it depends entirely on the marriage choices of the couple. I am furious that we seem to be losing all that we fought to gain. You have certainly motivated me to get out and campaign for Palin--and it looks like I am also once again fighting for equal rights for women (thought I had been there and done that)!

Posted by: Carol Hunt | September 3, 2008 9:17 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, you really shouldn't be writing about Sarah Palin in the semi-critical way you have. You are not qualified! Look at your own past life and your dalliances, etc, etc. Of course, you are taking the wrong stance here with Gov. Palin. She knows what she is doing. You, clearly, don't.

Posted by: Penny Parker | September 3, 2008 9:17 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The position you've presented here offends me. As a 40-something mother of 3 - all special needs, all girls, and small business owner with my husband, I would never seek to impose my opinions of what other women should or should not do onto them.

. We are blessed in this country to have the ability to make a choice about how we live our lives - we are not chattle, as women are still considered in other parts of the world.

. We are blessed with the intelligence to make choices that do not always follow the beaten path, to discover wonderous opportunity - that spirit is what drives American women to move ahead and embrace leadership roles.

While you made a choice you felt was "disastrous" and was simply because you are a woman, other women make choices every day that help open doors for the women that follow them. Are we, regardless of the reason, to remain in the seats of secretary, teacher or nurse while men assume C-level positions? I think eBay's CEO Meg Whitman might have something to say about that.

We all make decisions in life based on our experiences and personal situation. When I married and then had children, I set out to change the traditional role of husband and father. I wanted my husband to be involved, to feel the same pride and joy I experienced - and he has and does.

To suggest in any way that Mrs. Palin would win for "all the wrong reasons" is to reveal a serious flaw in your objectivity. There are women out here who believe every woman should be given the chance at anything if they want it - should we not be supportive of other women's choices? After all, unless we have walked in her shoes or anyone else's, we are in no position to know what anyone wants or can achieve.

I want as many strong, talented female role models for my girls as possible; I would never want them to think others in the public have control over their decisions. They will most likely experience the glass ceiling when they grow, years in the future, if nothing changes.

As Senator Fred Thompson pointed out during his address at the Republican National Convention, change is more than empty words.

Changing the role of women in society starts with us - and every woman counts. Perhaps you could reconsider your position after you have provided her with a chance to share more about who she is and what she wants to do, as Bill O'Reilly suggested.

Posted by: Melanie | September 3, 2008 9:15 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn, I just saw your attempt to defend this column on the O'Reilly Factor. In a word... instructive. Governor Sarah Palin reached your "tipping point" when she accepted McCain's V.P slot while breast feeding a newborn with downes syndrome and will raise a sixth child when her teenager daughter gives birth. Thank you Ms. Quinn, for proving you are emotionally spent, morally bankrupt and intellectually vapid. There's no reason O'Relly should invite you back. You clearly have nothing to offer America. Ms Quinn, examine your own heart and re-examine your own children. 26 years of your parenting skills has likely robbed them of all humanity. Pathetic.

Posted by: Nancy Lamb | September 3, 2008 9:15 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow - Ms Quinn

you really are sitting on the right hand of God.

Honestly, I am so very insulted by your views about Gov. Palin. I am a Republican woman, a professional engineer for 25 years and now a small business owner. I am also first and foremost a mother of two sons - a soldier's mom and a former soccer and hockey mom. I was a single mother for ten years and was the primary bread winner for my two children because I had an exhusband who had the Seattle gay rights people on his side and got away with not paying child support ever even though he had a six figure salary. I know a thing or two about being a Christian women facing tough choices for my children - I am also a woman of faith and was an active member of a care ministry for single parents in my church during those years I was alone raising my children.

Many people from the small mill town in southern VA judged me, as you are now judging Ms. Palin, for my choices. I want you to know how damaging I think your article was on Gov Palin and though it won you a spot on O'Reilly's show, which you seemed to be quite pleased with yourself over, YOU were the one who insults all intelligent, articulate and professional women of faith with your politically correct rhetoric.

I listened to much of the political activity this year from the Dems to the Republicans and found that the ultimate winners are both pathetic - Barack Obama, a virtual unknown and only selected by his party because he is BLACK - I watched in horror as the super delegates took the election away from the rightful winner - Hillary Clinton - all because she has remained true to her faith and commitments - staying married to Bill - my gosh, why have you not honored her in your columns to state that had she dumped him, she would be the party's candidate? but instead she stands by her principles and remains married to him - a cheater and liar and certainly unworthy of her - and you say nothing - and she is one of your own! but Hillary, while an articulate, educated, intelligent and experienced woman could not be my choice because she stands for big government and I don't BUT I was willing to concede that just because she was better for the job than our other choices were going to be...

then, we have John McCain, certainly not my first choice but he did a rather amazing thing last week when he added Sarah Palin to his ticket. He showed me he is a maverick and he stands for change. While Chris Matthews gets chills down his spine for Obama, tears of joy ran down my cheeks as I listened in the car to Gov Palin's speech on the radio.

She was speaking for me - a working mom - a HARD working mom, who has gone after corruption, who wants change in WA (as all of us outside the beltway do), AND she is a SOLDIER'S MOTHER...she knows how I feel and how so many of us feel about our sons and daughters being overseas fighting a war...she was and is very real to me.

and then today, I hear all this crap coming from the media about her daughter, her inexperience...and then I read your column...

No you'd rather attack Gov. Palin, a mother, a SOLDIER'S MOTHER, as I also am, - a woman who has had to make difficult choices

a strong woman

a smart woman

a qualified woman

she is far more qualified than Barack who has only been in public office at a national level a short time and has never run anything but his campaign

oh and yes was ONLY nominated because he is BLACK...

I am not a racist...it is as obvious to ME as it seems the reasons McCain chose Gov Palin is to you - she is a WOMAN

Thank God.

PS the reason you failed at the network is pretty easy - you weren't tough enough - no mettle - I recognized in your words a pattern that many women who have not succeeded in life have used on those of us that have - you put them down by saying they are attractive, or dress nice - because the truth is they are simply smarter and better at what they do...than you could ever be.

Posted by: Laurie Malm | September 3, 2008 9:08 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn, the first paragraph of your article was a little confusing to me. Why wouldn't McCain make a VP pick that would help him become president? But than again you're in DC and I'm not.

Than your article becomes hateful and what's sad about that is you're not even aware of it.

The more comments likes yours are made by the left, the more you make women like my wife mad. And my wife is not mad at you but at Obama.

Keep up the good work, you should be on the Mcain's campaign payroll.

Posted by: John McIntyre | September 3, 2008 9:08 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Just a little jealous Sally? Grow up!

Posted by: Tim | September 3, 2008 9:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I guess according to Sally Quinn its OK for women Like Sarah Palin to have a job, it just can't be a good job!!

Posted by: Bob | September 3, 2008 9:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I guess according to Sally Quinn its OK for women Like Sarah Palin to have a job, it just can't be a good job!!

Posted by: Bob | September 3, 2008 9:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear undecided Republican voter, your not , never were. Elizabeth said it best, you dems are really scared.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 3, 2008 8:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I would like to comment on "SINGLEMOM'S" post. I could have written it, so Ma'am you are not alone. What everyone on here fails to see is this cretin who calls herself a journalist is an officer's kid. Her mother was probably in the PTA and Officer's Wives Club. Unless you have been subjected to these women and their pathetic husbands for 28 years you could never understand this mentality. Nor would you want to. Just feel sorry for all of us terrible mothers serving our country and our families, just without the whole demeaning anyone who gets in our way. This woman is a pathetic joke and I hope the TV keeps her off the screen. I need to go vomit.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 3, 2008 8:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Palin's daughter is pregnant and Quinn is upset and mean. Biden's daughter is arrested in Chicago on AUG 03,08, and Quinn says nothing. LA Times, page A-14, 04 AUG 08, what a bias.

Posted by: Biden's daughter arrested | September 3, 2008 8:52 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms.Quinn, I understand college educated women are concerned about our soldiers, concerned about the earth, concerned about the enemies of our country, now you are concerned about a woman you don't even know. Why are you concerned about Sarah Palins children, and you are probably one who support the murder of unborn babies? You people need to stop harrassing people and get your own lives together with your own consciences. This woman Sarah is more of a woman than you or your cohorts, just for the plain fact she believes in everyone's right to live even a child with down syndrome. Go back to your thoughts and your comments and maybe you will realize you don't have a clue as to what value every every human life has. If you support the safety of all humans then Where are you with the unborn Children? Your comments mean nothing to a person who knows God and Creation. You, until you change your own life will never understand why Sarah is an important part of this world, your kind are willing to stand by and watch a beautiful world go down the toilet without any morals. I will pray for you and your cohorts that one day you will care about every life not just the ones you choose to care about. McCain made his decision I guess just to keep you animals off of a decent human being.
Clean up your own life, take care of your own, and let Sarah worry about her family. If you are so concerned about our country then why are you voting for a man whose background is so dirty and can't tell enough lies to cover it up.
God Bless you and yours
God Bless's America not you!
God Forgives all of with his grace, maybe he will forgive you for standing behind the murder of babies.

Posted by: Lynda Richardson | September 3, 2008 8:50 PM
Report Offensive Comment


Sally you are just - simply negative!

Palin is refreshing...so what of she doesnt follow your recipe exactly as to what a woman should be like?

you need to put the claws away.. let her be
and support the fact that she was even nominated!

The glass celing will never be broken with dissention in the ranks that smacks of jealousy
Where is the freedom to be... and accomplish whatever we can dream? Why should this be limited to only Obama- whos salay I am paying for years now as my senator-- all he has done is campaign on my tab....

Posted by: irena | September 3, 2008 8:47 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Shame on you. Let Sarah Palin speak first, give her a chance. I am a working Mother and Grandmother and I do not feel I neglected my children in anyway. What a breathe of fresh air to have someone not caught up in the Washington quagmire.

As a proud American, I am going to wait and see, listen and review what the candidates say and then I will make my decision.

Posted by: Lady from Florida | September 3, 2008 8:47 PM
Report Offensive Comment

A woman can't do half the job a man can. Let alone a woman with a retard son. The question you have to ask yourself is if I am talking about Sally Quinn or Sarah Palin. Not that there is any difference.

Obama 08

Posted by: Josh | September 3, 2008 8:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am certainly disappointed in your article about Sarah Palin. I think it speaks volumnes that she and her "first" husband are still together having a family after all these years!!! My goodness, how very refreshing in this day and age. I was thrilled at the selection of this Gov. from Alaska with the terrific record she has and the many accomplishments she has made. An 80% approval rating....would not any public servant desire that? Shame on you, and others, for bringing up the daughter's pregnancy. This is a parent's nightmare, but not a parent's responsibility. This young couple will have a long road in front of them and you have made it public and more difficult. Shame on you!!!! This really has nothing to do with her being a candidate for the Vice President. I am so amazed that you can hold your head up and smile as you just did on Fox. Terrible journalism, sad really.
A former Democrat, Carmen Behrens

Posted by: C. L. Behrens | September 3, 2008 8:40 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Thanks for the article, Ms Quinn. You certainly hit the nail on the head and summarized everything I have felt about this poor VP pick.

And thanks to McCain's dementia in naming Palin to the vice-presidency, I regret I must vote Democrat this time.

God Help us all.

Posted by: Undecided Female Republican Voter | September 3, 2008 8:40 PM
Report Offensive Comment

All I can say is that I wish feminists had so much concern about a mother's involvement in the life of a child who is considering abortion. It seems that the fight on the part of feminists has been to REMOVE a mother's influence. Why else would states have to deal with bills on a parent's right to be notified? But all of a sudden you are concerned that Sarah Palin can't be a proper mother to her 17-year-old daughter. Again, would you care if she had any input on an abortion consideration, especially if she wanted to talk the daughter out of it? Besides, once the daughter is married, Sarah Palin will have put her daughter's hand into the hand of her new husband and her mothering, for all intents and purposes, will be over. She'll be a grandmother, and being a grandmother hasn't stopped Nancy Pelosi being Speaker of the House (and she is in the line of succession, isn't she?). But I must admit this concern for mothers being fully available for mothering is very encouraging. I just wonder what you think of Hillary Clinton's busyness as a mother when Chelsea was at home. After all, she was the co-president, and from what I can tell, was preoccupied with matters of state and policy, more so than with matters of the home.

Also, the oldest son is going into the Army, so in a short time Sarah Palin will have only three children at home. Is this an acceptable number? How many women in government or the media have three children and have their attention diverted elsewhere? I thought women were supposed to be able to do it all, REGARDLESS OF THE JOB. I guess we know now that women with children should be excluded from certain positions. But didn't Queen Victoria have a whole slew of kids when she presided over the British Empire? She managed somehow, and, as far as I can tell, history hasn't slammed her for her kids or for her job performance being affected by them.

So give Sarah Palin a chance to prove herself before you write her off.

Carole Parma

Posted by: Carole Parma | September 3, 2008 8:39 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Thanks for the article, Ms Quinn. You certainly hit the nail on the head and summarized everything I have felt about this poor VP pick.

And thanks to McCain's dementia in naming Palin to the vice-presidency, I regret I must vote Democrat this time.

God Help us all.

Posted by: Undecided Female Republican Voter | September 3, 2008 8:38 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Thanks for the article, Ms Quinn. You certainly hit the nail on the head and summarized everything I have felt about this poor VP pick.

And thanks to McCain's dementia in naming Palin to the vice-presidency, I regret I must vote Democrat this time.

God Help us all.

Posted by: Undecided Female Republican Voter | September 3, 2008 8:38 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Thanks for the article, Ms Quinn. You certainly hit the nail on the head and summarized everything I have felt about this poor VP pick.

And thanks to McCain's dementia in naming Palin to the vice-presidency, I regret I must vote Democrat this time.

God Help us all.

Posted by: Undecided Female Republican Voter | September 3, 2008 8:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

It is amazing that the rules when entering a comment ask that one does not violate another rights ssuch as religion, race and gender!! Well , how is it that Sally Quinn is violating Sarah Palin gender rights? As a Catholic, educated at Georgetown, Sally Quinn has failed the women of this country. Women are equal Sally!!

Posted by: michael lynch | September 3, 2008 8:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

WOW, You guys really are scared! This is going to be fun!!

Posted by: Elizabeth | September 3, 2008 8:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Shame on you Sally. I am an independant voter and have never read your work before. Your article and your appearance with Bill O'Riley show you to be very self serving and unfair for not giving Palin a chance to prove herself to the general public. YOU try to discredit her for being a MOTHER Shame on YOU Shame on YOU

Posted by: John, Redding CA | September 3, 2008 8:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Pretty sad article. Also, you need to update your photo

Posted by: M Kirby | September 3, 2008 8:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Let me try to understand your position. Sarah Palin is a woman and a mother, therefore she is incapable of performing the duties of vice president.

Are you saying that the glass ceiling should only apply to Republican women?

I read the other comments looking for support for this column...I quit after the first 100 or so negative comments.

Best of luck with your new career.

Posted by: Rodney S Taylor | September 3, 2008 8:35 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I find your opinions of Sarah Palin to be un-Christianly and I am shocked at your bigoted, narrow minded take on what women are or should be allowed to handle based on your personal interpretation of the Gospel. Women, by the grace of God, are strong and talented in ways men are not. And by that grace we manage homes, children, grandchildren, aging parents,and work — even if that is the Vice-President of the USA. The balancing includes all the good and bad that happens. You obviously base your references of skills and talents on your own experiences — which must be lacking. I suggest you pray a little more and be careful about judging — lest you be judged. Oh, too late!

Posted by: Kelly Zap | September 3, 2008 8:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally I will pray for your salvation from the left wing radicals in America who have sold you a bill of goods. Seems like Satin has done a fine job in raising you my dear.
Palin is more qualified than your OBAMY is! He gave a speach. And? A cocain user. And? Lets see that is it. No he is a clean guy per Senator Joe.
You have no values Sally your are just a wac job leftest!

Posted by: Scott | September 3, 2008 8:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

It's amazing that someone like you knows everything about another person like "Sarah Palin." It's people like you that imply you know everything about a subject. i.e. On Bill O'Reiily show you said you knew she was not completely vetted. How would you know? It's people like you that spread rumours where you expound on a subject, without having all the facts. It's really a shame that you conduct yourself this way.

Smarten up woman and do your research prior to publishing untrue facts to the world.

Posted by: Bill Becker | September 3, 2008 8:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
You narrow minded Liberal wacko. I just saw you on O'Reilly touting the mothers role in a family.
Yet most liberals like yourself promote gay
and lesbian parenting. I don't have anything
against them, but PLEASE make up your mind. You
liberals are just running scared because the
Republicans put forth a qualified capable candidate for Vice President and your dream team
doesn't look so bright anymore. By the way as my mother used to say "I hope your face doesn't freeze that way" lose the pout!! It amazes me that women can't stick together, we have to lower ourselves to jealousy and back biting.

Posted by: Pat Sherry | September 3, 2008 8:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

sally quinn; you are another jealous female who is angry about sarah palin because you assume to know why she was chosen according to your own sick & twisted subjective viewpoint; who do you think you are? Do NOT attempt to speak for any other "American" woman with your pathetic opinion; you are meaningless in the grand scheme of things: you are the FOOL. Get off your high horse. Have lunch with Keith Olberman and then drop off the planet, broadzilla.

Posted by: cary allen | September 3, 2008 8:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Shame on you Quinn. Because you failed you want her to fail. How can you have it both ways? I am woman hear me roar but when I do look out I am a bad person. Since when did a liberal journalist on the WP worry about family values. McCain scored a home run.

Go home Quinn you are a loser.

Posted by: Michael Demma | September 3, 2008 8:30 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You should be ashamed to print this crap! I was on the fence and NOW I can proudly say my vote and many others , friends , collegues are voting for Palin/McCain!! She is a Smart,Confident, Beautiful, Mother, Wife..And she will be a Great Role Model to young women in the United States! I do not know why the press is coming at her, the reason , she is a threat, she is not judgemental!!She will stand up to anyone , she has proven that, and will continue to!! Go Sarah!! Knock em dead, you got my support!!

Posted by: This article is a Piece of Garbage | September 3, 2008 8:29 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,

Could you write a stupid article like this once once a day please? The more you write, the madder normal women will become and the more of us will defect the democratic party!
I am a democrat and I am voting for John McCain.
GO SARAH!

Posted by: Sondra Bouchard | September 3, 2008 8:27 PM
Report Offensive Comment

This article is horrible. How dare Ms. Quinn judge another after her track record.

Shame on you.

Posted by: What gives you the right? | September 3, 2008 8:25 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn is a bonafide idiot!

Posted by: E Williams | September 3, 2008 8:24 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You should be thrown over the prison wall with no lubricant.

Posted by: Up Yours C**t! | September 3, 2008 8:24 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally has no clue, She is just jealous that Sarah can run a family and country at the same time.

Posted by: Runningwolf | September 3, 2008 8:24 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn will burn in hell for eternity for her attack on Gov palin

Posted by: tony | September 3, 2008 8:21 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You jealous old blonde skank. Souunds like your lealous of an attactive successful woman

Posted by: Russ | September 3, 2008 8:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

idiot!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: aaron | September 3, 2008 8:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
You are amazing! How can you speak for women. Given your logic Obama's own Mother should have aborted him. She after all was unmarried and 17 when she was pregnant with the democratic nominee. Think next time and don't speak for working women or any women who has multiple children, career and can actually manage to have a life outside of the home.

Posted by: erin carroll | September 3, 2008 8:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, you speak from both sides of your mouth.

Posted by: Rightway | September 3, 2008 8:02 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Governor Palin is the ONLY candidate with CEO experience; how does that qualify for "no experience?"

If Gov. Palin's first name was "George" or "Henry" or "Patrick" NO ONE would question the dedication of "his" parenting or would be troubled or wondering about "his" being able to handle the high pressure job of vice-president while "he" had a four-month-old special needs baby or a pregnant seventeen-year- old at home.

So my question is - why are so many in the media arguing against her position? Is it because she's a woman and the media thinks a woman's place is in the home? Or is it because she's a CONSERVATIVE woman who has a chance of becoming the next vice-president and the media doesn't want a conservative White House?

Posted by: Linda J. Perron | September 3, 2008 7:32 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Since when is "Washington Insider" something good for a resume?

Posted by: Joe Pekorney | September 3, 2008 7:32 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The two words in your title say it all--"Pregnancy PROBLEM," and Governor Palin is not even the one who is pregnant.

What I find most offensive about this missive is the transparent jealousy thinly disguised as "concern." Governor Sarah Palin is essentially debunking 30 years of feminist myth: that children are an inconvenience, and unless you discard them, you can never achieve your goals. She has pursued dreams and achieved them, and is poised to do so much more! Yet she still embraces a full life with a husband, plenty of children, and everyone in the mix, including the great state of Alaska thrives. To quote an old feminist ad line: "We've come a long way, baby!"

A pregnant teenage daughter is no proof of neglect, and having come from a large family, the older ones DO take care of the younger ones, and most times gladly--that's the benefit of having more than two or three kids--but that would be something women and men who don't live the Beltway life would understand.

Get your head out of your elitist backside, Sally--feminism and especially evangelicals are no longer defined by you people--Sarah Palin is giving it a new definition, thank God!

Posted by: Jennifer Oliver O'Connell | September 3, 2008 7:08 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Here's the difference Sally. You failed because you had NO experience. Sarah Palin has run a state for the last two years. Obama has run nothing. Also, would you carp on a man who had a similar family situation? Or is a Republican female too threatening to you? I really doubt that you have any true concern for her family--just for promoting your agenda.

Posted by: Shaman | September 3, 2008 6:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What are you on the far left so afraid of? If she is such a bad pick, why not let the Republican ticket go down in flames. It seems jealousy of a highly successful and attractive woman has gotten the better of you. Nevertheless, keep it up, you are just driving more independent women to her.

Posted by: Blair | September 3, 2008 6:22 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Using Sally's Logic, Joe Biden needs to stay home to help with the grandchildren. He could teach them plagiarism. And, if he stayed home the taxpayers could save the $350 he spends each day on Amtrak showing us that he is just a common man.

Posted by: Sidney | September 3, 2008 6:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Using Sally's Logic, Joe Biden needs to stay home to help with the grandchildren. He could teach them plagiarism. And, if he stayed home the taxpayers could save the $350 he spends each day on Amtrak showing us that he is just a common man.

Posted by: Sidney | September 3, 2008 6:15 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Using Sally's Logic, Joe Biden needs to stay home to help with the grandchildren. He could teach them plagiarism. And, if he stayed home the taxpayers could save the $350 he spends each day on Amtrak showing us that he is just a common man.

Posted by: Sidney | September 3, 2008 6:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Using Sally's Logic, Joe Biden needs to stay home to help with the grandchildren. He could teach them plagiarism. And, if he stayed home the taxpayers could save the $350 he spends each day on Amtrak showing us that he is just a common man.

Posted by: Sidney | September 3, 2008 6:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

My, my, my. Your full rules certainly do protect the probable sensitivities of your writers. Never mind that Ms. Quinn has no problem using this space to personally attack the Governor of Alaska. I find myself wondering how in the world you and your agents think for a second that you decide for us and our potential leaders how many children one should or should not have. Was there a problem for you with Joe and Rose Kennedy? Robert Kennedy and Ethel? Oh, I think not. Do you have any clue how many people out here in the real world are consistently offended by such pontifications? How dare you, Ms. Quinn, spend any time at all with your pen, when you should be spending 100 per cent of your time tending your own challenged child? That's your stated standard for Sarah Palin. What, you're special and exempt from your own position?

One wonders who you people think you are. Worse, I wonder who you think WE are. I could not care less whether you print this. That's not my purpose here. I do indeed want you to know that you and your attitudes make my anger incendiary. Out here where we live real lives, we have just about had enough of you. This enormously talented woman is, sooner or later, going to clean your clocks. And you won't see it coming. That is how good she is, and how poor you are.

Posted by: Barbara Ayars | September 3, 2008 6:08 PM
Report Offensive Comment

DO YOU REALIZE HOW ABSOLUTELY STUPID YOU SOUND WHEN TALKING ABOUT SARAH PALIN? DID YOU EVER FINISH GRADE SCHOOL?

Posted by: KAREN | September 3, 2008 5:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am so sick and tired of left wing loud mouths like Sally Quinn who think that because they've been hanging around inside the beltway their whole lives, they know better. GOVERNOR Palin has more experience that O'Bama..PERIOD! She's the Governor of a state with a $50 Billion dollar budget. That's not up for debate..it's a fact that anyone can look up. Ms. Quinn has no problem with a Presidential candidate who has no experience, and a former President whose foreign policy included doing nothing about several terrorist attacks against our Military..ie: USS Cole...BILL CLINTON DID NOTHING! And now leftist Sally Quinn is offended because John McCain, who she would never vote for in the first place picks a Woman who doesn't fit the mold. Give me a break. This whole column makes Ms. Quinn and those like her look like the hypocrites that they are.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 3, 2008 5:45 PM
Report Offensive Comment

This posting, as well as your recent interview with Soledad O’Brien, touting Sara Palin’s inability to balance the role of Vice Presidency with the demands of family is just plain short sited. You are in no position to speak for her and certainly do not speak for me or the many Evangelical women I know who work. We are not all subservient and incapable as you tried so diligently tried to paint with one brush. It is getting increasingly frustrating - all the labels, judgments and sweeping generalizations, not based in fact, that are being used to create so many false realities. It's just irresponsible journalism.

Posted by: Terri Christiansen | September 3, 2008 5:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment

How sad your column is. You must be being paid a bunch to lynch a person in print, when you don't know her, her family or the circumstances of her being where she is now. If her daughter is pregnant, it is none of your damn business!
If your daughter is pregnant, it is none of my business! Leave it alone. This is yelliow journalism. If this is all you can write about, then pack up your computer and go home to YOUR family!

Posted by: maryan | September 3, 2008 5:43 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Well done Sally, you are a good little liberal lapdog,
have a treat.

Posted by: Hugo Chavez | September 3, 2008 5:30 PM
Report Offensive Comment

It sounds to me like you are either JEALOUS or afraid.!!!!!!

Posted by: Colleen Wagoner | September 3, 2008 5:27 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally has lost one reader here. I am in shock over what you have said about Sarah P. You are so out of line here that I don't even know what to say. You have made me re-think this whole republican ticket. How many other women have you insulted with your article? You have pushed me over the side. I won't be reading you ever again.

Posted by: ann | September 3, 2008 5:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,

I know you're real smart and refined, but here's my take on this. Women have been dumping their children and infants into daycare centers for years. I know that some absolutely have to, but I believe that with a bit of doing without (like a second Volvo in the driveway) and using Grandma it CAN be done--I did it and worked professionally.

But all of a sudden along comes Palin and these women are concerned for her children???--that is a joke.

I am a drug counselor and I see the results of this dumping of unbonded children into daycare; they're invariably on Ritalin or the like and diagnosed as bipolar etc etc. Then comes addiction.
If they had been raised by parents who made sacrifices of time, I believe this wouldn't be happening as much. Now I try to help them(parent them and give them hope). I am very busy needless to say.

This appears to be a double standard. Sincerely, Marla

Posted by: Marla | September 3, 2008 5:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am furious with you sally! How DARE you disqualify a woman for a position of that importance and imply that she cannot be both a successful mother and a Vice President! How did you feel when a man suggested that you might be better off at home than in the work force? Or that your son Josiah Quinn Crowninshield Bradlee needed you at home so you should not work OR that maybe your son Josiah should have been aborted because of his Velo-cardio-facial syndrome? I am through with the democratic party FOREVER!

Posted by: Donna B | September 3, 2008 5:10 PM
Report Offensive Comment

As the single mother of four children I have had to support myself. I chose a career in a male dominated field and for over 25 years have experienced all forms of discrimination and harassment for choosing to work in this field. I am still working in the same career and still facing daily discriminations, regardless of how old my children are.

You, Sally Quinn, join that group of men I have been facing every day. You, Sally Quinn, are one of those I battle to overcome every day. You, Sally Quinn, carry your own grudges and attempt to throw onto others of your own gender. You, Sally Quinn, are another reason why women will not get ahead in this world. You, Sally Quinn, are an embarrassment.

I only came to this website because I heard about this article on the radio. I am disgusted. Do your research, Sally. Palin has been on the radar for quite some time now. Not that you would know it or recognize it because you are too busy denigrating a woman for being successful. You would never have written this column using this tone or judgment were the VP choice a man in the same position.

I was neither drinking the Obamanation kool-aid nor was I on the McCain train. I know my choice now. You have helped me make my mind up when I have been struggling. A woman who can achieve the governors position maintaining an 80-90% approval rating with many accomplishments ...who also has to battle discrimination on a daily basis. That is one strong woman.

Posted by: SingleMom | September 3, 2008 5:07 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You wrote that you were angry with McCain's pick because it seemed calculated. News Flash - ALL VP picks are calculated. Do you think Obama chose Biden because he was truly the best candidate or because he might be able to appeal to Evangelical voters that are alledgedly 'in play' this election (despite all evidence to the contrary).

I have been on the fence this election, but the attack reporting from the left is slowly putting me into the McCain camp. The insinuations that a woman with children can't effectively have a career, that a candidate's stance on abortion is an open license to slander her teenage daughter, and that conservative values = submissive slave are not only offensive, they set the feminist movement back 50 years.

Posted by: Jennifer Gribble | September 3, 2008 5:02 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, you liberal shill. So, according to you, McCain should have said, "I really want to ask Sarah Palin, a wonderfully qualified woman to run on the ticket with me, but she needs to stay home with her kids so I passed her over." Yeah. That would have gone over real well with the chattering class. Go buy a clue . . .

Posted by: Brian | September 3, 2008 4:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I'm a woman and I do not think a women can be expected to be able to raise a family and work a job that critical.

Obama 08

Posted by: Weundra | September 3, 2008 4:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

i think sally quinn is jealous of Sarah Palin because of her qualities the average person can relate.
Our troops leave their families and serve and those families sacrifice for their country. Maybe Sarah Palin's family believes that they are willing to sacrifice for her and service to her country.

If you had a child with special needs did you give up your day job. No. Pelosi did not give up her job or her career goals.

Who is quinn to judge how Sarah Palin should lead her life with her family. What qualifications give her that right. None. But quinn and pelosi feel that because of their god like insight should make all decision for all people and their judgement should rule. That is why pelosi and the democratic congress has a 9% vote of confidence white Sarah Palin has an 80% vote of confidence from her state.

Posted by: cheryl brick | September 3, 2008 4:53 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
You call the chioce of Sarah Palin "cynical and calculating". Talk about the pot calling the kettle black! This is one of the most cynical hit-pieces I've read in quite a while. Gov. Palin has no foreign policy experience? What about Senator Obama? (by the way - no, his kindergarten class in Indonesia doesn't count.) You ask how McCain can call Obama inexperienced - McCain can, and should, level that charge _because it is valid_! You fret about what would happen (God forbid) if something happened to a President McCain. By the exact same logic, why don't you fret about what would happen if (God forbid) Senator Obama was actually sworn in?

To intimate that Gov. Palin is somehow neglecting her children is outrageous, hysterical caterwauling. It shows your "elite liberal" status -- it shows that you are seriously detached from the ebb and flow of life for most of us "normal folks".

Is Sarah Palin ready to be President? Well, she's one heck of a lot more qualified than Obama is. I'd rather have the Governor of the largest state in the Union running the federal government than some "community organizer" that thinks a retired bomber is a "cool dude".

Posted by: Jill | September 3, 2008 4:46 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn, as usual, got everything completely wrong; but what else do you expect from this liberal twit.

Posted by: D. Alan Thompson | September 3, 2008 4:43 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You're wrong.......
I have had the opportunity to live in the midst of Southern Baptist, and Methodist and plain ole Southern women for the past two years. This being from California (born, raised and having lived over 56 years there and Catholic, I might add)until retiring and moving to Chattanooga, TN. Having said this, you are so wrong if you think evagelical women are submissive. I have never seen such sharp eyed and potentially sharp tongued powerful women in my life. Please be aware, this does not deminish the men by any means. I'm simply letting you know you do not know of which to pontificate.

Posted by: Colleen Cavin | September 3, 2008 4:28 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms Quinn,

Your comment, "Not only do we have a woman with five children, including an infant with special needs, but a woman whose 17-year-old child will need her even more in the coming months. Not to mention the grandchild. This would inevitably be an enormous distraction for a new vice president (or president) in a time of global turmoil. Not only in terms of her job, but from a media standpoint as well" simply supports the archaic thinking of the "evil white man" who has done his best to keep women down.

For years "men" have questioned this very thing of women and for years we've listened to women activists assuring us this wasn't the case; that women are better and stronger mentally than men give them credit.

We've listened to activists "educating" us on how women have been and are being penalized for wanting a career and a family. Well, here we have Sarah Palin, who one would think would become the poster child for the cause, and yet you, Ms. Quinn, are the first to suggest that she - and presumably women in general - are not capable of handling "distractions".

Ms. Quinn, if Mrs. Palin can't handle the distractions, what makes us think that women federal judges can, women senators and women in congress can, women police chiefs can, women astronauts can, and so forth. Well Ms. Quinn, as a white male American, I chose side with competent women who have faced and continue to face personal adversity and continue on to succeed.

As you can see by the messages on this board, your comments are not well received and off the mark with most Americans - those the mainstream media doesn't think exist.

Posted by: Ben Armato | September 3, 2008 4:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow - what a sexist piece of garbage you wrote. Disgusting partisanship on parade.

Posted by: Dan Mosqueda | September 3, 2008 4:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms Quinn, you are an ardent Obama supporter and that's fine. What's not okay is for you to use your position as a nationally recognized journalist to influence people at large with you idealogical based veiws, as you did so swimmingly on CBS this am. Your non-sensical remarks about Palin being past the "tipping point" of being effective in office even offended my liberal school teacher wife. Shame on you, get it right Sally. Find a real point, if there are any, to discredit Mrs. Palin, instead of marginalizing your own creditability. You made yourself the look like like someones lacky. Biased reporting
is a propaganda tool no matter which side of the aisle uses it.

Posted by: scott l | September 3, 2008 4:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment

This comment is regarding Sally Quinn's article titled: Palin's Pregnancy Problem

Why does Sally Quinn call herself a journalist? The media coverage of Gov. Palin has finally proven to the American public just how bias the media is. Sally Quinn, correct your title to reflect what you really are: an " activist-journalist."

Posted by: Maria | September 3, 2008 4:12 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn, you have it precisely wrong. She was chosen because she helps Sen. McCain convince voters that he is the real change Washington is looking for. To condescendingly suggest that she was chosen "just because she's a woman" and a sop to the evangelical base (after all it was your paper that called them "poor, uneducated and easy to command")is more a reflection of your ignorance and arrogance than her bad hair.

Your column insults, and reflects the panic among the wine and brie set over a brilliant choice by Senator McCain of someone that real people who live in "flyover states" can relate to, and connect with. Fact is, you like Washington just the way it is, and she's just not acceptable to you and your effete ilk. Get over it.

Posted by: bucknelldad | September 3, 2008 4:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn, you have it precisely wrong. She was chosen because she helps Sen. McCain convince voters that he is the real change Washington is looking for. To condescendingly suggest that she was chosen "just because she's a woman" and a sop to the evangelical base (after all it was your paper that called them "poor, uneducated and easy to command")

Your column insults, and reflects the panic among the wine and brie set over a brilliant choice by Senator McCain of someone that real people who live in "flyover states" can relate to, and connect with. Fact is, you like Washington just the way it is, and she's just not acceptable to you and your effete ilk. Get over it.

Posted by: bucknelldad | September 3, 2008 4:00 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Get real Sally! You are really reaching on this one. Are you not concerned for the male candidates and their ability to meet the needs of their children? Or is Obama a pay grade above meeting these needs? Are you saying that no women should hold down this job unless she has no children at home? What about female Physician's, Police Officers and Soldiers who have children? As for her experience, did you raise the same questions when Bill Clinton was running? Were you opposed to Jimmy Carter when he ran for office? No, you just oppose a female who is a conservative! By the way the image of a woman submitting to a husband who loves her the way Jesus loves the Church is to show who God is, not to make the man or the woman feel better or worse about themself.

Posted by: Paul | September 3, 2008 3:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Why have you been so quick to condemn Sarah Palin?Obama hasn't been home in 17 or more months to spend quality time with his family. Why is there no comment on his actions? Nancy Pelosi raised six children and remained a Congresswoman for the entire time. Why no criticism of Nancy? Bill Clinton chased women all over America. Why no critism? John Edwards caught in an affair. No critism. Why not? The answer is as plain as the nose on your face....... It is unthinkable to besmearch a Democrat comrade, no matter the severity of his or her offenses or shortcomings. But by golly, you take no prisoners when attempting to crucify Republicans. How did America get this way? The Democrat hate for Republicans is beyond my powers of comprehension.

Posted by: David Goode | September 3, 2008 3:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
Unless you are an evangelical don't pretend you speak for them or know what they are thinking about how John McCain's choice of a running mate will sit. It doesn't matter how much hands on parenting a child gets. Once they reach an age of independence they will make their own choices. We, as parents can only hope we've created a sound foundation for our children to help them make what we as parents feel are the right choices. Some make mistakes like Bristol, but what is important here is what happens after the mistake. Did Bristol try to get rid of the "mistake" by having an abortion? No she took the high road and owned up to her mistake and took responsibility. And what did her family do. They supported her in her decision showing that no matter what they still love her. The foundation was laid to help Bristol make what I think an evangelical would consider the right choice after a mistake.

On the matter of Gov Palin's expierence - You said Barbara Bush thought they were ready for VP by all the expeience her husband had but they found out "nothing can prepare you for the criticism and scrutiny of being in the White House". If nothing can prepare you, what is your point about Gov Palin's experience. I am an Alaskan and have followed Gov Palin's actions since she routed out ethical problems in the Alaksa Oil and Gas committee she served on and the Alaska Attorney General's office. From what I have seen of her since taking the highes office in the state of Alaska, she is not beholden to anyone including her own political party when it comes to doing the right thing. She knew the oil tax legislation that had been approved by our state legislature prior to her taking office was rotten to the core with corruption and bribes. BTW 3 state legilatures are presenly sitting in prison and one is awaiting trial. She brought it back to the table against the wishes of her party and of course the oil companies. But because she had the people of Alaska behind her she got what was right and just for the people of Alaska even though it was unpopular with her party and the oil companies. When you are fighting multiple corporations that are raking in billions of dollars every quarter and win, I'd say that in and of itself is plenty of experience in running this country. After-all. She's not running for president, it's vice president. It's sad the majority of you media folks already have John McCain the the grave and he hasn't even taken office yet.

Posted by: TJ | September 3, 2008 3:39 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I believe your comments on Sarah Palin and the Southern Baptist female church members were completely out of line and totally wrong.

Sarah Palin has shown herself to be a strong and intelligent woman. What is the difference in her working with 4 children at home and the CNN (Clinton New Network) reporter ( that has 4 children UNDER NINE YEARS OF AGE)that interviewed you?

I am member of the Southern Baptist Church, been married for 47 years - I have never deferred to my husband in any decision - we make them jointly - I have managed my own finances for my entire life - our bank accounts are separate. I worked in a job that was considered a 'male job only' long before you married someone that could give you a job.

I have not contributed to any campaign this year because I did not like the way either party was headed but after watching Sarah Palin, I immediately contributed to John McCain's campaign and will do so again.

Posted by: Norma Johnson | September 3, 2008 3:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are so wrong.....I was born, raised and lived all of my life in California. I worked for 37 years, raised my daughter, retired and moved to Chattanooga TN. Certainly well within the Bible Belt. I have worked a part time job for two years which gives me the opportunity to come in contact with about 20 people a day in a one-on-one relationship. With that said, I am here to tell you that the Southern Baptist (and the Methodist -- heck, all Southern women, I might add, evangelical or not)are some of the strongest sharp eyed, and potentially sharped tongued women you can imagine. They may claim submission to their spouses but everyone knows clearly who is in charge. This does not at all chip at the stature of the Southern male. It simply means the women are not what you believe them to be. Therefore, again, you are wrong.

Posted by: Colleen Cavin | September 3, 2008 3:17 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are so wrong.....I was born, raised and lived all of my life in California. I worked for 37 years, raised my daughter, retired and moved to Chattanooga TN. Certainly well within the Bible Belt. I have worked a part time job for two years which gives me the opportunity to come in contact with about 20 people a day in a one-on-one relationship. With that said, I am here to tell you that the Southern Baptist (and the Methodist -- heck, all Southern women, I might add, evangelical or not)are some of the strongest sharp eyed, and potentially sharped tongued women you can emagine. They may claim submission to their spouses but everyone knows clearly who is in charge. This does not at all chip at the stature of the Southern male. It simply means the women are not what you believe them to be. Therefore, again, you are wrong.

Posted by: Colleen Cavin | September 3, 2008 3:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Do you ever re-read your writing? How did this newspaper ever give you license to write to such a broad base?

Since I doubt you read your own stuff, I quote: "My first reaction was shock. Then anger. John McCain chose a running mate SIMPLY BECAUSE (emphasis mine) she is a woman and one who appealed to the Republican's conservative evangelical base. Now, with news that Palin's 17-year-old unmarried daughter is pregnant, McCain's pick may not even find support among "family values" voters." Pretty sexist old broad, aren't you?

Suggestion: You pontificating media hypes ("types" is a misnomer and quite oxymoron-ish) might consider backing off until there have been a few debates and exchanges between the two VP candidates. Right now your "guy" with 30+ years Washington Beltway experience lends me to believe he's so far removed from ordinary grassroots politics as one can get...and I think, based on many, many comments Senator "Motormouth" (my term) has made and I've read I think a good homespun woman just might do some real damage control.

How wonderful it just might be if instead of pulling away from an interview with Larry King she actually did the interview and in the process slammed him flat by answering some questions with, "That is the dumbest thing I ever expected you to ask...can't you do better? But, I'll lower myself to your freshman standards with my reply....".

Lady, didn't you learn that to assume when broken into syllables means to make an ass-of-you-and-me? Quit it and stick to the facts, if you know how.

Posted by: Dr. Scott McVittie | September 3, 2008 3:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Few Lines A Few More Times For Old Times

Less said and more done
She is light and bright
Do not give all your heart to one
Do not be consumed with hate
She is my love and liberty
Special and warming the heart
I hardly knew you
You taught me well
So all is not lost
With Love
There is a way and a light
The enemy is in the dark

Posted by: Mr. Challenger | September 3, 2008 3:12 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally how many abortions have you had. It sounds like since you are so against Palin and her kids. You don't know what it is like to have kids because you abort them. That is your type of sex education. Have all the sex you want, and if you get pregnant just abort the useless baby. Is that what liberals are all about...heartless abortion pusher....so how many times do you just go out and have sex for fun and then turn around and get an abortion

Posted by: Steve | September 3, 2008 2:53 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn, I appreciate the way you've tried to cover up your out and out 'hatred' of McCain's choice of a running mate with "This is nothing against Palin,...", but overall your article is dripping with your anger and frustration. I'm sure that before you knew who had been selected as the VP candidate, you thought that the presidency was in the bag.

As a conservative voter, registered as a Republican, I vote for the candidate that best reflects MY values and convictions. All of us SHOULD do that, but I know that many will vote for the Party no matter who is running.
Personally, I had resigned myself to vote for John McCain because his values were "closer" to mine than those of Mr. Obama, and that is what I have heard from many others as well. With the selection of Sarah Palin, whom I, as apparently most of the country, have never heard of, I now have certainty that my vote for John McCain will definitely be the right one!

I must add that I have never been so disappointed in the media...and ESPECIALLY the women of the media, as I am now! Women who have shoved feminism down our throats for more than 30 years are now showing their true colors, and where their hearts definitely are not. I am proud to be an American, and I'm thankful that we have the freedom of speech and the press, but my confidence in the mainstream media and many women that I have admired will never be the same.

Oh, and by the way, I am a Christian that is a member of a Southern Baptist Church. I think that you are forgetting that Christianity is about love and forgiveness. I know that I speak for many as I say that I am very proud of the way that the Palin family has chosen to deal with the life issues that have come their way. Sarah Palin has shown us all that she is not just another talking head...she is living out her convictions,...what a refreshing thing that will be in Washington!
Thank you.

Posted by: Susan Wells | September 3, 2008 2:52 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Why is it that a thirteen year-old girl doesn't need her parent's input when she makes a decision to have an abortion, but a seventeen year-old girl can't function without her parents constant attention if she decides to have her child?

Posted by: ABC | September 3, 2008 2:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You sound like a Sarah Palin wanna be but never will. She displays characteristics a person like you should emulate. You are just swimming around in that MSM cesspool thinking we are all dumb to realize your agenda. I don't consider you a reporter at all but a sniveling waste.

Posted by: Chuck | September 3, 2008 2:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Here's what Sally said in 1992


"What most [women] don't want is to be told how to live their personal lives"


Quinn, Sally. 1992. The feminist betrayal. Reader’s Digest 140:84-86

Posted by: KH | September 3, 2008 2:35 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn expresses her outrage on behalf of women, Southern Baptists, Republicans, and Conservatives.

To which of these groups does Ms. Quinn belong?
Is it proper to define members of groups to which
one does not belong proper?

Posted by: Bart Johnson | September 3, 2008 2:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

So let me get this straight. Thirty five years ago Sally Quinn was not ready to be a TV anchor, and that's relevant to a discussion of whether Sarah Palin is ready to be Vice President now. Got news for you Sally, based on your inability to construct an argument, you're not qualified for the job you hold today.

Posted by: KHorn | September 3, 2008 2:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

KindlyAdvice,

That wasnt very nice. But since you brought it up, why not share some advice about securing that area with the 17 year olds of the world.

Posted by: TruthSpeaker | September 3, 2008 2:25 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow, you're right. I guess women with children are not as good as men. Good call.

Posted by: Tkevan | September 3, 2008 2:17 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, try some honey in your douche dear you’ve become quite the sour puss!

Posted by: Kindly Advice | September 3, 2008 2:11 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I can't believe what old Sally, the media and many Democrats are saying about Sarah Palin & her family!! Like a previous poster says...they are rolling gleefully in their feculence, like a dog who discovers something disgusting in the grass. Such a perfect description of the Democrat party/media (same thing), wish I had thought of it.

Ruth


Posted by: Ruth | September 3, 2008 2:07 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You feminists are like crabs in a pot trying to grab and pull the one back in who is getting away. How dare you look at your own failures and suggest that because you couldn't hack it Palin won't be able to either?...You just keep watching this gal who is building a $40 billion pipe-line through Alaska, and all without federal assistance (which is only one of her many accomplishments). Your jealousy has come through loud and clear in your article. So get rid of your poochy lip disease, put a smile on your face and get ready to experience "the rest of the story.........." :)

Posted by: Kathy Andersen | September 3, 2008 2:06 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn...I don't even know what to say...all I can do is shake my head.

Would you like to give Sarah a rolling pin and an apron and have her stay in the kitchen like a good little housewife?

Posted by: Greg Martin | September 3, 2008 2:03 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn...I don't even know what to say...all I can do is shake my head.

Would you like to give Sarah a rolling pin and an apron and have her stay in the kitchen like a good little housewife?

Posted by: Greg Martin | September 3, 2008 2:02 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn should be told that Sarah Palin is not a Southern Baptist, but a Pentecostal, who have a proud tradition of women in leadership since the denomination was founded. Palin is, no doubt, well aware of the multi-tasking abilities of the Proverbs 31 woman, the charge God gave the propehtess Deborah, and the way God raised up Queen Esther "for such a time as this."

The Washington Post knows nothing about religious people, and it is an insult to us for them to allow her to write an article in the supposed voice of a religious authority.

Posted by: seanmom | September 3, 2008 1:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sarah Palin is living her faith and principles, not just talking about them. Her daughter is doing the same. This is clearly a family that pulls together. What is inside you to cause you to trash them so? Have you no shame or decency? Sarah Palin is running for Vice President, not President. She is as qualified as others who have run for the Vice Presidency, albeit she is a different gender. You have nothing but your own negative speculation that she could not handle that job or even the Presidency in the unlikely event something happened to President McCain. It is Barack Obama who is running for President and who fails the test of being ready to be President, but you lack the integrity to write about that. How about also digging into Obama's relationship with Tony Rezco, William Ayers and Rev. Wright with the same fervor you and others have gone after Sarah Palin?

Posted by: D. Thomas | September 3, 2008 1:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Gosh! You people are just ignorant. Why would McCain not pick someone who caters to the base. Christians "myself" believe in supporting the family during good and bad times and it looks like Sarahs family is doing just that. Also her husband is rihgt there with her at every step...I say the best thing that will come from her young daughters pregnancy is "its going to happen" and not be another needless death on the floor of an abortionist.

Posted by: Daveman | September 3, 2008 1:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Another example of the 'elite' media types who think they know everything; who wallow in a fetid and festering wasteland known as the beltway; who are convinced they are smarter than the rest of us (remember Howell Raines' stupid comment 'surely the country knows John Kerry is smarter than George Bush, when in reality Bush had better grades & a higher SAT, but we won't let the facts deter our superior intellect and attitudes)

Posted by: Kent Pomrenke | September 3, 2008 1:55 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Obama, “Suck, suck, swallow Sally and remember its not polite to speak with your mouth so full - hey watch that second row of teeth!”

Geez!

Posted by: Obamanation | September 3, 2008 1:54 PM
Report Offensive Comment

To raise this issue as a legitimate campaign concern is an insult to the intelligence of the American voters. Sally Quinn is a joke as a journalist and would be better used writing greeting cards for Hallmark than as a professional reporting pertinent news.

Posted by: Jack Lenburg | September 3, 2008 1:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Interesting that "personal attacks...will be removed from the site" but an entire personal article written by Ms. Quinn is permitted. Another example of the hypocrisy of some of the media. SWEIN.

This is "nothing against Quinn", but she was a much better TV personality than a news writer.

Posted by: Clark | September 3, 2008 1:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Soledad isnt running for the 2nd most powerful job in the country. Soledad isnt expected to be available 24/7.
Soldedad has all healthy babies and doesnt have a promiscous 17 year old pregnant daughter.

No one is saying that a mother cant have a career outside of the home. Personally a real woman will be able to do both and always put family first.

In the role of VP, its AMERICA first and family second. Doesnt sound like thats the order that the traditional Family Values promoting GOP has stood for.

Sounds very hypocritical now to be changing ships midstream, but anything to win an election, I guess.

Posted by: AmericanandProud | September 3, 2008 1:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow. I'm dumbfounded. Talk about a double standard. Are you saying that Barack Obama is qualified for the presidency but Sarah Palin is not? Give me a break.

Posted by: Patricia | September 3, 2008 1:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow. I'm dumbfounded. Talk about a double standard. Are you saying that Barack Obama is qualified for the presidency but Sarah Palin is not? Give me a break.

Posted by: Patricia | September 3, 2008 1:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"...no time to play gender politics..." That is truly comical. Hillary is politically different from Obama how?

With few exceptions, you lefties are missing the point. We like Palin because she is conservative, not because she is a woman. If McCain was just angling for Hillary votes, he would have chosen a pro-choice RINO.

Posted by: lloydrmc | September 3, 2008 1:39 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Are you serious?

You just said that Soledad O'Brian should stay at home. She has 4 children, all under the age of 8. Why did you never attack her for neglecting her children?

Check it out yourself.

http://soledadobrien.info/

You just took the position that society should not "put the mother of young children in a job outside the home that will demand so much of her time and energy."

If a Republican ever made such a statement, you and your compatriots would crucify him or her.

Posted by: sally miller | September 3, 2008 1:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn's article is outrageous and hits below the belt. She has no right to tell someone how to manage their family or their children... or to presume to know more than they do in this regard.

This is all the more outrageous considering the qualifications of the democratic nominee for president, who is nothing but a socialist and who has been in the pocket of Tony Rezko since law school. And don't think Ayers is going to go away. No chance!

As far as Mr. Biden, he might have experience, but his foreign policy decisions have been more than questionable--and what about his son's and brother's involvement in a crooked hedgefund scam? What's your take on that, Ms. Quinn...?

I'm sure had Sarah been a liberal woman, this editorial would have been very different indeed.

Yours truly,

Deborah McCoy

Posted by: Deborah McCoy | September 3, 2008 1:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Everything either side does is calculated. I think you protest way too much. I think McCain's choice is brilliant. If family is off limits for Obama then it should be off limits to you. This piece is so one-sided it makes me sick! Get over it. Have a great day. :)

Posted by: Sandee Clark | September 3, 2008 1:25 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Is OBAMA ready TO BE PRESIDENT.? DId you ask that question?Why is it GOOD FOR You and all the other women in politics and THE MEDIA to have CHILDREN and A CAREER but a conservative woman can't raise a FAMILY and be a governor and VICE PRESIDENT> YOU shoud be ashamed at being such HYPOCRITE. Women will never break through the glass ceiling because comments such as this reinforce it with concrete.

Posted by: Lisa Kulp | September 3, 2008 1:24 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are nuts Sally Quinn!
Sarah Palin is a great woman.
You should be building her up not cutting her down.
I can't wait to vote for her she brings excitement to McCain and the Republican party.
Maybe a new Ronald Reagan in Palin.

God Bless the USA and women like Palin.

Posted by: Tim | September 3, 2008 1:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, your a boring bonehead, you need to retire.

Posted by: Dave C. | September 3, 2008 1:09 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Shame on you Sally Quinn!

Where were these misplaced demands that individuals prioritize family and avid public service when Nancy Pelosi (a mother & grandmother) took onthe role of speaker of the house. Or is is just that she is a libral politician and thus your outrageous doule standard doesnt apply to her.

Where was thiso outcry about family matters as "distractions" from ones public service when Bill Clinton was having trouble keeping his lies straight concerning al lof his extra-marital affairs, lying under oath, impeachment, etc. were going on. NO! Then the "distractions" didn't keep him from serving effectively.

What a joke!

And another thing... Since when are you the definer of evengelicals and their beliefs and practices.

You are truly a disgrace.

Posted by: Ron C. | September 3, 2008 1:07 PM
Report Offensive Comment

WaPo Created an On Faith site in-house so they never have to deal with the other side - just stuff the thing with socialist and atheists.

Then trot out these clowns like Sally Quinn to pretend to speak for religious people!

What a JOKE. . .

Posted by: On Faith - WaPo Shame! | September 3, 2008 1:06 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn has personally taken the 'women's movement" back 100 years while being so hypocritical it is hilarious!

MESSAGE FOR FAR LEFT (individuals and media types):

KEEP IT UP-YOU ARE TOTALLY LOSING IT!

The wacko left is making sure that McCain/Palin will win bigger than Reagan did!

KEEP IT UP!!!!!
And my sincere thanks!

Posted by: Susan | September 3, 2008 1:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are insulting to women, Sally. I would like to know who appointed you as the all powerful judge of whether or not Sarah Palin can be a good mother to her children while holding the position of vice president. These attacks on Sarah Palin are vicious and completely inappropriate. It is amazing that you in the media who think you are so smart and above the rest of us could be so blind as to the damage you are doing to yourselves and to your messiah Obama.

Posted by: Kellin | September 3, 2008 1:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Hypocrite. It isn't about women's rights or the rights of African Americans, or the rights of working people with you is it? Typically liberal, you espouse these rights only if the people that might benefit from them agree with YOUR ideology.

Posted by: Lark Mulvahill | September 3, 2008 1:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I think McCain choice for the VP is the best decision he has done in this regard. Excellent choice of a woman who has the achievements not many congress people have. A decision maker, strong values, with an outstanding record as a public server in her state and in her duties as a Major. Who are you to say that a woman like her is not qualified? I simple and plain think, your are afraid of her attributes in every aspect. Go to the core of the issue and do not try to distract the public from what is important in the process of having a public server in our country administration. I would suggest you to check on Mr. Obama's judgements and associates who have brought him into the public arena. Or better, Why do not question Biden with his multi millionaire young son, Hunter Biden involved in lobbing his father. Do not play the victim of the Republican's decisions and try to outsmart the judgment of we, the public and voters, with such a disgrace comments of Mrs. Palin. If you call yourself a journalist, do your due diligence in bringing factual reports and concrete issues and do not play with the integrity of a public figure. I will suggest you to listen Rush Limbaugh and you might get some insight in having a better judgment. Behave yourself and be a competent journalist.

Posted by: Lenita | September 3, 2008 12:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow - it's amazing how little Sally Quinn knows about Evangelical strong women. When will "experts" like Sally Quinn stop deciding what others can handle. Sally Quinn is obviously not as strong a women as Sarah Palin and for some reason that is threatening so she needs to tear her down.

Christians are called to love one another and build each other up. It looks like the Palin family is all about that.

Posted by: Donna | September 3, 2008 12:54 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You, madam, are a hateful person and a disgrace to humanity.

Posted by: Bob | September 3, 2008 12:53 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Reading the posts here I can see that you put foot in mouth Ol' Sal. You didn't think this would be the case did you? I am pleased to read that most people do NOT think like you do. You are one old mean-spirited broad.

Christina

Posted by: Christina | September 3, 2008 12:52 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"Is she prepared for the all-consuming nature of the job?"

Are you serious? The real question is one you are unwilling to ask for obvious reasons and that is "Is Obama prepared for the all-consuming nature of the job he is seeking?".

Sarah Palin has more executive experience than Obama and Biden combined and that's a fact. She is a true DC outsider, unlike Biden who is running on the Change ticket and who has been in the senate so long he probably thinks his first name is Senator.

Posted by: Mudd | September 3, 2008 12:52 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"So, she must be destroyed by any means possible."
Politics of personal destruction is back. It's like it or hate it, they squirm and get desperate for they have no courage. Even the kids are not off limits as the political terrorists seek to twist religion into a new faith based on common destruction. They always end up destroying themselves, playing supermen, which saves us the time of day. Go have a slice of apple pie, get into your Chevrolet and enjoy the day. I got pork, beer, spuds and am thinking about a certain Eve and another lonely evening. Life comes at you fast, love comes from you slowly. It only seems fast. Avoid fast women and drive fast cars. Keep your motors running and your blades sharp. The train keeps a rolling all night long, so bite the Big Apple and try to keep the kids from squirming too much. They aren't worms, well the better half anyways aren't. Gone Fishing!

Posted by: Mr. Challenger | September 3, 2008 12:51 PM
Report Offensive Comment

SALLY,

You are blinded from the darkness in which you live.
The self-absorbed loneliness, that is your closed world, has allowed the fermintaion of the bile in your mind and now dribbles from your mouth.

Posted by: EXJUPITER | September 3, 2008 12:50 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Quin, please stop with this stuff, you're playing directly into the hands of McCain. Arguing that Palin isn't in a position to be Vice President because of her children seems regressive, not progressive.

These kind of opinions only alienate older moderate women. Focus on the issues. These attacks on Palin and her family don't help. Amongst my Mother and her friends, a group of successful women with families, are angered by these attacks. They agree with the democrats on many issues, but if this becomes a male-female divide, then you will be sucessful in driving them to McCain.

Actually, as I write this, Rush Limbaugh is playing you up. If I didn't know better, I would think you were running a false flag operation against Obama.

Posted by: Andrew Hvatum | September 3, 2008 12:50 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"So, she must be destroyed by any means possible."
Politics of personal destruction is back. It's like it or hate it, they squirm and get desperate for they have no courage. Even the kids are not off limits as the political terrorists seek to twist religion into a new faith based on common destruction. They always end up destroying themselves, playing supermen, which saves us the time of day. Go have a slice of apple pie, get into your Chevrolet and enjoy the day. I got pork, beer, spuds and am thinking about a certain Eve and another lonely evening. Life comes at you fast, love comes from you slowly. It only seems fast. Avoid fast women and drive fast cars. Keep your motors running and your blades sharp. The train keeps a rolling all night long, so bite the Big Apple and try to keep the kids from squirming too much. They aren't worms, well the better half anyways aren't. Gone Fishing!

Posted by: Mr. Challenger | September 3, 2008 12:50 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
It is sad that you think you are a reporter. You are obviously bias like much of the main stream media. I find it alarming that so many people like your self will destroy your creditability to advance your political views. Why can't the father be the main care giver? Why is it O.K. for Men to do what she is doing without question? You seem to be an angry angry women. You should seek help.

Posted by: A man from IL. | September 3, 2008 12:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn, Maureen Dowd, and others of their ilk are perfect examples of why the "C" word has not faded from our lexicon.

Perhaps, Mizz Quinn, you would have a compelling argument were it not for your own lack of achievements...outside of marrying the boss.

Posted by: Ron Jones | September 3, 2008 12:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
It is sad that you think you are a reporter. You are obviously bias like much of the main stream media. I find it alarming that so many people like your self will destroy your creditability to advance your political views. Why can't the father be the main care giver? Why is it O.K. for Men to do what she is doing without question? You seem to be an angry angry women. You should seek help.

Posted by: A man from IL. | September 3, 2008 12:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

president clinton's choice of al gore
president bush's choice of cheney
al gore's choice of liebermann
washington redskins choice of joe gibbs
obama selection of biden
us olympic team selecting phelps
ny giants calling for a pass play on 3rd and long
new england patriots signing randy moss

It is a choice made to try to win (an election.)
i'm in
are you in?

thank you
tom in mn

Posted by: tom in mn | September 3, 2008 12:47 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You madam are not only arrogant but also a sham of a journalist.To insinuate that governor Palin is not going to be able to devote attention to her family is beyond ludicrous, it is ridiculous. You and all of the rest of the liberal media are scared to death of Governor Palin because she is something you all will never be, HONEST.

Posted by: bryan lamb | September 3, 2008 12:46 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I could hardly believe what I read here.

But, then, I considered the source.

Sally Quinn owes her success to her husband, Ben Bradlee.

Of course, a woman like Ms. Quinn, who is only important because of whom she sleeps with, would be opposed to a self-made woman like Gov. Palin.

Posted by: Disgusted | September 3, 2008 12:45 PM
Report Offensive Comment


Well that explains why Madame Speaker is so dumb - too many kids and grand kids distracting her!

Thanks Sally for explaining that.

She should resign first!

Then we can see if you really believe your own garbage!

Yeah, didn't think so!

Posted by: Ooohhh!!!! | September 3, 2008 12:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment

WOW!! Who needs sexists when you have Sally Quinn?

Posted by: Jeff Mellott | September 3, 2008 12:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn has no idea what it means to be a Christian woman. It is obvious that scripture is something that she has not read. Throughout scripture God has chosen to use women to meet His purpose. God chose Deborah to lead an army, Rahab to help the children or Israel, and Mary the mother of Jesus to carry the most precious gift this world has ever received. So before you start your idiotic rhetoric take time to learn something.

Posted by: J Ferguson | September 3, 2008 12:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You disgust me

Posted by: Anonymous | September 3, 2008 12:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I could hardly believe what I read here.

But, then, I considered the source.

Sally Quinn owes her success to her husband, Ben Bradlee.

Of course, a woman like Ms. Quinn, who is only important because of whom she sleeps with, would be opposed to a self-made woman like Gov. Palin.

Posted by: Disgusted. | September 3, 2008 12:43 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Hey Sally . . . just heard your comments about women staying home and raising their families instead of running for Vice President . . . Way to go . . . you are bringing the feminist movement back into the dark ages . . . how about taking on women's suffrage next?

Posted by: Michael Palmer | September 3, 2008 12:43 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Hey Sally . . . just heard your comments about women staying home and raising their families instead of running for Vice President . . . Way to go . . . you are bringing the feminist movement back into the dark ages . . . how about taking on women's suffrage next?

Posted by: Michael Palmer | September 3, 2008 12:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I could hardly believe what I read here.

But, then, I considered the source.

Sally Quinn owes her success to her husband, Ben Bradlee.

Of course, a woman like Ms. Quinn, who is only important because of whom she sleeps with, would be opposed to a self-made woman like Gov. Palin.

Posted by: Disgusted. | September 3, 2008 12:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn,

You are a jealous, hate filled liberal who has no sense of professionalism and decency. The Washington post and the drive-by media are nothing but sock puppets for the democrat party.

I am offended at your two-faced hypocrisy. You and your cohorts have crossed all lines in your attack of Sarah Palin's family. Sarah is 10 times the woman that you will ever be.

Go ahead and keep on campaigning for Obama under the pretense of "journalism". So much for the politics of personal destruction, you are the master of it.

You are not a feminists, you are a fraud. Do us all a favor and resign!

Posted by: Brian | September 3, 2008 12:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

president clinton's choice of al gore
president bush's choice of cheney
al gore's choice of liebermann
washington redskins choice of joe gibbs
obama selection of biden
us olympic team selecting phelps
ny giants calling for a pass play on 3rd and long
new england patriots signing randy moss

It is a choice made to try to win (an election.)
i'm in
are you in?

thank you
tom in mn

Posted by: tom in mn | September 3, 2008 12:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally:

I want to know what century you are living in. I am a right wing christian conservative and very much a woman. I think Ms. Palin is wonderful and fully support her. I cannot believe that you are saying in this day and time that we as Christians do not believe that women are able to do whatever they desire. God gave us free will and ability to do whatever. Women were very important in the Bible. I believe that you need to go back and actually read the Bible. I don't think you understand the Bible.
Thank you
Lacy

Posted by: Lacy | September 3, 2008 12:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn,

You are an idiot. And you cannot be a woman. I don't know what sex you are, but if you cannot understand the Palin equation, something is wrong with you. What about Nancy Pilosi? Did you write about her when she first got into politics with five kids? Hmm?

Posted by: Mrs. Hilliard | September 3, 2008 12:40 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You can be a "hands-on-mother" and still have a kid go bad. My parents had 4 kids, 3 turned out to be good people and 1 turned to the dark side for whatever reason. Beside there's only 3 things to do in Alaska: hunt, drink, and screw so the fact that this girl gets preggers at 17 doesn't concern me. Sure beats having a kid at 14!

Posted by: Gutbucket | September 3, 2008 12:40 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn is incorrectly stereotyping evangelical Christians. I am an evangelical Christian and I have been working my entire married life. I had to but it's not by choice. Do I regret not staying home to raise my kids, sure! I would much rather spend time with my family than in an office. Am I "subservient" to my husband? No, he is my spiritual head. We discuss things together but, in the end, he has the final say. I am college educated, madam, not barefoot and pregnant.

Posted by: Deborah | September 3, 2008 12:40 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally:

I want to know what century you are living in. I am a right wing christian conservative and very much a woman. I think Ms. Palin is wonderful and fully support her. I cannot believe that you are saying in this day and time that we as Christians do not believe that women are able to do whatever they desire. God gave us free will and ability to do whatever. Women were very important in the Bible. I believe that you need to go back and actually read the Bible. I don't think you understand the Bible.
Thank you
Lacy

Posted by: Lacy | September 3, 2008 12:39 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Quinn you are a damn idiot. You two faced sorry excuse for a woman.

Posted by: icon | September 3, 2008 12:39 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If Governor Palin was a liberal, would such sexism be used to discredit her?

Posted by: Sexism | September 3, 2008 12:39 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms Quinn has once again showed her true liberal bias. I am a 64-year-old Evangelical woman, mother and grandmother whose 16-year-old daughter had a child out of wedlock. Contrary to your opinion, all my church friends were not only supportive of my daughter and the child, but to we her parents. There was no one throwing darts (unlike the liberal media, I might add), and we found out what it means for people to act Christ-like. Oh, and by the way, our daughter went on to graduate from college with honors, works for a Fortune 500 company and has supported she and her son very well. I have worked since before my children were born, and I handle both working and motherhood very well as do thousands of other Evangelical women and mothers. The media is showing what we all knew from the beginning of Obama's campaign; the media will do absolutely anything to get him elected and will destroy by outright lies or innuendo anyone who stands in the way. Shame on the media - shame on you Sally Quinn. Oh, where was the comparable story on what Obama was doing 22 years ago (doing drugs and bragging about it) versus Todd Palin's DUI? The media is so disgustingly one-sided and America is noticing!!

Posted by: Janet Hutson | September 3, 2008 12:38 PM
Report Offensive Comment

How hypocritical can you be? McCain made an amazing choice in Sarah Palin, who can run circles around Biden in her ability to speak and communicate. Sally Quinn is a person who pretends to have principles, that in fact she does not actually possess. What a double standard.

Posted by: Laura | September 3, 2008 12:38 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Quinn you are a damn idiot. You two faced sorry excuse for a woman.

Posted by: icon | September 3, 2008 12:38 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If Governor Palin was a liberal, would such sexism be used to discredit her?

Posted by: Sexism | September 3, 2008 12:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Would you like me to get inside a glass cube? Is the glass ceiling not enough, do you need us completely encased. Is this because you could not do it? My husband is the homemaker in our family and role-reversal is a fact of today's families. Get into the 21st century.

Posted by: wanda | September 3, 2008 12:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally; I demand you have your kids get a blood test and find out who their father really is!

Posted by: gatsby | September 3, 2008 12:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Maybe you are right, and the liberals picked Obama just because he is black! How can a publication like yours print trash such as this spat out by someone like Quinn. It removes any credibility you might have had left. Danny

Posted by: Danny | September 3, 2008 12:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms Quinn has once again showed her true liberal bias. I am a 64-year-old Evangelical woman, mother and grandmother whose 16-year-old daughter had a child out of wedlock. Contrary to your opinion, all my church friends were not only supportive of my daughter and the child, but to we her parents. There was no one throwing darts (unlike the liberal media, I might add), and we found out what it means for people to act Christ-like. Oh, and by the way, our daughter went on to graduate from college with honors, works for a Fortune 500 company and has supported she and her son very well. I have worked since before my children were born, and I handle both working and motherhood very well as do thousands of other Evangelical women and mothers. The media is showing what we all knew from the beginning of Obama's campaign; the media will do absolutely anything to get him elected and will destroy by outright lies or innuendo anyone who stands in the way. Shame on the media - shame on you Sally Quinn. Oh, where was the comparable story on what Obama was doing 22 years ago (doing drugs and bragging about it) versus Todd Palin's DUI? The media is so disgustingly one-sided and America is noticing!!

Posted by: Janet Hutson | September 3, 2008 12:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If Governor Palin was a liberal, would such sexism be used to discredit her?

Posted by: Sexism | September 3, 2008 12:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Hey Sally,

My question is Senator Obama (roughly 175 days in to his Freshman Term) ready to lead the country. What has he done. Oh yeah, he has written two books about himself. He's 47 and he has already written two books about himself? No self promotion there!

He has no executive level experience. He has no real legislative accomplishments other than a couple of token co-authored bills. When he does vote he votes far left all of the time. He has voted present over 90 times.

Then he chooses Biden. Sounds like old Washington elites at work again. So much for change.

Posted by: J Frey | September 3, 2008 12:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You may be a woman, but you obviously don't know a thing about conservative women, otherwise you wouldn't stereotype them as all having the same opinions about their roles and priorities among family, career and faith. Hello? A man can't be the primary caretaker? I'm in healthcare mgmt and have known several female physicians who have stay-at-home dads who can handle the role as caretaker (even - gasp! -- when they're sick or have special needs). What worked -- or didn't work -- for you, may not be the case for others. I'm a conservative,Catholic who's a 3rd generation working mom and somehow we've all made it work and had well-adjusted, happy children and happy marriages. Sorry if we don't fit the equation, but I thought equality for women was all about doing your own thing and not being judged for it.

Posted by: CindyM | September 3, 2008 12:35 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Investigations on Sally Quinn begins today.

Posted by: T Lewis | September 3, 2008 12:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Funny - since when is a leftist feminist like Quinn concerned about family?

And as far as experience - what executive and foreign policy experience does Obama have and did Bill Clinton have when he was governor of Arkansas? I guess you get a pass if you are a left wing socialist.

Hey Quinn - your lefty slip is showing and its not very pretty.

Posted by: Jim | September 3, 2008 12:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are a disgusting human being!

Posted by: Dawn | September 3, 2008 12:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Is Ms. Quinn prepared to make the exact same analysis and argument were Governor Palin a liberal-leaning Democrat. I think not, and I find Ms. Quinn's commentary highly disingenuous and calculated.

Posted by: r. w. nakea | September 3, 2008 12:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Shut up Sally Quinn. It is none of your damn business how many children Sarah Palin has. If she was a liberal you would love her.
Ruth Lindemann

Posted by: Ruth Lindemann | September 3, 2008 12:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn is a hypocrite of the first order.

Nothing else needs to be said.

Posted by: Paul Greene | September 3, 2008 12:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Paragraph 11. The word is spelled "presidency", as in "vice presidency"

Posted by: Timothy DeWitt | September 3, 2008 12:29 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn is a nut job

Posted by: Scott Kress | September 3, 2008 12:28 PM
Report Offensive Comment

how exactly was sally quinn hired at washington post with NO experience?
was she sexually active with the managment staff?
is ben bradlee the actual father of her kid?
or is it bob bernstein?

Posted by: danielle estonovich | September 3, 2008 12:28 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I cannot believe what I am reading. In this day and age when women have achieved many of the same goals in the business and political arenas as men, I cannot believe the backward-thinking expressed in this article. It is almost beyond belief that a liberal, left-leaning person like yourself would restrain a WOMAN from achieving such a prominent goal. I guess in today's society, even other women are jealous of a powerful woman's rise to power, and would relegate her to baking cookies and nursing kids. "Barefoot and pregnant" - thought that phrase went out with the 70's. Thought you girls were the ones who said women could have it all.
You go, Sarah!!

Posted by: Rick | September 3, 2008 12:24 PM
Report Offensive Comment

This woman is definitely insecure and if she is representative of the women's movement in this Country then you all are in trouble. She actually wants to keep women in there place. Sarah has already shown she can handle major responsibility of family and government and still do an outstanding job. She doesn't kill those who can't defend themselves or throw her daughter out because of a baby. She doesn't look at a baby as being a punishment of God. She is a strong women and will be great for this morally and deceitful Country that is going the wrong way and needs to be turned around. John and Sarah can and will do it. God Bless them both and America. Tom and Joni Krapf, Orlando

Posted by: Thomas & Joni Krapf | September 3, 2008 11:58 AM
Report Offensive Comment

This is disengenuous and patronizing, and quite frankly nothing more than a mean political attack against a successful, conservative woman who looks to already be adapt at balancing a career and family.

The pathetic arguments Ms Quinn put forth are too numerous to address all at once. Some are more absurd than others, including this one:

To say having a daughter and grandchild is a great distraction, is ridiculous. I guess the world stops for all of us who have daughters and grandchildren... I can't imagine how those people who have more than one daughter and scores of grandchildren ever get anything done, much less are even able to survive?

Regarding the comment that this is a "cynical and calculated move". I guess the choice of Barak Obama is neither? And once again, you are playing the "death watch" fear campaign against Senator McCain - give it up Sally, that's pathetic.

The arguments Ms Quinn put forth are painfully trite and, I'm afraid, not unexpected from someone on the left. Shame on the Washington Post for even considering such a hateful editorial.

Posted by: Stuart Sorensen | September 3, 2008 11:55 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Are you sure your a woman? This piece of literary drivel is disgusting even by Washington Post yellow standards.

I mean, you sound a bit like a charter misogynist in your tirade here. I'll just bet your editorial pit-bosses are mightily ticked off that the GOP has seen fit to trust their future to a capable, talented and no nonsense woman who is neither named Hillary Clinton nor is a Democrat and it galls them (and you) to no end.

You should wake up and smell what you're pedaling here. If nothing else, you are actually doing Obama a disservice by stooping to these sorts of smear tactics. I was strongly contemplating Obama's stated vision for the future and giving him a good solid look see, but honestly if that means that people like you get your candidate put into office it is not worth it even if he were the second coming of George Washington himself.

Posted by: Stephen Rybacki | September 3, 2008 11:52 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Obama should say at home and take care of his young girls. Sally, either you don't have children or you are a terrible mother for neglecting them while you work. That is what you are saying in your article. I personally think you are scum and a liar, but that is just my opinion.

Posted by: WOMEN | September 3, 2008 11:36 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow Sally Quinn! Sarah Palin's ascension to the national spot light (and possible VP position) has really struck a nerve with you. Are the veins in your forehead as big as your ego right now? She is more woman than you . . . admit it . . . and then get on with your life. I'd be careful with your comments . . . they might backfire on you (like before).

Posted by: D | September 3, 2008 11:32 AM
Report Offensive Comment

You sound very bitter, and possibly suffer from self-loathing. Get better.

Posted by: Ken | September 3, 2008 11:29 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms.Quinn: Voters have always voted for someone who represents their views or lifestyle. The VP candidate is a woman which represents half of the population.Ms. Palin is a successful Governor with a great family, and according to you, she is not ready. She will be surrounded by experts from all phases of life to guide her through the Washington way. She will be surrounded by foreign policy experts who will guide her through that process as well. She is intelligent, and she will figure it out and make her own decisions, just like anyone else. We have had enough of the four term Congressman or Senators who have the so called "experience". I like the thought of having a smart and successful mother as the VP. By the way...have you ever heard of spellcheck?

Posted by: Mark OBrien | September 3, 2008 11:22 AM
Report Offensive Comment

The vice president has virtually nothing to do. Maybe one weeks worth of work to do a year - that is it.

Obama has two young girls, and next to no experience. Is HE ready for a job which actually is all consuming?

Posted by: Richard Lyon | September 3, 2008 11:20 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, you're truly an idiot. God help you.

Posted by: john | September 3, 2008 11:17 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Are you serious? Is this the "progressive" future we have to look forward to from pundits like you - "She is the mother of five children", "a four-month-old with Down Syndrome", "Not to mention the grandchild" - are now suddenly valid disqualifers for an American running for vice president? Or is it just because she's a woman? And I just love your statement, "Her first priority has to be her children". That statement reminds me of the men who showed up at one of Hillary's public appearances with "Iron My Shirt" garb. Could you possibly be more sexist?

M'am, you seriously need to take a look at yourself and analyze your values.
http://brianw.blogtownhall.com/

Posted by: BrianW | September 3, 2008 11:12 AM
Report Offensive Comment

So Sally Quinn did you get your position because you were a women or huh....you your experience. I guess that is still to be decided.

Posted by: Jefftrey Republican | September 3, 2008 11:06 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I expect no less from Liberal Sally. Let's all remember how she became Mrs. Bradley and mama was out sleeping around with Barry Goldwater

Posted by: Dixie | September 3, 2008 11:04 AM
Report Offensive Comment

How can you tell that Sally Quinn and the rest of the out-of-touch editors at the Washington Post and the New York Times are afraid of a candidate?

When they foam at the mouth with indignation, whine at how offended they are, and make arguments against the candidate that they would never apply to their favorite, anointed candidate for President.

Its really going to be funny to watch Sally and her other elitist friends come up with more of their double-standard arguments after Palin gives her speech tonight, and Americans find out she is an intelligent, reasonable and articulate woman, every bit as ready to lead as either of the two good old Senate colleagues on the Democratic ticket.

Posted by: laughing in va | September 3, 2008 11:04 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Governors historicallly make better Presidents than Senators
And we have drifted so far from our founding roots, that it is refreshing to see someone in the white house that has high level of Judeo-Christian principles
After all, our Bill of Rights, Our Constitution, and our laws are based on those principles. As a society that has been the most prosperous ever in the world because of those principals, we need to change our ways and return to God. Has anyone noticed that almost only in the US can a person of any other religion freely worsip (and maybe destroy our country), but Christians are nor free to exercise their religion in most other countries. The UN is dominated with muslims and is also on the attack agaiinst Christianity.

Posted by: Tom | September 3, 2008 11:01 AM
Report Offensive Comment

If only Gov. Palin was a liberal like you then it would be all good!! Almost all my girlfriends work outside the home and they are all Christians, you obviously do not understand Christianity. Don't you worry your little head about Gov. Palin's family they will get along just fine. You might want to start worring about the plagiarist VP on the other ticket with his lobbiest grown sons. Just food for thought.
Sally you are no Sarah!

Posted by: Laurie | September 3, 2008 10:59 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I find this piece to be a deliberate attack on a woman who has done nothing but live her life according to her values. You should be ashamed of yourself for stooping to the level of the kook left wing of the Democratic Party. A smear like this can not go with out consequence to you and your so called news organization a pox on both of your houses and I hope you reap what you sow.

Posted by: phil from colorado | September 3, 2008 10:36 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I am truly disgusted by this article. The hypocrisy is just too much to handle.

Posted by: Stephen | September 3, 2008 10:35 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I am absolutely sick over the way women are attacking Sarah Palin. Senator Biden is held up as a working class hero for working in the Senate with a long commute as a single dad. Did anyone question his parenting skills? This is a blatant sexist smear -- and from an educated & accomplished woman?!! You are no feminist and your smear attacks are going to send us right back to the kitchen. SHAME ON YOU!!!

Posted by: Stephanie A. | September 3, 2008 10:28 AM
Report Offensive Comment

In a country where more than 90% of its citizens believe in God why would we believe anything written by a secularist. Especially a column by a media elitist who lives inside of the beltway. Don't you realize that America is a conservative nation. This election is a classic McGovern race of 1972. The shooting star finally burns out and the daylight comes. With that daylight this country will come to its senses and never vote for a "black liberation theologist" from the south side of Chicago. Palin knows what corruption is, and Chicago corruption will be in her headlights.

Posted by: Peter Kondos | September 3, 2008 10:20 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I cannot believe a woman wrote such a sexist article. Two of Governor Palin's children are grown and she has a husband that can help with the younger children. My mother almost always worked and my father, who was quite nurturing in his own right, was very helpful. Single parents have to make do and play both roles all the time. It is not fair for anyone to judge that the Palins, as a married couple, are incapable of maintaining a healthy family environment despite one of them (in this case, the woman) holding a demanding job.

Posted by: Edwina | September 3, 2008 10:14 AM
Report Offensive Comment

What an ego! Being considered as co-anchor for a network news show is nowhere near the same thing as being vice-president. Ms. Quinn wasn't ready 35 years ago so Mrs. Palin isn't ready today? Unless Ms. Quinn has access to the inner workings of the John McCain campaign, or McCain himself, she cannot state as a fact that Mrs. Palin was picked solely because she was a woman. Apparently, Ms. Quinn is unaware that there's a difference between her opinion and fact. What condescension! I thought it was a feminist given that woman could have a family and a job. I guess that only goes for liberal women. Conservative women are supposed to stay home and take care of their babies because, apparently, that's all the Left thinks they're good for.

Democrats should take a minute out from their hatred for all things Right and see a few years down the line, years during which Conservatives are having babies and liberals are aborting theirs. Who's going to be in the majority?

Posted by: Roxanna M | September 3, 2008 10:10 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms Quinn comments:

"And now we learn the 17-year-old daughter, Bristol, is pregnant. She and the father of the child plan to marry. This may be a hard one for the Republican conservative family-values crowd to swallow. Of course, this can happen in any family. But it must certainly raise the question among the evangelical base about whether Sarah Palin has been enough of a hands-on mother."

Ms Quinn apparently doesn't know that Senator Obama's mother was 17, unmarried, and pregnant, as well. She was in the exact same situation Bristol Palin finds herself in today. So why does she not apply the same questions, concerns and values to his mother? Was Senator Obama's mother enough of a "hands on mother" when she left him in Hawaii in the care of his grandparents so she could resume her 17 year career in study for a PHD?

Ms Quinn either is ignorant of this fact, or plainly uses a double standard in this issue of a motherly relationship with her children. This is another excellent example of blatant hypocrisy in the dinosaur print media. Good going there Ms Quinn.

Ms Quinn asks:

"Is she prepared for the all-consuming nature of the job?"

Governor Palin is obviously better prepared to do her job, than Ms Quinn is to do her job, because Governor Palin has the obvious talent to do everything the feminist agenda has touted for the last 40 years, and either Ms Quinn fails to recognize it, or refuses to acknowledge it.

In either instance, Ms Quinn has failed in her professional repsonsibilty to do her job, so perhaps she needs to go back to Journalism school and learn how to merely report a story, so as to be unbiased, fair,and balanced, in the delivery of news copy, and keep her personal biased point of view private from the reader.

Perhaps Ms Quinn needs to take a lesson from a real feminist such as Governor Palin who is an all achieving woman, rather than apply a double standard to a woman who has "walked the walk" rather than merely "talked the talk", as Ms Quinn so clearly demonstrates in this matter. It is obvious Ms Quinn is merely "mouthing" the feminist agenda and Governor Palin is "living" the feminist agenda. Now I ask, who is more credible?

Posted by: Brien Kroeger | September 3, 2008 10:03 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I am an adamant Obama supporter and a Democrat, but I am seething about this post, and about Ms. Quinn's appearance on the Today Show this morning. However Sarah Palin manages her family is her own business. We would NEVER be having this discussion about a male candidate. As a working mother of a baby, I appreciate how much time and energy it takes to raise a child. I also understand that there's a fundamental difference between a mother's relationship with her child and a father's. But guess what---I am also the primary breadwinner in my family, and my husband is the primary caregiver. And it's working just fine. Instead of wasting all of this time making foolish and presumptuous judgments that distract from the real issues, why not focus on what matters? There are plenty of reasons that I am not voting for McCain/Palin, but her family issues have nothing do to with me or my vote.

Posted by: Marie | September 3, 2008 10:02 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Re Quinn's piece about Gov Palin:

This yellow bit of writing is just one more example of why the "mainstream press" is no longer the "mainstream press" but rather an "out in the open" arm of the democrat party.

Freedom of the Press carries an obligation to have integrity and honesty. The Quinn's of the media world have destroyed virtually all that the news media SHOULD stand for.

Posted by: J. Dean | September 3, 2008 10:02 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I am already against Palin not because of her pro-life (for humans only) stance, but because she is a hippocrite. Pro- life kill animals? Reproduce like rabits No planet left for them to multiply on? Pro-violence unnessesary Iraq war? I mean come on do republicans think we are all that stupid? The republican party is so outdated they are all angry old white men with their brainwashed wives. Guess what? I am not a dem. or independent. I am a disgusted American citizen that wants the country to get off religion and morals bandwagon and run the economy save the planet before its to late, and have respect for ALL living beings Animals and trees included!!!

Posted by: Mary | September 3, 2008 9:55 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Frankly, this piece just recycles all the democratic attack points we've already heard about Palin. All you people can do is complain that McCain picked a woman. If he had picked a white male, people would be complaining about the lack of diversity on his ticket. But since he picks a woman(or if he had picked a minority man), all you do is complain about how cynical and political it is. How dare he pick a running mate who he thinks will help him the election. No presidential candidate has ever done that before? Obama certainly didn't pick Biden because he thought it would help him lose the election. If Obama had picked Hillary, would you be complaining that was just a cynical ploy to win woman voters? And what is all this stuff about a woman not be able to handle the job of vice president? Doesn't that go against everything feminists have been fighting for the past 50 or more years? Why do I have a feeling we wouldn't be hearing all these complaints(from liberals anyway) if Palin was a liberal in her same situation and she was Obama's running mate? And how dare she have a child with Down syndrome or an unwed daughter who is pregnant and actually having the child. We all know a "sensible" person would have just "taken care of the two problems" by aborting them before they were born. How dare woman actually use their choice to chose life. Excuse the rant, but this article deserved nothing more coherent in response than that.

Posted by: P | September 3, 2008 9:46 AM
Report Offensive Comment

as a journalist you're an embarrassment. the attacks on palins family doesn't represent responsible journalism. i've been a democrat for forty years and thought issues are what counts. but you and the web bloggers demonstrate that we don't need to talk about the issues of the day, when we can destroy a candidate and her family by speading outrageous distortions.

Posted by: noke | September 3, 2008 9:12 AM
Report Offensive Comment

She is also being sold as having more experience than Obama & Biden.
Being Governor of a state with less than 700,000 people and a commensurate budget, doesn't make the cut list as experience as does being next door to Russia make it for foreign policy experience.!

Posted by: D. L. Fertel | September 3, 2008 9:10 AM
Report Offensive Comment

"This is no time to play gender politics" . Sally Quinn should see the irony in her statement. Who is playing gender politics? Nancy Pelosi didn't get involved in politics until her children were older. Should we tell our daughters not to get involved in the workplace until their children are older?

Sally Quinn's comments "her first priority has to be her children" are the same as those southern leaders quoted as saying "a wife...has the god-given responsibility... in managing the household and nurturing the next generation."

And the final insult to working women..." a mother's role is different from a father's". Can my boss use that line on me next time I ask for a raise? Women are still working to get pay on parity with men.

My reaction to this article is "shock. Then anger." I am an independent woman and voter. This dialogue is an outrage and an insult to all working mothers.

Posted by: Ann | September 3, 2008 8:54 AM
Report Offensive Comment

My family,Baptists who can never vote for a female in a position of power as you state,consider me a heathen as well,,have said this week that ms Palins daughter violated the oath to god and her father of abstinance that she took, an abomination. The family has a weakness of morals,character. To me the fact that the 17 year old bridegroom,the self proclaimed "Redneck who doesnt want to be married or have a child" perhaps needs a bit of seasoning like graduating from high school.

Posted by: mcnertny | September 3, 2008 8:40 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Why would you sit there and judge Governor Palin's daughter? I mean every family has "issues". It doesn't take away the fact that she is a Christian(a strong one). As every person is, even Christian's, are fallen beings. So why judge her daughter? Especially when we have past presidents cheating on their wives(while in office) or other politicians cheating on their wife who has cancer. Why are you going to single out Palin and her daughter? In my eyes the fact that she doesn't have a "perfect" life makes me feel that she will be able to lead this country in a better way:)I will be praying for a McCain/Palin victory.

Posted by: Appalled | September 3, 2008 8:33 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,

What's wrong upset you were passed over for a promotion and you had to take it out on someone a little more successful. After reading your article, I am sure Obama will hire you for attack ads. Things are looking up for you.

Posted by: sltiowa | September 3, 2008 8:29 AM
Report Offensive Comment

One might expect that a piece appearing in an "On Faith" section might reflect a more thoughtful appreciation of the faith of the people the author is commenting on. Instead, we have someone who clearly assumes she does not need to engage those views because she already understands what those stupid rednecks believe.

Posted by: Fr. John Whiteford | September 3, 2008 8:27 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Badly written and thought out article. Especially demeaning to working mothers. Just because Sally quit work (and had a rich enough husband to enable her to do so) doesn't mean Sarah should. Sarah Palin married her high school sweetheart and it looks like Bristol Palin will do the same...only a little earlier. Why is this an example of bad parenting?

It might be an example of bad parenting IF YOU'RE A LIBERAL, because a good lib. parent will get his daughter an abortion *tout suite* like BO has obligingly told us: A baby is "punishment for a mistake". Whereas for Sarah Palin a baby is a "gift from God." A SoCon likeSarah Palin likes babies a liberal like Obama doesn't.

Different choices and hard to see why the Dems are so upset. After all, they're the pro-choice party!

Posted by: Johanna Swift | September 3, 2008 8:17 AM
Report Offensive Comment

>> tlrasnic, sw virginia: "Sally has hit the nail on the head and she sure is not some latte liberal."

It was impossible to read the rest of your post since your opening sentence was so laugh out loud funny that I literally had tears coming out of my eyes, thus blocking my vision.

But I'm sure you babbled on about something equally as ridiculous as Sally's hack-like editorial...

Posted by: Tlrasnic makes me laugh | September 3, 2008 8:14 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I worry about a loose cannon maverick like Sarah Palin having even an indirect access to nuclear weapons.

Beside her connection to the radical Alaska Independence Party (which urges members to "infiltrate" US government), is she connected to any white supremacist groups in Idaho (where she was born and earned a journalism degree)?

People say, "Vice President, well it's not that important." Really? What if the people pushing this candidate Vice President had other plans for her? Look at how the people around Dick Cheney all but controlled the Bush presidency!

By election day, American voters won't know Sarah Palin well enough even to be sure she is mentally stable enough to be trusted within hostage taking distance of our President. She's physically tough enough to be a threat, she uses guns, knives, etc.

Is she really this bad a risk or not? Its just that we don't know! Nobody can be vetted for high office that easily. Look what it takes just to clear a Federal Judge or the head of CIA. Thousands of trusted people are directly involved. Sarah Palin -- unless some other factor is secretly involved -- was cleared in a few months by Sen. McCain's campaign staff.

America doesn't know Sarah Palin at all, no matter how highly McCain values himself as a judge of women or how good the "product placement" and public relations work.

Senator Obama is known in some of the best ways our country provides to earn trust in these matters. He was educated at Harvard Law, was a teacher of constitutional law at University of Chicago for 12 years, and has survived the intense trials of this current campaign.

What was Sarah Palin doing in Alaska in those same years? Her biography, as spun, looks great. But there are warning signs and questions that should have made John McCain pause and say, "No thanks".

What will we learn about Sarah Palin the day after election day and beyond? The Sarah Palin problem looks like a movie where each new surprise is simply more thrilling to watch, but affecting our lives. The Sarah Palin problem arose from an attempt at leadership by rolling dice. Can we know the truth about Sarah in time? We have this 60 day race to the Presidency and the destiny of our country will be set.

I want to close with this: I love our country, the United States of America. My concern comes from a good place in the heart. I hope that voicing my concerns here helps others deciding how to vote.

Posted by: Citizen of Chicago | September 3, 2008 8:06 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Thank you for articulating my reaction to this choice. I firmly believe that a woman's responsibility to her children - especially at the ages and with the needs these children have - belong with the children. No matter how efficient, how much assistance she has from husband and others, children must come first - even before her job.

Posted by: sjbravo | September 3, 2008 8:04 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Is she ready to be president? NO! Which unequivocally underscores how Senator Obama is even LESS ready. In the heat of debate Obama draws a straw-man about his campaign size versus Palin's responsibilities as mayor. What a joke - he doesn't even run his campaign - his campaign manager does! Not to mention the true comparison should be regarding her responsibilities as GOVERNOR of Alaska, which carries a budget responsibility 76 times that of Obama's campaign ($11B vs $144M). She has a wealth of experience in energy and has actually managed, led a free-market life, and fought big government. What has Obama done? He is a community organizer - oh great. The sad fact is, while people like Sally Quinn proclaim Governor Palin unfit for the POSSIBILITY of becoming President, they vote for Obama - making an unfit President a CERTAINTY (if elected.)

Posted by: Jon | September 3, 2008 8:01 AM
Report Offensive Comment

The fact that Sally Quinn was unable to take advantage of a great opportunity has absolutely no bearing on the Sarah Palin situation. To imply otherwise is unequivocal sexism.

Posted by: LarryW | September 3, 2008 8:00 AM
Report Offensive Comment

If Palin were ideologically "correct" for the Left they would be cheering her on.

Her maverick status taking on her own party establishment, her rise from nowhere to become Governor, and doing it all while raising a family.

The classic feminist success tory.

But... she's the wrong kind of woman, as Clarence Thomas was the wrong kind of black man.

So, she must be destroyed by any means possible.

The paranoid ferocity of the Left's attacks only underscore how scared they are of her.

It will only generate more sympathy from real people in that obscure place between NYC and LA called America.

Posted by: jc | September 3, 2008 7:50 AM
Report Offensive Comment

You question Palin's experience? What about the "wind bag" Obama? He has accomplished NOTHING since he has been in public office; all he's done is talk!

Posted by: Donald Ney | September 3, 2008 7:45 AM
Report Offensive Comment

3,157 comments and counting!!!!!

Our little Sarah is certainly becoming popular!

I want to know the answer to two questions:

1. What is Sarah cramming, in order to bone up for her debate with Biden.

2. How is Levi going to support Bristol and the baby? You don't suppose some good Christian will offer him a good-paying job?

Posted by: Jamie | September 3, 2008 7:30 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sounds like you should right about Sports.
Even Obama says stay's out of family.
Whats in your closet????????

Posted by: Southern MD Joe | September 3, 2008 7:21 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I watched the video of Palin when she talking to those students in June. It over at HuffPo.

My flesh crawled and my stomach turned not when she charged God with executing the battle plan in Iraq, but when her and her minister were talking about prophecies and end-times and telling people to get ready for Alaska's special role as the gathering place for end-times.

She shouldn't even be governor.

Posted by: K Ackermann | September 3, 2008 7:20 AM
Report Offensive Comment

What kind of mother would knowingly put her teenager through this kind of media slime frenzy to further her own ambitions?

Posted by: Lynn McLure | September 3, 2008 7:16 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally has hit the nail on the head, & she sure is not some latte liberal.This nation is at its most critical crossroads I have seen in over 60 yrs.We are at war with fundamentalist who believe we are waging another crusade against Islam; our economy, based too long on middle east oil,is in the crapper;millions of our people have no health care, & cannot get any, which is putting an enormous strain on rhe system.So, John McCain picks a pentacostal woman who believes in the rapture( so does the nut in Iran);that the war IS a holy war for christianity;that home schooling is the way to go; that abstinence works!!!; & that she can be the POTUS while submitting to her husband,rocking & changing a downs baby, caring for two other children & supporting a pregnant 17 yr. old.She, John McC & the entire republican convention are in a dream world. They should call Speilberg & get this on film. If the American people vote for this ticket they surely deserve the next halocaust.

Posted by: tlrasnic, sw virginia | September 3, 2008 6:48 AM
Report Offensive Comment

And if anybody thinks that commanding the Alaska National Guard is trivial, remember that the Alaskan Air National Guard plays tag with Russian Nuclear Bombers on a regular basis.

[h/t Paul]

Posted by: Britcom | September 3, 2008 6:34 AM
Report Offensive Comment

It seems to me that the media pays to much attention on meaningless issues instead of matters that really affect the U.S.

Posted by: David | September 3, 2008 6:28 AM
Report Offensive Comment

1)
What experience and financial expertise does Palin bring to help McCain correct our 9 TRILLION DOLLAR debt?

If the answer is, taxing big oil in Alaska- will she and McCain do that to bring down our deficit?

No- neither have said that. Nor iwll either go against big oil, but continue to prop it up- that dying qucikly diminsihing resource.

2) What is her resolution to the Middle East war and peace?

She is on record as saying she "has no interest in the war in Iraq"

Serious questions- unaddressed or avoided with feel good pump em up cheerleading speeches.

Posted by: VICTORIA | September 3, 2008 6:06 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I guess everyone is still waiting for the RNC speech by Palin tomorrow to receive their talking points.

People have strong feelings- but don't seem to know why.

I foresee tomorrow, we'll get bucketloads of parroted history-

NOne of us heard of Palin before Friday- unlss we lived in Alaska.

Yet people are vetting her record vehemently- and they can't even say what it is.

Doesn't anybody, at all- research and investigate and vote for issues?

Posted by: VICTORIA | September 3, 2008 5:53 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Picking Palin for VP is no worse than picking Barack for President. Barack has been selected simply because he is black. Do you really think they picked him because he is the best man for the job? No. They picked him because he is black. They picked him because if he is elected, it will create an upheaval in American social order. The liberals want to unravel the social fabric of America. They would like to completely destroy all things American: traditional family values, morals, respect for life, patriotism, etc.

Posted by: Eve Blanco | September 3, 2008 5:35 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn

Every time you, Maureen Dowd, and Donna Brazille dump on Sarah Palin, try to diminish her accomplishments & record, and use her 17 year old daughter's pregnancy as an excuse for your snarky and pseudo-sophisticated comments you push thousands of PUMA'S, independents, and undecided Democrats to vote for the McCain/Palin ticket.

Congratulations for helping to push so many unlikely voters into the Republican tent, even if it's only for this election cycle. Keep it up; Obama is destined to be the next in a long line of the Dem's failed candidates like Dukakis and McGovern.

Posted by: sportsone234 | September 3, 2008 5:32 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Quinn notes that Palin's job as vice president would keep her from spending time with her minor children. I understand that this may go against the evangelical Christian values that she espouses. But Quinn herself seems to be arguing that Palin should stay home with her children, and I find this stance bizarre in the absence of evidence that Palin's husband can't fill that role. It's doubly bizarre if Quinn herself was a full-time newswoman while raising a handicapped child (although I also understand that being a reporter may be less demanding than being VPotUS and that Palin has not one but five children).

Quinn is much more valid in her concern that Palin might not have been enough of a hands-on mother. No parents can absolutely prevent their teenage daughter from getting pregnant, but it's still not the example the Veep's family should be setting for the nation, if you believe that Americans should look to elected officials as personal role models. I personally do not, because I know how to find my own role models in my own life, so I'm not disturbed if the veep's daughter gets knocked up or if the president fools around with an intern. I just want to make sure Republicans are aware of the double standard of going after Clinton over Lewinski affair and then knowingly nominating someone who may have fallen down on the job of parenting.

All of that said, nobody really knows how Palin's grandchild is going to turn out. You can bet that the Republican Party (and the federal government, too, if McPalin wins the election) will supply the Palins with the best day care and parental support network in history, to keep the family from becoming a national embarrassment. But that won't answer the question of whether the party allows other young, single women the tools they need to avoid situations where children grow up in poverty and neglect.

Posted by: EscoMan | September 3, 2008 5:26 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, first let me say that I am an Obama supporter. In reading your article I must say I totally disagree to the questioning of the parenting of Gov. Palin. She's a human being as is her daughter which makes prone to make mistakes and for that I thank God for His Grace.

I'm so sick and tired about experience and about who has enough vs who doesn't. Nobody really knows until whoever gets elected gets in office, and if experience was really the end all be all, then Jimmy Carter should be running against George Bush Sr. The only candidates with experience who could actually run again.

I think people read into so much stuff that has nothing to do with leadership or the ability to be President of this country. Can a Black man be elected in America? Can a woman? Well its now a 50-50 shot isn't it? Well, sort of. And when its all said and done, before I pass on both may have had the opportunity to be President. Since the bar is set so low due to our current President, both may get their busts on Mt. Rushmore. God is good...All the time!

Posted by: Clark202 | September 3, 2008 5:10 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear Sally:

I'm neither a Democrat nor a Republican, but a very concerned American.

It's pretty sad to see how a political party can use a woman as a puppet in order to win an election. That's how I perceive this pathetic charade. I think the McCain campaign isn't afraid of Palin's inexperience, they can very well manage her as VP chenney has managed our current president.

What I can hear from either party is just rethoric and more rethoric. Both parties talk about their points of view in many aspects of our lifes, but I think everything stops rights there, just words and alot whole of innaction.

Republicans talk about being Pro-Life but approve the death penalty and supported wars that has killed thousands of children and adults in other coutries (I wonder is those people don't count as human beings to be included in their Pro-Life point of view)

We are tired of just hearing words and we need a goverment that saves lives not one that due to beurocracy and incompetence, let people die because of a hurricane (I bet those victims didn't count in their Pro-Life diatribe either).

I want a goverment that doesn't go to bed with so many coorporations and special interest groups that gets told what to do when it comes to issuing laws and regulations that are supposed to benefit the people (all of us).

We don't have time to be involved in speeches to prove who's more experienced or who is more popular or is Pro-Life or Pro-Choice. We need a president with common sense, one that is capable to identify what is wrong now in America and know what to do or should be done to make it right.

Last campaing flip-flopping was attached to one party only and was really condemned, now I see both parties doing and nobody says anything about it. I think that just became part of America mainstream politics.

We can tell that each party spend millions of dollars in their own campaigns, distorting the truth, spinning their own faults and belittling their opponents. Imagine how many things going wrong now in this country can be turn around with
that money, just imagine.

We need to get more involve and let both parties now that we are listening, we know what is going around and we can't be fool. It would very arrogant for them to think that Americans are not listening and that we can't see through all their charades.

Please, pay attention, do your research, listen carefully, then vote.

Posted by: A concerned American | September 3, 2008 2:56 AM
Report Offensive Comment

"She has no national political experience, especially in the area of foreign policy."

Perhaps Ms. Quinn is not aware that considering Alaska's proximity to Russia, Palin has in fact received relevant national security briefings; in my book, that beats living in Indonesia as a child any day. In addition, I'll take Palin's common sense over Obama's three-day process required for him to come up with the correct response; i.e., Iran is a tiny country...no threat, his feeble attempt to draw moral equivalence between Russia/Georgia and America/terrorists, undivided/divided Jerusalem.

"When the phone rings at three in the morning and one of her children is really sick what choice will she make?"

I am offended that you insult women by assuming Palin would tell the country, in effect, 'take two aspirin and call me in the morning.' Yes, children come first, but conservatives realize that if their children don't have a country, what's the point of taking care of a sick child? I lived at Ground Zero with my children during the Cuban Missile Crisis--in a place very close to Cuba that could have been easily vaporized--not among the Washington elite.

"These are dangerous and trying times for the entire world."

You must be hallucinating if you think Obama/Biden truly understand that danger.

"This is no time to to play gender politics."

Again, you insult; it apparently did not even occur to you that McCain might actually think Palin is the most qualified to give the country confidence that McCain/Palin put the country first rather than "me first."

Your column alone clearly exhibits that feminism has been a fake; Palin is the epitome of what you claimed you wanted for women. Liberal ideology obviously trumps your alleged desire for women to achieve...very revealing.

Posted by: Suzanne Carpenter | September 3, 2008 2:43 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Since Sarah Palin is running for Executive Office, lets compare Elected Leadership experience:

Sarah Palin has been:
* Governor of Alaska
* Mayor of Wasilla Alaska
* President of the Alaska Conference of Mayors

Hillary Clinton has been:
* President of the Wellesley (college) Young Republicans
* President of the Wellesley College Government Association

Barack Obama has been:
* ?

Joe Biden has been:
* ?

John McCain has been:
* ?

It looks like Gov. Palin is the best qualified by virtue of having the most experience.

Posted by: Britcom | September 3, 2008 2:28 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Well, ms. Quinn,
You just go on believing that Mrs. Palin is the wrong choice for the wrong reason. Several weeks ago I responded to a survey from the republican party. In it I commented that a sure way for the McCain to win was to select a minority: a woman, or an ethic minority (for example Colin Powell or Bobby Jindal). There is no confusion or doubt about Palin's ability to balance family matters with her career. Men, and now women, are doing so with regular familiarity. It's no easy job. For you to even hint that Palin is sacrificing her family (that's exactly what you are doing) for her own ambition is ludicrous, if not deprecating to say the least. If you had the fortitude and necessary competence you would still be sitting as the first anchor woman for CBS. But since you lack these qualities, you disparage someone that is capable of fulfilling this challenge. You should be commending Palin rather than even suggesting that she can't possibly serve in dual roles. So much for women's equality.
Vote for McCain. He will set you free.

Posted by: Arthur Parra | September 3, 2008 2:25 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally:

Let me get this straight. You think it wrong to nominate someone for Vice-president -- because she is a woman -- who has been a governor for less than two full years (and a mayor for 6, and chair of her state's most important commission and co-owner of a fishing business).
But you have no problem with the Democrats nominating someone for President who was only a US Senator for 120 days before running for President, who cannot even run his Senate subcommittee, who has never run a business much less a state.
Obama is the least experienced nominee of a major party (less than four years as a US Senator come December)since the R's nominated Thomas E Dewey against Roosevelt in 1944 (less than two years as governor of New York).
Let's speak the truth here. Geraldine Ferraro had it right months ago: now way Obama would be his party's nominee if he was not an African American.
Palin's biggest weakness is that you don't agree with her on "women's" issues.

Posted by: Jim Hale | September 3, 2008 2:22 AM
Report Offensive Comment

This again, "When the phone rings at three in the morning"

Hopefully if it's real important, the phone will ring at the Pentagon where nobody ever sleeps. The last person I'd be calling is some sleeping politician at 3 A.M. to figure out what to do next. That's just me though.

Posted by: Mr. Challenger | September 3, 2008 2:17 AM
Report Offensive Comment

A recipe for frozen flowers and ice cubes

First wash the edible flowers with lukewarm water and place each blossom in an individual ice cube compartment that is half full of water. Flowers float, so if you fill the compartment to the top, that’s where your blossom will appear. To get it in the middle of the cube, the flower has to be frozen first in the half-filled tray, then, an hour or more later, add water to form the top half of the cube. Use distilled water, which makes the clearest cubes. If you use tap water, the cubes may be cloudy when they’re removed from the tray, but when added to drinks they clear up nicely.

Have a dink and go make a baby and forget about all the other people making babies. They are real busy right now and don't care about what you are thinking. Honest to God, they don't!

Posted by: Anonymous | September 3, 2008 2:05 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Let's not underestimate Palin. With Obama running on "Change," Palin cannot be roped in by urging her to follow precedent (e.g. by nagging at her not run for V-P until her children are all grown). Palin shows drive, discipline and ambition energized by political (and religious) principles and beliefs. But those beliefs lie at the extreme right of the Republican Party if not outside it, as evidenced by her forays into Alaska separatism and her support for Pat Buchanan. Her supposedly reformist attacks on corruption in Alaska remind me of what happens after every electoral sweep -- exploit opportunities to demonize the status quo, fire the incumbent civil service, put in your own people and start funding your own earmarked, pork-barrel projects ($27 million to her own small town; money from the Bridge to Nowhere plowed into other projects). She might look like a Republican who virtuously drove out corruption from her own party. But Palin belongs to a wing (or fringe) of the Republican Party that has been working and waiting to take power; and John McCain's "marverick" role is being used as a lever. This is not about mothering (liberal or conservative), it's about power. If Dick Cheney could play puppet-master to George Bush, others can do the same with Gov. (and maybe some day President) Sarah Palin. Do we want her to have power over us? If we don't, we need to work the issues. Palin "chose" to have Trig, says Timothy. Yes, and she is against choice for victims of rape and incest. Let's take a look at the rest of her social agenda and practice. Her positions on climate change are out there. She believes in intelligent design. She has an interest in censoring library books. What's her position on Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security,and so on. Do you want this woman running your life and depriving YOU of choices you value and depend on?

Posted by: js | September 3, 2008 1:59 AM
Report Offensive Comment

I am impressed by Palin.
As a man and a patriot I think her choice was the smartest move that McCain ever made, although I don't care much about McCain.
Palin's history and her long standing success in every thing she did portend success in handling any political social and financial problem that she might encounter as VP or president of this country.
God bless Sarah and God bless America.

Posted by: kammoon | September 3, 2008 1:54 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Polo has free shipping if you spend 195 bucks. That should get you a shirt and maybe a pair of socks.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 3, 2008 1:48 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Polo has free shipping if you spend 195 bucks. That should get you a shirt and maybe a pair of socks.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 3, 2008 1:48 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Bravo! This Independant voter has finally heard a sane voice here. While Mrs. Palin certainly has quite a political career ahead of her, I feel the timing is off. Why now? Why this election? While I certainly feel that women can work and raise a family, most, if not the majority, wait until their children are a little older. Preschool age. Why? Well, as social conservatives like to emphasize, children (& babies!) need both parents and the early years are crucial. Some of the men who are her most vocal supporters, are the same ones who criticize "power women"(on the other side of the political spectrum) who try to do too much and make their families suffer as a result. Simply put, Sarah Palin's children need her. Now. The vice presidency is not a 9-5 job. Not even close! By asking Palin to serve now, McCain has put her in a position of choosing between her family and a promotion up the political ladder. Don't tell me that the VP is some part-time job! Some day, if the Republicans win, Mrs. Palin will look back and realize that she can never have these precious years back. The years that she spent in service to her country, but out of reach to her children. Even now, her teen-age daughter is feeling the intense glare of scrutiny & moral judgement by a national media with no concept of boundaries or tact. So it will go with the rest of her children. How about "Palin 2012 or 2016"? The extra experience will only make her more credible and lessen the "no experience" argument and give her a chance to be the amazing mother I know she is.

Posted by: heather | September 3, 2008 1:47 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Deacons walk the walk. Politics is more talk the talk and running for the office. It's a different pace. Sometimes you need to walk the line. Babies can't walk, but they do learn and if you can walk you can run. To get along in politics you can never run from a fight. The best thing to do is to stop a fight before it starts. It's too late for prevention, it's never too late for the cure. With all these comments you would think somebody had cancer or something serious. It's as if pregnancy was a dreaded disease and it's going to spread. Get over yourselves.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 3, 2008 1:39 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow,

If John McCain voiced the reasons you gave as his reasons for not picking Gov. Palin he would have been labeled as a sexist pig.

As far as her pregnant daughter is concerned, I would wish that situation on no parent. As the father of an 18 year old daughter I have dreaded the thought of my daughter coming to me with the news the Palins received. But the one thing that would have and I am sure made it a little better was the ending of the news. Mom, Dad, we are getting married.

As far as experience goes, She, Gov. Palin has held two elected Executive positions. Senator Obama has never held an executive position. The Senator has spent the majority of his US Senate time running for President. He has never, never made a tough decision.

Lets compare the two shall we. Comunity activist, Mayor. First term US Senator, Govorner.
Military hater, Commander in chief of the Alaska National Guard. Running a senate office, Running a state. Can't decide when or can't answer when life begins, Had a down syndrome baby. She is more qualified to be President than he is.

I would feel more comfortable with Gov. Palin a heartbeat away from the presidency than Senator Obama as the President.

Posted by: Wesley Norris | September 3, 2008 1:35 AM
Report Offensive Comment

"Evangelical women also will have to decide if they will vote against their conscience by voting to put the mother of young children in a job outside the home that will demand so much of her time and energy."

Ms. Quinn, you make it sound like Palin is the one woman show. She has been in politics longer than Obama and has managed to accomplish all of this with her 5 children and very supportive husband. The point is that the concept of a "traditional" family (mom, dad and 2 kids where the mom stays home and dad works all day) is no longer the norm. The changes I have witnessed is that the parents do everything in their power to let their kids have the best opportunities available to them. If that means the mother is the sole or majority bread winner or the dad stays at home with the kids then so be it. I believe these evangelical voters you refer to have an understanding of the struggles of American families and further know that it is not within their power to judge one family unit as better than the other.

The changes we are seeing for women extend far beyond what you give credit to. Palin is able to pursue this career because she has a husband who supports her ambitions. These doors are opened to her because she has an incredible support system, just like McCain does and the fact that she is a woman should have no bearing in the matter.

Despite your arguments against the Palin pick, I believe she will be an excellent Vice President for the United States. She has over and 80% approval rating in Alaska and is paired with one of the most experienced leaders in politics and not to mention, she appeals more to the conservative base than McCain with her pro-life, anti-gay marriage, pro-gun, and anti-excessive spending viewpoints.

Posted by: Kathleen | September 3, 2008 1:21 AM
Report Offensive Comment

What an absolutely obnoxious article. Yes Palin lacks experience, and that is worthy of serious discussion, which the article almost reaches; however, the fact that she lacks maleness or has a family (oh no, how terrible female) should not be part of the equation.
>For an article apparently positioning itself as progressive on women's equality, why does her "attractive"ness matter, especially enough to be listed as a qualification? This makes the Obama is articulate comment look downright intelligent, as a candidate's attractiveness has even less to do with leadership than articulation.
>"But it must certainly raise the question among the evangelical base about whether Sarah Palin has been enough of a hands-on mother."
Wow, so I guess all the career women out there whose kids get knocked up better look themselves long and hard in the mirror for their failures... What a patently offensive statement, however guised as "possible evangelical concerns." For the record, evangelical leaders are not concerned with this at all. This author is far more concerned with evangelical sentiments about mothers and teen pregnancy than evangelicals themselves. Many good mothers end up with accidents like this, and crappy mothers' daughters may get lucky and not get pregnant. Considering that half of all women will experience an unwanted pregnancy in their lifetimes, and that many teenagers have premarital sex (after all, the difference between a pregnant teen and a merely sexually active one is mostly a crapshoot), who are we to pin this common consequence of sex on Palin's poor mothering, here equated with her decision to be Governor of Alaska?! I wasn't aware that the chastity of one's daughter was a)a qualification for the vice presidency, or b)a litmus test for a mother's involvement or love. Leave the judgment of Palin's mothering and Palin's daughter to Palin's family, as even Obama has done. McCain is on his third marriage and no one's talking about his hands-on involvements or failures in those committments. Obama has made his own mistakes that make many question his judgment, and his VP candidate is a known liar and plagiarizer... Yet Palin is the one whom we are willing to tear apart, whose personal life becomes a demerit?
>"Not only do we have a woman with five children, including an infant with special needs, but a woman whose 17-year-old child will need her even more in the coming months." This author is a woman, but obviously what seems to bother her in these lines is the fact that it's a WOMAN. If you read that sentence with the word man wherever the word is woman, does this sound like a political issue worth bothering with? Aren't we in 2 protracted wars, and in a recession, or something?
It's well known that Palin's husband plays Mr. Mom, as the post put it. Why does it matter that OMG WE HAVE A WOMAN. The kids are being taken care of. The lady's running for office. Unless the kids are running out in the street, who really cares if she has 2 or 5 or if they all have down syndrome if they're being taken care of by the dad and the mom when she has time, which women are legendarily good at finding?
"Not to mention the grandchild. This would inevitably be an enormous distraction for a new vice president (or president) in a time of global turmoil." So now even grandparents aren't eligible... should the country be run by childless adults only? So we can handle Russian-Georgian conflicts, the whole lot of the Mideast, one's spouse, one's child(ren), the media, one's aides, 2 wars, one's party, a million interest groups, and a weakening, globalizing US economy, but that grandkid's 1st birthday party will tear a VP's time asunder? Seriously...
>"Not only in terms of her job, but from a media standpoint as well." If the media are that retarded, and they may be, that's on them. It has zilch to do with whether the McCain-Palin ticket is better for AMERICA, which it seems like IS the real issue facing us, although members of the media like this author seem to want to nitpick this woman's family instead of focusing on that.
>"Evangelical women also will have to decide if they will vote against their conscience by voting to put the mother of young children in a job outside the home that will demand so much of her time and energy." Again, the dad's on it. Being governor is not a breeze either, and the kids seem all right so far (pregnancy at 17 in an upper-middle class home is hardly an unbelievable crisis). Having a uterus is not a requirement for being the primary caregiver; millions of families know this from experience, and many where women have been the primary caregiver are failures for a variety of reasons. It is ridiculous to claim that Palin should stay aiming low (governor, but a woman as VP, gee I don't know) because she has babies. Is this the 1940's?! Rather than shooting her down based on preconceptions about gender and the inevitable distribution of childcare in a household, maybe 45 years after the women's movement, we should let the lady try.
>"Is she prepared for the all-consuming nature of the job?...Her first priority has to be her children. When the phone rings at three in the morning and one of her children is really sick what choice will she make?" Perhaps you should ask her husband, who has been holding the fort down so far. Or the state of alaska, where she's been prioritizing their needs just fine. Clinton had a kid, Bush had 2, Obama has a couple. Why does it matter that so much that she has kids and not that they did? Yes, she has 5, but she handled it quite well as gov. Perhaps she can provide a role model for working mothers, many of whom vote, are evangelicals, are poor, are rich, are backbones of their family while working 1 or more jobs... It seems the author is implying that she might miss a meeting (Reagan slept through his, and is a hero) or shirk her duties because Susie got a cold. What an insult. Women the country over are managing work and Susie's colds just fine, and with a good income and a supportive husband it's even more doable.
"He always had to be my first priority." Good for you. That doesn't mean that all women must sacrifice their careers for their children, or risk doing the opposite. Perhaps Palin has more support than this author did. In any case, she's not an idiot, and the slogan of the campaign is country first. Even though she's a woman, she probably knows what she's getting into. Can we talk about the issues instead of gender, please?
>"Of course women can be good mothers and have careers at the same time... A mother's role is different from a father's." If the father sucks, yes, women have to pick up the slack on everything from housecare to advocating at the PTA. Mr. Palin has played Mr. Mom, and families the world over are incredibly flexible in their structures. Essentializing a woman out of a VP because she is a mother and thus must take full care of the children and be distracted by them and put them first is ludicrous, anti-feminist, and antiquated.
Country first, yes, but as a woman I hope to hell that the McCain-Palin ticket wins and shows sexist, women-patronizing doubters that espouse these sorts of arguments that like men women can do whatever the hell we put our minds to, come childcare, hell, or high water.

Posted by: Rosemary Logan | September 3, 2008 1:10 AM
Report Offensive Comment

If she were a man, Governor Palin wouldn’t even qualify to be a deacon in most fundamentalist churches:
1 Timothy 3:12 A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well.

Posted by: David Blackburn | September 3, 2008 12:53 AM
Report Offensive Comment

However many times Quinn (who was still giving pajama parties at age 28) and other nanny-state polemicists repeat it, I do not believe a pregnant Bristol Palin is a "17-year-old child."

Posted by: daibhidh | September 3, 2008 12:48 AM
Report Offensive Comment

The real moving stuff is on paper in ink, secure from the likes of the dislikes. That is why we have safes and presses, to keep some out and lock others in. Goofballs and evil minded nitwits are on servers serving no purpose. Keep your powder and paper dry.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 3, 2008 12:43 AM
Report Offensive Comment

John McCain's selection of Palin, who is quite obviously totally unprepared to govern the most powerful country in the world is scarey!!. People you really need to think here. Do you really want this 72 year old man and a women that is totally ill equipt to have her finger on the trigger. Talking about just the protecting the country from terroist, I sure if they could vote they would be over here in droves pulling the handle for the McCain/Palin ticket. It would be funny if it was not so dangerous.

Posted by: C. Scott | September 3, 2008 12:37 AM
Report Offensive Comment

In God We Trust. Money talks and BS walks. Evil runs from the big guns.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 3, 2008 12:32 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Anonymous, you truly moved me. I will save you a special place on the beach along poop river. It is a somewhat smelly place, but it is a step up from cankerville.

Posted by: The Devil, THE DEVIL! | September 3, 2008 12:27 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Like it or not, Palin is a pawn in this political bloodsport. Had Hillary been on the Dem ticket, Palin would not have been given the time of day. A MAN with the same level, or lack thereof, experience of Palin wouldnt have been given the time of day.


Thompson stated tonight that Palin was chosen as a breath of fresh air to combat the usual, old Washington, Beltway Boy stigma. HELLO!!?!? What the heck does he think McCain represents? Is he sipping his own stupid-laced kool-aid??? I actually like Thompson and had he put a little more fire in his belly, HE would have been a better choice than McCain. I guess he has lost all his stamina keeping up with a much younger wife and his toddlers. Hint hint, Palin.

Palin will be back in Alaska in a few months when this ticket goes up in flames. No doubt. In the meantime, read my lips Mrs. Palin:

A-B-S-T-I-N-E-N-C-E DOES NOT WORK.

Need a referral? It's spelled B-R-I-S-T-O-L.

Posted by: AmericanandProud | September 3, 2008 12:25 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Like it or not, Palin is a pawn in this political bloodsport. Had Hillary been on the Dem ticket, Palin would not have been given the time of day. A MAN with the same level, or lack thereof, experience of Palin wouldnt have been given the time of day.


Thompson stated tonight that Palin was chosen as a breath of fresh air to combat the usual, old Washington, Beltway Boy stigma. HELLO!!?!? What the heck does he think McCain represents? Is he sipping his own stupid-laced kool-aid??? I actually like Thompson and had he put a little more fire in his belly, HE would have been a better choice than McCain. I guess he has lost all his stamina keeping up with a much younger wife and his toddlers. Hint hint, Palin.

Palin will be back in Alaska in a few months when this ticket goes up in flames. No doubt. In the meantime, read my lips Mrs. Palin:

A-B-S-T-I-N-E-N-C-E DOES NOT WORK.

Need a referral? It's spelled B-R-I-S-T-O-L.

Posted by: AmericanandProud | September 3, 2008 12:22 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Why, thank you Anonymous for such a lovely poem about your love for me.

Posted by: The Devil, THE DEVIL! | September 3, 2008 12:22 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Make love, make babies, make America. You are free to make mistakes and free to be happy. Outside it is America it is all good. Words that hurt don't help. Babies are pure love and joy. Here to my love and her babies. An American Dream is a happy heart and a pleased soul.

"Please You"

How my heart longs for yours
To please you is what my heart feels for you
How my lips long to kiss your body
To touch yor skin and feel the softness of you
How my soul calls to you in only dreams you could know
To be next to me and resting in my embrace
Feeling each breath as we lay together
Pleasing you forever and making sweet love
Together making all your senses alive with mine
You take me to a place I long for
I wait for you and know it is love
So it can not hurt to wait longer
You can be with me and I will always wait for you
My lonesome tears will never dry
My eyes see you always here for me like a child
They long to see you and my hand longs to hold
Your hand and your heart is all my desire
How these words could not be without you
How such a love could save me is your grace
I felt I could not be good enough
You showed me how good love could make life
I found my true self because you inspired me
To search for you my whole life was my purpose
To find you was my dream come true
Now my heart is happy knowing you are there
So much more than good enough
It is a love so great that it is for more than two
If these words find you sad please be not sad
Know how deeply I care for you
How I feel you with me was written long ago
You only know how I feel and only for you
I will remember you and you will not pass me by
Without knowing you should remember the love
You feel so strong that all your pain is past
You will never feel that pain again
For I long to please you and make your soul pleased
That is what binds us and I can hold you in these sweet dreams of the future in love with you
You are always my first love and lasting passion
You are love
You are beautiful

Written for You

Posted by: Anonymous | September 3, 2008 12:19 AM
Report Offensive Comment

America need to get back to its fundamental roots. Let us become root farmers and burn our books. Let us tear up the evil "Internets." Howoooooooooo howoooooooo. Let us now pray in TONGUES!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: The Devil, THE DEVIL! | September 3, 2008 12:16 AM
Report Offensive Comment

So the left wines and wines and never moves to said enemy hell hole after an election so lets make them this time or simply eliminate them! Not like they matter much except to rouse ill will between men!

Posted by: Ok | September 3, 2008 12:14 AM
Report Offensive Comment

This article is an insult to women.

Posted by: hcleal | September 3, 2008 12:09 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Remember when my disciple Son of Sam acted on his voices?

Posted by: The Devil, THE DEVIL! | September 3, 2008 12:09 AM
Report Offensive Comment

"Her life experience alone gives her wisdom...now thats a real qualification to lead!"

Ooooh stop it, you make the most evil one laugh. But it is true that those with such wisdom TALK IN TONGUES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Decipher that gibberish and act on the message!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: The Devil, THE DEVIL! | September 3, 2008 12:07 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear Ma'am: You are completely wrong on McCain and Palin? Have you ever heard of a battlefield commission? McCain as an old Navy hand knows some of the best officers in the Navy and Marines were not from Harvard, Columbia, Yale or Annapolis. They were officers who rose up through the ranks through their courage, steadiness and leadership skills. They were challenged and they responded. Sarah Palin is like this. Consider her promotion a battlefield commission for meritorious service. As McCain has long experience both as an executive, a Naval Officer and as a Senate leader, I trust his judgment on Palin.

Palin's rise is meteoric no doubt. Historically, it can only be compared to the rise of Lincoln and TR. Her rise is even more impressive than the rise of another great president -with less experience than Palin- Harry Truman. One cannot help but think her rise is providential and her we have our first woman president -not in 2008- she is too green for that but for 2012 and beyond.
There can be no doubt Sarah Palin has made history and will have a great future in American politics win or lose this election. Yes, win or lose. Because if it is a close election that closeness will be her triumph.

She is not 32. She is not applying for the insignificant job of a taking head. She is not even applying for the first spot as Obama is even though she has far more executive experience and work experience than Obama. She may even have published more journalism than Obama. From what I have heard of her and from what I have read this is a very well-informed person. She may not have the views of a Washington insider who hobnobs on Embassy row, but she has the views and values that will resonate with heartland America.

I was undecided ten days ago. My wife was undecided. Many of our friends and coreligionists were undecided. But now most of us are enthusiastic supporters of the McCain-Palin ticket. Mac choice was a revolution, in my opinion, and I feel that history will prove my intuition that we are witnessing the beginning of something important that will be remembered long after Obama and Biden are just aa footnote in history.

LET US HOPE AND LET US PRAY
MAC AND PALIN ALL THE WAY

RICHARD K. MUNRO

Posted by: Richard K. Munro | September 3, 2008 12:03 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Soon folks like Jimbo, Jack and Jill will be burning and drowning witches. It will be so delicious. I can't wait!

Posted by: The Devil, THE DEVIL! | September 3, 2008 12:03 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sarah will be a great VP. Sally and some of my progressive friends are having a hissy fit over this. But as a Hillary supporter i am now voting for McCain/Palin! Her life experience alone gives her wisdom...now thats a real qualification to lead!

Posted by: hjb | September 3, 2008 12:02 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Please review Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. You, my dear are breaking the law.

Posted by: Liz | September 3, 2008 12:01 AM
Report Offensive Comment

STOP!!!!!! Let's come to our senses. She's the VP candidate and these issus are not worth the candle, especially considering the downside. Like a pack of raging dogs, we are reflexively snapping and biting our way into yet another McCain trap that will open the door to more damaging scrutiny on Obama's weaknesses--inexperience and dirty Chicago politics. With a candidate that exudes such confidence and the broad assumption everywhere for so many months that the election is ours, I think that we Democrats have moved from focused confidence to the lazy, pompous arrogance exemplified by this article. Unfortunately, we will lose if we don't start playing both hard AND SMART again, but right now we seem to senselessly bully away at any and all "issues". Stop being tactically retarded!!! Pick the right fights!!!

Posted by: Jon | September 3, 2008 12:00 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn says:

"...with news that Palin's 17-year-old unmarried daughter is pregnant, McCain's pick may not even find support among 'family values' voters."

Gee, Sally, reading the thousands upon thousands of galvanized pro-Palin respondents here and on other websites, it seems otherwise. And, it seems the hugely influential conservative base, as a whole, is just a wee bit energized.

It seems that the entire premise of your article is shot to hell.

Just a thought, Sally.

Posted by: Jimbo | September 2, 2008 11:56 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Jack Jenson: "It's hard when your kids are going to Sidwell friends at 30k per year to imagine what is going on in real America."

Yes Jack, make sure the kids don't know anything but jack shirt. Make America strong. Did you know that you can shave if you catch a bee in a clam shell and then rub it on your face? Yes, it is true. It must be. I saw it on TV.

Posted by: The Devil, THE DEVIL! | September 2, 2008 11:53 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I was appalled at the CNN interview Sally Quinn gave this afternoon regarding this article. It was condescending, righteous and bigotted. As a psychoherapist, I feel the lady doth protest too much in an attempt to bolster her own agenda. Talk about being insulting to women and being concerned that a "child" of one of our candidates is pregnant out of wedlock. I found this whole article and interview to be the epitomy of insult to women and downright abusive to this young girl who is trying to make a difficult situation right. I tell my clients that criticizing other's parenting can be very dangerous as we never know how things will turn out for our own children and grandchildren. I know many extremely involved and devoted parents who have found themselves in the position of Sarah Palin. It had nothing to do with their parenting. None of us can be with our children 24/7. It is egocentric to believe that only a mother can raise and give children the love that they need. It is an insult to every father, who as a single parent, has done a wonderful job raising his children. It is an insult to the many wonderful men and women who are in the role of surrogate parents when the mother is working or absent. This need not be the case with Governor Palin's children. Children are not "distractions" but "people" whom we love, cherish and care for despite our vocations. Being a strong role model for our children by participating in public service and righting wrongs and corruption are gifts that positively affect their character for a lifetime. Every President in history has faced this dilemma of spending time with his children and it is ridiculous to say that all these chilren have suffered because of the office. Sally Quinn knows nothing of the mother that Palin has been or who she will be in the future--and no one has the right to judge her when the evidence does not exist. Good for you, Sally, that you took time off your pontificating for the media to raise your special needs child. But, this is not about YOU and you have no right to use your platform to malign women and children who have chosen other paths than you.

Posted by: Anita Maier | September 2, 2008 11:50 PM
Report Offensive Comment

JoAnne Heron says:

"If I weren't so afraid of who she is and what she believes, I would cheer her on, but I can't. She is dangerous because of her convictions..."


C Gruen says:

"...I write as a sister in Christ, and voter who is consistently pro-life and already committed to Obama."


Yes, we're wading in it up to our eyebrows now, folks!

These "independent women" are "concerned" about Palin as VP. Thankfully, they have the street-activist radical totalitarian "above my pay grade" leftist senator-trainee at the top of the Dem ticket.

ROTF!

Posted by: Jimbo | September 2, 2008 11:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow I just heard about this post by Sally Quinn and I guess I am really shocked.

For many years I have read with great interest Sally's columns. This really sounds like a wrap up from a Beltway Cocktail party hosted by the media elites. Was EJ Dionne and Sally Reimer pouring the champagne?

Bill Clinton and Ronald Reagan had no Washington experience. Whether you were a Democrat or Republican you cannot say they didnt do well.

It's hard when your kids are going to Sidwell friends at 30k per year to imagine what is going on in real America. Sally what a really low mark in your esteemed career to attack another woman in this manner in an effort to support your candidate. Wow. really sad

Posted by: Jack Jensen | September 2, 2008 11:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Got to go now, Feynman will giving his next in a series of lectures on the theory of quantum electrodynamics. It is sinful to miss one. After that, I will poke him with hot branding irons.

Posted by: The Devil, THE DEVIL! | September 2, 2008 11:46 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You're next Hawking!

gaagaaa hobledegaga! TONGUES TONGUES

Posted by: The Devil, THE DEVIL! | September 2, 2008 11:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Love the assumptions that family-values people are too judgmental to separate Palin's actions from those of her teen daughter. Nice little jab in there, too, about her not being a "hands-on" (translation: unfit) mother.
Also love the assumption that because Quinn floundered at CBS, the logical conclusion is that Palin can't be successful as v-p. Elitist logic, I suppose.
Yep, it sounds like Palin needs to stay in the kitchen and let elites like Biden make life's decisions.
Essays like this remind me of the liberals' real disconnect: they believe the only smart people in America are rich attorneys. This is why her party gets shocked so often in November.

Posted by: abe hardesty | September 2, 2008 11:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I regret to inform the living fornicators that Einstein, Newton, Galileo, Max Planck, Euler, Lorentz, Rutherford, Joule, Boyle, Bohr, Helmholtz, Faraday, Maxwell, Davy, Ohm, Volta, Franklin et al. are all with me now. They burn for all eternity.

Make sure to teach your children the correct science, i.e., that which was taught by Hanna Barberra. The way Fred, Wilma and Dino carried themselves is the standard Americans should strive to achieve and maintain!

Posted by: The Devil, THE DEVIL! | September 2, 2008 11:38 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sarah Palin would make a great poster mother for the perfect Christian Republican Woman or Mrs. America for her obvious multiple talents and balancing act, but she is not running for Mrs. America (does that exist anymore?) I am very concerned about the possibility of her running the country.

Alaska is an odd place. Recently, we tried to find an open restaurant in Wasilla on a Sunday, and were almost unsuccessful, except for a Mexican Restaurant with no Mexicans. That was a first, as we are used to having all wait staff and cooks Mexican. Guess the town was closed down like in the old days. Everybody was at church. (My son lives 10 miles away in Palmer.)

In Talkeetna, Alaska, the bachelors have an "Alaskan woman" contest where the contenders have to bake a pie, run uphill in "bunny boots" (extreme cold weather bulky footwear) with a pail of water, and shoot at a target while skiing through the woods. (There are many more things), and Sarah definitely fits this mold. The winner gets two free tickets to Hawaii. (This was 15 years ago. Please research if you use this reference.) I guess the bachelors hope they will get an invitation. I have a friend who won it at least twice, and I'm sure Sarah would have done quite well.

I am a former Alaskan and would normally think this and all of the things that have been said about Sarah and all of the conflicts surrounding her are funny. It's just that they are not.
There are huge problems here, including denial.

She cannot keep control over her own life and family, much less over a country and a world she knows little about. I am embarrassed at myself for being so obsessed with this story, but I think it is my Alaskan history, the fact that I too, tried to balance motherhood and a job (in Alaska with only one child), and that in my own larger family, I have the extreme right and left. I also identify with her on some level as a woman, and I am caught in the middle of what feminism means in this instance. Does it mean supporting a woman no matter what stupid choices she makes? My mothering instincts also get mixed up in there somewhere.

I think about the pregnancy, which also happened with my niece with the same view of abortion. What about the young man, who has a foul mouth, is obviously some kind of egotistical high school stud, who is into himself heavily and doesn't want kids. What kind of marriage will this be? Who is going to take care of Sarah's family? Will they move to Washington? I know in my own son that it is impossible to take the Alaska out of the child. They will never be happy. Alaska men can only stand so much of being inside. Who is going to home school them? The hyprocrasy here really bothers me. This is not family values, and so, am I not a feminist for raising these questions?

Lastly, I will say what I have not heard this observance in articles or on blogs. Whenever I go to Alaska, (and I go every year), I experience a love/hate relationship with the culture. Sarah epitomizes Alaskan culture. People move there to get away from rules, to make their own, to operate independently, to hunt, shoot, whatever they want, do whatever they want, don't want the government involved, unless it is to bring pork to their community.

If I weren't so afraid of who she is and what she believes, I would cheer her on, but I can't. She is dangerous because of her convictions, but on some level I understand her as a woman.

Well, won't this be an interesting campaign? JH

Posted by: JoAnne Heron | September 2, 2008 11:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What twisted logic!
Sally, you are a sick woman in need of help.
I'll pray that you stop hiding from the truth.

Posted by: not surprised | September 2, 2008 11:35 PM
Report Offensive Comment

On the issue of Palin's role as mother and grandmother...
I can't help but wonder how Palin would react if her pregnant daughter had a medical emergency, like eclampsia, which is more common in teenagers than in adults. Of course, we all pray that this doesn't happen, but the reality is that doctors sometimes have to recommend an abortion to save the life of the mother. It's a tragedy but it happens every day. Would Palin toe the Republican party line, a party which recently adopted a platform which opposes abortion and makes no exceptions for the health of the mother? I can't believe she would do that.

Posted by: Dr. Michael Pugh, Jr. | September 2, 2008 11:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sarah Palin would make a great poster mother for the perfect Christian Republican Woman or Mrs. America for her obvious multiple talents and balancing act, but she is not running for Mrs. America (does that exist anymore?) I am very concerned about the possibility of her running the country.

Alaska is an odd place. Recently, we tried to find an open restaurant in Wasilla on a Sunday, and were almost unsuccessful, except for a Mexican Restaurant with no Mexicans. That was a first, as we are used to having all wait staff and cooks Mexican. Guess the town was closed down like in the old days. Everybody was at church. (My son lives 10 miles away in Palmer.)

In Talkeetna, Alaska, the bachelors have an "Alaskan woman" contest where the contenders have to bake a pie, run uphill in "bunny boots" (extreme cold weather bulky footwear) with a pail of water, and shoot at a target while skiing through the woods. (There are many more things), and Sarah definitely fits this mold. The winner gets two free tickets to Hawaii. (This was 15 years ago. Please research if you use this reference.) I guess the bachelors hope they will get an invitation. I have a friend who won it at least twice, and I'm sure Sarah would have done quite well.

I am a former Alaskan and would normally think this and all of the things that have been said about Sarah and all of the conflicts surrounding her are funny. It's just that they are not.
There are huge problems here, including denial.

She cannot keep control over her own life and family, much less over a country and a world she knows little about. I am embarrassed at myself for being so obsessed with this story, but I think it is my Alaskan history, the fact that I too, tried to balance motherhood and a job (in Alaska with only one child), and that in my own larger family, I have the extreme right and left. I also identify with her on some level as a woman, and I am caught in the middle of what feminism means in this instance. Does it mean supporting a woman no matter what stupid choices she makes? My mothering instincts also get mixed up in there somewhere.

I think about the pregnancy, which also happened with my niece with the same view of abortion. What about the young man, who has a foul mouth, is obviously some kind of egotistical high school stud, who is into himself heavily and doesn't want kids. What kind of marriage will this be? Who is going to take care of Sarah's family? Will they move to Washington? I know in my own son that it is impossible to take the Alaska out of the child. They will never be happy. Alaska men can only stand so much of being inside. Who is going to home school them? The hyprocrasy here really bothers me. This is not family values, and so, am I not a feminist for raising these questions?

Lastly, I will say what I have not heard this observance in articles or on blogs. Whenever I go to Alaska, (and I go every year), I experience a love/hate relationship with the culture. Sarah epitomizes Alaskan culture. People move there to get away from rules, to make their own, to operate independently, to hunt, shoot, whatever they want, do whatever they want, don't want the government involved, unless it is to bring pork to their community.

If I weren't so afraid of who she is and what she believes, I would cheer her on, but I can't. She is dangerous because of her convictions, but on some level I understand her as a woman.

Well, won't this be an interesting campaign? JH

Posted by: JoAnne Heron | September 2, 2008 11:27 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,

It's amazing that John McCain effectively said that, of all the people in the country that he would personally choose to be president, this woman is his first choice.

But trying to spin the Palin pregnancy issue as some wonderful evidence of her character is beyond moronic because any good family should stand behind their daughter, no matter what their politics are.

Secondly, it's obviously a POLITICAL expediency to push the two kids into marriage, a life long commitment for which they may not even be at all suited. Of all things, it's now the Republicans who seem to be equating readiness for marriage simply with functioning genitals. Because people are ambitious beyond belief and immersed in illogical belief systems, they bypass the necessary thinking about the actual welfare of the young people.

Just because they made a mistake and she's now pregnant doesn't mean that they are at all ready for marriage. Whatever happened to the idea of people marrying because they're mature enough, that they have enough life experience and have gone through enough counseling to make an informed decision? All of the people involved are very vocal on abstinence, family values, etc. and the sanctity (not convenience) of marriage. But the message here is that if abstinence fails and they get pregnant everything will be made all right by having these children marry...and they are children. And looked at clearly it's more of a punishment of the two children so that the family (and the religious right) can spin it as some wonderful, noble thing.

It would have taken real guts for the family to just acknowledge the situation and say that the child will be raised within the family and the daughter will have responsibilities, etc. Then, if the couple prove to have the necessary maturity, actual love and devotion over time, etc. They could and should marry.

But not until then.

Actually, Palin's first indication of lack of good judgment was accepting the invitation to take a job that she's admittedly uninformed about and not qualified for. The next indication was her prioritizing her political ambitions above the significant, complex responsibilities that her daughter's pregnancy adds to her family obligations.

Oh yeah, I'm not voting for Obama either. Neither of the candidates are qualified to lead the country, as time will again prove. But this is a country that loves to live on image, spin and fantasy, which has gotten us into this no-win situation...along with plenty of others.

Michael Horn

Posted by: Michael Horn | September 2, 2008 11:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You know, action speaks louder than words

Look at all the Republican hierarchy,

McCain, Fred Thompson, Newt Gingrich, all of them have dumped their wives and married younger women. Obama is through and through a family man. Evangelicals? Hypocrites -all of them. And what do they think of women? Look to their leaders. And yes, I mean it. Their leaders are all politicians, not religious leaders.

Posted by: Bill | September 2, 2008 11:25 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I love the way you liberal women,turn into mean liberal men whenever a real woman enters the room. Get used to it

Posted by: republican | September 2, 2008 11:25 PM
Report Offensive Comment

afafa gata notobologot tepolitarytonagu! TONGUES TONGUES TONGUES!!!!!

TONGUES will fornicate in the pentecostal house of the lord our savior Mack the Knife. afafa gata notobologot tepolitarytonagu! TONGUES TONGUES TONGUES!!!!!

She speaketh in the holy tongues of the holy spirit and eat raw moose. Matthew 6:29:1

Posted by: The Devil, THE DEVIL! | September 2, 2008 11:24 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You know, action speaks louder than words

Look at all the Republican hierarchy,

McCain, Fred Thompson, Newt Gingrich, all of them have dumped their wives and married younger women. Obama is through and through a family man. Evangelicals? Hypocrites -all of them. And what do they think of women? Look to their leaders.

Posted by: Bill | September 2, 2008 11:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Your reactions and analysis are absolutely on target -- and I write as a sister in Christ, and voter who is consistently pro-life and already committed to Obama.

Posted by: C Gruen | September 2, 2008 11:22 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Just because Sally was a failure at age 32, she believes Sara will be a failure at age 44. Her beliefs are not supported by the facts. I can only believe that Sally has continued her failing performance since age 32. Maybe Sally should try a career change. Cleaning motel rooms does not pay much, but she might be good at it, and she might enjoy it. Give it a try Sally.

Posted by: Ralph Rivera | September 2, 2008 11:21 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Okay, I'm done with this. Apparently you cannot bring up a valid concern with such crazies.

Posted by: seville | September 2, 2008 11:21 PM
Report Offensive Comment

No, YOU are cynical and calculated. This is the perfect VP selection at the right time. If McCain selected Tom Ridge and it was "calculated" to win PA then isn't THAT cynical? Ms. Palin is everything McCain -- and many, many Republicans -- and many, many Americans -- want in a VP. And she happens to be a woman. Or does that automatically disqualify her in the strange perverted world of Washington, which is the only place you seem to reside. Get out. Meet some real Americans. We LIKE strong women. And then get over how Republicans are the feminists and Obama is not.
JDE
Irving, Texas

Posted by: John Evans | September 2, 2008 11:21 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sounds like Sally Quinn has a jealous streak toward Mrs. Palin because she is quite an attractive woman. She was elected governor of a state, that qualifies her in my book. Governors run an entire state, senators like Clinton and Obama don't run squat. Oh woo, i just got a look at Horseface Quinn's picture above, woman jealousy for sure ....

Posted by: Rockhard50 | September 2, 2008 11:20 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Zane says:

"The writer seem to be unaware of the fact that the person with the LEAST experience is at the TOP of the Democratic ticket."

Exactly! Imagine that, the liberal mainstream media thinking we can't add two and two.

Posted by: Jimbo | September 2, 2008 11:20 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are so partisan, this is not worth a comment beyond this period.

Posted by: Country first | September 2, 2008 11:20 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Slick Will's several undisclosed half breed children, shotgun fornicating and oval office rape of a half brained invalid; Hillary's acceptance of that and her lesbian experimenting; the indiscriminate use of drugs in and around the White House; Bill's deserting this Country's military; his lies to Congress and to the People; his sentencing to fine and suspension from the Bar for criminal perjury............none of that disturbed your sensitive ethics. You see fit to pass judgment upon pre nuptial sex of two young adults, who are about to marry. How much prenuptial homo and etero sex did Hillary have at Wellesley and Yale. Have you bothered to inquire??? You see fit to pass judgment on a kid ...and her mother. Shame on you. you are a disgrace on womanhood

Posted by: michael petrone | September 2, 2008 11:20 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"Can Sarah think without a script?"

Well, we know she can read a Teleprompter. Barely.

She has obviously failed to teach her daughter the difference between right and wrong. How can she be trusted to run the country, or even preside over the Senate?

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 11:20 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Slick Will's several undisclosed half breed children, shotgun fornicating and oval office rape of a half brained invalid; Hillary's acceptance of that and her lesbian experimenting; the indiscriminate use of drugs in and around the White House; Bill's deserting this Country's military; his lies to Congress and to the People; his sentencing to fine and suspension from the Bar for criminal perjury............none of that disturbed your sensitive ethics. You see fit to pass judgment upon pre nuptial sex of two young adults, who are about to marry. How much prenuptial homo and etero sex did Hillary have at Wellesley and Yale. Have you bothered to inquire??? You see fit to pass judgment on a kid ...and her mother. Shame on you. you are a disgrace on womanhood

Posted by: michael petrone | September 2, 2008 11:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow, a crazy redneck chick for vice president. See how we are! This country has already gone down the crapper.

And, afafa gata notobologot tepolitarytonagu! TONGUES TONGUES TONGUES!!!!!

Posted by: The Devil, THE DEVIL! | September 2, 2008 11:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Another truckload of sour grapes by a former feminist turned into a chauvanist.

Posted by: ron s | September 2, 2008 11:17 PM
Report Offensive Comment

To Seville, and the "other" posters who are "oh so concerned,"

The false righteousness ain't playing, dears.

The pretend unctuousness ain't playing. You're not even fooling yourselves that it is. It will continue not to play, as long as you insist on trying it. It will only continue to galvanize everyday normal folks in their support for Palin.

You're way out of your league if you think this is an issue.

We're a public that saw Bill Clinton cavorting in the oval office. A 17-year-old daughter getting pregnant by her husband-to-be is not going to sway one voter against Palin.

The added publicity will only help her.

PS, if you libs are going to post here pretending to be "concerned independents," at least show a tattered shred of remaining integrity and consistently post using the same name; these sock-puppet posts are just too obvious. But I guess intellectual honesty is asking too much from liberals.

Posted by: Jimbo | September 2, 2008 11:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I support the Palin's in the handling of the issues in their family. I am the father of four daughters, the youngest of which is now 19 years old. Every honest father will tell you that even with the best of efforts to pass on your morals to your children, inevitably those same children are to become adults with their own free will and the responsibility that comes with it. To have to go through all this in the public eye while cynical journalists hurl petty barbs causes an intense and instinctive revulsion in me. How more sexist can one be than to suggest that Palin would be distracted with children, but Obama would not?! How much more misogynist can one be than to say that a woman has a choice to abort or keep her child, then ridicule her for making her choice?

Posted by: Matt | September 2, 2008 11:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The writer seem to be unaware of the fact that the person with the LEAST experience is at the TOP of the Democratic ticket. If elected, no one will need to die for him to take office.

The editorial was, at best, offensive.

Posted by: zane | September 2, 2008 11:15 PM
Report Offensive Comment

WE are talking the here and now and family values. I am wondering what is different in a child becoming an unwed mother is worse that a drug addiction. We all know Obama has had a drug addiction to COCAINE..............and the sllure of that drug is always with that former addict.

Posted by: Eileen | September 2, 2008 11:15 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I'm shocked that women like Sally Quinn attack Sarah Palin as a vice presidential candidate because she's a mother. Ms. Quinn holds mothers and fathers to different standards. Does she not think Sen. Obama's top priority are his young children?

I believe that Gov. Palin wants the very best for her children, and I applaud her for becoming involved in politics in order to insure a brighter future for her children. Mr. Palin is a supportive husband and father, and the Palins, like most American families, do what it takes to make ends meet.

If Sen. McCain has survived 4 bouts of cancer, his health must be extremely strong!

Posted by: Mary | September 2, 2008 11:13 PM
Report Offensive Comment

All right! Speaking in tongues is back in vogue!!!

gaga baba booboo tglarfaliaverminaotleter!

Posted by: The Devil, THE DEVIL! | September 2, 2008 11:13 PM
Report Offensive Comment

My - what an attack against having a woman in the presidency. And from what appears to be a liberal democrat. I must say, I'm confused by your reasoning, which has all of the earmarks most people would, wrongly, attribute to an exremely conservative person of faith. So, if I understand this corrently, in essence, you're saying that it's fine for a woman to be president, vice president, or hold any other public office, provided she's already raised her kids - because obviously, a woman's place is in the home. Huh.

I am, by the way, a Christian conservative who has been in the workplace, and left the workplace to raise my kids, and returned to the workplace. I have gone from extremely liberal in my youth and immaturity to being more considered and responsible as I've grown up. I have also suffered with the humiliation and indignation of being offered a management position because they wanted a woman in the position, regardless of qualifications. This position, by the way, was offered to me by the hiring committee of a liberal university in California. I turned that position down. I prefer to obtain a position on my merits rather than my gender.

Personally, I am thrilled with Sarah Palin. Having relatives in Alaska, I understand how difficult governing in that part of the country can be. I believe that, as Vice President, she is in a position to allow her intellect, which is quick, and her leadership skills, which are strong, to be honed to the point of being a successful President. She has shown herself to be a regular person - not a lifelong politician, not a charismatic charmer - a person, who will work for what she believes in. She addresses issues forthrightly, as with her "Troopergate" supposed scandal, and any other "questionable" items the main stream media wishes to dredge up about her. She announces her frailties and faults - things every human person has - immediately and honestly, and does not attempt to hide them or spin them into someone elses responsibility.

So - for me, speaking as a republican conservative Christian working woman - way to go John McCain for your pick. I'm excited about Sarah Palin as our next Vice President.

Posted by: Christy | September 2, 2008 11:09 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally - you don't find it cynical; you find it downright scary that McCain has picked a game changer.

Quite frankly, I find it "cynical" and "insulting" that you pretend to be a journalist when in fact you are just another one of Nobama's media lapdogs. Do you, like Chris Matthews, get a funny feeling racing down your leg when you are sitting up on Nobama's lap writing your next anti-McCain hit piece?

Instead of attacking a young 17 year old girl, why don't you spend time investigating your master's relationship with Bill Ayers, the radical left-wing anarchist member of the 1960s Weather Underground terrorist organization? Or perhaps you could contemplate the relative inexperience of the top of your party's ticket w/the bottom of the GOP ticket (yes, Palin actually has more political experience than your master, Barrack Nobama.)

Oh, and as a "family values" voter myself, I'm damn proud of her. I know that in your world it's okay to discard human life for personal convenience and abandon personal responsibility. That is the world of moral relativism that you and those of your ilk have adopted. Therefore, it's only natural that you wouldn't understand how support for Palin remains strong. Pathetic.


Posted by: NObama/Marx08 | September 2, 2008 11:09 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The writer seems to be unaware of the fact that the person with the LEAST experience is at the TOP of the Democratic ticket. If elected, no one will need to die for him to take office.

The editorial was, at best, offensive.

Posted by: zane | September 2, 2008 11:08 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Obama is a political hack street-activist with a reprehensible, ultra-liberal voting record that even he doesn't want to talk about.

The Obama-drones, in trying to downplay his glaring lack of qualifications and experience, have resorted to citing his Harvard Law experience. That's nice.

Obama talks about 57 states, wants to have a nice talk with Ahmedinejad, and thinks the answer to the energy crisis lies in windmills and tire gauges. (The buffoon talks about alternative energy as if he invented it; it's been around for decades.)

He comes up with these "visionary" ideas when he isn't too busy denouncing his own supporters or trying to stamp out any discourse concerning his Wright, Ayers, and Rezko connections.

His extremely short stint in the Senate was full of holes where he voted "present" -- when he wasn't voting ultra-liberal. Much of his time in Senate was spent campaigning. Apparently, being a senator grew old rather quickly for Teleprompter Barry.

The guy is out of whack, way out of the mainstream. He's a power-hungry totalitarian control freak.

Instead of citing his positions, he himself says the answers are "above his pay grade."

For his running mate, he picks an entrenched old-boy Washington liberal who got bounced back by the voters anytime he even thought of getting to the White House -- apparently someone high up in the Dem party thought Obama needed a "reliable" string-puller for his affirmative-action candidacy -- hence the extremely uninspired and uninspiring pick of Plagiarizin' Joe Biden. Biden brings nothing, not even the mainstream media's favorite noun, "gravitas." Biden was a wasted pick.

So much for the brilliant and uhh-uhh articulate Barack Obama.

Palin is rock-solid on the issues, she has strong convictions, executive experience, a history of taking on the establishment; she has guts and, unlike Hillary, she moved up the political ladder on her own steam. Next to Obama, Palin is amazingly qualified. And she's only the VP pick, while the amazing empty-headed Obama is the Presidential nominee. The Dems tossed Hillary over the side for this flake.

Don't even get me started on McCain's qualifications compared with Obama.

Teleprompter Barry is going to get slammed in the debates.

Posted by: Jimbo | September 2, 2008 11:08 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Eileen - who said I am voting for Obama or approving of his drug use? You have no idea what I have said about that. I simply said W used cocaine and there's a good chance you voted for him. I pity what we have to present to our children these days in terms of role models - Sarah Palin in no way is a role model, nor is her daughter.

Posted by: seville | September 2, 2008 11:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment

One more point about women saying home. Believe it or not, women CAN successfully lead powerful countries (Queen Elizabeth, Margaret Thatcher, etc...), and men CAN be home makers. Do you really think MR. Palin will keep his day job if his wife is elected vice president????

Posted by: Russell | September 2, 2008 11:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I find it funny that you slam McCain for choosing this woman for VP with 5 children, yet its ok for Democratic women to run for office with 5 children. I think this woman scares you. She has more to offer as a Vice President then Obama has as THE President. I like the fact that she is a conservative, I like the fact she is not from Washington, I like the fact that is a member of the NRA, I like the fact her husband works in the oil industry! We need people who know more about that then I do. I like the fact she is not afraid of the media and chose to accept the opportunity McCain has given. That says to me that she won't be afraid of the Pelosi's and Biden's. I can not wait for the VP debate! I think you doth protest too much! Your Obama pin is a little crooked and your green eyeshadow is begining to run. I say all of this as a guy from Minnesota.

Posted by: Hal G. | September 2, 2008 11:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Joe Biden has been in the congress longer than John McCain, so does that make him more qualified than McCain? Maybe what this country is yearning for is to get normal, everyday, people with some common sense in positions of responsibility and power, because God knows the liberal establishment,including Sally Quinn, have thououghly messed things up for the last fourty plus years. More power to Sarah Palin

Posted by: Jim Leyland | September 2, 2008 11:02 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You know, all your comments said about Palin being picked because she's a woman can be said about Obama because he's half black. Last I checked 92% of black voters were voting for Obama. Don't even try to tell me that they believe this guy is the best man suited for the job. Obama has no executive experience, except for a small charity he ran into the ground (spent too much money). If he's never lead, and his past experience shows that the only executive position resulted in bankrupting a charity, what do you think he's going to do for the country?

Posted by: Russell | September 2, 2008 11:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Unbelievable. In other words, a woman should stay home with her children? Suddenly, this is what the elite believe? The hypocrisy is breathtaking.

Posted by: Larry | September 2, 2008 11:00 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Is an admitted former COCAINE user a better example for your children????????

Posted by: Eileen | September 2, 2008 10:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn,from one woman to another,let me just say this about your article concerning John McCains VP pick. Palin does have a first name, it's Sarah. As my mother would say,"woman like you were called jealous,rhimes with witches".Get used to Sarah Palin, you will be seeing alot of her in the next four to eight years.I hope this wasn't inappropriate. And by the way, John McCain didn't pick Sarah Palin simply because she is a woman, but because she is a superwoman. We can all learn from her, even you. Thank you, Janet

Posted by: Janet Rotharmel | September 2, 2008 10:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

It is also written, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word."

So does that mean Obama's first priority should be to his wife, thus making his decision to seek the presidency a selfish one? What happens if something happens to his wife or children?

Apply the standard equally please.

Posted by: Yvonne | September 2, 2008 10:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You know, all your comments said about Palin being picked because she's a woman can be said about Obama because he's half black. Last I checked 92% of black voters were voting for Obama. Don't even try to tell me that they believe this guy is the best man suited for the job. Obama has no executive experience, except for a small charity he ran into the ground (spent too much money). If he's never lead, and his past experience shows that the only executive position resulted in bankrupting a charity, what do you think he's going to do for the country?

Posted by: Russell | September 2, 2008 10:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Eileen - W used cocaine too; plus he was an alcoholic with a DUI...I am sure you voted for him.

Posted by: seville | September 2, 2008 10:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn is totally wrong. Liberal women should learn to control their hysteria when confront by strong and capable women like Sarah Palin.

Posted by: The Professor | September 2, 2008 10:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You know, all your comments said about Palin being picked because she's a woman can be said about Obama because he's half black. Last I checked 92% of black voters were voting for Obama. Don't even try to tell me that they believe this guy is the best man suited for the job. Obama has no executive experience, except for a small charity he ran into the ground (spent too much money). If he's never lead, and his past experience shows that the only executive position resulted in bankrupting a charity, what do you think he's going to do for the country?

Posted by: Russell | September 2, 2008 10:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You know, all your comments said about Palin being picked because she's a woman can be said about Obama because he's half black. Last I checked 92% of black voters were voting for Obama. Don't even try to tell me that they believe this guy is the best man suited for the job. Obama has on executive experience, except for a small charity he ran into the ground (spent too much money). If he's never lead, and his past experience shows that the only executive position resulted in bankrupting a charity, what do you think he's going to do for the country?

Posted by: Russell | September 2, 2008 10:56 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Gosh do we question Obama's dedication to his children or is it just a female thing???????
Also I am wondering why is a former drug addict ...cocaine user ....on the ballot. as we all know cocaine always has an allure for former users.

Posted by: Eileen | September 2, 2008 10:55 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Gosh do we question Obama's dedication to hid children or is it just a female thing???????
Also I am wondering why is a former drug addict ...cocaine user ....on the ballot. as we all know cocaine always has an allure for former users.

Posted by: Eileen | September 2, 2008 10:54 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sara Palin is sending our daughters the wrong message. She is saying it's o.k. to get pregnant while in school. Just get married when you get out. Women that believe this need brain surgery.

Posted by: Starbright | September 2, 2008 10:52 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Well, let's see. The same exact people that voted George Bush into office TWICE, are the same people that now can't wait till John McCain starts WWIII so he can prove he got what it takes to be 'commander-in-chief.' The same people who put Dick Cheney back in the White House TWICE, are the same people who now want to put a little town mayor turned governor (for about 2 mins) into the second highest office of the land. God forbid anyone question her credentials or abilities . God forbid any American questions her character, since we all know of course that it is perfectly alright now that she leaves a 4 y/o, a special needs baby of 5 months old, and a teeenage pregnant daughter back in Alaska so she can fulfill her dearest wish...to be on the cover of Vogue and People magazine! God Forbid we ask questions, because, after all, these people had such honest to goodness sharp decision making capabilities!

Posted by: anniemargret | September 2, 2008 10:51 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am a mother of two young girls ages 4 and 6. In light of recent political events and I am forced to question: how would I explain Bristol Palin's pregnancy to my daughters if they were 14 and 16? It's one thing when Jamie Lynn Spears is the unwed teenage mother and quite another when it is the daughter of the candidate running for vice president of the United States.

Teenage pregnancies for young, unwed mothers seems to be becoming a mainstream, acceptable situation. I am so sorry for all of you mothers of teenage girls that will have to be having this discussion this week - while it is so important to discuss it, it must be so hard to explain why it's probably not going to work out so well for Bristol Palin - daughter of the GOP VP candidate.

Posted by: seville | September 2, 2008 10:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

everyone is hating on the Governor. Don't think that would be the case from this particular paper if she was a dem.

Posted by: Wow, | September 2, 2008 10:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am sure that this is the same thought process that kept women from breaking through the glass ceiling for years. "Should be home with the family.", "Can't do the work and raise kids at the same time.", "Can't do the work because of the kids.", "Her kids have done X, so it is obvious she is A)the cause of her kids problems or B) not qualified because her kids have problems.", or both.
As far as the choice made by McCain goes, it is obvious that it is a tactical and strategic selection more on what Sarah appears to be (much of politics is perception) to voters than on the loads of experience that she lacking.
I don't knock Obama on his lack of foreign policy experience. It is his foreign policy judgment, that the press has covered up as much as possible, that is the real problem. He has made a multitude of blunders that rival extreme ignorance such as his statements about nuclear weapons being "off the table". How about Iran is a tiny country and can't hurt us? How about willingly going along with denying our war effort the money needed to be successful? His background and upbringing form his judgment, which is horrendous.
It would be more conducive to intelligent questions and debate to cover actual decisions made by her in regards to her duties as governor. Trolling around her daughter and the life altering situation she is in now is despicable. Since liberals like to troll for anything, having no class, I would imagine their next target will McCain's disabled daughter, Bridget, in order . to be completely investigate our prez candidates

Posted by: infinitewisdom4u | September 2, 2008 10:46 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"Can Sarah think without a script?"

Well, we know she can read a Teleprompter. Barely.

She has obviously failed to teach her daughter the difference between right and wrong. How can she be trusted to run the country, or even preside over the Senate?

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 10:46 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sarah Palin: 2 years of executive experience running the largest state in the country
Barack Obama: 143 days in the Senate

Sarah Palin: "Armed forces, including my son, give us security and freedom." (Jan 2008)
Barack Obama: "I will stand with the Muslims should the political winds shift in an ugly direction" (from his autobiography, Audacity of Hope)

Sarah Palin: Reduced general fund spending by $124 million. (Mar 2007)
Barack Obama: Voted NO on $40B in reduced federal overall spending. (Dec 2005)

Sarah Palin: Claimed $500 million subsidy for gas pipeline. (Aug 2008)
Barack Obama: Voted YES on removing oil & gas exploration subsidies. (Jun 2007)

Sarah Palin: Cut state funding to Alaska’s construction projects, reformed corrupt government positions, and now has an approval rating of over 70%.
Barack Obama: Cast 130 "present" votes in the IL Senate

And Palin is only up for Vice President. I find it absurd that all these Obama journalists swear she will be unable to handle the position when she's been far more effective getting things done than Obama has--5 kids and all.

Posted by: Amanda | September 2, 2008 10:43 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I agree with this article entirely. As a working mother of a three year old I understand just how difficult this balance is. I started working when she was 5 days old as Sarah Palin did, but have chosen to never work more than twenty hours a week so I could spend time with my child. This has been an incredibly difficult balance - but one I cherish.

Add in to the mix the fact that the new child is a special needs child and that the job is being leader of the free world and you have an impossible challenge. Either you short change the needs of the child or you short change the needs of your country. Neither is acceptable.

Hands on education is vital in the first four years of a child with down syndrome. They have an enormous effect on the rest of the child's life. Who has taken on this challenge? The husband? I haven't heard him described as a stay-at-home Dad, I have heard him described as a part-time fisherman.

Apparently her family values are to have as many children as possible and then ignore them.

These are not my family values.

Posted by: Bea | September 2, 2008 10:43 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Truly amazing how quickly the RNC can get people (their sheepies) to flood websites like this with comments attacking anyone who dares to criticize their Chosen One. Good job trying to fake the comments to look like your typical semi-literate, trailer-trash Republican.

Anyone who believes that Palin has foreign policy experience simply because her state is the nearest to Russia doesn't deserve the right to vote. Maybe we should elect the governor of North Dakota, since his state also adjoins a foreign country. Or the governors of California, Washington, New York, Maine, Minnesota, Montana, Idaho, Wisconsin, Michigan, etc.

Yes, one side in this race is truly desperate--but it isn't the Democratic side.

Posted by: Amazed | September 2, 2008 10:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Anger, rightly said.
It is sickening to see how this 'top political learders do not hesitate a bit to put the country's interest at stake for power and to get to the whitehouse. It is a shame. I cann't believe this is happening in the educated American society. Do we care whether woman has to rule, no, this is not a office assistant job. Whether man or woman who is capable should lead, who is capable of turning the economy for better, handle international and security issues should be the one.

Posted by: oberver | September 2, 2008 10:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Obama is a 'two bit hustler from Chicago?' Lordy...you 'Christians' are truly amazing, and so 'Christ-like' aren't you?

Barack Obama is a full professor of law with a degree from HARVARD. He was the President of the Harvard Law Review! He could run rings around St. Sarah in two minutes flat, with a brain that runs at the speed of light. He actually thinks! Unlike McCain and Bush, he can think without a script in front of him! Can Sarah think without a script? Can McCain?

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 10:40 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"isn't ready to lead the free world" such a rush to judgement. The opinions that matter most are the ones who have been executives of a town, started a small businesses, or the ones who took on her own party's corrupt establishment. Not to mention having the approval rating over 80%. What else? She probably thought network TV was to easy.

Posted by: TheB52s | September 2, 2008 10:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn is an example of a reporter who writes more and more about less and less. All she can do is rip a qualified leader like Gov. Palin to exalt her opinion. This is a tired form of criticism that will fold as fast as the newspaper industry. It is interesting that Ms. Quinn made no comments about Gov. Palin's accomplishments in the offices she's held. She would rather suppress this information and magnify Palin's family affairs.

Posted by: Upstate New Yorker | September 2, 2008 10:35 PM
Report Offensive Comment

As someone who does not enjoy hype and spin, I am quite dizzy over the past two days. Yes, family and personal faith should be off limits, but , then, a party has made such a thing its bread and butter. I read a recent pro-Palin essay attributed to Pat Buchanan, which I thought at first was a lampoon, because the comedy blogs are already making such defensive statements as jokes: namely that we are safe from Canada and Russia during Palin's watch.

Foreign experience, abstinence, no sex ed, family values, and what else? This is like the Mad Hatter's (Republican) tea party. What is real?

Posted by: Bryan Gilliam | September 2, 2008 10:35 PM
Report Offensive Comment

This just in....Sarah will have to be 'tutored' by Bush advisors. Tutored. The woman couldn't find Iraq on a map if they pointed it out to her. She will be reading on script. When are the American people going to see this 'electrifying' person of high intelligence and experience? When will see a one on one with the press? Fire away! Don't pull any punches, Press. She wants to play with the 'big boys club' and we will let her, provided she gets the same treatment that any other candidate will get. Let her speak without a script on war/peace, immigration, taxes, economy, India, China, Pakistan, Ahmadinejad, the Ayatollah, etc...Let's hear her opinion on the Sunni and Shi'a and the conflict with Israel and Iran. Then we'll see if she is V.P. material or just another Alaska 'babe' pretty face with a penchant for killing caribou with an AK47.

Posted by: anniemargret | September 2, 2008 10:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I remember when Sally Quinn was gushing when George W. Bush was inaugurated in 2001. Quinn was on television telling the audience how honorable and decent the Bush's were. Now she writes that Palin is absolutely unqualified to be vice-president. I'll tell you something she didn't know that a lot of Americans knew in 2000, George W. Bush had absolutely no business even being considered for president, let alone to be appointed president by that useless Supreme Court decision. She finally sees the light...8 years to late for the rest of us.

Posted by: Rick Vanderstappen | September 2, 2008 10:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You posted the following in order to turn off women voters:

"A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She, being in the image of God as is her husband and thus equal to him, has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to serve as his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation."


It probally will, but if all was right in the world it would be the number one reasen she was voted for.

I read in the blogs that being a beliver is a negative.

What is our country comming to?

I hope and pray Obama is not the next president

Posted by: Larry McEntire | September 2, 2008 10:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate is a cynical and calculated move. It is a choice made to try to win an election."

Oh, but Obama didn't make his VP choice based on calculations to win an election?

Wow, the double standards and "doublethink" of liberals is simply amazing...

Posted by: asdasfasdgsdf | September 2, 2008 10:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I love the fact that you and the whole lefty/liberal blogosphere are up in arms over Palin. If Obama gets elected, it will truly be "for all the wrong reasons"; the man is an articulate but empty suit, adored by mindless pundits like you and the hollywood elite.

The sad part is that you would attack a viable woman candidate over your own shallow, narrow-minded political pandering.

Posted by: Brady | September 2, 2008 10:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Right on, Sally. I was amazed at how many scathing responses you have had to your piece. Wow, the Republican Right Wing must have had instructions to flood all these areas.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 10:32 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate is a cynical and calculated move. It is a choice made to try to win an election."

Oh, but Obama didn't make his VP choice based on calculations to win an election?

Wow, the double standards and "doublethink" of liberals is simply amazing...

Posted by: asdasfasdgsdf | September 2, 2008 10:32 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate is a cynical and calculated move. It is a choice made to try to win an election."

Oh, but Obama didn't make his VP choice based on calculations to win an election?

Wow, the double standards and "doublethink" of liberals is simply amazing...

Posted by: Hypocrisy | September 2, 2008 10:32 PM
Report Offensive Comment

As someone who does not enjoy hype and spin, I am quite dizzy over the past two days. Yes, family and personal faith should be off limits, but , then, a party has made such a thing its bread and butter. I read a recent pro-Palin essay attributed to Pat Buchanan, which I thought at first was a lampoon, because the comedy blogs are already making such defensive statements as jokes: namely that we are safe from Canada and Russia during Palin's watch.

Foreign experience, abstinence, no sex ed, family values, and what else? This is like the Mad Hatter's (Republican) tea party. What is real?

Posted by: Bryan Gilliam | September 2, 2008 10:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

OMG, Palin isn't ready, but a two-bit chicago hustler is? I love you women's libbers demonizing the epitome of a do-it-all female. You BO idolizers will say or do anything, won't you. We all understand that you hate Bush, but is selling out your decency, integrety, beliefs and your soul really worth getting a Marxist into the presidency?

Posted by: mmouse | September 2, 2008 10:30 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, why don't you go eat a ham sandwich and salute your Joseph Stalin poster and stop spewing your biased liberal garbage all over the internet. It's because of you that your poor excuse of a newspaper is going under and others like it all over the country. Good riddance.

Posted by: SandwichLuvr | September 2, 2008 10:25 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Family first. Especially in Sarah Palin's case.

Posted by: C. Neiman | September 2, 2008 10:25 PM
Report Offensive Comment

No wonder newspapers are going broke!

Posted by: Jim | September 2, 2008 10:24 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sex bashing to the worst degree. Please put this piece back in the 1940s where it belongs.

All other women need to make the vote to change this discrimination against women, mothers, and working mothers - vote for Sarah Palin in 08!

Posted by: Why Is This Still Up? | September 2, 2008 10:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The extremely meager details of Obama's healthcare, economic or foreign affairs plans that he's articulated don't make a bit of sense, which I think is a much larger issue than Sarah Palin's family life. Obama claims to have more experience than her, but she absolutely trounces him in the area of tangible accomplishments. His is a campaign of empty promises and the msidirection of blame. Fortunately for him, most liberals don't let facts and common sense influence their decision. There is currently a GLOBAL economic turndown. The UK economy is in its worst position in 60 years, and the dollar has been steadily gaining on the Euro in recent weeks. The difference is that the Brits don't have the audacity to suggest it's the governments fault.
Arrogance and ignorance are a deadly combination, and those are two areas where Obama bests McCain and Palin hands down.

Posted by: MarkD | September 2, 2008 10:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn has eloquently and thoughtfully stated the case regarding Governor Palin's assumption of the Vice Presidential mantle.
It would be contrary to all the wisdom which the Right has repeatedly voiced regarding major issues surrounding the role of woman taken from the biblical model they have interpreteed and endorsed repeatedly.
This action of John McCain's is a slap at all women who take seriously the role of office and the role of motherhood. He is attempting to manipulate his election by using a woman upon whose shoulders he would lean and stand as he assumes the stressful and challenging role of the Presidency. This is insanity. Someone offering this script for a film would have a hard time shopping it to the producers.
The presidential campaign coming from the right is now a sideshow gone mad.
McCain has violated his own principles and those of his party by his behavior.
Sarah Palin appears to be a nice person but she is not the appropriate candidate for the job.Why did he not choose Kay Bailey Hutchnison or one of the other outstanding women with a track record in the party? Because he wishes everyong to continue to percieve him to be a maverick. Well John it is time to hang those spurs up and think of the welfare of the country your so ardently embrace. and proclaim.

Posted by: Rev. Christine D. Barton | September 2, 2008 10:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

great example!
Your job as an anchorwoman vs Palin (already a proven Govenor)becoming VP. Sounds a little like you are just angry at the beauty of the choice and the fact that you were terrible on tv.

Posted by: Mark | September 2, 2008 10:22 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are focusing on the negative only; I hope other Christian women will see her as a leader who will be a role model.

Posted by: Diane | September 2, 2008 10:22 PM
Report Offensive Comment

THERE IS NO PROBLEM. Many kids do as they will; they make mistakes (Lord knows YOU didn't make any as a teen, correct?:). The family is living up to its pro-life stand; how HONORABLE that they don't want to kill a growing child for convenience. What a smear piece you've written, but it's from the Washington Post, perhaps only second in shame to the NY Times. And how ashamed you should be AS A WOMAN. But why am I surprised? Since Day 1 the media has been campaigning and covering for Obama. Now they are worried their choice for president (which they want to be OUR choice because we're apparently too stupid to form our own conclusions), may lose due to the CREDIBILITY, CHARACTER and HARD WORK of the HONEST Sarah Palin. I wasn't voting for McCain until Palin joined the ticket. She has PROVEN herself the best man/woman or whatever for the job. Anyone notice how much gender doesn't matter when it's a conservative running? How dishonest of the left and how typical of the quickly sliding media; the U.S. media needs to read the Journalist's Creed and come out of the pit! This former journalism major is disgusted with what I see; a biased press is no better or worse than a govt-controlled press! WHich is why I stopped reading the Post regularly LONG ago. And PLEASE stop insulting GOD by putting your POLITICAL piece in a section entitled "On Faith." Do you even believe, attend worhship in community as Jesus did, know what WWJD stands for??? Your article makes me wonder...

Posted by: FLNonny | September 2, 2008 10:22 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I agree with EVERYTHING you have written. First hand I know what it takes to raise a child with down's syndrome and I cannot fathom how she intends to juggle the care and emotional well being of a special needs child, a young pregnant daughter plus 3 other children while sitting in the VP slot. It is terrifying to think that this woman might replace McCain as President. She is completely unprepared to sit in either office. Her ambition is so great that she is willing to jeopardize the stability of her family and our great nation.

Posted by: nikki Hodges | September 2, 2008 10:21 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I totally agree with the above article on Palin. She seems to be an intelligent woman but is not up to perform the job as a VP for the President of the USA. She does not show herself as a great mother. Giving birth to 5 children does not mean she is a good mother.

Posted by: chan | September 2, 2008 10:20 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I'm saddened and astonished by the assertion that a woman and mother is being irresponsible by choosing to aspire to high office. And, with the participation of her husband in the management of home and family.

What about her opponent? Mr. Obama aspires to the highest office in land with two young daughters - who many will advise - require the vital presence and support of a father at this delicate point in their development. Are we to disregard him as a worthy candidate because his place is with his family? And, what if HE gets that phonecall at 3am??????

What an absurd debate. It sets the progress women have made back by 50 years...shame on you.

Posted by: Carol | September 2, 2008 10:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Well, now. Should John McCain and Sarah Palin gain the white house, this will be one for the history books. VP with a pregnant and unmarried daughter inhabiting our greatest institution. Republican Family Values at its best. That, along with the Republican talking points that have been handed out and read like a high crib sheet written in the palm of the hand and shared to the sheep. Hypocrisy is at work and America is the laughing stock of Europe.

Posted by: Walt | September 2, 2008 10:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

get real

Posted by: john | September 2, 2008 10:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Washington Post blather. Once again we see the other reason our founding fathers included free speech as one of our most cherished rights. Not only can we speak of our opposition without fear of retribution, but when they speak we can know them by their limping.

Posted by: pat | September 2, 2008 10:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

1. Proofread your work.
2. Don't assume that because you were a failure, she will be.
3. If Palin can't do the job having children, then you must condemn Obama as well.
4. The race for the presidency is between McCain and Obama, not Palin and Obama - don't cloud the issue. Any VP who has to step into the position will get more than enough help.
5. Please provide some evidence that this is gender politics in action - if it were about gender politics, McCain could have just as easily picked Condi Rice or Kay Bailey Hutchison. No, I think there is more to this story than you are acknowledging.

Posted by: Tony | September 2, 2008 10:15 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You write for the Washington Post?

Posted by: Clark Ian | September 2, 2008 10:12 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What a stupid article. You nitwit liberals are promoting an empty suit affirmative action candidate simply because he is black. He has no accomplishments, has no record of change, in fact no record at all. His spiritual advisors are hate America liberals, and he has indicated that he will back muslims when the chips are down.
Palin has more experience governing(you do understand the word, don't you?) than both the losers the democrats nominated. And she isn't Hillary. Thank god she isn't Hillary. She is tough, honest, classy and has ethics, integrity and morals. She has a husband who loves her and doesn't chase every skirt that goes by.
You liberal nitwits are backing a couple of arrogant eggheads who couldn't secure their back yards, much less this great nation.
Keep writing your liberal BS. It won't make a difference in the long run.

Posted by: LarryG62 | September 2, 2008 10:12 PM
Report Offensive Comment

anyone investigating statutory rape charges for the father? was he an adult at the time? do they still have sex?

Posted by: indigoblue | September 2, 2008 10:11 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Your dumb

Posted by: Sam | September 2, 2008 10:07 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Why can't the dad help raise the daughter and grand daughter??? I see no problem "reversing" roles, do you?

Posted by: Steve | September 2, 2008 10:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Why are mothers held to a different standard than fathers? If Palin were a man would we be asking ourselves any of these questions about her family and where her priorities are? Of course we wouldn't. Why are women expected to put their children first and careers second? Why aren't men expected to do the same? Why did you have to point out that Nancy Pelosi waited until her children were older to have her political career? This is incredibly sexist and unfair.

Posted by: Elizabeth | September 2, 2008 10:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Obama/Biden both empty heads , empty suits. Is it any wonder newspapers are on the verge of extinction. They are polluted with members of the countrys largest hate group, the democRAT party, a party Saddam Hussien, Osama Bin Laden, Adolph Hitler, Bill Ayers, would feel right at home in. And yes this is the party stinky old hag Sally Quinn belongs to. People are fed up with the loon left like yourself.

Posted by: Jill | September 2, 2008 10:00 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Each woman has the right to make choices for her own family and to not be judged for them. If Sarah Palin can spit out a baby and return to work the next day, good for her. Her husband is the primary caregiver. Why should Quinn or any other woman make a judgement that she can't be VP and a hands on and good mother because she has five children. She has chosen what works for her and her family and should not be attacked for it. To suggest she go home is insulting. I am offended that other professional women dare to attack her when they themselves have made personal choices that may not be traditional. These kinds of ridiculous attacks only make Palin more attractive to working mothers like myself.

Posted by: Jeanie | September 2, 2008 10:00 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Disgusted NJ Independent.

You are fooling no one, dear. Not even close.

Your name should read "panic stricken Obama acolyte." You and the other two or three "independents" posting their sham indignation because McCain DARED to pick a woman.

As a hopeless liberal, you are too, too transparent.

Anyone who "worries" about Palin, a strong-minded intelligent woman of conviction with executive experience, being "a heartbeat away" -- while Obama, a street-activist radical with extremely limited experience and a voting record and a past he doesn't want to talk about sits AT THE TOP OF THE TICKET -- anyone who tries that line is obviously one of the Kool-Aid drinkers.

Keep bringing up experience, so we can keep reminding everyone that Obama, sitting AT THE TOP OF THE TICKET, has none.

"NJ Independent." Get real.

Posted by: Jimbo | September 2, 2008 9:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Get over it. I think it was a fine pick. Yes, the fact that she is a woman no doubt played a role, but she is also a reformer in exactly the same mold McCain wants to be.

Posted by: Mark A. | September 2, 2008 9:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
It is quite obvious to us out here in the real world (outside the beltway) that your piece is written from a person who is afraid that John McCain might be the next president, or who is completely out of touch with the rest of us. Sarah Palin has more experience than Obama in that she has run a business, been an executive officer as mayor and later Governor of the most geography of any U S Governor. What does Obama's experience consist of? Oh yes, community organizer dealing with who gets food stamps and free rent, and later a short time as a legislator where he got nothing done, and then three and one-half years as a U S senator of which two and one-half years was spent running for president. You must be forgetting that Mrs. Palin is not running for President. She is running for Vice President. Obama, the rock star, is vying to be commander in chief of the most powerful fighting force in the history of the world, yet he doesn't even know which end of the tube the round comes out of. Could it be that you are afraid your guy is going to lose? I have to admit it's a lot of fun watching you main stream press people squirm.

Posted by: Darrell Williams | September 2, 2008 9:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"After four years of reporting at the Washington Post, I was chosen by CBS to be the first network anchorwoman in America, to co-anchor their Morning News. I had never been on TV a day in my life. I was 32. There were women at CBS who were much more qualified than I was and certainly other men. They chose me because they wanted a woman. I didn't even want the job, but I didn't feel I could turn it down. Of course it was a disaster. I lasted four months. I wasn't ready for Network TV."

Sally, you are pathetic and self-loathing. The above paragraph shows how incredibly JEALOUS you are of Palin.

Sarah Palin has gotten this far through intelligence, common sense and hard work. The only reason you're still writing for the WaPo is because you married the BIG boss.

Admit it. The only stunningly regrettable thing about Palin as far as the Dems are concerned is that she is not a Dem.

BTW - For the posters mentioning Mr. Palin's DUI from about 22 years ago - Let's see... that puts it at about the same time Obama was admittedly snorting cocaine.

BTW2 - Obama's mother got pregnant with him when she was 17 and married his father (the bigamist) three months later.

Posted by: waterfrontproperty | September 2, 2008 9:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

This article is completely off the mark. Yes I'm sure her being a woman has something to do with his decision, and it was a shrewd political one. But how many of those have Obama done? Didn't Obama pick the candidate that would help him win? Why can't McCain do the same? Your arguments do no follow logic. This is a sad all to bias report that can't be taken seriously.

Posted by: Sam | September 2, 2008 9:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Thank you for telling it like it is, Sally. I agree with you 100%. McCain has made a reckless choice, one that thoughtful people will have a hard time respecting.

By the way, why is no one asking who is taking care of the new baby? Even if he didn't have Down's Syndrome, WHO IS TAKING CARE OF HIM??? His pregnant teen-age sister? Why is the media not asking this important question? Oh, yes, I remember, once feminist thinking took hold in our country, little children became invisible. Nothing is more important than a woman's career. Sarah Palin is to be praised for going back to work two days after he was born!
Who needs a mothe anyway?

Posted by: Deborah | September 2, 2008 9:56 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Here are some Alaska FACTS:

Alaska is the largest state in union by far, everybody knows that, but did you know that Alaska has a greater population (683,478) than current Democratic party chairman and one time Democatic Presidential candidate and former Governor, HOWARD DEAN's state of VERMONT and nearly as great as the population of current Democratic Vice Presidential candidate Sen JOE BIDEN's state of DELAWARE.

In fact Alaska has a greater population than that of many other places including the Cities of:
Washington DC,
Orlando FL,
Boston MA,
New Orleans LA,
Cleveland OH,
Seattle WA,
and Baltimore MD,

And a greater population than the States of:
North Dakota
and Wyoming,

And a greater population than the Nations of:
Montenegro,
Iceland,
Luxembourg,
The Bahamas,
The Isle of Man,
Gibraltar,
Greenland,
Andorra,
Malta,
Aruba,
and Monaco.

Posted by: Britcom | September 2, 2008 9:51 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Why in the world would anyone think that "Hilary Clinton voters" would EVER vote for Sarah Palin? There is NO comparison. Sarah Palin is the antithesis of Hilary Clinton. It is an insult to women, Democrats, and all voters with any gray matter (at all) to consider Sarah Palin as any kind of alternative to Hilary Clinton. The political platform and agenda is the issue, not HER GENDER!!!!

Posted by: Jennifer Cook | September 2, 2008 9:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn has gotten most of her jobs because of her gender and because she is an ineffective, neutered spokesperson [says who?] of religion.

Posted by: Quinnsfather | September 2, 2008 9:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I and a republican, but I don't like McCain because he is a RINO. I was going to vote for Obama until he picked Biden for his running mate. Then, I wasn't going to vote. Now, I am going to vote for McCain because of Pulin.

Posted by: Marie | September 2, 2008 9:43 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Great article Sally, I thought it was fair and balanced.

Posted by: Winston | September 2, 2008 9:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If as Republicans claim, we are voting for the top of the ticket and not also the VP, why should we be excited about Sarah Palin's selection? If on the other hand, the person one heartbeat away from the presidency, God help us!

Mrs Palin is clearly unsuited to the commander-in-chief should the need arise. Her candidacy poses risks to three communities: republicans, women and christians. An incompetent Palin administration can only raise the hurdles for the next candidate from any of these groups, just as JWB's spectacular job is making it harder for his fellow republicans and born-again christians.

Republicans and christians should remember that God is not a Republican. Also, we live in a plurality. Their views on abortion apply to their own conduct and the conduct of those they influence. Trying to compel others to live by their precepts or choosing a woman soley because she's a woman, totes guns, eats moose and wants to impose her views on the rest of us is nothing short of insulting. Just try to lead by example for a change.

The republicans are trying to dress up spam and call it filet mignon. Americans are not that stupid.

Posted by: Disgusted NJ Independent | September 2, 2008 9:35 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What an obvious attempt to attack the choice instead of the issues. You automatically assume that just because she is a woman, that is the only reason JM chose her. How sexist indeed. Why can't you be honest and just say you dont agree with her political views. You suggest she shouldn't run because she has 5 children. I guess any mother with 5 children should be barefoot and pregnant in the kitchen as opposed to serving the public good. You suggest the out of wedlock pregnancy of her teen daughter somehow makes her a 'bad mother' or one that lacks 'hands on' parenting. What hogwash. The fact that she and her husband have a special needs child and a pregnant teen daughter only makes them more human. It is after all, the Utopia that liberals have been pushing for decades where teen sex is okay, isnt it? Your article is BS, pure and simple and I believe you should take a good long hard look at your true motives. How would you like to lose your job because of your family obligations? HOw would you react to being denied opportunity in any position because of your gender. I am ashamed for you, and you should be ashamed of yourself.

Posted by: Shame On YOU | September 2, 2008 9:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

So... you're saying that McCain can't criticize Obama's youth because he picked Palin for VP but you felt comfortable criticizing her for this apparent "youth". You also asked an incorrect rhetorical question... "Is Palin ready to be president?" Last I checked, she wasn't running for president. Lastly you mention that Barbara Bush said there's nothing you can do that prepares you for the White House but then say Palin's not prepared. What exactly would you say could prepare you for the White House? Didn't Barbara's comment clarify this for you? Do you even have an editor rapidly scan this nonsense before you publish it? I think the local community college is offering intro courses to logic this Fall. You may want to look into it.

Posted by: Confused | September 2, 2008 9:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Amazing. I gave up on Maureen Dowd long ago, but still gave Ms. Quinn credit for having a lot of class. Boy was I wrong.

PS I actually enjoyed her on TV back in the 70's.

Posted by: marty Chapman | September 2, 2008 9:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow Sally! Just the kind of snobby elitism I'd expect from a Washington Post alleged journalist. Were was your call trying abolish gender politics when Sen. Clinton was running? Could it be your comments are no more than eight grade girl jealousy because she's been able to accomplish things that you haven't been able to do? Have fun drinking that liberal media bias kool-aid.

Posted by: Adam Cummins | September 2, 2008 9:32 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I guess your inbox is full, so this is the default?
No matter, I'll just call you out in public!

Your objection to Sarah is not based on any idea you have that she may not be qualified, you gave that away early! You are scared to death that a woman who doesn't conform to your political ideology will be successful, thereby demonstrating that your complaints of "sexism" always have been and always will be empty, and your ideology is baseless.

You're done!

Thank you for your time,
Leo Wiser

Posted by: l wise | September 2, 2008 9:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Just because you Sally Quinn didnt have a son entering millitary service in a dangerous zone, a 4 month old downs syndrome child, a child expecting, having served in elected positions for years and governor of one of the largest states of the union bordered also by a foreign nation means nothing. You probably didnt grow up in a rural self sustaining area where self preservation and existance in the elements is everyday knowledge. You Sally may not have been ready to take on an anchor position but what does this have to do with Palins qualifications and accomplishments?

Posted by: brian | September 2, 2008 9:28 PM
Report Offensive Comment

So McCain is a cynic? I think the chief cynics in this election is the mulatto candidate who is nothing but a scumbag Chicago machine politician and his socialist/Marxist media buddies.

Posted by: Bob Moore | September 2, 2008 9:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

So McCain is a cynic? I think the chief cynics in this election is the mulatto candidate who is nothing but a scumbag Chicago machine politician and his socialist/Marxist media buddies.

Posted by: Bob Moore | September 2, 2008 9:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If family issues disqualify a candidate, then no one is qualified to run for office. Were you as concerned with John Edwards running for president at the same time his wife was suffering from cancer? I was led to believe liberals supported working women. Guess that is not true.

Posted by: Ryan Kaufman | September 2, 2008 9:25 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You can't be serious or expect people to take you seriously if you call yourself prolife and yet support the death penalty and war.

Sorry, you can't cherry pick scripture. Jesus was specifically against violence, including the death penalty ("He who has not sinned must cast the first stone").

Catholics like Palin say they are following the church on the subject of birth control and abortion, but have they ever noticed that the church is officially against war and the death penalty?

True prolife individuals respect all life, even that of the cruelest sinner. Only God should take life.

Posted by: Mike of Atlanta | September 2, 2008 9:25 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Pandering? Uh, does anyone (to the political right of Stalin) actually believe an empty suit like Obama didn't get nominated because he's black? Or runner-up Jr senator Hillary because she's a woman and an ex-president's wife?

Posted by: Mike Schmidt | September 2, 2008 9:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

why am i not surprised a washington post (so extremely liberal that it's commonly joked about) journalist and DC Insider (translation - she kisses up to the liberal democrats and puts their talking points in WaPo articles) come across as an unstable partisan hack?
sally, it appears as if your competency as an unbiased political journalist is as much of a disappointment as your stint as a network anchorwoman. kudos! keep on keepin' on!!

Posted by: mike hunt | September 2, 2008 9:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Pandering? Uh, does anyone (to the political right of Stalin) actually believe an empty suit like Obama didn't get nominated because he's black? Or runner-up Jr senator Hillary because she's a woman and an ex-president's wife?

Posted by: Mike Schmidt | September 2, 2008 9:22 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Excellent reasoning. But McCain didn't pick her to appeal to folks who consider issues like "is she qualified to manage world affairs". He picked her to appeal to the emotion of the blue collar crowd; NRA membership, teen pregnancy, beauty contests. These folks look at the Palin family and see their own, made good.

Posted by: Theresa | September 2, 2008 9:22 PM
Report Offensive Comment

More liberal snobbishness and garbage. Its amazing these people have jobs.

Posted by: CTB | September 2, 2008 9:20 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Your so right Sally! That Palin woman ought to be home raising her babies. A woman cannot work a job that important and be a good mother at the same time.

Obama/Biden 08

Posted by: DeJohn | September 2, 2008 9:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Liberals are running scared. It's truely entertaining to watch.

Posted by: patrick | September 2, 2008 9:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally if you remember BHO Mother was not married to his Father, or does that matter to big libs?

You really can't stand it that she is such a beautiful sucessful lady that you will never be.

What does her daughter have to do with her running
for vp. Her family is off limits to you losers.

She is really some smart lady. Council, Mayor and Gov. You can't get any better than that.

I say go MCCAIN/PALIN 08

Posted by: Minnie | September 2, 2008 9:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Those who are left stranded by a changing tide never want to believe that a sea change is happening. HMS Boomer has reached its final port. Political analysis by anyone over 50 is passé and excruciatingly solipsistic. Sally, you may still be collecting a paycheck but your crowded hour is over. Retire and play with the grandkids, for once.

Posted by: all ashore | September 2, 2008 9:17 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
I'm not qualified to judge your interesting views about Palin's candidacy.
However,isn't the most importent point that McCain choosing her shows him to be as dumb and reckless as a Bush?
Why didn't he choose Condi Rice? Wouldn't that have cinched support, and the election?

Posted by: Jack | September 2, 2008 9:17 PM
Report Offensive Comment

This piece is as elitist as it is hateful. Why do liberals only claim to be open minded when it suits their agenda?

Posted by: Sean Keefe | September 2, 2008 9:17 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I don't understand why everyone is asking if Palin is ready to be president. I get that John McCain is old. I get that he keeps getting cancer. I get that you need to attack Palin in every way possible. But seriously. McCain has done a bang up job with surviving cancer, torture and the rigors of running for president. I think he can make it 4 years. If we need to get into push and shove, what makes Biden capable of being president? 25 years of politics? The question has to be asked. POTUS vs. POTUS; VPOTUS vs. VPOTUS. That's how the campaign should be run. It's not Obama/Biden vs. Palin. It's Obama/Biden vs. McCain/Palin. Let's keep our heads about us people.

Posted by: Bill | September 2, 2008 9:17 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are sick and twisted and jealous!

Posted by: Mary Teets | September 2, 2008 9:15 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The greatest asset of Sarah Palin is herself. She has written herself in her life and work. She is not shaped and molded by expectations and sterotypes. Her varied and unusual background in growing up free in Alaska has given her uniqueness and character.
This is most exciting.
I'm sure you, Sally are a good mother. But a good mother can also have children who get on without her because she is a good mother. Sarah Palins children also have a father.
Sara seem full of promise and gives me hope. She fulfills my dream that new ideas and new resisitance to the statis quo is possible.

Posted by: kathy boland | September 2, 2008 9:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn is afraid of a woman like Palin. She, like all the lefists cannot understand and do not want to understand Palin. Here is a strong and forceful woman who is married, has children, hunts and fishes, NRA member, God forbid, a conservative, etc. But even more important than the above, she does not worship at the feet of Obama, she does not worship the Left's sacrament in their religion, which is abortion.

We are well aware that Ms. Quinn is in the tank for Obama and is a tool of his campaign. It is a shame.

Posted by: walter | September 2, 2008 9:13 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I like how "qualified" woman is used as a euphemism for "liberal" woman. Just because a person doesn't share your liberal and permissive views doesn't mean that she's unqualified.

It's just more of the same automatic assumption that a liberal point of view is somehow "objectively correct". How ridiculous.

For example, it's obvious Condoleeza Rice "doesn't count" to you as a milestone of US history as the first African-American Secretary of State. Must be because "she's just not right" or "not on your side", or that she's so closely tied to your blurry hate for the existing President that you can't admit that truthful fact.

Liberal hypocrisy knows no limits.

Posted by: Lava | September 2, 2008 9:13 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What a hypocritical column, or should we say hit piece. Any thinking woman would be offended or outraged at the multiple feminine put downs you drop. Do you have any kids? If so, please stay home and quit writing these nonsensical columns.

Posted by: Sam | September 2, 2008 9:09 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Palin is as ready as Obama. If Sarah Palin isn't ready to be VP, then certainly Obama is not ready to be President. What foreign policy experience does Obama have that is so superior to Palin's?

In a weird way, talking about how Palin's experience compares to Obama's highlights Obama's inexperience. At least the GOP has their ticket right-side-up. Notice how the Democrats are comparing the person at the top of the GOP ticket to person on the bottom of the Democratic ticket? It's like a team at the Olympics saying: "Ha, ha, our #1 beats your #2!"

Posted by: Tevye | September 2, 2008 9:08 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Hmm. I thought Palin was running for Vice-President.

Wait, there's more genius in here:

"And by the way, how can McCain call Barack Obama unqualified, inexperienced, not ready from Day One, not able to be commander in chief, and then put someone like Palin in a position that is a heartbeat away from the pesidency?"

McCain can do that in his campaign for the "pesidency" just as well as you don't bother to spell check.

The "heartbeat" away garbage argument didn't work against Reagan years ago (President to age 77). it also didn't work more recently against George W. vis-a-vis the universally hated Cheney.

Unless you can predict the future, you can't say that McCain won't outlive you, either. He could die tomorrow (you'd like that, I bet).

Until that time, let's compare qualifications and positions Pres-to-Pres and Veep-to-Veep, and stop taking lame shots. If you're going to shoot with words, learn not to be sloppy and make your shots count.

Posted by: Benny | September 2, 2008 9:07 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Everyone is a critic. I think Obamas bkgd of drug and alcohol use in conjuntion w/his great voting record make him a prime candidate.For dog catcher or meter maid. Get off Palin she has accomplished more than you ever will in public service and is a real person unlike The Plastic Obama Band!!!!!

Posted by: jmichjaels | September 2, 2008 9:07 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Very objective and well said!

Posted by: uno4all | September 2, 2008 9:06 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow. What a hateful article. Newsweek has no shame.

Posted by: Bob Frack | September 2, 2008 9:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I do believe that anyone who can support Palin is not really looking at her objectively and in comparison to the real qualifed women who could have probably met the needs of the party and the country.

As for the polls, I don't know what that dude is smoking but Obama is up by 8 in the daily tracking polls (Rasmussen and Galllup).

Posted by: Delilah | September 2, 2008 9:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,

As a person of faith, do you oppose Ephesians 5 which calls for women to submit to(read respect and honor) their husband's leadership and likewise calls husbands to love their wives sacrificially as Christ loved the church... to care for their wives with the same attention to detail that they understand and care for their own bodies? After re-reading your quotation from the Baptist faith and message... what is so wrong about husband and wife putting each other first in marriage (I noticed that you failed to comment on what the husbands are called to do)?

Granted the language might seem outdated in the 21st century but I think when it comes to men and women we have had enough of the "me first" generation and its mindset.

As for Palin, she has more political experience than Barrack (not as much as Hillary but Hillary has been 'taken out' of the race and so we are left with a man who has less track record than McCain and Palin).

I am afraid your bias is showing through. It's disappointing. It seems that you speak of her from a liberal perspective and not that of a moderate. What is a moderate anyway? Just say you are a progressive or a liberal, theologically or politically speaking.

In any event, I agree that Palin is qualified to be VP but I am not so certain that the man nominated by the Democrats is qualified to be President or Vice President.

Keith Crosby

Posted by: Keith Crosby | September 2, 2008 8:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Some of what you say is true. Unfortunately it is interspersed with innuendo, bias and just plain garbage. As it does with most of the media, your real agenda stands out like a sore thumb. Keep up such stuff and your tenure will be short here also. (hopefully) If if I were your parent I would restrict your privileges and take away your Internet for 90 days.

Posted by: Dave West | September 2, 2008 8:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Hmmm...faith and values columnist who is this out of touch with the worldview of people who embrace both faith and values.

Christians and various other religious groups will, I predict, be heartened by the fact that John McCain has nominated this woman who not only talks the talk, but also seems to be living it.

"These are dangerous and trying times for the entire world. This is no time to to play gender politics. The stakes are too high"

You might want to take your own advice, because you have entered into gender politics with glee...would you ever ask the same questions of a male candidate?

John McCain, in a highly competitive race has made the call to Sarah Palin, not as a token (as Walter Mondale utilized Geraldine Ferraro in a campaign that had not chance) but as an intriguing outsider pick.

I not only hope that John McCain's choice is a success from the standpoint of the election, but I also hope that Sarah Palin forces you to eat your words.

Posted by: Rocky | September 2, 2008 8:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

She is ready to be Vice President. The real question is Obama ready to be President.

Posted by: Indyracefan | September 2, 2008 8:55 PM
Report Offensive Comment

sally instead of hashing the fish wrappers you need to get back over to the watergate. everytime you leave ben alone he wanders around the lobby in his bathrobe and dribbles down his chin.

it is your job to keep him out of the public eye. he might reveal that deep throat was linda lovlace and that bob woodward was the CIA contact at the WAPO.

be careful , elder sitter!

Posted by: walter kohn | September 2, 2008 8:55 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally: These poor deluded people on the right. Somehow they have become so insane about one thing, Abortion, they can't seem to understand that there are many other things that they should be worrying about like who in the hell is Sarah Palin? One of her defenders felt that she would be a great negotiator with Russia because Alaska is close to Russia. This is the level of intelligence of the average Palin supporter. Ach!!! Help us all.

And please read the post by the Jewish guy. It's hysterical. I think I might apply. I'm qualified. Kids are grown. I've traveled extensively and have been to every state in the U.S. I have a disabled daughter. But I'm not nearly as witty as Jewish guy. He wins:)

Posted by: Delilah | September 2, 2008 8:55 PM
Report Offensive Comment

im sorry to say but i think u r very wrong sen mcain did not just choose sarah palin for his running mate just because she is a woman he choose her because she is a very bright and intelligent woman with expirience and will only help change and improve the republican commite for the better. she is for offshore drilling which is awesome because offshore drilling means no more forgin oil and more money for the united states. and as far as im cncenered the whole pregnant issue is and should not even be concidered an issue and i dont think it will or should effect the campaign at all!! it is a very personal and private issue and they dont need the media or the democrats breathing down their throats about it!

Posted by: lindsey | September 2, 2008 8:51 PM
Report Offensive Comment

im sorry to say but i think u r very wrong sen mcain did not just choose saah palin for his running mate just because she is a woman he choose her because she is a very bright and intelligent woman with expirience and will only help change and improve the republican commite for the better. she is for offshore drilling which is awesome because offshore drilling means no more forgin oil and more money for the united states. and as far as im cncenered the whole pregnant issue is and should not even be concidered an issue and i dont think it will or should effect the campaign at all!! it is a very personal and private issue and they dont need the media or the democrats breathing down their throats about it!

Posted by: lindsey | September 2, 2008 8:50 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn--

I understand your concern about whether Governor Palin can handle the Vice-Presidency job, given all that she has on her plate.

All you examples you cited, however, are past based (on your own experience and other peoples'). My question to you is....how do you know what this woman (Sarah Palin) is made of? She is paving the way for history and the opening of many doors for other women who will follow her.

After all we females have fought for .... demanding equal opportunity in the workplace, isn't it a little anti-feminist to suggest that we should once again....let the circumstances of our lives dictate to us our limitations. Ms. Palin appears to have many supportive people around her (including her husband and family) who are willing to empower her. She also seems to have born with a rare leadership quality that is much needed for our country right now.

I applaud her for her willingness to take this challenge on.....looking to create a giant possibility in the future and allowing all the forces in the universe to align with her commitment. She has my support to have it all work--her career, her family and her obvious love of these United States. We as women have all come too far to turn back now.

--Melody Leo
Seattle, WA

Posted by: Melody Leo | September 2, 2008 8:50 PM
Report Offensive Comment

In the trying days ahead, who is going to need Sarah Palin more - 300 million Americans or 1 - 17 year old child trying to figure out how to be a mom. Who wins, who loses? McCain is to blame.

Posted by: Will Merritt | September 2, 2008 8:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn--

I understand your concern about whether Governor Palin can handle the Vice-Presidency job, given all that she has on her plate.

All you examples you cited, however, are past based (on your own experience and other peoples'). My question to you is....how do you know what this woman (Sarah Palin) is made of? She is paving the way for history and the opening of many doors for other women who will follow her.

After all we females have fought for .... demanding equal opportunity in the workplace, isn't it a little anti-feminist to suggest that we should once again....let the circumstances of our lives dictate to us our limitations. Ms. Palin appears to have many supportive people around her (including her husband and family) who are willing to empower her. She also seems to have born with a rare leadership quality that is much needed for our country right now.

I applaud her for her willingness to take this challenge on.....looking to create a giant possibility in the future and allowing all the forces in the universe to align with her commitment. She has my support to have it all work--her career, her family and her obvious love of these United States. We as women have all come too far to turn back now.

--Melody Leo


Posted by: Melody Leo | September 2, 2008 8:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear Geek,
The job of Secretary of State has already been filled, but I hear Obama needs someone to clean his toilets. Unfortunately since you admitted to using controlled substances you are unqualifed for a government job to clean toilets, but I hear the DNC needs a new Chairman.

Sounds like you'd fit well. I'll forward your letter immediately.

Respectfully,
JM

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 8:46 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I'm sure that Sally Quinn would have no problem with flushing a baby with Down's Syndrome down the toilet. At what point in time did Quinn become an expert in Christianity or in God? Answer: Never.

Posted by: Jim | September 2, 2008 8:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Why do people keep saying that it is a mistake for a woman to have a baby? Why do people attribute the decision to have a baby as poor judgment? Babies are not evil. They are not a punishment. What despicable people invented such a lie?

Babies are innocent and defenseless human life and deserve to have their lives protected from those who would kill them. What respectable person doesn't know this?

Save the babies! Abort the Democrats!

Posted by: Britcom | September 2, 2008 8:40 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You said it all! Anyone who says diffrent is not being intellectually honest.

Posted by: The TRUTH! | September 2, 2008 8:38 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Thank you Sally Quinn for your honest analysis of Ms Palin as the prospective VP of the United States.
A columnist in the British paper, "The Guardian" gave a succinct response from Europe, "Has McCain Gone Insane?"
The issue is not whether Ms Palin is a nice person, or whether she prays every night. The question is whether she is fit, in McCain's words to take over the presidency."
This is not a game of the "Emperor's new Clothes"
It would make the US the laughing stock of the world
She was selected for one reason alone, to draw in the right wing Evangelicals to support McCain.
For no other reason.
With the world facing massive upheavel from climate change we don't need someone who blows off this deadly issue like a child's game.
Polar bears don't deserve to be on receiving end of a gun toting Annie Oakley!
The nation's economy is in a shambles. We need someone who has at least a semblence of economic understanding.
Opening up the Alaska Wildlife Preserve for oil exploration is a reckless act. What does Ms Palin understand about the world's energy needs?
The list goes on and on. We all know it.
When the order collapses, everyone suffers.
Global warming also affects Republicans.
Let's see this for what it is. McCain is impulsive and reckless. I shudder to see him as our next president

Posted by: lionsden | September 2, 2008 8:38 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Not to be critical but Chelsea Clinton is an adult. And for the poster who finds it helpful to rehash Bill Clinton, it's time to get over it.

Tell me why Palin is a better choice than the other multiple well-qualified conservatives, men and women? I don't understand why this is a question that is still unanswered. Don't you think that this is a question that people like Lindsey Graham must be asking?

Where is he, by the way?

Posted by: Delilah | September 2, 2008 8:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The issue of whether Sarah Palin is or is not a good mother does not belong in this discussion. Some of the posts are correct. Her daughters situation is, as Sen. Obama has insisted, is also not the issue for political discussion. What is, is Gob. Palin's record as being more right wing than Pres. Reagan and Sen.Conservite (Barry Goldwater. Some of her positions are off the chart. And these are the areas that should get all the attention. Secondly, serving on the city council, serving as Mayor of a small town in a small (population wise) state is not the same as Vice=President of the US,
As for the "executive experience" gained from being Governor of the state that is ranked 47th in population, it is a no brainer. She may be smart and accomplished for where she is, but do you really want someone so clueless about national affairs to be a heart beat away from the office of President. If McCain wanted a woman there were many more qualified ladies in the Republican party.

Posted by: Ira | September 2, 2008 8:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am a conservative and I love the choice of Governor Palin. She is authentic. A real American. She is not a contrived, political opportunist, manufacturing by a political machine (Obama), maneuvering for the Presidency for the past 15 years.

Sally, you are dead wrong. I was on the sidelines until this selection because I am sick and tired of career politicians.

Governor Palin is the real deal and the more she and her children are attacked the more she will be supported. No one likes it when someone is bullied.

Your tone is elitist. You sound like a snob. I am a very well educated, high income, conservative, and I will vote for McCain, and contribute, because of Palin!!!

Posted by: GoConservative1776 | September 2, 2008 8:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The issue of whether Sarah Palin is or is not a good mother does not belong in this discussion. Some of the posts are correct. Her daughters situation is, as Sen. Obama has insisted, is also not the issue for political discussion. What is, is Gob. Palin's record as being more right wing than Pres. Reagan and Sen.Conservite (Barry Goldwater. Some of her positions are off the chart. And these are the areas that should get all the attention. Secondly, serving on the city council, serving as Mayor of a small town in a small (population wise) state is not the same as Vice=President of the US,
As for the "executive experience" gained from being Governor of the state that is ranked 47th in population, it is a no brainer. She may be smart and accomplished for where she is, but do you really want someone so clueless about national affairs to be a heart beat away from the office of President. If McCain wanted a woman there were many more qualified ladies in the Republican party.

Posted by: Ira | September 2, 2008 8:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What about those military families where the wife leaves behind her kids to deploy?!?! How do those families pull it off?
As far as Palin's experience...if the founding fathers felt the need for special qualifications they would have spelled it out. Government by the people, for the people! She looks like the average person sick of the Democratic party's miserable performance when controlling the house and senate. What ever happen to Pelosi's "1st 100 days" in power. Why not do a "news" piece on that one!

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 8:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow! What a poor analysis and conclusion. Do you get paid to do this?

Posted by: RandalH | September 2, 2008 8:35 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear Senator McCain,

I would like the position of Secretary of State. The allure of foreign travel and the occasional use of Air Force One major attractions.

I have a passport, have visited NYC and Washington DC and have been exposed to many who are not US citizens. I have visited most of the Carrbbean Islands so one could say I am experienced in foreign affairs. I have been married for 32+ years and have a teenage daughter and experienced in the art of diplomacy and negotiating tough economic issues.

Most of the automobiles I own and the electronics I buy are made in other countries, so I have experience in foreign trade.

I am both pro choice and pro life. I support my wife's and daughters desire to make choices since I am motivated not to be killed and thus am pro life.

I am Jewish which may be a problem in the middle east, but frankly am Jewish lite, which means I don't have milk with my ham sandwiches.

It is clear that I will fit in with the McCain Palin team, where those pesky subjects, such as background, experience and knowledge can be set aside to give a break to a nice guy.

I look forward to joining the Whitehouse team and having never been arrested, have been with the same employer for over 30 years, am University educated am confident that I will pass the vetting process. There however was this incident in college 34 years ago with 2 women, which is now a faded memory. Oh yeah I did smoke dope, did inhale and frankly enjoyed it at the time.

Give me a call after the election and we can talk.

Regards,

Geek


Posted by: geek | September 2, 2008 8:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I reading that men and woman can both be 'mothers.' WRONG! Fathers can be father but they can't be mothers. Get over it. Women are created to conceive, give birth and nurture. Every intelligent pediatrician in this country will attest to the importance of raising children with a nurturing mother, particularly in the first seven years of life when the child first forms their identity. The fathering is also important from a male perspective, but no father can 'mother.' That is why God made TWO different sexes! What is frankly appalling to me is that the liberals are more conservative on this issue than the CONSERVATIVES! Suddenly their gal might be the V.P. and just as suddenly all the typical traditional roles for men and women fly right out the window. Who cares if she leaves her 5 y/o and 5 month old behind in AK while she flits around the lower 48? Who cares if her teenage daughter is pregnant and will have face enormous challenges of her own raising that child, with a young man who apparently from news reports really didn't want the child! You conservatives are falling through the cracks. You have given up every single Christian conservative principle to support St. Sarah! Shame!

Posted by: anniemargret | September 2, 2008 8:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Why the strong reaction to Sarah Palin? She scares the daylights out of a corrupt media who has allready had the coronation of the "chosen one" at Invesco Field. Why, someone might turn the queston of "experience" around and actually ask Barak Obama about his experience to be, not Vice-President, but President. No one ever asks Democrat women if they can handle elected office and a family at home. This IS what feminists worked for, that women be treated the same, but, I guess, not if you are a REPUBLICAN woman!

Posted by: Doug | September 2, 2008 8:32 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What's wrong the Baptist Faith and Message? I guess you have some issues with the Bible as well. Marriage is representative of the relationship we have with Christ. Believers are the bride of Christ and must submit to his headship. The same goes for marriages. You cannot have two heads.

Colossians 3:18-19 says, "Wives, be subject to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be embittered against them." Ephesians 5:22-29 says, "Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself being the Savior of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless. So husbands ought also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself; for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also does the church."

It's funny how liberals ignore this. I'll be honest, the happiest women I've met in my life (my wonderful wife included) are those who understand what biblical submission really means. To folks like you, it means being a slave. But to godly women, it means loving and honoring their husband as the head of their household. You're in my prayers.

Posted by: Ryan | September 2, 2008 8:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

While you , with all of your "sophistication" will be a glorified beat reporter for the paper, Sarah Palin will be Vice President.
I cant believe your hypocrisy!All of a sudden your worried about the job qualifications of a mother with children? If she was applying for CEO and was turned down, you would be protesting. (and rightfully so)
And where you to question Obamas lack of experience?
At least be consistent!!

Posted by: Sally Quinn is just Jealous | September 2, 2008 8:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow Sally! What a sexist pig you have become. You mean to tell me that a woman can't tackle career and family? Are there things to high for working moms? Even those worth a bucket of warm uh..spit?

Or excuse me should she be at the top of the ticket because that's where the amateurs belong- just like the Dems have it?

Or maybe experience is required of Republicans but non-essential for Dems!

Or maybe it's ok to apply standards to Republicans but not Democrats! After all Republicans are always harping that kind of thing...

Or maybe it's all of the above coupled with the fact that the left believes its ok to do whatever needs to be done to win...

Pathetic............

Posted by: Wes Walton | September 2, 2008 8:29 PM
Report Offensive Comment

For those of you who are so charmed with hockey mommy Palin, keep in mind that most Republicans are conservative non-evangelicals. In my city where most voters are Republican, John McCain's choice is not seen particularly favorably. Many view Palin as a less than steller choice and an insult to the the voters who support real conservative views. The conservative moniker has nothing to do with this craziness related to social issues. It is based on economic principles which Palin does not understand to the depth to at least qualify her for VEEP.

This choice has nothing to do with what's best for this country or as McCain phrases it "Country First". The real slogan should be "me first". It's simply viewed by McCain as a means to power by using a "woman" to give him a leg up. It is cynical and dishonest. He's still pissed off that he wasn't the candidate in 2000 when he was the real McCain not the current imposter. What short memories Americans have! This is truly Dubya's third campaign and he should be proud that he is responsible for compromising the real McCain.

And for VEEP, instead of Darth Vader, we have a character and story straight out of a tawdry dime store novel. Palin has forsaken her family for the bright lights of broadway. And she couldn't care less.

Posted by: patryot | September 2, 2008 8:29 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Palin is a hypocrite! Her statement: "We're proud of Bristol's decision to have her baby and even prouder to become grandparents."

'Decision' to have her baby? Did Bristol REALLY have a choice? The same choice that Palin now wants to deny all Americans?

Palin would not be a hypocrite if she said "We forced Bristol keep her baby and are proud to become grandparents."

Posted by: Buddydog | September 2, 2008 8:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

It makes me sad that so many Americans call other Americans hateful names rather than being able to say "I disagree with you, and this is why"

I will be voting for Obama, but I am disappointed by your analysis. Palin has a number of very interesting qualities, and there are still a few things about her that are also troubling. If McCain was serious about his repeated criticism of Obama's experience, he would never have selected Palin. Clearly he did not believe his own words. I am disturbed by the lack of judgement shown in flying while pregnant, and by her interest in teaching creationism in public schools. I love her willingness to strike out against corruption, even within her own party.

Personally I think experience is overrated as a requirement, and clearly Senator McCain agrees with me. I'm not voting for experience, I'm voting for someone who will hold a vision for a better America. Obama is effectively the Democratic party version of Ronald Reagan, with a better intellect. I've had it with mediocre thinkers in the white house. The most critical thing a president does is appoint qualified people, and picking Biden says something good about Obama's judgement. The Palin pick, especially if the reports on how it was done are accurate, reflects less well on McCain in my judgement.

Please stop attacking other Americans and focus on the issues, actions, and goals. We've had enough senseless rage.

Posted by: Colin | September 2, 2008 8:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Congratulations for parroting every left wing cliche' that has been bandied about since Governor Palin was announced, all in one article. I especially like the "one heartbeat away" line. Talk about fear tactics. The same party who (allegedly) champions change and equality for women now turns their spin machine loose on her private family matters, even questioning her mothering skills. Way to go!

Amazing country we live in, that is until the Dems turn it into the Socialist States of America.

Posted by: John Q. Patriot | September 2, 2008 8:25 PM
Report Offensive Comment

She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother. She's a bad mother.

Posted by: Ken | September 2, 2008 8:24 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Quinn's bio from www.charlierose.com/guests/sally-quinn

"Quinn began as a reporter for the "Post" with very little experience, but soon became expert at getting subjects to talk more than they'd expect."

Shouldn't she have started out as a reporter for a little newspaper in Podunkville, Arkansas? Evidently, she thought more of herself than she gives other people credit for.

"But it's not Vice President Quinn was going for." OK fine, then what about Obama, who would be president? Is that not the 800lb. gorilla in the room that the MSM is trying to avoid? You can't have it both ways, hypocrite.

Posted by: SQ Hypocrisy | September 2, 2008 8:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What Judgmental gall!
Weren't you having an affair with your boss before you were married? Where was your moral compass?
Hey, if that's what you wanted fine but then don't judge a 17 yr old kid and blame her parents for her mistake.

And to the competency of Mrs. Palin.
Maybe you should travel out west where we think differently.
We like to be independent and live and let live.
This is an incredibly accomplished woman who would be an asset to that table where all these men are making decisions.

Posted by: Charlotte Hoffman | September 2, 2008 8:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Maybe the Democrats haven forgotten a president who lied to the American people about a sex act in the Oval Office and who left office with the country in a recession. Reasons for the decisions of some politicians on both sides amaze me. Which ever president we end up with will make little difference to the United States. Only to the media.

Posted by: Remy Reulet | September 2, 2008 8:20 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I really cannot believe how wrong you are. I think that she is an excellent choice and will be an excellent VP.

Posted by: Nancy in Nashville | September 2, 2008 8:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Talk about unbiased reporting, what a joke. Why not just say preface the article by saying that your a dedicated democrat.

Posted by: brian | September 2, 2008 8:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I just saw your interview in regards to the fact that Palin should put her family first. You seem to have quite a few questions as to whether or not she can balance the needs of her 5 children (one with Down syndrome and one that is pregnant)with the demands of the VP job. You said in the interview that you found it very difficully to raise one child with disability. Did you ever think that maybe she is just better at it than you. Maybe it was tough for you because of your lack of skills. It might be that she can raise 5 kids and hold an important, all consuming job. Oh wait, we know whe can because she has. As for her 17 year old pregnant daughter, it happens everywhere to all types. White, Black, Christian, Jewish, Rich, Poor, Middle Class, Country Girls, City Girls, Northern Girls, Southern Girls and the list goes on so to imply that he daughter's pregnancy is in anyway the result of her lack of attention is just wrong and you know it.

Posted by: Michael | September 2, 2008 8:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Gee. You type real fast there!

Posted by: dibbs@yahoo.com | September 2, 2008 8:17 PM
Report Offensive Comment

LIFE is THE most important family value, and it trumps all the rest.

Roe v. Wade gave Sarah Palin and Bristol Palin a choice; the most important choice any woman will ever make.

They both chose Life for their unborn babies even though society told them they didn't have to accept that responsibility. They both considered their options and they both decided that the death of a child, even though legal, is still an unacceptable result. They both chose correctly, and they are both heroes for having shown such courage.

The fact that they were both willing to put the life of their child ahead of their own academic and political careers is breathtakingly selfless and undeniably respectable.

Sarah and Bristol Palin's humanitarian definition of Family Values is a stark and refreshing contrast to the venial and bloody alternative promoted by the Pro-Abortion death cult that now infects the political left in this country. Apparently the media has blinded themselves to this fact in their rush to sway public opinion against these two great American women.

FROM THIS DAY FORWARD Sarah and Bristol Palin will be towering icons for the Pro-Life movement; much to the consternation of the leftist Democrats and their viciously protective Hollywood/News Media jackals.

Posted by: Britcom | September 2, 2008 8:17 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What a disgusting woman !! The Bastion of Equal Rights for Women is putting down a woman for being a working mother. The real truth is that because Sarah Palin does not fit Quinn's idea of what a female candidate should look like, a small town girl who married her high school sweetheart that likes to hunt and fish, Quinn the social snob is absolutely naseauous at the prospect. Sorry Sally but you are out of touch with America. There are many more like Sarah Palin then there are like you....THANK GOD! If you have an empty stomach you can read Sally Quinn's full piece here:Palin's Pregnancy Problem

Posted by: jim | September 2, 2008 8:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I worry about the state of education in our country when I see so many people equating Palin's "inexperience" as a small-town mayor and small state governor with Obama's "inexperience" as a law review editor, teacher of constitutional law and United States senator. Where's our critical thinking? Is there any evidence that Palin has given a thought to the constitution, or that her intelligence is capacious, creative, or national in scope? Obama has wanted to help the poor. Has Palin's public service been in the interests of anyone but herself? If so, I don't see it, and I've been glued to this story since Friday. Now I see that she's cut funding to help pregnant teenagers. She'll help her own teenager, but the others are on their own? Come on, people. Being a decent (so far as we know), smart, overconfident human being with a family is one thing. But doesn't she have to be QUALIFIED to be Vice President?

Posted by: Teacher | September 2, 2008 8:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The democrats have managed to make women dirty and now they are trying to make babies seem dirty. It is the demoncrat wing of the party running into the dark side of Camelot led by Hollywood and the warped. Add an N and you have no way. Goofballs and screwballs cloaked in religious fever. New frontiers for the N word.

Posted by: Mr. Challenger | September 2, 2008 8:13 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Gee, all these years, liberals have been telling us it's OK for 16 year old Johnny to have a sex change operation and for 14 year old Suzie to have an abortion without parental permission, but now, they want us to be shocked, SHOCKED!, that a 17-year old girl is pregnant!!! All of their pseudo-moralizing will be seen for what it is. Ironically enough, we wouldn't even know about her pregnancy except for her brave, and correct, decision to keep the child, unlike the liberals who have no qualms whatsoever about infanticide.

Posted by: Truman Show | September 2, 2008 8:12 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Finally, someone with the courage to tell the truth! The real issue is the total lack of judgement by both John McCain (him for offering her the job) and Sarah Palin (she for accepting it).

As a working mother of two working a more or less normal 9 - 5 job with the occasional business trip, I know how hard it is to balance home and work.

There is no way she can do a good job at being VP ( a 24/7 job) and a Mom. While everyone praises her for having a baby with Downs Syndrome (and I completely agree with that as I am pro-life) she also needs to take care of it (along with her other children and teenage daughter). The bottom line is that this is not a good time in her life to do that, due to other committment as a mother. In another 10 or 12 years maybe, not now.

Posted by: Sue | September 2, 2008 8:10 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Now that we have our choices...
I would rather have someone with limited foreign policy experience a heartbeat away from the presidency (Palin) than IN the presidency (Obama).

Sally, this is just advance sour grapes b/c your side is going to lose because of this choice. I was ho-hum about McCain but this VP pick is FANTASTIC, and completely outflanked the Dems. I, a pro-life Virginia Catholic, am re-energized, as is the McCain campaign.

Typical cynicism from a "progressive"...you can't celebrate a woman being picked for VP (or secretary of state) because she's not on your side.

Posted by: Mark | September 2, 2008 8:10 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She, being in the image of God as is her husband and thus equal to him, has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to serve as his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation."

The above statement, mockingly quoted by Ms. Quinn, is 100% Biblical. She really is out of touch with most Americans...clinking glasses at her high-brow political parties. Oh, how sophisticated she is!

Now along comes Mrs. Palin. Quinn questions her readiness..whoever heard of her, etc. Whoever heard of Barack Obama before????? He's basically a Ivy-League trained community activist. C'mon. Sally, your bias against conservative, church-going, God-fearing women is all-too apparent.

Didn't your interview with Dr. Norris of 4th Presbyterian Church teach you anything about people of genuine Christ-centered faith? When will you grow-up and take leave of your hard-left socialist/secular mantra? I had thought there was hope for you. You disappoint me.

Posted by: Robert B | September 2, 2008 8:10 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Shame on you, Sally, for your anti-women article. I suppose all mothers should stay at home in the kitchen, not even considering ever doing a man's job like running for office!

I would take Sarah Palin over Joe Biden any day. He is arrogant, can't even shut himself up when he knows he needs to, and stole not just another poltician's speech, but his LIFE STORY and tried to adopt it as his own. He has the integrity of... well, of a failed TV news anchor who thinks because she couldn't handle a job, means no woman can.

I am an Independent from Delaware who will be voting for McCain / Palin... and voting for no more politics as usual! Reform in Washington!

Posted by: Delawarean Indy | September 2, 2008 8:09 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You forgot to mention she smoked pot and inhaled and shes willing to jail people for using pot as medicine because it sends the wrong message. What message is now being sent to young horny girls in high school?

Shes against gays.....believes theres a god?....is not grounded in Economic/Science....she wants creationism taught....she's simply a moron in my book.....NEVER McSAME!

Posted by: Castklearr | September 2, 2008 8:06 PM
Report Offensive Comment

New Orleans is doomed. They tried and it's just one big mess, leading to another bigger mess. Dumb people and subsidies can't trump capital. You need be brain damaged to put money there. It was the Big Easy minus the love. Love is true and money makes money jokers. New Orleans gave birth to something worth killing so God killed it. It was born to be bad and it is bad. It could get worse. Cities rise and fall. Below sea level, the chances are many and opportunities are few. Welcome to Atlantis. A total waste of cash and cash doesn't grow on trees. And people think Sally is evil...We have a whole evil city here being doomed by divine right.

Posted by: Mr. Challenger | September 2, 2008 8:02 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sexism is alive and well - in the female ranks of the main stream media. Sally - you're a sexist.

Just an FYI - I planned on sitting out this election. Palin has changed my mind. I'm not alone. McCain's selection was brilliant.

Her daughter's pregnancy is a non-issue except as fodder for the mendacious Obama left.

Posted by: jim | September 2, 2008 8:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You raise some great points and pull heart strings when you say "her first priority should be her children", but you neglect the fact that she is a married woman. If her husband was a widower, he would have to raise all those children (including the 4 month old) by himself. Would he need all the remaining female members of his family to swoop in and take over? Probably not. Want to bring up the DUI 20 yrs ago...what mistakes did you make when you were 20 something? But then again, he isn't running for office and I'm sure Washington D.C. is full of spouses with "indiscretions" that don't make the news.
Further, there are plenty of military families where the wife deploys with the military overseas and the husband is left with the family. Yes, some of them have children with special needs too. It's hard, but military families pull together to support the spouse and for their country. Let us give Mr. Palin and his family some credit.
As far as her experience, I seem to recall a certain Arkansas governor who didn't have a whole lot of foreign policy experience when he was elected president. At least Gov Palin's state has a large budget, borders two different countries, and is as large as Texas and California combined. She probably has more constituents than Biden and Pelosi combined too.
I think Gov Palin and her family are closer in resembling a modern American family than most in government who try to present themselves as "perfect". Most of us don't get to go to Harvard Law school.
Try to find something that is really news worthy than this flashy/trashy tabloid piece. I'm sure your journalism professors are not very proud of you for this. I know I'm not. Obama says to lay off the families!

Posted by: Some missed points | September 2, 2008 8:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sexism is alive and well - in the female ranks of the main stream media. Sally - you're a sexist.

Just an FYI - I planned on sitting out this election. Palin has changed my mind. I'm not alone. McCain's selection was brilliant.

Her daughter's pregnancy is a non-issue except as fodder for the mendacious Obama left.

Posted by: jim | September 2, 2008 8:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

These "Family Values Voters" have been dealing with the fact of unplanned pregnancies for years. There is Nothing New Under The Sun. They will not waiver in their support.

Posted by: Beth Orrell | September 2, 2008 7:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

New Orleans is doomed. They tried and it's just one big mess, leading to another bigger mess. Dumb people and subsidies can't trump capital. You need be brain damaged to put money there. It was the Big Easy minus the love. Love is true and money makes money jokers. New Orleans gave birth to something worth killing so God killed it. It born to be bad and it is bad. It could get worse. Cities rise and fall. Below sea level, the chances are many and opportunities are few. Welcome to Atlantis. A total waste of cash and cash doesn't grow on trees. And people think Sally is evil...We have a whole evil city here being doomed by divine right.

Posted by: Mr. Challenger | September 2, 2008 7:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment

just how is mothers' role "different" from a fathers? i should think a liberal like you would be happy, perhaps, overjoyed at the prospect of a woman holding the second highest office in the land [according to you and all other liberals, just a single heartbeat away from the highest office] but no your true colors stand out-- it not about true feminism, its about pushing the liberal agenda by ripping apart those that you disagree with. and coincidentally, those that are more successful than you; your failure was your failure-- don't project your failure[s] onto others. and furthermore, who are you to tell us what the right reasons for electing someone are.... are not my resaons and thoughts as valid as yours-- i'm educated, well read on the subject in question. thank you soooo much for telling all the rest of us what the "wrong" reasons are. thank you so much for your wisdom. by the way, if barbara bush told you that nothing could've prepared them for the rigors of the vice presidency, then why does it matter how much experince she has??? SHE HAS WAY MORE EXPERIENCE THAN THE TOP OF THE DEMOS TICKET!!!! and if mccain should "have the big one" while in office, do you demos think that she'll just be there left all by herself?? -- i mean that's how you're all hysterically blogging and whining, she might call onsomebody who has "loads" of foreign policy experience, like , i don't know joe biden-- oh wait baryy hussein obama already copped to that!! yes it's a calculated move; that's what happen in prediential politics-- it is one of the biggest gambles ever-- like you don't think mccain thoguht of that [ i predict it'll pay off bigtime; i think she'll destroy biden in their debates] you also forgot mention as positives:1] shes a reformer 2] she snuffed out corruption [has barack??] 3]she told feds "no thanks" onbridge to nowhere 4] she has more oil & gas [thus energy] experience than ALL THREE OF THE MEN INVOLVED in the race [ psst-- guess what, this means she does have some national security experience, as we all know this is a natl. sec. issue!] and as family values voter her honesty and integrity about her daughter's situation is awesome; we "value voters" recognize that nobody lives up to the standards that HE sets for us. however we recognize that people make mistakes, like plagarizing entire speeches rep,eatedly for instance,we "values voters" aren't concerned with the "hypocrite" label the way you libs are-- we're much more concerned with NOT being able to be called bay killers, so we do the right thing-- respect life and get married. Palin is tough as nails. you're ticked b/c it IS THE REPUBLICAN PARTY / THE CONSERVATIVE VIEWPOINT that is advancing a woman toward the oval office; it is THE REPUBLICAN PARTY / THE CONSERVATIVE VIEWPOITN that is bringing in a real outsider for change to washington-- isn't it!?!?! PLUS, SHE A FRIGGIN' BEAUTY QUENN THAT CANHANDLE A GUN AND WAS A STAR ATHLETE.... jealous a bit,eh sally quinn....

Posted by: ted smith | September 2, 2008 7:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

After reading this article, I'm left with the impression that only thing cynical about is it's author. I expected something that exhibited a person of faith and not something straight out of Democrat Party's handbook. Disappointing to say the least.

Posted by: Wes | September 2, 2008 7:54 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Redlum: Is integrity what prompted Palin to fire the city's police chief and library director? Did you read what her reasoning was? "Accusing them of not fully supporting her efforts to govern." What a joke.

She strong-arms various public officials under color of authority.

Her husband has a DUI.

Her 17-year-old daughter is photographed drinking on numerous occasions and gets knocked up by her boyfriend.

And this is what three days has revealed. Image what will come to light in two months.

Palin will go down as the worst vice presidential selection in the history of our country. Democrats are laughing all the way to the Presidency.

Posted by: Another | September 2, 2008 7:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The merchants of doom showed up for the party.
"We are all doomed to make mistakes."
That's just the One Corps people talking smack.
We are not all doomed, just some of us are doomed. You are known by the company you keep, so the Edwards people are doomed by degree. Obama is an Edwards loyalist, before that he was a Rev. Wright loyalist. All these loyalties fell apart. Stay loyal to the country and those who support the country. The village people can't stop the U.S. Navy. It's mission impossible for the bozo's, so get over it. Love of country makes liberty possible and to thine own self remain true. Blackjack isn't flying. You get shot down in flames, what a shame.

Posted by: Mr. Challenger | September 2, 2008 7:45 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The merchants of doom showed up for the party.
"We are all doomed to make mistakes."
That's just the One Corps people talking smack.
We are not all doomed, just some of us are doomed. You are known by the company you keep, so the Edwards people are doomed by degree. Obama is an Edwards loyalist, before that he was a Rev. Wright loyalist. All these loyalties fell apart. Stay loyal to the country and those who support the country. The village people can't stop the U.S. Navy. It's mission impossible for the bozo's, so get over it. Love of country makes liberty possible and to thine own self remain true. Blackjack isn't flying. You get shot down in flames, what a shame.

Posted by: Mr. Challenger | September 2, 2008 7:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am an independant leaning towards McCain. I was happy to see him choose a woman, however her lack of experience is troubling, as is Obama's. I also feel that with a 4 month old baby and a pregnant 17 year old daughter, now is the time to cut back on work not add to it 10 times. Her family needs her. At this point I don't know who to vote for.

Posted by: Kathy | September 2, 2008 7:43 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow Sally, how far into the future must we go before selecting a women as Vice President will not be viewed as cynical? What happened to "we can have it all," a family and career? Don't look now, but your hypocrisy is showing.

Posted by: Jerry Pomeroy | September 2, 2008 7:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If you are going to quote from the Southern Baptist Faith and message at least quote the whole part of that statement:
"The husband and wife are of equal worth before God, since both are created in God's image. The marriage relationship models the way God relates to His people. A husband is to love his wife as Christ loved the church. He has the God-given responsibility to provide for, to protect, and to lead his family. A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She, being in the image of God as is her husband and thus equal to him, has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to serve as his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation."

You try to make it seem like us Southern Baptists think women are inferior, yet the very first line of that section says they are equals. It also says the Husband is to love his wife to the same extent Christ loved the church. That means he is to be willing to die for her, it says the wife is to assist the husband, so who really gets off worse from that.

Posted by: Andrew Mitchell | September 2, 2008 7:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Oh I get it - it's a dumb blond thing right?

It is the arrogance of Obama that prevented the dems and libs like you sally from having a woman on the ticket. Now you're p o'd that McCain did what your savior couldn't. Palin is more woman and has more integrity in her little finger than you do and it's killing you. Don't you have a hair appointment or massage to run to?

Posted by: Redlum | September 2, 2008 7:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Had Chelsea Clinton shown up on the campaign trail this spring with a baby bump, or worse, was reported to have had an abortion, I'm certain Sally Quinn would have advised Hilary to give up the campaign and tend to her motherly duties.

Yeah, right!

Posted by: William Dalton | September 2, 2008 7:40 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Good grief. Get over it Sally. Focus on the real problems and forget this teenager. This is so unimportant. we have a country to run. For get this sill y stuff. Thank you cjhjlh@hughes.net

Posted by: cjhjlh@hughes.net | September 2, 2008 7:39 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Really? Just because you were so weak, you have to extend that to all other women (except Hillary)? I suspect that, as usual, the majority of Sarah Palin's critics will be second place finishers and non-finishers, but I doubt this woman's political career will be over even if McCain/Palin lose.

It remains to be seen, whether she has the mettle to survive all of the liberal attacks and succeed. I suspect she does, but you are betting the ranch that she doesn't. If they win, for what will you be remembered?

Posted by: Lyman | September 2, 2008 7:38 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You chose to leave the clinton brat alone but were on the Bush Twins and now on Ms. Palin's daughter. You folks are disgusting.

Posted by: Don Coffey | September 2, 2008 7:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I agree with much of your post and appreciate your candor when discussing your own experience as a mother. I think this is an excellent opportunity for Americans to come together and discuss our teen pregnancy epidemic. Abstinance only doesn't work and we need genuine solutions for real families. We also need to address the hypocrisy that exists regarding the racial and socioeconomic issues of teen pregnancy. An unwed teen mother of color is seen as a blight on society, whereas an unwed teen like Palin's daughter is seen as a champion for "Life" and "Family Values" by the religious right.

Posted by: Sunnydale | September 2, 2008 7:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

SALLY QUINN TOLD THE TRUTH ABOUT SARAH PALIN WHAT WAS JOHN THINKING HIS JUDGEMENT AINT WHAT IT SHOULD BE FOLKS

Posted by: Buddy Jones | September 2, 2008 7:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Palin is a smart, tough, accomplished woman who made it on her own and not on the coat tails of her husband. I'm confident she'll withstand the withering attacks from the left and hope that the vile criticism hurled her way will motivate voters to give McCain/Palin a landslide victory in November.

I have many friends on the right and the left of the political spectrum and I feel compelled to say that those on the left, overall, show more prejudice, intolerance, disdain and downright mean spiritedness than my right of center friends.

Posted by: stella e | September 2, 2008 7:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Mrs. Quinn,

I think you give "values voters" too little credit, by inferring that somehow an unwed, teenage mother is beyond our ability to forgive.

Let's go over a few things here.

We know, and are taught 3 basic things about human nature:

1. We are all doomed to make mistakes.
2. Just because you teach your children values, does not mean they have to agree with them, or abide by your standards for living.
3. If someone makes a mistake, you forgive them, and help them deal with the consequences lovingly, because you could be next.

You are engaging in wishful thinking if you believe evangelicals will punish the McCain ticket over this. If nothing else, there will be an outpouring of empathy.

I believe I speak for most "Values Voters" when I say that you have absolutely no clue what you are talking about when it comes to this subject.

If the Post wants someone to write about issues of Faith, they should probably hire someone who understands what it means to possess it in some way, shape, or form.

Posted by: Kurt | September 2, 2008 7:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I think Sarah is right on! McCain is showing his age with his decisions. Sarah Palin need to be at home with her sick child and pregnant tween.

Posted by: Leekma Knutsen | September 2, 2008 7:32 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally has almost reached anti-Christ status here. I've met several of them and they were all guys, guys. If she is paid by the responses, she should have plenty of cash by Christmas. It beats the hell out of plastic. Everybody wants to beat up the messenger and they are all the same. Plastic people spending plastic money, looking for somebody to blame for their troubles. This whole thing looks like a bad mortgage of ideas launched out of desperation. McCain has 7 houses and a beer heiress. I have beer here, so I'm happy as hell and another beer away from being happier. I could use a good woman, but that will take more time. I hope I have it because life is short, so can we all give Sally a break. WHAT A BUNCH OF BALL BUSTERS AMERICANS ARE BECOMING. Have a drink and relax.

Posted by: Mr. Challenger | September 2, 2008 7:32 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,

What flavor of koolaid are you drinking? Retract your claws and take another look at. You've had 18 months to investigate your savior Obama and still no one knows a thing about him or about his radical friends. Shame on you, your bias is showing.

Red

Posted by: Redlum | September 2, 2008 7:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

How can you on one breathe critisize her for not staying at home and taking care of her children and on the next critisize a church for saying the same thing. This is a knee jerk reaction to her being asked. As a Moderate I find it very offensive the way the media has attacked her apparrent lack of expirence, yet gives Obama such a pass. Everything I have heard about her has been either supportive or lashing out. There has been no middle ground. How can a "soccer mom" have polarized our country in a weekend? I think instead we are seeing the true nature of the agenda based media!

Posted by: Geof Lickey | September 2, 2008 7:27 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,

It appears you and your pals in the Obama biased, left-winged media are panicking, squirming, and spewing sour grapes as a result of McCain's choice of Palin. Her selection as a vice-presidential nominee IS a game changer.

It is nice to know that you and your ilk are "angry." It feels good.

Posted by: Vic Coelho | September 2, 2008 7:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,

It appears you and your pals in the Obama biased, left-winged media are panicking, squirming, and spewing sour grapes as a result of McCain's choice of Palin. Her selection as a vice-presidential nominee IS a game changer.

It is nice to know that you and your ilk are "angry." It feels good.

Posted by: Vic Coelho | September 2, 2008 7:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I once thought Sally Quinn had some class. No more.

Posted by: Steve McCurdy | September 2, 2008 7:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

" It is a choice made to try to win an election" - DUH!!!!

I'm so sick of hearing what will happen if McCain dies in office and Palin becomes President. Here's what will happen: She will nominate a vice president who will need to be confirmed by a majority vote of both Houses of Congress. I'm sure she is smart enough, if this happens, to nominate someone who might be stronger in the areas she might be weak in, NOT UNLIKE BARACK OBAMA PICKING JOE BIDEN TO FILL IN HIS WEAK SPOTS! Com'on you news folks: do us a favor and educate us instead of whining about who's going to take care of Palin's kids - her husband, of course, like many other husbands of wives with demanding jobs!

Posted by: Kathy Brundin | September 2, 2008 7:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I once thought Sally Quinn had some class. No more.

Posted by: Steve McCurdy | September 2, 2008 7:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,
Thanks for your remarks on CNN today. Your vile remarks managed to offend working women/mothers,(yes, I am one) wonderful fathers, (yes, my husband is one) and Christians (yes, I am one), and will only serve to energize those of us who believe that Sarah Palin will be a remarkable Vice President. Keep up the good work, and we'll see John McCain and Sarah Palin in the White House in January.

Posted by: Karen Martin | September 2, 2008 7:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally - the far left leanings of the Washington Post editorial staff make me wonder if your judgments about Governor Palin are more about ensuring the election of a Democrat candidate with significant flaws, than genuine concern for Governor Palin or her family. You should try being as critical about the quality of journalism the Post is putting out, particularly its general lack of balance.
Frankly, I was surprised by Governor Palin's selection. But after listening to her and understanding what she has accomplished in her life, I'm pretty excited about the opportunity to have an executive in place that is more representative of middle America.
Good Luck,
Paul
Drayden, MD

Posted by: Paul | September 2, 2008 7:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

As an undecided voter this does not feel like a conversation from Ms. Quinn.More like her pontificating

Please elevate the debate. I used to expect better out of the Washington Post.

I am truly disappointed

Posted by: A conversation on religion? | September 2, 2008 7:13 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, I'm afraid you ruined the rest of your commentary when you opened with the fact that the Republican pick for Vice President has made you "angry." I'll bet it did make you angry -- you and all the other slimy so-called journalists who would like nothing more than to turn this country into another bastion of socialism with your biased reporting and undying affection for anyone that supports your agenda. If you had character, that anger would instead be respect for the superior party that has out-smarted your poor misguided candidates and that will lead this country proudly through the dangerous and trying times you write of.

Posted by: R. Thompson | September 2, 2008 7:12 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Your column is an insult to my Mom, my Sisters, my Wife and my Daughter. Is it possible for you and other liberals to put your prejudice of Conservatives on hold for one moment and applaud this bright lady from Alaska for all that she has achieved.

What was the last actual job you held Ms. Quinn? Anyone can write an opinion piece.

When was the last PTA meeting you took the time to attend?

How can you insult this woman, her family, her values?

Shame on you.

Posted by: Jim | September 2, 2008 7:12 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Your liberal bias is entertaining. If she was a single mother, and a democrat, you would be supporting her 100%. P.S. I do not think that you are religous. Your drivel is like reading a gourmet food column written by someone who eats out at Dennys on a weekly basis.

Posted by: Bill Stead | September 2, 2008 7:11 PM
Report Offensive Comment

My only comment: Americans should probably stop referring to their president as "leader of the Free World."

I happen to live in the Free World (outside the bubble of the US) and I would suggest that stopped being true some time ago.

Posted by: tom s | September 2, 2008 7:08 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I love how McCain had 4 bouts with deadly cancer...mmmm... wouldn't that make him dead? They act as if he is on his deathbed already.

Posted by: Rachel | September 2, 2008 7:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Another evil woman, Co-anchor of a news network is equivalent to being the Vice President of the United States.....A hanger on comparing herself to an accomplished woman.

Posted by: Craig | September 2, 2008 7:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are almost catching almost as much hell as I am Sally and looking better doing it. They get over it for all the right reasons. They are not using Irish diplomacy though, so you won't have to look forward to the trip. Keep raising hell and they'll keep wondering what you are up to. Don't get too popular, it has plenty of snares and little value. Good luck!

Posted by: Mr. Challenger | September 2, 2008 7:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, please do not act as you know evangalicals or Catholics. They are just fine with this as they are very compassionate and forgiving in this areas of pregnancy. What is hard to swallow for the pro-life party that a child is not going to kill her own child? For goodness sakes, they are the ones who create pregnancy centers to support teenagers who need assistance with an unplanned pregnancy. Moreover, JFK had little children in the White House and he had to deal with a wife of child bearing age who had one stillborn and one miscarriage. I am sure there was much in family issues that JFK had to deal with.

Posted by: Palin Supporter | September 2, 2008 7:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are almost catching almost as much hell as I am Sally and looking better doing it. They get over it for all the right reasons. They are not using Irish diplomacy though, so you won't have to look forward to the trip. Keep raising hell and they'll keep wondering what you are up to. Don't get too popular, it has plenty of snares and little value. Good luck!

Posted by: Mr. Challenger | September 2, 2008 7:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Again, just like the Baltimore So called writer, you are just not getting it. She is the most qualified on both tickets and a great pick for the Republican party. Once McCain/Palin get elected in November and allow you to continue writing this mess, you will change your tune.

Posted by: Cort | September 2, 2008 7:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear Sally,

As your biography suggests, you are definitely a "Washington DC Insider" who is completely out-of-touch with Middle America. To somehow compare yourself anchoring a news program to someone being chosen Vice President of the United States indicates how you feel about your own self-importance. I think your inflated feelings of self further affect how you view, and write about, the Pallin Vice Presidential pick.

The media response to the Pallin pick would actually be quite laughable if it was not so offensive. It shows extreme arrogance for you (collective 'insiders') to bash this woman simply because you do not know her. Because someone did not grow up in Washington is actually a positive to most of America. When a Democratic Congress has approval ratings of 9%, a Republican president has approval ratings of 30%, and hundreds of papers are cutting staff because newspapers are not selling, it should probably indicate to you that you have been figured out. Your reality is not reality.

It would be refreshing to have a VP candidate who does not live in DC, who fights corrupt politics (unlike Obama and the Daly machine)instead of joining them, and who understands the battles of owning a business, running the PTA, etc.

Stop the madness. Just because you don't know her does not mean she is an ignorant boob. It might mean we finally have a real "outsider" who will not be afraid to miss cocktail parties and will be motivated to create change.

Posted by: Arrogance Emanates from Sally Quinn | September 2, 2008 7:02 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn says:
"This is no time to to play gender politics. The stakes are too high."

But it's ok to play racial politics, Ms. Quinn?

Dimos pick one of the most liberal Senators in the Senate, one with no accomplishments, one who attended a racist church for 20 years, etc. etc. etc.

Ask yourself, Quinn, is Obama the best qualified in the Dimocratic Party to run for President?

Posted by: zqll | September 2, 2008 7:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn is expressing "shock" and "anger" along with others in the liberal news flock over McCain's vp pick. It is really a reaction based on fear, because now your little darling Obama has been outsmarted and may not have a chance at the white house. Now we see the liberal media in its true colors: un-objective, bias, ignorant, uneducated, untalented, and not interested in truth at all.

Posted by: Ron Sharp | September 2, 2008 6:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I couldn't agree more. I was baffled by the choice McCain made. I was a staunch Hilary supporter and was on the fence as to whom I would support...when I heard the McCain choice of Palin I was insulted. The calculation that Palin is on the same plain as Hilary is an insult. A young woman who obviously has place career over family in a very zealous manner is not my idea of a vice president. Having little Washington experience frightens me since her office is a heart beat away from being the President of a huge powerful nation. What qualifications does she have to be THE leader. How much understanding does she have on foreign policy, the poor, health care, jobs, education, gay rights,for that matter main stream America. MINIMAL Experience. I reluctantly have decided to vote for Obama.

Posted by: janet | September 2, 2008 6:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

POOR SALLY. A feminist journalist just trying to protect Momma Palin and children and the USA from themselves - all in one byline. Mrs. Palin has been married for 20 years to a man that seems to have allowed his special bride to continue grow to with their family to her full potential with his full support. WOW - Is that news to so many women in America!? I would think that her success would be lifted up and praiseworthy by all the down troddened married and single mom journalists of our great country. Why, as Sally bemoans, should an American mom wait until she is older to become involved with politics?? I wasn't aware that was a stipulation prior to becoming an activist. I don't see that when viewing the ages of the demonostrators at both political conventions. 3 CHEERS for women who commit to take action and can lead families and men and politicians.

Posted by: Wife Supporter | September 2, 2008 6:56 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am TOTALLY supportive of Mrs Palin. As a Jewess in the US, may I remind everyone that America wasn’t won with a registerd gun? And that criminals are stopped by FIREARMS, not by talk? That is why all REAL Americans put our 2nd Amendment FIRST!!

Posted by: Wendy Weinbaum | September 2, 2008 6:56 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Well- You have exposed yourself as being sexist rather than pro-woman. Obviously if this accomplished woman were a liberal you would love her. But, since she is conservative, you loathe her and go on a sexist rant. My wife, mother, sister, and daughter who are a business owner, a student, a stay at home mom, and a teacher all love the selection of Sarah Palin and are excited at the prospect of having a female rise to this level. They run the gamut from Pro-Choice to Pro-life and moderate to conservative. They are all incensed at the way Governor Palin is being treated. Let the backlash begin. I personally just think you have shown yourself to have little to no credibility.

Posted by: Tom | September 2, 2008 6:56 PM
Report Offensive Comment

To question Sarah Palin's qualities as a mother because her 17-year-old daughter is pregnant is repugnant. It is also the depth of irresponsible journalism. You should be ashamed.

Posted by: Dan Kennedy | September 2, 2008 6:56 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Palins got all you libs running scared. HAHA. Dont worry when Obama gets crushed in the election you can write about how Americans are all a bunch of racists for 4 years.

Posted by: DK | September 2, 2008 6:56 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sorry, Sally that McCain didn't pick you! What an ego. All I can say, is you (all the main stream media types) must be terrified at Palin's pick, since you're all taking your pot shots. McCain is on his way to victory, and this lady is going to point him in the right direction. They are the true ticket of reform!
(Ever heard of any time, ever, that Obama took on his party? Nope.)

Posted by: spk2moi | September 2, 2008 6:55 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am TOTALLY supportive of Mrs Palin. As a Jewess in the US, may I remind everyone that America wasn’t won with a registerd gun? And that criminals are stopped by FIREARMS, not by talk? That is why all REAL Americans put our 2nd Amendment FIRST!!

Posted by: Wendy Weinbaum | September 2, 2008 6:54 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sorry Sally that McCain didn't pick you! What an ego. All I can say, is you (all the main stream media types) must be terrified at Palin's pick, since you're all taking your pot shots. McCain is on his way to victory, and this lady is going to point him in the right direction. They are the true ticket of reform!
(Ever heard of any time, ever, that Obama took on his party? Nope.)

Posted by: spk2moi | September 2, 2008 6:54 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Palin is more qualified to be President than Obama, and all the smears from the radical left/Obama campaign/media won't change that

Posted by: hot dog | September 2, 2008 6:53 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sorry Sally that McCain didn't pick you! What an ego. All I can say, is you (all the main stream media types) must be terrified at Palin's pick, since you're all taking your pot shots. McCain is on his way to victory, and this lady is going to point him in the right direction. They are the true ticket of reform!
(Ever heard of any time, ever, that Obama took on his party? Nope.)

Posted by: spk2moi | September 2, 2008 6:53 PM
Report Offensive Comment


It's interesting you know the thoughts and intents of the heart - especially conservative hearts.

Posted by: Don Mathis | September 2, 2008 6:52 PM
Report Offensive Comment

what liberals fail to understand is that family values means that we preserve and protect human life ,in particular the unborn.this young girl and boy made a mistake in judgement and even though it will be diffecult they chose to protect their child.God bless sarah and her family.

Posted by: stevo | September 2, 2008 6:50 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear Ms. Quinn: I am outraged by your article. As a woman you should be supportive of Ms. Palin's decision to be VP. Do we ask Barack Obama about the care of his two children? If he wins, his wife Michele will have a very demanding role of First Lady. In fact, with all the campaigning she has been doing for him, she hardly is with her small children. I beleive this is a private family matter, and that we should not judge or attack Sara Palin.

Posted by: Michele Brander | September 2, 2008 6:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Let there be No mistake. The Left would take this 17 girl out back and shoot her in the back of the head in the blink of an eye if they thought it would help them win the election, and they thought they could get away with it.

That is the honest truth of the matter and don’t ever forget it. This people are so power hungry they will do ANYTHING and ALL things to get power. Right and wrong matters nothing to them, only their own egos do.

Posted by: Steve | September 2, 2008 6:47 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I'm a lifelong Democrat that has always voted Democrat and was raised a Democrat by my parents who were Democrats, but now I'm voting for McCain/Palin.

THERE.....maybe that will counter all the fake posters on here saying they've "always voted Republican but now are in love with BO". What a bunch of horsepucky. Do you imposters not realize we see right through your lies? Get a life.

Posted by: TexasTwister | September 2, 2008 6:46 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, your comments are a disgrace to working mothers everywhere.

Posted by: Margaret Billings | September 2, 2008 6:46 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Clearly Sally's only faith is with Godless, Socialist Pol's that come to her parties or that she Lewinski's so she can pretend she's the puppeteer pulling all the strings behind the scenes while not responsible for all the failures of said policies.

Posted by: Sally's Faith | September 2, 2008 6:45 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, What a pitiful article.

Posted by: Ralph | September 2, 2008 6:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You cannot be a mother by name only. A 'mother's is someone who is THERE for her children, morning, noon and night. Sarah Palin is not working a PT job at the local Wal-Mart. She is going to be gone on the campaign trail, she will be traveling through and around the country, and she will meeting with heads of state, if GOD FORBID, she becomes V.P. Who is breastfeeding her baby? The husband??? Who is burping him, holding him, singing to him, putting him to bed, bathing him? Hubbie? Or hired help? Or maybe she will just get that 17 y/o young mother to help with her baby, too! What a travesty for women! What a shameful scene for the so-called 'family values' crowd who has now circled wagons around her because they are so desperate to win the presidency with a no-brainer war hawk like McCain. So what's the big deal about the babies in her family? Doesn't she also have a 4/yo? As a woman I find her actions deplorable. She is NO MOTHER! It takes more than giving birth to be a real mother..it means sacrificing your own personal needs and desires for the sake of your children. Frankly, she disgusts me. But I have even greater disgust for the odious McCain who clearly doesn't even know who she is! What a FARCE!

Posted by: anniemargret | September 2, 2008 6:39 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Palin is a smart, tough, accomplished woman who made it on her own and not on the coat tails of her husband. I'm confident she'll withstand the withering attacks from the left and hope that the vile criticism hurled her way will motivate voters to give McCain/Palin a landslide victory in November.

I have many friends on the right and the left of the political spectrum and I feel compelled to say that those on the left, overall, show more prejudice, intolerance, disdain and downright mean spiritedness than my right of center friends.

Posted by: stella e | September 2, 2008 6:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn,

You said "John McCain chose a running mate simply because she is a woman and one who appealed to the Republican's conservative evangelical base." That makes about as much sense as saying Barak Obama chose a running mate simply because he was an older man with experience. If McCain's choice is cynical then Obama's is equally so. Should old men with experience be insulted? People are what they are and that is why they are chosen.

So my question to you is if Obama had picked Clinton would you feel just as used? What if he picked another woman? Are you upset he picked no woman at all? Or do you view only view Republican motives as cynical and manipulative?

Posted by: Bob | September 2, 2008 6:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment


Blow-back?

Karma?

Boomerang?

This is PRICELESS!

Good thing WaPo doesn't sell tickets or the angry mob would be rattling the fillings out of managements head trying to get their money back about now!

Isolate yourself some more with some lefty friends and pretend this didn't happen Sally - you'll feel better and then shockingly lose another election.

SQ "How it happen? I don't know anyone who voted for McCain." - come on you can say it.

Posted by: Whats the word? | September 2, 2008 6:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

awww whats wrong Sally? you upset that she isnt a complete dog like you?

Posted by: marcus | September 2, 2008 6:30 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,

First, so much for your pretention to be a commentator "on Faith." We now know you to be a far-left liberal shill for the Obama campaign. I think I see why you were an immediate failure as a TV news anchor.

I was actually considering voting for Obama when I first heard his message of "No more politics as usual. No more partisanship - we will reach across the aisle, forming one America for Democrats, Republicans, whites, blacks, men and women, young and old."

Then I did some research and followed his campaign, and found out nothing could be further from the truth. His entire campaign has been about attacking Pres. Bush and demeaning the job our brave troops have done overseas. He has one of the most far-left voting records in Congress, along with Sen. Biden, a known and proven liar and plagiarist.

Sen. McCain on the other hand has always been known to ACTUALLY reach across the aisle and so is disrespected by most conservatives. And now he has selected a woman who is a known for ACTUALLY reforming politics, starting with her own party.

She has more experience than Obama, yet you consider him qualified to be president but she is not qualified to be VP?

Why don't you just move to MoveOn.Org with the other socialists and spew the far-left kool-aid. You certainly don't know much about faith, so why not just come out of the closet and admit it?

Sarah Palin is the most refreshing candidate that America has seen in a generation, and she will win millions of Independents and swing-voters, and you are petrified of that result. You should be... America is not quite ready to become Socialist yet.

Posted by: IndependentVoter | September 2, 2008 6:29 PM
Report Offensive Comment

It strikes me as hard to believe that the Republicans ignore the fact that McCain passed over tremendously talented and politically astute men and women who could be characterized as change agents. Why not question this decision? I don't get it. Are we so much into popular culture that a babe is better than a thinking candidate would be? Why is an education and analytical thinking so disdained? Do we aspire to be less than we can be? Is there some comfort in elevating an unwed mother to be something admirable rather than someone who has made a mistake and must face a difficult pathway? What is worng here? Yes, be sympathic and caring. But recognize this for what it is: A mistake! After reading more about the father, Levi Johnston, he may not be quite as excited about fatherhood as hoped. What will he be sacrificing?

Posted by: Patryot | September 2, 2008 6:29 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I assume your feelings are the same regarding Nancy Pelosi and her children.

She has more elected hours than BHO...Does that count?

Posted by: Sparky | September 2, 2008 6:27 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"It is a choice made to try to win an election. It is a political gimmick. And it's very high risk. I find it insulting to women, to the Republican party, and to the country."

Memo to Sally: HE'S TRYING TO WIN THE ELECTION! This stuff is so funny. You lefties are so upset about this you don't know whether to poop or go blind. The meltdown on your side is as stunning as it is funny!

And how could you find something "insulting" to the Republican party when you belong to the Democrat party?

Posted by: Joe | September 2, 2008 6:25 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Funny how Obama kept jumping to mind at every complaint Quinn raised!

Of course he's got lots of stuff thats WAY WORSE - Communist, Hates America, Hates White people, treats his bro stuck in Africa like crap, hangs out and takes favors from felons. Buddies with unapologetic terrorists!

Hmm, are we voting to put Obama in prison?

Maybe we should. . .

Posted by: Thinking About It | September 2, 2008 6:24 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I always heard that Vice Presidents were good mainly for ONE thing. To go to funerals. Does it make any difference if it is a man or a woman?
Thank you for allowing me to express my feeling on the Gov. Palin discussion.

Posted by: Garry Wright | September 2, 2008 6:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

@ Quinn
Given that Palin has almost as much elected experience as Obama, and clearly more executive management experience, I'd like to know if you've also written about Obama's lack of experience to be Vice President (much less President).

Posted by: Carnack (the Curious) | September 2, 2008 6:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

With everything else being the same, if Palin were a Democrat chosen by another Democrat, this column would be fawning about 'a bold choice' and 'a first for women, especially working mothers', blah, blah, blah ad infinitum. You know the routine. But because Palin is Republican and does not fit the stereotypical leftist view of a strong working woman, she scares the crap out of you. So you unleash an grasping and ineffective attack on her. You are so blinded by your ideology that you can't see that Palin was a brilliant choice. Just watch and see. Pathetic articles like this one only emphasize the value of choosing Palin. So just keep on bashing a self-made woman who became governor of the most macho state in the union who also has five children, one of them a special needs child. See where that gets you.

Posted by: Dr. Dean | September 2, 2008 6:22 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear Ms. Quinn -
You can throw out the experience argument, Sarah Palin has more experience than the Democratic nominee for president! The fact that she is a woman and a mother should be a breath of fresh air. Are you not for women breaking through the glass ceiling? Are you saying every mother of young children or special needs children should not work until the kids are out of the house? Have you considered what that would do to the workforce? Your reference to Nancy Pelosi has no bearing on Sarah Palin. Sarah Palin has values Nancy Pelosi can't even comprehend. Sarah Palin puts the people first. Nancy Pelosis puts herself and her own liberal agenda first (i.e. the recent congressional recess she called for when the country was demanding a vote on drilling). As far as your own failings as anchor for the CBS morning show, they aren't comparable to Sarah Palin's. As far as we know, she has none. What she is dealing with — her infant son and oldest daughter — are hardly failings. These are problems a significant percentage of American households deal with everyday. And she's doing it honestly, openly, and with dignity regarding what most Democrats have little use for, the most vulnerable of human life.

Robert Ross
Pasadena, CA

Posted by: Robert Ross | September 2, 2008 6:22 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Dear Ms. Quinn,
I read your article and thought "Is this a joke?" If John McCain HADN"T chosen Gov. Palin for his running mate for the reasons you disparage her, you would have been angry and outraged! If he had said that he wouldn't pick her because he thought she would be distracted by her family, you would have been screaming about his sexism. You cleverly hide your arguments behind the words of one evangelical and what you presume conservative voters would think so that you don't sound like a walking double-standard. The problem is you can't, in your wildest dreams, know what we think. You don't know us. You don't come across us in your insular media world. You don't know that we relate to people like Gov. Palin. We know that we aren't perfect. We just actually have values we try to live up to. We know that life happens to us all. One of the those values is honesty. You should be honest and say that you hate Sen. McCain's choice because he may gain an advantage on your choice, Obama. Please stop sounding naive by pretending that candidates don't pick running mates which give them an advantage. Why wouldn't they? Anyway, if I buy your thin argument, why wouldn't a woman want to be used in this way? What is so horrible about a woman being vice president? I think your partisanship has prevented you from thinking clearly on this subject. Your argument is more demeaning to women than anything Sen. McCain has done by choosing a qualified, energetic, accomplished woman to hold a high-level position in this government. To you the sin is that woman is a Republican, and not your kind a woman.

Posted by: C. Gleason | September 2, 2008 6:22 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Posted by: Hugh Hewitt at 5:42 PM
Incredible. Barack Obama snarls at the growing recognition that Governor Palin's executive experience --as governor and oil and gas commissioner as well as in local government--by noting that his experience running a campaign for 18 months is what makes him more qualified than Palin.

Let's see.

First of all, Obama is running for president not vice president.

Second, did he think we wouldn't notice that all the time he's been running for president, Governor Palin has been running Alaska?

Finally, Obama struts his management of 2,500 employees and a budget of $30 million-plus in July.

Alaksa's budget is more than 11 billion, and the state employs 15,000 people. (HT: Byron York via the New York Times.)

Palin wins the side-by-side easily, and of course Obama is running against McCan.

Posted by: Mark | September 2, 2008 6:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Palin cant even get her own family to buy into her positions, so why should the American public?

Practice Abstinence Kids! Uh, Mom, Bristol disobeyed.

Abhor teen pregnancy! Uh, Mom, Bristol disobeyed.

Given the choice and based on her behavior thus far, something tells me Bristol wouldnt be going forward with this pregnancy if it were not for Mom pointing one of her shot guns at her and making the wedding plans.

Well lets not forget that MOM was pregnant BEFORE she got married, so I guess its a case of do as I say, not as I do!

Bottom line is this- back in Alaska out of the national spotlight this mess would be her personal business. You wanna run with the big boys and get on the big stage, all gloves are off.

Welcome to Washington, Madame!

Posted by: AmericanandProud | September 2, 2008 6:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

awww whats wrong Sally? you upset that she isnt a complete dog like you?

Posted by: marcus | September 2, 2008 6:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I can't believe how much Sally Quinn's comments are a throw back to the old days. She thinks a woman can't be vice president, or president, because her daughter or infant may need her. Isn't this what we've been trying to intelligently demonstrate all these years: That women can make these decisions for themselves and they can choose to work or stay at home with their children?

Are not children and grandchildren a distraction to men as well, Sally?

Why is it that if a democrat is a woman her choices are okay even lauded, but if the woman is a republican she is held to a different standard and clearly not able to be a working mom let alone a candidate. Furthermore, why can't a republican woman be chosen as a vice presidental candidate because of her proven leadership qualifications rather that for the sexist comment, Quinn made, that she was only chosen because she IS a woman. Quinn's comment is off-base. My immediate thought upon hearing of Palin's selection was that it was a calculated strategy based on her age and leadership shown at the state level, not based on her sex. With all the mean and age-ist comments about McCain coming from democrats I was sure the age issue was the democrats' overriding hang up, not the sex of the VP candidate. Apparently, I was wrong and democrats can't conceive of having a Republican woman in this position. Alternatively, if Joe Leiberman had been selected we would have heard more of the same old democrat comments about there only being "rich old white men" on the republican ballot. What a double standard the democrats always show. "Black or women who are republican cannot be genuine. Only the democrats can have legitimate black or women candidates." No one can please these democrats.

Obama's lack of experience is still the overwhelming problem of the democrat ticket. Voting for him just because he's black or young is a recipe for disaster. Biden's lack of integrity leaves the potential VP un-ready and un-deserving of the potential post of president. But, of course, lack of integrity is part of the democrat platform: look at the personal values of Bill Clinton, Edward Kennedy both of whom received standing ovations at the convention.

Just as an aside: Republicans have chosen people for who they are and not how they fit into fixed stereotypes much more consistently and earlier than democrats: it was a Republican President, Ronald Reagan, that brought us the first woman supreme court justice, Margaret Chase Smith was the first woman nominated for president of the United States by the Republican National Party, Jeannette Rankin, a Republican, was the first woman in the United States to serve in Congress, and more.

Posted by: Madkor | September 2, 2008 6:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment

MS. Quinn

On you comment how can she be a mother and VP. You are a misogynistic sexist pig! Why do you not ask Obama that one? How come it is only the woman's responsibility to raise the children?

Posted by: insulted | September 2, 2008 6:15 PM
Report Offensive Comment

THe only difference in credibility, as defined by Quinn's commentary to be president between Obama and Gov. Palin is that one is a male without experience and the other is a female without experience.

So, neither are qualified by their experience, but according to feminist logic, better to support a male who will bow to matriarchy than vote for a female who respects men and fathers. Quinn, will not play gender politics with her vote if her vote would install a socio-fascist to impose "equal pay" for "equal job title". In the matriarchy, experience doesn't matter, only the force of law.

Posted by: Jon W. | September 2, 2008 6:15 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Poor, poor Sally. You sound so bitter that McCain DARED to choose someone outside of the Washington establishment. And just WHAT business is it of YOURS that Mrs. Palin's daughter is pregnant? The sheer desperation of you so-called "journalists" is transparent.

Posted by: Glenn Smith | September 2, 2008 6:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

As a moderate Republican I was leaning toward McCain but I do not understand this pick at all. There are plenty of strong Republican women who would have been far superior picks. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas has an outstanding record as U.S. Senator and is widely admired. She has demonstrated experience and none of the baggage that Palin carries.

Frankly, I am surprised at John McCain's lack of judgement! I am now planning to vote for Obama.

Posted by: Moderate Republican | September 2, 2008 6:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

For your article much could be said about you;
-Arrogant
-Elitist
-Arrogant journalist
-Insulting
-Lacking of any moral fiber
-Do as I say not as I do person.

....... I understand why you wrote this article; Because you wanted attention and we all now the media newsprint and tv will do anything for ratings and attention no matter who it hurts, especially a conservative and more especially a conservative woman. If she had no children, I am certain you would find something wrong with that too!

I just feel sorry for those in your life that will have to call you mother, wife, sister, grandmother. and/or aunt in the coming days! Think about how they feel knowing a family member said about another woman.

Posted by: James | September 2, 2008 6:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I'm not exactly sure why the posters here are so angry with you, Ms. Quinn. You are expressing an opinion which is valid. Disagreeing with you is one thing. Demeaning you with ugliness is something else. When I read the hate-filled right wing posters, I think that you are onto something. Me thinks they doth protest too much.

How ironic that McCain's mouthpiece was complaining on Today this morning about the horrors of the left wing blogs. If she had been paying attention, she would have known that the rumors were related to the baby that Bristol apparently substitute-mothers now with questions related to whether Bristol or her mother were really the biological mother. That's pretty awful. But without those blogs and posters, apparently Bristol's pregnacy was not going to be revealed. This leaves some of us to wonder what else has not been brought to light. Is the daughter's pregnancy our business? Absolutely. Once you make a decision to enter into the public spotlight, you waive your privacy. And no one is demeaning Birstol. It's her hypocritical mother who is troubling. Palin's conduct is very consistent with the Troopergate allegations. This is a controlling woman who finds it cool to lounge around on dead animals.

Listen: There were plenty of qualified Republican women that would have been favorable to the Hillary folks. This woman is the antithesis of Hillary. This was purely pandering to the religious right. I expect canonization any moment now.

Posted by: Patryot | September 2, 2008 6:13 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow - so I guess all that junk about Obama planning his second term was just a lot of hooey and you guys are scared, er really, really scared.

Also: It seems you forgot Obama's Mama was about the same age - but NO PROBLEM THERE Democrats Good - Republicans Bad.

Wow you are so deep. . . Like Jake Handy on an Acid trip.

You must of been edgamucated in one of dem ivy leag skools. . . duh, huh or watch alot of mtv.

Posted by: What happened to the 2nd O' term? | September 2, 2008 6:12 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Journalism like this explains why Sally Quinn couldn't cut it as an on-air morning news anchor for CBS.

Posted by: Pastor Ken | September 2, 2008 6:11 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Balanced, insightful and courageous words from an experienced mother with no apparent ideological axe to grind. In his haste to excite the right and embrace female voters McCain appears on the verge of unloosening a maelstrom of controversy which could easily in a 48-hour accelerated news cycle lead to the disengagement of this nervy arrangement.

Posted by: Dave Pomeroy | September 2, 2008 6:11 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Poor Sally. So deluded by her insular life as a liberal journalist. Too bad she can't get out more.

Posted by: Texas Pete | September 2, 2008 6:09 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn is so yesterday. She expresses her concerns about Governor Palin being selected because she is a woman, and then turns around and is distressed that conservatives won't pick a woman. Sally get real.

Palin/Jindal for 2112

Posted by: cluelessinky | September 2, 2008 6:07 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I couldn't agree more with this article. Sarah Palin is the worst possible choice for the oldest ever President (I hope not) John McCain. McCain is 72 years old and has a history of cancer. Cancer killed all of my grandparents in their early 70's. If this happens to McCain what will be left with to fight a coming cold war with Russia; Sarah Palin a hockey mom with no foreign policy experience and a 4 month old child, a 5 year old child, and a 17 year old daughter who also has a new baby? I feel like I'm in the twilight zone with this whole Republican ticket! I'm voting Democrat for the first time in my life on Nov. 4th!

Posted by: howard | September 2, 2008 6:06 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Balanced, insightful and courageous words from an experienced mother with no apparent ideological axe to grind. In his haste to excite the right and embrace female voters McCain appears on the verge of unloosening a maelstrom of controversy which could easily in a 48-hour accelerated news cycle lead to the disengagement of this nervy arrangement.

Posted by: Dave Pomeroy | September 2, 2008 6:06 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Golly, asking men and women to submit themselves to their households (You left out the other part of that biblical quote). That IS disturbing. In the next conservative move maybe they'll ask these oppressed women to be vice president just to mess with them. Fortunately every liberal in the audience will scream "FEMALE!" at the top of their lungs, secure in the knowledge that the only reason someone would ask a woman to be vice president is because of her gender. It's always disappointing and insulting to assume the motives of the other side of the political spectrum, no?

Posted by: Chris | September 2, 2008 6:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn's article fails to mention Obama's or Biden's physical problems. All Quinn seems to elaborate on is McCain's bout with cancer. I would much rather take my chances with a true war hero with years in the senate like McCain than someone like Obama that only has been a community organizer and in the senate for 144 days. There are just too many questions concerning Obama that the left doesn't seem to be able to answer. Just tell me what Obama's experience is and someone he has known for 20 years besides Jeremiah Wright or his wife Michelle. The left repeatedly attacks McCain and Palin for their own lack of knowledge of their own candidate. These are definitely dangerous times for the United States. When I read our enemies advertise in their newspapers that they want Obama to win and the left wing media doesn't have any concrete experience they can tell Obama has you bet as a woman I'll be voting for McCain and Palin. And by the way, where is the hundred million dollars that Obama and Bill Ayers were suppose to use for colleges in Chicago? That's just one of the 20 or so questions I have for Obama that the left media is hiding from the public or knows about it and is lying to the American people. Which is it? The left wing media is destroying the United States. The left cares nothing for human life. You know it took Obama 20 years to figure out his church preached DAMN America. Our enemies teach their children DAMN America too. Our enemies don't care if we are democrat, republican, man, woman or child, black or white, christian or jew. They want all Americans dead.

Posted by: debbie | September 2, 2008 6:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sorry, you are wrong and under no circumstances should Obama get elected to drag our country farther down the road of communism / socialism.

Posted by: Keith | September 2, 2008 6:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The only reason why you resent Sarah Palin is that blows out of the water your comfortable box of totalitarian identity politics. Only an atheist (or pagans like the Nazis) would consider not working on themselves and developing good character traits and immerse themselves in the slime of moral relativism.

Posted by: FF | September 2, 2008 6:03 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Bristol is well on her way to having at least 10 kids by the time she reaches 44. Will her husband work or will they go on welfare?

Posted by: writing opinion | September 2, 2008 6:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ok, this is the start of a New Low for the so called Press!!!

Spin, spin, spin - reverse 180 - whatever it takes for their guy!

We need FEMA to open up a bunch of RUBBER ROOMS for the press when Obamination looses!

It's going to be Keith Obermann 24/7 on all the networks - REALY it's not going to be safe around these people!

Posted by: New Low | September 2, 2008 6:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, You obviously hit a nerve and thank goodness you did!

If McCain and the Repubs wont vet their VP candidate, the intelligent American voters will.

This is almost comical. I feel like a kid on Christmas morning. McCain just gave the election to the Obamites!

McCain was strong armed into ignoring Leiberman and selecting an unexperienced individual who just happens to be a woman.

Palin is a woman, but in the words of another VP candidate, You Sara Palin are NO HILLARY CLINTON.

You cant nor will win this election simply because of your gender.

Dont insult me!

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 5:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You say she can't be a good leader because she is a mother of young and special needs children? OMG, if you were a man and wrote this, you would be tagged as the biggest sexist in the world. If Obama had chosen a mother with young/special needs children, you would be proudly harking his choice as someone who is in touch with working moms, young people and the downtrodden.

I was ambivalent about McCain's choice of VP candidates until reading your article. It has proven the hypocritical nature of the left, particularly the liberal media.

Posted by: A. Mazed | September 2, 2008 5:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow, Sally. So you think that when women are selected for candidacy that this only as token females and not based on their potential competency in office? Do you really think a woman must be the primary caretaker and can't serve as a mother and stateswoman with a husband who takes on the majority of the child care role? I honestly have some other concerns about this woman as VP, just as I do about all of the candidates (it's slim pickings this season). But I wanted to comment on your overt misogyny. For the record, I think Geraldine Ferraro had a lot of things going for her other than her gender. Bet you never thought you would here another woman telling YOU to pull your head out of the stone age!

Posted by: JE | September 2, 2008 5:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

you are so off base here. This woman has accomplished much in a so called mans world. You do nothing to applaud her accomplishments. It seems that you are going out of your way to denigrate Gov. Palin. Shame on you.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 5:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You should be ashamed of yourself. The media is conducting a full scale onslaught against Palin. Perhaps the media should ask some of these same questions of Obama and Biden. The double standard is appalling.

I have been aware of Palin for most of the year, and feel that she is a very fine pick for McCain and his personality. It appears to me that the Media and the Democrats are trying to destroy Palin because she is a woman and they feel that if she becomes Vice President that they will loose the notion that all women are Democrats.

The truth is there are fine women that are liberal and fine women that are conservative. The attempts to demonize Palin is unbecoming and shows the bias and hypocrisy present in the media.

Posted by: Uomo Del Ghiaccio | September 2, 2008 5:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"DISINSEMINATOR"

You say "Get your own house in order before trying to tackle the US's Problems." And that Palin has failed as a parent.

You forget 2 things, that the Palin house's personal problems are their own business, and that teenagers (juvenile humans that have not reached full maturity yet) have the tendency to think for themselves. By the age 17, parents can only do so much parenting, its up to the teens themselves to learn something from the years of teaching. It is a fault with Palin's daughter, not with Palin.

Also, by assuming that it is Palins responsibility to 'get her house in order' is assuming that it is a mothers job to resolve home issues. Do you hate women, or do you just not care about what they think? Perhaps you think women shouldn't be allowed outside of the kitchen?

Posted by: Anon. | September 2, 2008 5:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If this election about judgment, the choice of Sarah Pahin shows poor judgment on McCain’s part.

Any intelligent person knows when you choose to have unprotected sex at 43 you have a very high probability of having a child with Downs Syndrome. She used poor judgment not using birth control.

Would she use better judgment dealing with our economy?

Would she use better judgment dealing with our enemies?

I for one am not willing to take a chance on Pahin’s and McCain’s judgment.

Posted by: Kwaayesnama | September 2, 2008 5:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Of course McCain picked someone he felt would help him win the Presidency. So did Obama. He picked someone whose values reflect the party for whose nomination he is seeking. He also picked a gutsy maverick like himself who will take on the self interests in both parties.

She has more executive and foreign policy experience as No.2 than the Democratic party's No. 1, and she has the opportunity to grow under the tutelage of John McCain. IF these are "trying times," isn't it better to have the more experienced and capable person at the top of the ticket?

And are you saying that Sarah, with older children to help, an involved husband, and a daughter who is marrying soon, will need to be involved with her children to the detriment of the country? Didn't I notice Obama's young children? Or is it alright to be traditional and nonfeminist when it suits you? You probably subscribe to Obama's dark statement that he would not want them to have to suffer for such a mistake. In other words, kill to rectify the mistake.

Let's get down to the difference in the parties. Democrats want to kill unwanted children, Republicans want to protect them. That's the basic issue, reflecting a relativistic value system versus a belief in fundamental moral laws.

Sarah Palin's selection will unite the Evangelicals, please the Catholics, appeal to women who admire real feminists and not just baby killers. The Republicans have my vote this year.

Posted by: freeagent | September 2, 2008 5:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn

To apply your logic Obama's choice of an exprienced old "blue coller" white guy is for what?

Posted by: ME | September 2, 2008 5:55 PM
Report Offensive Comment

It comes back to choices. Sarah Palin is choosing to try to be VP, mom and Grandmom, all at the same time. She can make this choice, because she is financially secure, her husband appears to be willing to be the primary care provider, and he has a job that has allowed him a generous leave of absence.

Many other women lack these supportive resources, and end up feeling like they have no options that are not tragic.

The real question is, as governor what has she done, and as VP what would she do, to ensure that women who lack the resources she has, have less tragic options than abortion available to them?

Posted by: NotSoGreatScot | September 2, 2008 5:55 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I'm a conservative Republican and have to admit Sarah Palin has immediate family concerns. I was thrilled to first read about her until I got to the part about having a newborn - and with Downs Syndrome to boot. That and the fact that her youngest daughter is 7. I suppose one can argue her 17 year old daughter is almost an adult. It's psychologically different for a mother than it is for a father both individually and in the family - and she's got a young family.
Nonetheless, I'll vote for McCain/Palin. She'd better realize now that in this job, family can't come first. I hope she's superwoman. Sarah Palin had better be worth it.

Posted by: kris | September 2, 2008 5:55 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"A mother's role is different from a father's."

Funny, we've not heard that from a Post columnist in many decades. What makes it relevant now, sweetheart?

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 5:54 PM
Report Offensive Comment

There's a basic difference between your life's experiences and Sarah Palin's. You got where you are through your connectione, going to the right schools, marrying the boss, etc. Sarah Palin got where she is through hard work and fortitude.

That's why she is a success and you failed.

Posted by: BWC | September 2, 2008 5:54 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally

How's the Post's circulation, I am guessing that you actually think that what you write people read? Newspapers are going the way of the buggy whip, and it's in large part do to your objectivity, oh, I am sorry, you don't have any objectivity. Please keep up the good work, your opinions are always well known, so your readers don't have to waste their time reading them, will the last person at the Post please turn out the lights,

Posted by: Don | September 2, 2008 5:53 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Typical conservatives, changing their views on teenage pregnancy and sex before marriage on a case by case basis. And I suppose Palin's daughter's baby is a blessing while some inner-city 16-year-old's baby is a shame?

Posted by: Josh | September 2, 2008 5:53 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn,

You made it even more clear for me. I now have even higher respect for Palin for accomplishing all this while raising 5 kids and for saying "yes" to the call of duty for her country despite her family's needs. Let's face it, as Rep. #2, she is better qualified than the Dem.s'#1. Thanks for sharing your own personal failures and what "you" would do if offered the VP job. If she can figure out how be good governor in a few months, she can figure out how to be a good president if needed. She has the brains, charisma and the guts to succeed. Obama picked a Washington insider career politician, I can understand the panic at your place of work that McCain picked a real person.

Regards


Posted by: Eugene | September 2, 2008 5:53 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What no one is prepared for is hags like yourself. Is there any wonder why the print media is dying? Think about the things you wrote and then apply them to yourself 30 or 40 years ago.

Posted by: Rick | September 2, 2008 5:53 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am nearly wetting myself laughing at the right-wingers trying to justify the choice of Palin by McSame.

How can any of you actually try to spin a 17-year-old getting pregnant as a good thing, or that this somehow represents anything other than a colossal failure of parenting by the Palins?

Sarah: get your own house in order before trying to tackle the US's problems.

Posted by: Disinseminator | September 2, 2008 5:52 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I heard Sally Quinn interviewed on CNN today about this editorial. She said that "evangelical women are expected to be stay at home moms," and sited the fact that certain Southern Baptist churches do not allow women to be ministers. I belong to a Christian denomination where many of the pastors are women. Why is it that liberal women are only supportive of liberal women?

Posted by: Nancy Brown | September 2, 2008 5:52 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn,

Your first sentence premise is as silly and hypocritical as it is revealing– only because she is a woman that appeals to (a) base?

How did you get your job and your 4th Estate bully pulpit? Did you earn someone's confidence and if so at what cost? (tsk tsk).

Governor Palin was elected, and she enjoys strong bipartisan support in Alaska, where she proved that one can Govern and clean house when necessary- even against a cynical and corrupt backdrop.

Meanwhile, why did you and your like-minded media ilk select Obama? He is likable, but was he the best man or woman for the job?

Posted by: Kirk Taber | September 2, 2008 5:51 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Maybe Sally Quinn and Nasty P. (Ms Stretchy-Face Speaker) can go on tour and tell people who ACTUALLY HAVE SOME FAITH what it actually means - you know like 180 degs off - or as we like to call it - COMPLETELY WRONG.

Having this woman write so much BS on a faith page is as outlandish as nasty, NABALA Nancy telling us matter of factly that the church supports abortion - yeah like only she knew about it - big debate about abortion inside the church!!!!

They are not just Left Wing Loonies they are Evil.

Posted by: Heres an Idea | September 2, 2008 5:50 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"And by the way, how can McCain call Barack Obama unqualified, inexperienced, not ready from Day One, not able to be commander in chief, and then put someone like Palin in a position that is a heartbeat away from the pesidency?"

Agreed that Obama and Palin don't have much experience. However, I would much rather have an inexperienced Vice President than an inexperienced President. The Dem ticket is backward - shouldn't Biden be the Pres nominee and Barack the VP nominee?

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 5:50 PM
Report Offensive Comment

As a yellowdog Democrat and an ardent Hillary supporter I find this endless Palin speculation both insulting and time-wasting. There are only two facts that matter here: 1) She is without doubt the least experienced candidate on the national stage in my lifetime. She has LESS experience than George W. Bush had when he was elected to national office. And look what an unmitigated disaster that has been. (And now McCain wants to give us at least four more years of THAT!) That has been precisely my concern about Obama all along. 2) With all the doctors, nurses, nannies, superdomos, and subordinates available to national politicians, Palin's children certainly won't go without support and supervision. That is a non-issue. The real issue here is what a Palin vice presidency might do to my children (or grandchildren). I (and they) don't want or need any further destruction of the public education system, any meddling with the balance of church versus state, or any decision-making that tilts to bible belief over scientific analysis. Palin is not responsible for her daughter's decisions - good, bad or otherwise. But she must be held accountable for her own beliefs and approaches to decision-making that will affect the rest of us. And there she is clearly lacking based on the prima facie evidence already on the record. McCain's choice was hardly "cynical;" it was political. That's how the game is played because the voters fail to demand more (and better). But the polls have shown - and are now showing - that just maybe the old politics isn't going to be enough this time: that the voters are ready for someone who really thinks about problems and systems and has the vision to address them in a new way. It happened with JFK; it may very well happen with BHO. And If so, the lightly experienced BHO will have behind him a highly experienced vice president of the same caliber of LBJ that Kennedy had if it becomes necessary for the vice president to carry on. All we need now is the vote. Am I entirely happy with my choices? Not entirely. But at least this time I have a clear one.

Posted by: theyelladawg | September 2, 2008 5:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

this has got to be a joke. what happened to fair journalism. sally quinn should be ashamed of herself. To compare her failed stint at CBS as a national news anchor to the abililty to be vice president from govenor is a bitter comparrison because of her failure. i swear she is looking for every reason to NOT vote for her. Hey does sally have any kids..if so shouldnt she leave her position and raise her kids? the obvious answer no. Her husband raises the kids and she works. Get you head out of the ground, thats more status quo than you would care to admit im sure, but seriously, why dont you just stick to journalism..if you can.

Posted by: Steve Henager | September 2, 2008 5:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

1. You must be kidding
2. You are making a joke
3. You make far too much money for writing this

I vote for #3.

Posted by: URDRWHO | September 2, 2008 5:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Do you really believe what you are saying lady? Obama's own mother was 17 when she got pregnant and she wasn't married, not to mention the fact he was some african guy. And what about Obama's own brother who lives in some mud hut on $12 a year. What about Obama's racist views on white people and his ties to terrorism. What about Michelle Obama's upper lip. What about that.

Posted by: David | September 2, 2008 5:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am astounded,shocked,astonished,confounded,
flabbergasted and down right gob-smacked to hear someone who is supposed to have a modicome of compassion take such a selfish venal position on one young Bristol Palin who is courgeously and with the help of her family (certainly not the media) going to step up to the plate and shoulder her responsibilities as a young mother and soon to be wife. Why do you insist on comparing yourself to Sarah Palin. You have absolutely nothing in common save that you are a woman. I think. I raised four children who are just a year apart in ages while running a small company, going to university and launching my career as a successful artist. I have four great self-sufficient and enthusiastic kids now completely launched. I relate to Saah Palin and know that the newest baby will be loved and cared for by THE ENTIRE FAMILY. You see, a failed net-work broadcaster has, again I'll say it...ABSOLUTELY NOTHING in common with Sarah Palin. While pregnant, she stickhandled through one of the most advantageous energy deals for the nation. Bet you don't even know what that is. Google TransCanada pipeline and gulp. You have written a minor column which is rarely read and have the audacity think you are qualified to draw comparisons between your own life and that of the next VP of the USA Sarah Palin. Let me be the first to advise you. You are SO not in her league. And may I say, you are soooo not in my league.

Posted by: Kate McLean | September 2, 2008 5:47 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The tongue is such a wicked instrument, shown here with the pen. Many assumptions made, where is your evidence of why she is the choice of the party? "Token Evangical", how just is this?

Posted by: mikee | September 2, 2008 5:46 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally is right, Mrs. Palin just isn't ready to be VP of this regressing nation.

Posted by: Cheeba Loins | September 2, 2008 5:43 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms Quinn, I am a "family values voter" and I fully support Sarah Palin for VP. Family Values Voters are just that - they support families and family members make mistakes. Its not whether or not one makes a mistake its how they deal with them, and voters like us don't judge those people, we support them and hope they make better choices in the future.

It is liberal "moderate" or "religious" holy than thou people like you who are intolerant and narrow minded. On one hand I feel sorry for Mrs. Palin's daughter but on the other I admire her for her strength in having to put up with your ilk. If she can get through this she will have a much better formed character than you seem to have.

Your column is just another of many examples of why I have stopped reading the Washington Post. Furthermore your column and ones like it are the reason why the paper's circulation is down year to year. Readers are fed up with your baloney.

Posted by: Ross W | September 2, 2008 5:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I've lost my faith in getting facts that are important to me and my family's life in the media. This article reads like the National Enguirer. Leave the family life out of politics. We Americans really want to read what she does as a governor and politician and not as a mother and wife. Her views on health care, social security, Iraq, terrorism, etc. I am a 59 year old white woman.
Don't think I am wrong.
Please go back to the old days when news and information were news and information.

Posted by: Janet | September 2, 2008 5:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ewe-yuck!

What orifice did Ms Quinn spew this filthy bile out of?

Posted by: Oh My Gosh!!!! | September 2, 2008 5:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are an out of touch, intellectual bigot if you have a sense of "anger" about this. Anger? At whom? McCain? Because he chose someone "REAL"? For the love of ... ugh!

If this were a man would you be asking the same thing?

She wasn't picked because she was a woman only, she's a governor with STRONG conservative values.
If it was to woo Hillary voters, why did it energize the hard right base?

Should we judge EVERYONE based on the actions of their children?

You are weak, and I'm a independant liberal. No wonder Obama is leading in the poles when a so-called "moderate" like yourself has to drag a person's gender into the debate. Wow.

Posted by: Chris Norman | September 2, 2008 5:40 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Well, Sally Quinn, you're showing YOUR true stripes, aren't you? Give us a break, we know YOU are the slanted, cynical one. Be honest with yourself and your readers and, perhaps, we'll respect the MSM again.

Posted by: Observation | September 2, 2008 5:38 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn:

I am also the mother of a 40 year old special needs daughter plus two younger children. I did not go back to work full time until my youngest was 6. Subsequently, I went to law school while the youngest were in college.

I do not believe that Palin's daughter's pregnancy is off limits and here's why. Although Palin does not make any claim that her daughter is declining an abortion because they are anti-choice, her surrogates are praising Palin and her daughter and actually elevating the situation to some kind of positive badge of success. Palin is opposed not only to abortion, but she is opposed to contraception and pre-marital sex. This is something that the right wing finds attractive. But there's no acknowledgment of the results of turning a blind eye and the resulting teenage pregnancy. With the emergency marriage looming on the horizon, only with a great deal of support can Palin's daughter and grandchild expect a positive outcome.

Instead, Palin has chosen her own ambition over her family. This is totally okay with me but is at odds with her religious base. I see Palin as self-absorbed and unable to step back and take a look at her family. Sure, none of them want to deny her a chance at national office. But a person true to their faith would be more concerned about the issues that need her attention more imperatively: The new Down Syndrome son and the expected grandchild. It's her choice. In this case I see it as selfish. She dispensible as a candidate and indispensible as a mother!

Posted by: Patryot | September 2, 2008 5:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow, imagine a politician doing something to get elected! Sally, this response is petty. What few valid points you raise are lost by the sheer pettiness of it all. You can surely do better than this!

Posted by: Mark Brooks | September 2, 2008 5:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

So, in Ms. Quinn's calculation, Obama's lack of experience is a-OK although he's running for President; Palin's "lack of experience" (she was running a city when he was a Get-Out-The-Vote organizer) as vice-presidential candidate is a deal-breaker.

And to top it off, being offered a morning anchor position is "similar" to being offered the Vice-Presidency of the United States of America.

Pardon me, I have to go hit snooze on my "hypocrite alarm."

Posted by: Bull Moose | September 2, 2008 5:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

b

Posted by: a | September 2, 2008 5:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

My mother started college when I started the first grade. She continued her education over the years and almost has a PhD. She was a role model. But her priorities never blurred.

Any parent - father or mother - with a down syndrome newborn (5 months) and a pregnant teenage daughter, muchless three other children, should carefully consider a major career "promotion". Parenting should be the first priority.

Before being elected Governor, Palin said her husband was going to stay home with the kids. According to an article I read, she had not discussed that with him, and he does in fact work.

The conscious choice to have five children is a conscious choice to put one's children first until they are older. Palin didn't do so. And for that, she does not have my respect.

Palin's situation does not involve the choice of losing one's job versus taking another. This is a personal priority - raw ambition. The 'timing' is off, and taking McCain's bait was a decision to put herself before that of her family. Yes, it's a one-in-a-million and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. But that's jut too bad, Sarah. You made your choice when you kept having children. I bet you don't support the use of birth control, and you want to take that right away for American women.

This is not about women's rights. It's about children's rights. Come on Sarah, do the right thing. You have two choices:
1. Put your children first; turn down the VP offer and have your hubby play Mr. Mom, or
2. Put your children up for adoption.

Posted by: Jana | September 2, 2008 5:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

News Flash

Hey Silly Sally, your not up to the job you have now either!

Posted by: You Writing Stinks Too | September 2, 2008 5:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow, Mrs Palin must be a real threat if Sally is writing such derogatory and ignorant comments about her. Sally obviously doesn't have any understanding of how "evangelicals" think based on her diatribe. Out of the four individuals that are being identified as potential Presidents or VP's, the one that I would pick to lead the country would be Sarah Palin! She exhibits all the qualities of a LEADER. This includes but is not limited to conservative fiscal policies (like saying no to the "Bridge to Nowhere") eliminating corruption (even in her own party--Ted Stevens and previous Governor)and the common sense to understand that life begins at conception.

As far as I know she doesn't go to a racist, hate mongering church or hang out with convicted criminals (Resko) and anti-establishment radicals (Ayres). She has demonstrated that she can not only run a small town as Mayor but an entire state with an approval rating above 80%! She sounds pretty solid to me.

It's got to be difficult for far "lefties" to understand that the typical US citizen doesn't want socialism, redistribution of wealth, unions or more government programs! We just want the government to stay out of our way and let us keep the buck that we earned.

Posted by: Common Sense Ed | September 2, 2008 5:35 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I cannot read this article, it is distasteful and inexcusably biased, especially for a media source (something that i know is inevitable, but i feel compelled to point it out).

Sarah Palin's DAUGHTER and her daughters personal decisions should not influence how anyone votes for the Republican Ticket. Not Every politician can be perfect, and Palin is no exception: Sure, she'll lose a few Family Values voters, but she'll gain support from the Pro-Life people. Its unrealistic to expect she'll gain support from every voting group in existance.

As for the clear Feminism regarding Palins selection as running mate, you do not give enough credit to McCains intelligence by assuming he made an uninformed and political choice. I expect journalists (even when writing an opinion article) to do a little research regarding the choice. By gathering insufficient data and drawing conclusions based on that poor data, you draw a picture of an Idiot-McCain picking Palin just because, not because she might actually be a good choice. Following that logic, if this Idiot-McCain were to NOT select palin, Feminists such as yourself would probably be equally outraged for NOT selecting her "just because she's a woman".

Posted by: Anon. | September 2, 2008 5:35 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, you just don't get mainstream religious conservatives. The way her family has handled both her pregnancy and that of her daughters shows that they are real people, making tough decisions.

You should be embarrassed that you don't give the Obama campaign the same scrutiny.

I have heard no one ask how Obama chose an admitted plagiarist to be his running mate! You are really unbelievable.

Another example is the GLARING irony of Obama's favorite Bible verse: "Whatever you have done unto the least of these, my brothers, you have done unto me, " when Obama's own brother lives on 12 dollars a day. This is a man who thinks he can spend your money better than you can, when he can't even even send his brother $100.

You also don't seem to understand the difference in executive experience and campaign experience. Barack Obama has accomplished virtually nothing in his brief legislative career, and he's running for president, not Vice President! My God, have you ever listened to the man when he's off teleprompter?

Posted by: Scott Hardin, Atlanta | September 2, 2008 5:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn didn't know Alaska was in the Union. She doesn't care about anything west of Tysons Corner.

Posted by: grunk | September 2, 2008 5:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Columns such as this one show why journalism, once a respected profession, have degraded to the point that they are found in today. You and your sort have fettered away the public trust and are now viewed with contempt and suspecion. Much in the way that you and your sort portray others. What goes around surely comes around in time.

Posted by: WTFO | September 2, 2008 5:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow, another jibe from a jealous women at Palin. I guess she just isn't "Feminist" enough for you guys huh?

Women vote for women, and that is considered ok by feminists and thier ilk, but when the women running for office isn't a feminist, then suddenly it becomes wrong. Now it's just a gimmick, a fruad... I am simply amazed at the hypocrisy females have.

Posted by: Jesse | September 2, 2008 5:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Is Sally serious? or is this a joke..??

I think Palin is a GREAT choice - based on her VALUES and EXPERIENCE.

Sally - you've been in DC too long....

Posted by: Brian | September 2, 2008 5:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate is a cynical and calculated move. It is a choice made to try to win an election. It is a political gimmick. And it's very high risk. I find it insulting to women, to the Republican party, and to the country. "

"User reviews and comments that include profanity or personal attacks or other inappropriate comments or material will be removed from the site."

Too bad you don't apply your comments policy to the actual article!

Posted by: Bob in Omaha | September 2, 2008 5:32 PM
Report Offensive Comment

After reading your article I was “left” with a feeling of déjà vu. Back in the 1950’s that was the argument women used to hear from men when they applied for a job …I am a conservative with two beautiful little girls and would never dream of telling them that when they grow up, they will have to choose between having a profession or raising a family.I’m amazed at how backward your thought process is...Change you can believe in ? I hope not .

Posted by: wayne butler jr | September 2, 2008 5:32 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Your review is a joke when it comes to discussing the Palin family. You focus solely on Sarah Palin. Not once do you give her husband any credit for fulfilling the roles of the mother in this family. Not once do you mention other family members that help support her family. Sure one of her daughters is a pregnant teenager. But, there are many teenagers that have been raised properly and have made mistakes. You can't be with your teenagers 24/7, but, it is most important that you are there when they need you and that you instill values in them to make good decisions. Sarah is clearly their for her daughter and appears to have at least instilled one value in her--don't kill babies because you made a mistake. And(oops,I almost forgot like you did in your article), her father is there to help out.

Posted by: Independent Voter sick of liberal press | September 2, 2008 5:32 PM
Report Offensive Comment

It might just be possible that Governor Palin has demonstrated extraordinary character, skill, and potential in her short political career.

In reviewing the criticism of her lack of experience, allow me to point out the difference between the job Senator Obama is running for and the job she is running for with some quotes on the vice-presidency:

...a "stepping stone to oblivion."
-Teddy Roosevelt

(of the vice-presidency)"...wasn't worth a warm pitcher of spit."
-VP Jack Garner

"I wouldn't want to trade a vote for a gavel, and I certainly wouldn't want to trade the active position of leadership of the greatest deliberative body in the world for the part-time job of presiding." -LBJ

On the whole, this article completely lacks intelligible political thought.

Posted by: Jared | September 2, 2008 5:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The press thinks your all a bunch of sheep - that they can pull a complete 180 on any issue whenever its suits a Democrat or hurts a Republican and we will somehow not notice it and just go along like good little sheep!

That may work for emotionally drunk libs like M Dowd and their ilk or the welfare, prison classes, Hollywood twits and mush brained MTVers who don't vote but NOT really anyone else.

They are going to reap a huge whirlwind with this attack on Palin and they will be stunned by the election results.

MSM " Yesterday American voters had a Temper tantrum at the poles."

Posted by: They Have No Idea | September 2, 2008 5:30 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Hey socialists: middle America is getting very angry.

Just a warning.

Posted by: Kal | September 2, 2008 5:30 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Hey "Reasonable":

We all have ethics, standards, goals by which we live our lives - call them whatever name you choose. It's hard enough sometimes to live up to one's own - the hardest thing I've learned from being a parent, is trying to instill your own values into someone else (your own child) and having them 'stick' because at some point they learn they have the freedom to make their own choices and set their own standards and then the parents' become secondary to each individual's own decisions. This is the most difficult thing about being a parent - you try to instill your values but at some point the child takes control and responsibility of his/ her own life.

You can't honestly say anyone is a poor parent because their child became pregnant at 17. Well, I guess lib's can - typically out of touch but it's far too common these days.

I don't know if Palin's a good parent or not. Honestly I don't know and couldn't possibly just read enough about her to make that decision. Can you say you can? Apparently Sally thinks so.

Posted by: patriot | September 2, 2008 5:30 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Married women have no business holding responsibities if they have children or grandchildren. i am a long time democrat, i have a hard time swallowing that crap.

Posted by: danny beano | September 2, 2008 5:27 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You wouldn't ask whether a man could handle his job due to his big family. How sexist.

Posted by: Bill | September 2, 2008 5:27 PM
Report Offensive Comment

From the party of family values, we bring you an ill-tempered adulterous who calls his wife the c word and a woman with a 17 year old pregnant daughter who apparently missed several of abstinence classes that her mother so heavily supports.

From the anti-family values party, we bring you a happily married man with two bright and well spoken daughters and widower who was lucky enough to find a wed the second love of his life and raise fine children with her.


Posted by: BrooklynGirl | September 2, 2008 5:27 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I agree, I feel that Palin was picked because she is a woman and because of her purported religious views. Religious views she wants imposed on all of us via legislation and Supreme Court nominations. Her views on abortion and abstinence in and of themselves are not a problem, but when she advocates eliminating the choice for both for everyone else, she becomes a huge target. And, in light of these revelations, a walking example that abstinence doesn't work. And, by forcing her teenager daughter and paramour in to the national limelight, she is showing her terrible judgement as a parent.

Posted by: Jim | September 2, 2008 5:27 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Can I just say that I find there is an unbelievable lack of respect for other people's opinion in the US. There is best exposed on cable TV and even more effectively in the 'blogosphere'.

Sally Quinn has stated her opinion. But rather than respectfully reply saying 'that's well argued but I disagree because...', a large number of replies simply state their own ideology regardless of relevance, and often personally attack the writer.

This disrespect is alarming because it dehumanizes people by putting them into 'us' and 'them' camps rather than remembering that our differences are minor compared to what we share.

Finally, on the subject: I personally feel a great deal of sympathy for Bristol. It is clear from the tone of the Palin spokespeople that this was not a planned event, and now he pregnancy has become international intrigue. It does not seem very 'family-values' to be running for office with a small baby and a daughter soon to need support with her baby.

Posted by: Craig | September 2, 2008 5:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What a pathetic anti feminist column. You should be embarrassed to call yourself a women.

Posted by: Kyle | September 2, 2008 5:25 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What a pathetic anti feminist column. You should be embarrassed to call yourself a women.

Posted by: Kyle | September 2, 2008 5:24 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Obama -

Being a male child born to a Muslim father automatically makes him Muslim in Muslim eyes. Add to that the fact that he was raised Muslim and attended mosque up until his rearing was taken over by his Grandparents makes him doubly Muslim in Muslim eyes. Now comes the rub. If he was Muslim in Muslim eyes and he has renounced Islam then in Muslim eyes he is 'murtadd' that is apostate and it is then the duty of all practicing Muslims to denounce him as such and to kill him at the first opportunity. However if he is practicing the time honored Islamic tactic of 'al-taqqiya', the deceiving of infidels in order to destroy them or bring them into subjugation to Islam, then he is an Islamic Saint and there would be no Islamic outcry against him.

Is there an Islamic outcry against him, or is there massive Islamic support for him?

Posted by: John | September 2, 2008 5:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Just because she has achieved more than you have in your entire life and she is better looking is not a reason to attack her.

Posted by: Dadvocate | September 2, 2008 5:23 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Let me get this straight....

"She has no national political experience, especially in the area of foreign policy." What prior experience does Barack Obama have?

"Is she prepared for the all-consuming nature of the job? She is the mother of five children, one of them a four-month-old with Down Syndrome. Her first priority has to be her children." This is not the 1960's. I have no doubt that Govenor Palin's husband is capable of being a parent. Are you suggesting that parents of young children should not run for office? Does that include both men and women?

It became apparent with the democrat primary that women were just as guilty of sexist comments and ridicule. Jan Crawford Greenberg had written a very good piece addressing this a few months back, I suggest you read it.
If you have then i suggest you read it again.

You as well as other journalist who support democrats should look in the mirror. You and others have become everything you disliked about the GOP. I am a life long democrat. I am a proud Clinton democrat since 1992, but after the democrat primaryof 2008 I have only disgust for those left leaning liberals who have taken over my party.

Heather Gibson

Posted by: Heather Gibson | September 2, 2008 5:22 PM
Report Offensive Comment

This is one of the most bigoted collumns I've read in a while. I am a Republican and lean toward the family values crowd, what ever the "family values crowd" means. I hope you mean the parents of the child take responsibility for starting a human life, and the family helps that parent to raise and nurture that child instead of aborting it, for the convenience of all involved (except for the child).
But really, this should be a non-issue. Chelsea Clinton was kept under wraps away from the effects of her father's sexual escapades while at work. Barack Obama, the offspring of an 18 year old, dangled his children in front of the media to establish his family values before pulling them back under cover. The media dutifully stayed away from the children.
Now that the Palin family is coping with a mistake their daughter made in a responsible, beautiful way, collumnists from the liberal side of the spectrum have wasted no time in hypocritical attacks on a working mother who's the only candidate with executive experience.
Shame on you.

Posted by: Bob Burns | September 2, 2008 5:22 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You wouldn't have asked if a man could handle the job due to his large family. How sexist.

Posted by: Bill | September 2, 2008 5:22 PM
Report Offensive Comment

This is one of the most bigoted collumns I've read in a while. I am a Republican and lean toward the family values crowd, what ever the "family values crowd" means. I hope you mean the parents of the child take responsibility for starting a human life, and the family helps that parent to raise and nurture that child instead of aborting it, for the convenience of all involved (except for the child).
But really, this should be a non-issue. Chelsea Clinton was kept under wraps away from the effects of her father's sexual escapades while at work. Barack Obama, the offspring of an 18 year old, dangled his children in front of the media to establish his family values before pulling them back under cover. The media dutifully stayed away from the children.
Now that the Palin family is coping with a mistake their daughter made in a responsible, beautiful way, collumnists from the liberal side of the spectrum have wasted no time in hypocritical attacks on a working mother who's the only candidate with executive experience.
Shame on you.

Posted by: Bob Burns | September 2, 2008 5:21 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You wouldn't have asked if a man could handle the job due to his large family. How sexist.

Posted by: Bill | September 2, 2008 5:21 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Well it driving the liberals crazy, here they have a Presidential Canidate that is totally unprepared to be President, and this bright articulate women is stealing their thunder. It is truly amazing to me to watch the so called press fall all over themselves for Senator Obama.Whatever crediability the press had is gone, no longer are they to be trusted with providing imformation. It really a sad time to watch in our history. The press has so isolated themselves from the heart land and the people that they think we are fools, I can assure you, you have made a sad mistake and have done the nation a disservice.

Yours truly,
Charles R. Broyles

Posted by: CHUCK BROYLES | September 2, 2008 5:21 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Well it driving the liberals crazy, here they have a Presidential Canidate that is totally unprepared to be President, and this bright articulate women is stealing their thunder. It is truly amazing to me to watch the so called press fall all over themselves for Senator Obama.Whatever crediability the press had is gone, no longer are they to be trusted with providing imformation. It really a sad time to watch in our history. The press has so isolated themselves from the heart land and the people that they think we are fools, I can assure you, you have made a sad mistake and have done the nation a disservice.

Yours truly,
Charles R. Broyles

Posted by: CHUCK BROYLES | September 2, 2008 5:20 PM
Report Offensive Comment

We, the American public, don't care what the so called journalists are reporting. They don't report, they try to influence the news. It appears the era of Edward Murrow, and Ernie Pyle has come and gone. We don't care about the left leaning liberals running rampant in Hollywood. We don't care about the Democrat Party's mantra of "change". The Washington Post, The New York Times, Time Magazine, NBC, CBS, ABC, etc. are declining to the point of being of no consequence. I say good riddance to them all. Personally, I wouldn't use the Times or the Post to wrap dead fish in. I wouldn't waste my television viewing time on the three major networks either. Please convey my disdain for the so-called reporting bias of the Post. Earnest Scott, B.A., J.D. Abilene, TX

Posted by: Earnest Scott | September 2, 2008 5:20 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Don't be concerned for the Conservative Evangelical Right, many of us know more than anyone we are "broken" people. I think Jesus put it best when the religious hypocrites brought Him the woman caught in the act of adultery for stoning; "...let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” John chapter 8 in the Bible, not a PC book for sure.

Posted by: R Robinson | September 2, 2008 5:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

These reporters/writers need to be fired for reporting false information. This is why newspapers are failing. No one believes the junk anymore. NY Times is the worst and Elisabeth Bumiller is leading the way.

Posted by: Jinks | September 2, 2008 5:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Well Sally, I guess the husband will need to attend to the family matters while Sarah is in Washington. Successful parents often are absentee parents. This is why we have private schools: to raise the darlings.

Posted by: Rich Rosenthal | September 2, 2008 5:19 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You shouldn't question Lord Obamaha! Leave the girl alone....or risk the wrath of Lord Obamaha! Praise be his name.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAH HA!

Get a life you jerk!

Posted by: Clone From Star Wars | September 2, 2008 5:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You have to be kidding. Sarah has as much if not more experience then Obama has. In fact she has to run a state and a senator has not that same experience. POINT - Why are most governors elected to president and not senators?

Palin will, just like Bush, Regan and many others, surround themselves with the cabinet of experts. If you think one person has all the answers then maybe it is good to be a democrat. Oblivion of the truth is their foundation.

Palin may not be my choice, but compared to a baby killer who can not tell us when a baby is givin the right to live, but rather answers that is above his pay grade, I would choose Palin. She knows how to lead and has a record. Obama can lead a campaign. But can he lead a nation. Palin is leading a state. What has Obama ever led except for his many contradictions...

SUPPORT McCain and PALIN and stand for AMERICA...

Posted by: Corbin | September 2, 2008 5:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Oh please, your a better mother or are you even a mother? Who the h-ll cares what.. you think?
Just another wet seat trying to make a living!

regduane@bellsouth.net

Posted by: Walter R Dixon | September 2, 2008 5:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Well Sally, I guess the husband will need to attend to the family matters while Sarah is in Washington. Successful parents often are absentee parents. This is why we have private schools: to raise the darlings.

Posted by: Rich Rosenthal | September 2, 2008 5:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

These reporters/writers need to be fired for reporting false information. This is why newspapers are failing. No one believes the junk anymore. NY Times is the worst and Elisabeth Bumiller is leading the way.

Posted by: Jinkster | September 2, 2008 5:18 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Feeling a little threathened aren't we Sally? Palin is a great choice!

Posted by: Jeff Potts | September 2, 2008 5:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally complained about this too and found it demeaning.

Southern Baptist leaders like Richard Land and Al Mohler have praised McCain's choice. But these are the same men who support this statement from the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message:

"A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She, being in the image of God as is her husband and thus equal to him, has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to serve as his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation."

I guess she gets upset if the Baptist message sticks a little too closely to the New Testament message. And no, I am not a Baptist.

Ephesians 5:

22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

Sally for decades has a tendancy to read things into situations that are simply a result of her own overly-active imagination. Check out her phony story about Bezezinski years ago and how her Post story had to be retracted due to lack of facts.

Her obvious can't do attitude is showing again.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 5:16 PM
Report Offensive Comment


FACT:

Clinton had less experience when he was elected PRESIDENT then Palin has as a VP candidate, so stuff it - stuff it - and stuff it some more!

And just wait till Palin lets blow-hard, wind-bag Biden hang himself from his own petard in their debate!

I'd pay to see your smug face then!

Posted by: What did Clinton have? | September 2, 2008 5:15 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally you cast the first stone and another and another at a teenager who is none of your business. I am sure there is nothing in your background that stones should be thrown at.
I will be voting for McCain and Palin because it will annoy people like you. And besides they are better people than you or Obama.

Posted by: John Merchlinski | September 2, 2008 5:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You Americans should eat so much fast food. The fat is slowing your thought processes! You'd get a long ...hard...spanking in my country.

Posted by: Allah Ben Allah | September 2, 2008 5:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sounds to me like you are just jealous Obama didn't grab her first as a vice presidential pick. At least she will have some ethics and morals, which cannot be said of Hillary.

Posted by: jimconch | September 2, 2008 5:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, you should have been aborted, you skank!

Posted by: ted nugent | September 2, 2008 5:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Gee, too bad her mom wasnt a better "role model". She could have taught her daughter to sleep with the boss and become a "journalist". Too bad you didnt have a girl, Sally. Some of us OLD Hillary supporters have a long memory. You probably wont post this but it needed saying.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 5:14 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Palin's future son in law is quoted on a MySpace page subsequently taken down "I'm a f--in redneck".Ya f--with me I'll kick your ass" he further claims to be "in a relationship" but states "I don't want kids"
Is she really sure she wants her daughter to marry this person.
If these quotes are accurate as reported on TV and in the NY Post what does it say about Sara Palin's judgement and priorities.

Posted by: Louis | September 2, 2008 5:13 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sounds to me like you are just jealous Obama didn't grab her first.

Posted by: jimconch | September 2, 2008 5:13 PM
Report Offensive Comment

This is to Paul. While he was talking about abortion, your own candidate for president said that he would not want to see his daughters burdened with a baby for a mistake.

As for Sarah Palin. Cudos to her for still running for veep instead of giving her daughter the added guilt of being responsible for her mother losing the chance to be veep. That is a burden that she will not have to live with because of the bravery of these two women.

Posted by: Frances | September 2, 2008 5:12 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Wow, Sally Quinn you're a real idiot.

Posted by: Jan | September 2, 2008 5:12 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If you only had a brain.

You give dumb blond a whole new meaning.

Please go back in your hole. You've got no idea about reality in these United States. Stay in the Belt Way.

Posted by: Bobby McSame Yo | September 2, 2008 5:12 PM
Report Offensive Comment

As predicted, the liberal elites are ravaging Sarah Palin. One thing they DON'T understand is that Sarah is an American woman and represents OUR ideals, not the sexist, liberal, lesbian, male-castrators that represents the left side of the Democrat party. Everytime you hit her, you put one more vote for her on the books! Keep up the hate, you are so good at it!

We, the true women in this country, will make certain that McCain/Palin is in the White House!

Go Liberals!!!!! Ravage away!!!!

Posted by: Susan from California | September 2, 2008 5:11 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I AGREE!!

Posted by: Charles | September 2, 2008 5:11 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Miss Quinn this is bad stuff. Not going to work.

Posted by: Bill, Florida | September 2, 2008 5:10 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally -

A couple of comments please.

First, Mondale lost the 1984 election, not Ferraro. He lost 49 states as I recall and that's because he was wrong for America.

Second, I would like to know what kind of 'family values' regards the slaughter of over 40 million babies as 'choice'. When Rick Warren asked Obama about this he was actually squirming and stuttering trying to answer it. I suspect that you too are just as uncomfortable responding to similar questions. You should be. At least the girl is having the baby and will raise it with her husband-to-be.

Third, you libs run two people, Clinton and Obama, and through the media try to convince us they are legitimate. If the press reporting was worthy of the First Amendment protection both would be political road kill and would never have reached this point. Obama is dangerously unqualified in nearly every way.

Finally, the press feeding frenzy over a 17-year old girl is despicable in every way. People like you are the reason people like me are voting Rebublican. You have no honor or decency, no plan for governance, and no core values. Everything's for sale and nothing is sacred. And you contemptible people think you're fit to run a country!? You must be dreaming. I cannot imagine people of your ilk having access to the power of the federal government.

Posted by: Lee Douglas | September 2, 2008 5:09 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sour grapes. I have never seen the left so scared! I am really enjoying the show. If you only knew how transparent you all are and how many of us are laughing at you!

Please go on........ it says sooooo much aboout you as a party.

Posted by: Cameron Baird | September 2, 2008 5:09 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I consider myself a conservative. I have rarely voted for a Democrat. The thing that bothers me about the Palin issue is that we're supposed to swallow all this "loving family" stuff. It's the same that the liberals have been saying for years, but now that it's from the GOP, it's all supposed to feel good and be OK.

Isn't it ironic that Mitt Romney said something to the effect, "I think people should get married before they have children," right before he got the boot from Republican evangelicals.

I see no option in this election for social conservatives.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 5:08 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are absolutly correct on this -- Ms. Palin is just another silly woman and has no right to the play with the big boys.

Besides, whose going to fix dinner and wash the family clothes?

Posted by: SexistPig | September 2, 2008 5:07 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Stupid....stupid....stupid.

Posted by: Ben | September 2, 2008 5:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The Dems picked a Black just because he's black then?

Posted by: mrcousteau | September 2, 2008 5:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment


Even you pagan fire worshipers at "On Faith" believe in Karma.

Hint: The Authors Tribute in Handbook for Radicals

Yeah that's gonna be a real 3itch.

Keep selling the kill your babies - set serial killers free - fecal matter message on a Faith page and see where it gets you. Life is short at best, eternity is a darn long time!

Posted by: You Square Sally is Very Dark | September 2, 2008 5:05 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Let's see Sally. Sarah is a mother of 5, she has a successful career, she has been called a babe by Rush, and she has a real man for a husband who has been loyal to her for over 20 years through thick and thin. Seems like you are jealous because you don't measure up. Besides that, she has more executive experience than Nobama, and she's not the one running for President. I smell fear.

Posted by: James | September 2, 2008 5:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Note to self: Never read any of Sally Quinn's trash again.

Posted by: Ray Warner | September 2, 2008 5:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

It's hilarious that the consumate D.C. insider, Sally Quinn, is up the behind of the Messiah of Change, Barack Obama.

What happended, Sally? Did McCain blow off one of your cocktail parties?

Must be nice to hook up with Ben Bradlee and have your ticket punched until dirt sandwich time.

Maybe before you go you will convert to Catholicism so that taking Communion won't make you sick.

Posted by: grunk | September 2, 2008 5:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

liberal garbage-give us a break

Posted by: oliver | September 2, 2008 5:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Your column is entitled "On Faith" But you have none! This women is a fireball! She brings "change you can believe in" because she has done it.

Lying Joe Biden has been around since the Nixon years. What has this guy done?

Posted by: Holy Mackel | September 2, 2008 5:04 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If this were a man, children (even with special needs) would not be a consideration. Talk about cynical!?! You should check your own ideals or lack of them. You just don't understand conservatives and what make them.....and most Americans...tick.

Posted by: Bob | September 2, 2008 5:03 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Gee....would she have been a better role model if she had slept with the boss and become a "journalist" like her mom. Too bad you didnt have a daughter, Sally. Some of us old Hillary voters have long memory. I guess you wont post this, but it needed saying.

Posted by: jeanette pate | September 2, 2008 5:02 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Look who talking? Do you have any kids? I think your just a feminist, and when a feminist doesn't agree with another women's point of view then their just a plain old women. Her place needs to be at home. Where was your stance for feminist when big Bill was being accused by all those women? Blacks complain about racists but when people like Judge Thomas, Colin Powell or Condellsa Rice get appointed to power, blacks call them Uncle Toms and Aunt Jamimas. YOU NEED TO JUST GO HOME!

Posted by: mrcousteau | September 2, 2008 5:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You wrote:
John McCain chose a running mate simply because she is a woman, You know this because,1.you are a very smart and can read minds, or 2.you are like most liberal numb skulls. I'll think number 2 fits you.

Posted by: David | September 2, 2008 5:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Is this a journalist? Or a liberal blogger?
She sounds like one of the DailyKooks.

Posted by: Ray | September 2, 2008 5:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Were you as negative about the qualifications of Govenor Keane of Virginia, whose resume is very similar to Governor Palin's? Was he a token Catholic on Obama's short list?

Posted by: Jane from Memphis | September 2, 2008 5:01 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Yeesh what hypocrisy. It wasn't that long ago all we heard was " This is Bill and Hillary's private life. We should let them be. " Even though the issue there was more about lying to a Grand Jury. Well we can all see that the private life is fair game depending on what side of the aisle you land on.
You are so blinded by partisanship you can't even detect how transparent you are.

Posted by: Warren L | September 2, 2008 5:00 PM
Report Offensive Comment

ha ha ha very funny! You can say what you want, but Palin has FAR more experience than Obama. so every time you talk about her inexperience, and how she isn't ready to be so close to the presidency, you reinforce the notion that Obama is no where near ready to be President. And your mention of the "family values" crowd shows how little you know: family values means you teach your children as best you can to make moral decisions, and love them even if they make a mistake. And while Liberal "family values" means killing 40 million babies, conservative family values means the family steps up, keeps the "surprise" baby, and doesn't just kill it like an unwanted puppy.

Posted by: Curtis | September 2, 2008 5:00 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am from the evangelical republican base, and I'll tell you what I think: If Palin were a liberal, her daughter wouldn't be 5 months pregnant and nobody would have ever heard about this because the baby would have been aborted!! Oh yeah, and there would be no news about the "Baby Daddy" because she would have taught her daughter that she doesn't need a man, that she has that power right within her, and with an abortion, why would he need to stick around anyway! What the evangelical base will see, is a woman who raised her daughter to take responsibility for her mistakes. The mistake was having sex outside of marriage, the right thing to do is to have the baby, marry the daddy, and make the marriage work. And I'm sure, even though this will be hard for them to do, it will work.

Posted by: Caleb | September 2, 2008 5:00 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The only thing cynical is Sally Quinn. Where was her reporting on Obama's lack of experience??

Posted by: Frances Daley | September 2, 2008 5:00 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I am surprised that Sally Quinn is shocked.

In the real world, a wining politician promises: 1. a job; 2. hope; and 3. a place in the lifeboat.

In the real world, people are one issue voters.

In the real world, people vote for whom they identify. If 91% of black/Negro/colored (whatever) indicate a preference for Mr. Obama, that is racial pride. If not, then you are racist. If you are an old white woman and voted for Mrs. Clinton, you were voting identity politics. If not, then you are sexist.

Mr. McCain may win, Ms. Quinn. Get over it.

I have a bumper sticker on my car:

Vote
Harry Truman
2008

I haven't seen a presidential candidate with his guts, fortitude and independence in the last several elections Ms. Quinn. How about your writing an article on the glaring deficiencies of all of the candidates.

Posted by: Brian Cochran | September 2, 2008 5:00 PM
Report Offensive Comment

More sexist hate from known lesbians.

anyway....

Racist black Muslim Democrat at Philly.com says there will be a race riot if McCain wins. Nothing like a black Muslim cretin threatening physical violence if she doesn't get her way!


http://www.philly.com/dailynews/opinion/20080902_Fatimah_Ali__We_need_Obama__not_4_more_years_of_George_Bush.html

My hubby and I are stocking up on guns and ammo, because after naming a strong, smart, beautiful, hardworking, independent woman as his VP, McCain is going to win in a landslide. Bank on it.

Who is surprised that liberal Democrat "journalists" now feel they have to threaten a race war if Obama loses?

Lies, smears and namecalling are all Obama has to run on, because he has no experience being a leader at anything.

Posted by: Ruth Mann Minner | September 2, 2008 4:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate is a cynical and calculated move. It is a choice made to try to win an election. It is a political gimmick. And it's very high risk. I find it insulting to women, to the Republican party, and to the country."

1) Hmm, isn't the VP choice supposed to be made to help win an election?

2) For a vice presidential candidate, the threshold for experience isn't as high. Being able to take over the Presidency during an emergency isn't the sole criteria for choosing a Vice-President.

3) If anyone is a gimmick, it would be Obama who is running his campaign solely on becoming the first black President - and nothing more.

4) How adept the media has become at tearing down women candidates with such great relish!

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 4:59 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn was not ready for network news, and she extrapolates that sad experience to Sarah Palin......................who, by the way, has more executive experience than Apollo Obama. Sally was not ready but Sarah is!!!!!!

Posted by: NC_TEXAN | September 2, 2008 4:58 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I see that you have read the Democratic response handbook....
1. Palin is the ONLY canditate in the race with ANY executive experience.
2. The fact that she is "only a heartbeat away" from being President is irrelevent. EVERY VP is a heartbeat away from being President. And besides, would you rather have Biden? You've got to be kidding me.
3. Is the Democratic Party blind to the fact that she is the Governor of the state that is closest to an enemy of the US.

Frankly, I don't care if the candidate is a woman, a man or an hermaphrodite. As long as she shares the common sense approach to limited government that I believe in.

Posted by: Rob W | September 2, 2008 4:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

One thing no one is talking about - IF McCain loses - he has brought to national prominence another maverick politician like himself. Four years from now, Palin, HERSELF, will likely be a contender to campaign directly as President.

With a full term as Alaska governor (especially if those 80% approval ratings keep going), and the experience of one Presidential campaign under her belt, Sara Palin will be a major contender for PRESIDENT in 2012. Even if McCain loses in 2008 - he believes he's done something positive by bringing up another "McCain-like" contender.

The idea that Palin was chosen just because she is a woman, given there are many other, less risky candidates - is simply dumb. If McCain was just looking to pick a woman, he would have chosen one of the less risky alternatives (Linda Lingle, Jodi Rell, etc.). He chose Palin because she is a woman with executive experience who believes in doing things the same way he does things. Her being a woman is one positive part of the equation, but it's not the main part.

The Republicans fell apart when they had complete control - spending like crazy. WE NEED A POLITICAL SPLIT BETWEEN the LEGISLATURE and EXECUTIVE office. If one party wins and controls everything, the nation loses. Having a political split keeps each side true to it's stated philosophy.

Posted by: J Barringer | September 2, 2008 4:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment


And after reading all the hit pieces in the daily rags, we now know why readership at the newspapers is at an alltime low.

I guess woman like Sally are upset that a woman can have five kids, be a grandmother, be governor, have a child with special needs, and do all of this by the age of 44 with a smile on her face as she lives the American dream.

Cheer up Sally, not everybody is suppose to be like you.

Pat
Albuquerque

Posted by: Pat | September 2, 2008 4:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I see that you have read the Democratic response handbook....
1. Palin is the ONLY canditate in the race with ANY executive experience.
2. The fact that she is "only a heartbeat away" from being President is irrelevent. EVERY VP is a heartbeat away from being President. And besides, would you rather have Biden? You've got to be kidding me.
3. Is the Democratic Party blind to the fact that she is the Governor of the state that is closest to an enemy of the US.

Frankly, I don't care if the candidate is a woman, a man or an hermaphrodite. As long as she shares the common sense approach to limited government that I believe in.

Posted by: Rob W | September 2, 2008 4:57 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Hypocrisy thy name is Sally Quinn.

Posted by: Robert | September 2, 2008 4:55 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I find your reference to the daughter's pregnancy to be very ironic, given the fact that your candidate has said to lay off the children. I think Hillary is making that 4AM call to you tonight...will you be ready for it?

Posted by: David | September 2, 2008 4:55 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I raised two daughters singlehandedly. I consider myself a feminist. But I was shocked and said that Sarah Palin would agree to accept the nomination as Republican candidate for VP. We women can have it all, but as most of us find out when we choose to be parents, we can't have it all at once. Governor Palin is the mother of a special needs infant and three school age girls, one of whom is going through a very difficult passage as a pregnant, yet-to-be-wed seventeen year old. I find it morally reprehensible that Gov. Palin would accept this position at this period in the life of her family. The role of Governor of Alaska pales in comparison to the demands of a candidate for high office. It involves frequent travel, early morning and late night meetings and jam packed days campaigning. If we choose to have children, then we must also accept the responsibility to parent, love, guide and care for them until they reach maturity. I do not respect Gov. Palin's choice to serve as candidate for VP of the US.

Posted by: Mary Kelly O'Donnell | September 2, 2008 4:55 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I haven't looked at any of the huge number of comments yet, but I'm bound to repeat some of them.

This is as wrong on as many levels as there are words.

You, Sally Quinn, certainly did your part to bring on this crappy mess we're in with your rants against the Clintons who "trashed" "your" little village.

The Villagers must be getting nervous; the natives in both parties are restless. And they're certainly not listening to the likes of you. Just who is your intended audience? Oh that's right, the other Villagers: Do something! Stop them!

Posted by: nene | September 2, 2008 4:54 PM
Report Offensive Comment

BRAVO!!

As the mother of three, I can say without hesitation, that if one of my girls was 17 and pregnant, there would be no way in hell I would expose her to the cruel scrutiny she is currently experiencing. She has a lot on her plate and doesn't need to be the topic of discussion on every news program. And what about her school? How does she go back to school after all of this and face all her classmates? I would like to think that kids wouldn't react at all, but unfortunately, they can be very cruel. She will need all the love and support she can get, particularly from her mother. How can that happen when her mother is so very otherwise involved?

Posted by: Mary Anne Rahm | September 2, 2008 4:54 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, you should have stayed home and been the mother you want every female to be. You simply pronounce that Palin has no experience, without anything in your column to support it. In fact, she is the only one of the four candidates with executive experience! Same kinda experience Bill Clinton had, except he never had a job nor did he ever serve a municipality.

I am appalled that there are women out there like you, Sally, who still believe women should stay home and raise the kids. And, if there are successful women who manage both a career and family (like you say), then where's your beef?

Just because you weren't ready for prime time doesn't mean Palin isn't ready for VP. I would worry more about Obama finishing his term than I would about McCain.

Posted by: Larry Hall | September 2, 2008 4:54 PM
Report Offensive Comment

This is shameful. If a conservative made the same comments about a liberal woman, there would be no end to the outrage. I hope thius sort of hackery continues, as it is so transparant it is sure to drive voters directly to Mrs. Palin and away from the inside the beltway view of the mainstream media.

Posted by: Bill | September 2, 2008 4:53 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I have not seen ONE person on the left suggest that Palins daughter should get an abortion. So it sickens me when all of you pro lifers write posts saying that is what pro choice people are suggesting.

People are pointing out fact that Palin advocates abstinence rather than sex education and that her family should practice what she preaches-period.

It is relevant to me that she is woman or that Palin has 5 kids, what is relevant is that her own family doesnt reflect the values that she expouses to us and expects my children to follow. Dont you have to get your own house in order first???

Please dont write hateful attacks replies, respond to my actual points.

Posted by: Paul | September 2, 2008 4:53 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What a hack.

Ms. Quinn,

Congratulations on hitting ALL of the DNC talking points you've been spoon fed.

...and on not much else.

Posted by: Beyond Belief | September 2, 2008 4:52 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"Not only do we have a woman with five children, including an infant with special needs, but a woman whose 17-year-old child will need her even more in the coming months. Not to mention the grandchild. This would inevitably be an enormous distraction for a new vice president (or president) in a time of global turmoil. Not only in terms of her job, but from a media standpoint as well."

I brought up this concern and I was called a sexist.

Let's be fair. A woman with five children and an upcoming grandchild CAN become president. Granted, I DO NOT want that woman to be Sarah Palin. But you're selling your gender short by saying things like that. If you had five kids, you'd still VOTE, right? Would you still say yes if I asked that question in 1920? Because that was the excuse men would have given you not to vote back then.

The "enormous distraction" you speak of is actually putting Bristol's predicament ahead of Sarah Palin's ability to be President. Let's keep Palin's family out of this and focus on her beliefs and track record.

Posted by: Anthony Volpe | September 2, 2008 4:52 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn: You and your inside the beltway friends in the Democratic Party (and their mouthpiece, the mainstream media) will never get it. Sarah Palin is exactly what this country needs to bring you and your friends down to earth. Watching you and the media get hysterical for 4 years is worth my vote for McCain/Palin.

Posted by: Kerry | September 2, 2008 4:51 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What happend to "CHANGE"....this is a change why not embrass it. And the more i read and watch it seems the president race is between Obama and Palin.. By the way Obama said he is going to change DC and he pick Biden as VP that has been in DC before it wad DC. Give her a chance! By the way the media was not this harsh on H Clinton b/c she is a women but you turn on a dime for Palin. By the she one tough cookie...read how she broke all her digits while working with her husband....thats the kind of mother/wife/president i want. THanks

Posted by: p9ink | September 2, 2008 4:51 PM
Report Offensive Comment

So did you and Susan Reimer sit down at the same table and compare notes?Disgusting.

Posted by: Larry k | September 2, 2008 4:51 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You know, with all the "Risks" we seem to go through every election year (Presidential or Congress) with the Washington insiders, professional politicians and primarily none that has ever worked for a living. Why not "Risk" the Presidential election on one of us? Sarah is from "Real Working class". Not from working class parents that sent the kid through college. Also, when we elect a President and VP, we are not electing a King or now possibly a Queen. There are executive orders but there is a Congress who can nix things. Besides, is it not the Left that praised Speaker Pelosi on her trip to the Middle East. What Executive experience does she have? Or even Foreign Policy experience? Lastly, what happened to "women can have-it-all" and "do-it-all", people? Now all of a sudden, you're saying she needs to be barefoot and pregnant at home with the kids?..

PS...this is a complaint directed to both sides of the aisle, Dems and GOP....

Posted by: Chris | September 2, 2008 4:49 PM
Report Offensive Comment

keep writing and talking no women will be liberal in a few years

Posted by: flogbishop | September 2, 2008 4:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

This is the exact conversation I have had with my friends and family these past few days. I am a professional working woman with four children. I am a Christian and someone who will vote Democratic for the first time in my life this presidential election. (This was a decision made well before the announcement of Palin as VP nominee.)Leaving aside her total lack of experience on the national/international stage, I would have a hard time supporting a woman who would choose a job over two of her five children who have significant, significant needs right now. This just isn't her time.

Posted by: TLC | September 2, 2008 4:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Very thoughtful!

Posted by: Ronald Smith | September 2, 2008 4:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

YOUR DOCTRINE AND OR PROPOGANDA OF FALSEHOOD DOES NOT SURPRISE ME AS LIE-BERALS HAVE NEVER CONCEDED ACCEPTED AND OR ADMITTED TO ANY OF THE EGREGIOUS OF MULTITUDES OF CRIMES THAT WHICH THEY HAVE COMMITTED EVEN WHEN THEY PLEADED GUILTY IN FEDERAL COURT5 SUCH AS BILL CLINTON FOR PERJURY AND SAMUEL BERGER FOR THE STEALING OF NATIONAL SECURITY DOCUMENTATIONS FROM THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES . WORSE WE HAVE BARACK OBAMA WHO SHOULD BE INDICTED LIKE HIS CONVICTED BLOOD MONEY MACHINE TONY REZKO IN CHICAGO ALONG WITH OTHER CRIMINALS SUCH AS GEORGE SOROS PETER LEWIS . PENNY PRITZKER HIS CHAIRWOMAN FOR HIS PRESIDENTIAL FINANCE CAMPAIGN WHEREFORE PENNY PRITZKER AS THE PRESIDENT OF SUPERIOR BANK FSB .ILL THROUGH CHICANCERY AND FRAUD CAUSED SUPERIOR BANK FSB .ILL TO BE SUBPRIMED MORTGAGE FORECLOSED ON JULY 27.2001 TO THE SUM OF FOUR HUNDRED FIFTY MILLION DOLLARS . THE FDIC TOOK CONTROL; OF SUPERIOR BANK FSB .ILL ON JULY 27.2001 . PENNY PRITZKER HAD THE FIRM KNOWN AS MORMON HOLDINGS INC BANKRUPTED WHEREBY THE RICH WEALTHY BILLIONAIRE LIE-BERAL BARACK OBAMA?S BLOOD MONEY MACHINE THE BUYING OF THE PRESIDENCY WARREN BUFFET PURCHASED SIXTY PERCENT OF THE EQUITY OF MORMONS HOLDINGS INC FROM PENNY PRITZKER AND OTHER MEMBERS OF THE PRITZKER FAMILY FOR THE SUM OF FOUR POINT FIVE BILLION DOLLARS THE BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY INC EMPIRE AS THE PURCHASING ENTITY . YOU HAVE BARACK OBAMA FRIEND AND ASSOCIATE THE GOVENOR OF PUERTO RICO INDICTED BY FEDERAL PROSECUTORS ON FORTY NINE COUNTS OF CRIMINAL OFFENSES . THE LAW FIRM OF MILBERG WEISS .LLP OF NEW YORK CITY AND IT?S FORMER CHAIRMAN AND CEO MELVYN WEISS ALONG WITH TWO OTHER PARTNERS OF THIS SAID LAW FIRM OF MILBERG WEISS LLP .OF NEW YORK CITY ALL PLEADED GUILTY TO CRIMES COMMITTED TO THE SUM OF TWO HUNDRED FIFTY MILLION DOLLARS WIRE WIRE FRAUDS MONEY LAUNDERING INSIDER TRADINGS AND OTHER FEDERAL FELONIES . THIS SAID LAW FIRM AND THE INDIVIDUALS NAMED WERE CRIME MACHINERIES OUTLETS FOR BARACK OBAMA AND OTHER DEMOCRATIC SENATORS WITH DONATIONS OF TENS UPON TENS OF THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS . PENNY PRITZKER IS VALUED AT TWO BILLION DOLLARS THE ONE HUNDRED THIRTY FIVE RICHEST AMERICANS WHEREBY THE MEDIA DELIBERATELY WITHOLD ALL OF THESE INFORMATION FROM THE PUBLIC ABOUT BARACK OBAMA AND OTHERS .MORE TO COME TREVOR MERCHANT TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 02.200

Posted by: TREVOR MERCHANT | September 2, 2008 4:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally... you're the one that is cynical. As to experience, Sarah Palin has more executive experience than Oblamalamadingdong. Also, Sarah actually has 'accomplishments'. Another area in which Obummer is sadly lacking. Unless, of course, you count serving on a board with William Ayers.

Posted by: Royalsan | September 2, 2008 4:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Ms. Quinn, you have GOT to be kidding me.

Here, as a 45 year old woman, I have been in the glare of liberal feminism now since I was out of high school. We were "told" to do it all and have it all -- NO BARRIERS to women, nothing you can't do, girls -- whatever you set your mind to. If you want kids, have them, if not, have an abortion, but go on and make sure you have that career, no matter what. You people have been HARPING on this for what, now, 30-40 Years??? We were made to feel SO guilty if we didn't constantly ACHIEVE, ACHIEVE, ACHIEVE!!!!

And now this obviously accomplished and successful woman is selected for VP, and you're steaming MAD about it?? What gives? If this were Barbara Boxer, for example, we'd be CELEBRATING that she as a woman, was able to have a family, career, even a special needs child, yet STILL manage to work as a State Governor!!

Your hypocrisy is just mind blowing. PLEASE, stop your obvious slanted liberal rants -- they are just nauseating.

Posted by: Mabel | September 2, 2008 4:48 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Very thoughtful!

Posted by: Ronald Smith | September 2, 2008 4:47 PM
Report Offensive Comment


Forget Bias - this is so far beyond that you actually have a Life Long Feminist arguing against feminism for the moment in this article because they got NOTHING!

Yeah, whatever a Dem does or doesn't do its the greatest thing ever. This can even include perjury. Sure Lying to us is good if a Dem does it!

But a Republican their just lucky to be allowed to breath and the press is free to imagine there dark inner thoughts and write about how evil they are. . .

30 seconds on MSNBC and you'll know I'm not kidding!

Posted by: We Can Whatever - You Can't Anything! | September 2, 2008 4:47 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What we conservatives want in a candidate, above all else, is CHARACTER. As represented by a belief in God, the constitution, and self reliance. If we get that, we have every reason to believe good decisions will follow, as surely as night follows day.

Sarah Palin has more character in her little finger than Obama & Biden have in their entire bodies combined.

How can I make that statement? Let's see, Gov. Palin's record: successfully fought corruption in her own party, declined to waste taxpayer money on the "bridge to nowhere", used tax breaks to return money to citizens of her state, negotiated a natural gas pipeline deal with Canada, and more - common sense approach to high energy prices, filed suit against labeling Polar Bears as an endangered species (since their numbers have been INCREASING over the last decade), her decision on her last pregnancy as well as her handling of her daughter's first pregnancy, and more.

What about the records of the eminently qualified Obama and Biden? Do they have a singular significant accomplishment between them?

Well, they both demonize the capitalist system, and that's a good thing isn't it..who cares that it has made this country the envy of the world.

Well, at least they both believe in man made global warming,..wait, how many scientists that were once global warming believers have now recanted, such as David Evans? How is it that our SUVs are causing the polar icecaps on Mars to melt again?

Hey, they both believe in private property rights..oops, scratch that, they want to take your money and resdistribute it to those "less fortunate", to "even the playing field".

Sorry, I can't think of anything...you'll have to tell me what it is these two government employees have actually accomplished that improved the life of a single productive American.

You are right about one thing, the world is very dangerous, and this is no time to play politics with our selection of our national leaders.

The last thing we need is two more Ivy League lawyers in charge.

I think the majority of Americans would much rather have an old fighter pilot teamed with a lady of impeccable character, and who seems to have enough common sense to possibly change McCain's mind on drilling in Anwar.

Common sense seems to be in terribly short supply in D.C. these days.

Posted by: John in Alabama | September 2, 2008 4:47 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If you presume to know what John McCain was thinking when he chose his running mate, you are a minority of one in political circles.

And if you think he only chose her because she's a woman (I hear echoes of insults to Sen. Clinton as I type), you need to do some real research. Use Google Archives and look back through her career.

How many men with children have you questioned about being up for their job? Didn't think so.

Kay B. Day
The US Report

Posted by: Kay B. Day | September 2, 2008 4:47 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What happend to "CHANGE"....this is a change why not embrass it. And the more i read and watch it seems the president race is between Obama and Palin.. By the way Obama said he is going to change DC and he pick Biden as VP that has been in DC before it wad DC. Give her a chance! By the way the media was not this harsh on H Clinton b/c she is a women but you turn on a dime for Palin. By the she one tough cookie...read how she broke all her digits while working with her husband....thats the kind of mother/wife/president i want. THanks

Posted by: PINK | September 2, 2008 4:46 PM
Report Offensive Comment

She and other liberals really know NOTHING about evangelicals or conservatives. They think we beat our daughters for getting pregnant and then ship them off to Aunt Bertha to hide for the rest of the pregnancy.


Posted by: Linda Martinez | September 2, 2008 4:46 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Obama gives a speech last week about equal rights and equal pay for women and Sally Quinn argues that a woman is incapable of being the Vice President and caring for her children at the same time. Wow! This is the real insult to women.

Posted by: GC | September 2, 2008 4:46 PM
Report Offensive Comment

From Wikipedia:

"Quinn and Bradlee have one child, [Josiah] Quinn Crowninshield Bradlee who was born in 1982 when she was 41. They have acknowledged that he was born with velo-cardio-facial syndrome."

And yet you continue to work.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 4:45 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Look at her meteoric rise in the state of Alaska. She really has been shaking things up there, she's a serious reformer, honest and upright, a fighter of corruption.

As a governnor, she has been tremendously successful. She has a favorable polling rating among Alaskans that is IN THE 80's! That is to say, more than 4 of 5 Alaskans approve of the job she's doing.

If you just look at that alone, she'd be a good choice for Veep. Fact is, being "experienced" counts for much less than having principles, judgment, and integrity. And she does have executive experience, of which Obama has none.

I'll take a limited amount of experience like Palin has over just about anything else out there. You're just wrong on this one.

Posted by: Palin NOT just a sop to women voters | September 2, 2008 4:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Re: Palin's Pregnancy Problem

This column is laughable. Palin's executive experience is superior to that of either of the Democrats, and even McCain's executive experience was military rather than governmental. Further, she is an effective reformer, something that neither Obama nor Biden can even hint at.

Regarding "leader of the free world," whom would you rather have face Putin or Ahmedinejad—Sarah Barracuda or Barry the Squish? i know who would be my choice.

Posted by: Richard Donley | September 2, 2008 4:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I find this blog insulting to all women!
The author mixes in "opinioned ideas" to support and twist facts to her slanted viewpoint.

On Faith??? what a joke you've made this concept.

Posted by: Margaret Truman | September 2, 2008 4:44 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Nice article!. Unfortunately this election seems to have too much discussion around race & gender. People have been too anxious to see a colored or women president/VP in office... to the extent that they are willing to overlook the merit factor. This is not good! The country has been making great progress in tearing down the race & gender barrier. Having colored and/or women President is likely to happen in the near future (if not in this election). So I hope those factors don't determine this election. I'm a non Caucasian, male immigrant... and I supported Hillary Clinton in the primaries because of only one reason... She was the most qualified candidate. Period! The country's future is at stake and let's elect our President purely on merit.

Thanks

Posted by: Sonny | September 2, 2008 4:43 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The left will one day destroy our country....mark my words.

Posted by: Wisdom gone on the left | September 2, 2008 4:43 PM
Report Offensive Comment

To the writer IMMORAL PREGNANY

You say bottom line is to keep her legs SHUT!

Remember it takes two to dance. So why not tell him to keep the misssle in the silo so there are no mis-fires.

What gives you, or anyone, the right to judge her.
But then I know your children, if you have any, have never made a mistake.

Posted by: Jim W | September 2, 2008 4:42 PM
Report Offensive Comment

For some reason someone appointed you to single out the sins of the politicians, not not just any politicians, Republicans...
I'm sure you did things to get where you are, entertain a few bosses, you know what I mean...
is not your cup full, women...

Posted by: Dwight | September 2, 2008 4:41 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I have a question for all of you conservative people who are pro Palin-

How many of you would think she was a great selection for ticket if she was Pro Choice?
Be honest.

At least call a spade a spade-most of far right likes her because of her "values"-not her experience or lack thereof.

That being said-her values should be reflected in her children-I dont have anything against premarital sex-but I thought you value oriented people did.

Lastly, the experience issue is being raised by the so called leftists in response to the last 6 month of campaing ads by repubs criticizing Obama's lack of same

Why isnt it fair game?

Posted by: Reasonable | September 2, 2008 4:40 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally,

I don't think Palin would have taken the job offer if she didn't feel she was up to it. Seriously, I'm sure she would thank you for your concern for her and her families well-being...if she cared.

I believe Palin thought this decision through. I'm sure she knew that the pregnancy of her daughter would become public. I think McCain knew about it also.

Ultimately, McCain's decision blows apart the democrat accusations that "McCain is Bush". Bush would NEVER have the brass to make a decision like Palin. It proves to the people of this country that McCain is his own person and that scares the hell out of socialists. Individual thinking and responsibility always does.

Posted by: Lance | September 2, 2008 4:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, what a lame argument. "Her first priority has to be her children." Maybe Sarah Palin sees her role as the winning edge on the Republican ticket as serving that first priority. I would consider myself as failing my two daughters if I did not do what I could to keep two of the most liberal voting members of the US Senate from ruining our economy and our great country. Oh, and great rationalization for allowing yourself and Nancy Pelosi to keep your jobs. Maybe we men should just keep all you women at home, barefoot and pregnant! Wouldn't that be a step forward for feminism!

Posted by: Roger in Lafayette, LA | September 2, 2008 4:37 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Hey Sally,What are you smokin? The Republican VPcandidate has a much more impressive resume than the Dems presidential candidate.I know the irony must be so painful that theres a pretty good chance that the first woman POTUS will be a conservative Republican.Thanks for helping to convince me to donate to the McCain campaign.

Posted by: WJD | September 2, 2008 4:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Obama is half american but nobody says anything, but as it goes if your born in america (hawaii) that makes you an american, next president will be Jose born in america.

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 4:36 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Never in my life have I ever seen such blatant misuse of media power to throw elections in favor of the Socialists/Soviets - from Don Hewitt (who admittedly skewed the Nixon/Kennedy TV debate in favor of Kennedy) to Dan Rather's crude attempt to foist the election - the propaganda is overwhelming.

Why such hate on the left?

Two Americas: WE get free speech, YOU get hate speech; WE get mansions like Gore, Edwards, Pelosi, Rockefeller, etc. but YOU can't count your own homes, mister real estate entrepreneur; WE are protected, but YOU must be disarmed.

Lincoln said it best, and I paraphrase: "those from within will destroy us..."

Posted by: zucco | September 2, 2008 4:35 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Evangelicals are psychologically deluded individuals, as are all who think they "have it right" on the idea of a god or gods. You can have faith, you can have hope, you can feel strongly, but taking your ideas on deity to the level of fact is neurosis. It smacks of poor mental development, poor awareness, and is in fact the height of selfishness. I respect people's faith, when it is only faith, not ego projection. For faith to be valid it must be nested in honest and candid uncertainty, that is the beautiful and noble struggle that makes faith hard work. You use your free will to hold your faith in one hand, uncertainty in the other, you just hold tighter to the faith.

Posted by: CK | September 2, 2008 4:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

The right wing says that a 17 year old should not be made an issue. Can you imagine what Rush would have said if this had been an obama daughter that was pregnant. Not only would they focus on the poor parenting and loss of family control. They would say what do you expect from a black man. I would prefer that this was not an issue, but frankly this VP choice was a poor one.

Posted by: mick | September 2, 2008 4:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Great article, this really sums up everything I had been thinking. John McCain has put his own ambitions rather than the country first and so has Palin.

Posted by: Mrs. C | September 2, 2008 4:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment


So let me get this right?

Democrats are now for:

Women staying home, not pursuing careers plus barefoot and pregnant.

Segregation in schools where black children are not taught to read and write proper English.

Eliminate Free Speech by passing the "Fairness Doctrine"

Screaming like spoiled children when everything does not go their way.

I'm sure I missed a bunch but I think I've got the general idea where this is all going.

PS Alaska is bigger then Arkansas (Clinton) and Delaware (Biden) combined so you might want to drop that stupid attack line too.

Posted by: The New Dem Party | September 2, 2008 4:34 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I have not read a more insulting column to women in my life. Whether you agree with Sarah Palin's politics or not, the argument that she can't do her job because she has to take care of her kids is just so insulting and sets women back. My wife, who is a liberal and voting for Obama, has been furious at the way Palin has been characterized in the media.

Also, Sally Quinn's ego knows no bounds when she says that she was once in a "similar position" because she was asked to be a news reader. Guess what, Sally? Thousand upon thousands of women have risen to the occasion when taking on new opportunities. Sorry it didn't work out for you. Maybe someday it will.

Posted by: Steve Bennett | September 2, 2008 4:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

it seems since she's not a liberal thinking woman she's not qualified, but if she was in the democratic party you would be bragging on her. Lets face it your just bias....

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 4:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, You obviously hit a nerve and thank goodness you did!

If McCain and the Repubs wont vet their VP candidate, the intelligent American voters will.

This is almost comical. I feel like a kid on Christmas morning. McCain just gave the election to the Obamites!

McCain was strong armed into ignoring Leiberman and selecting an unexperienced individual who just happens to be a woman.

Palin is a woman, but in the words of another VP candidate, You Sara Palin are NO HILLARY CLINTON.

You cant nor will win this election simply because of your gender.

Dont insult me!

Posted by: Anonymous | September 2, 2008 4:33 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, I didn't know you were still alive. I'm surprised, but pleased to see that you are still with us.

Posted by: bc3 | September 2, 2008 4:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Terribly sexist article.

Posted by: Charlie | September 2, 2008 4:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

What a tired legacy - if a "Democrat" does something it's ok, but if a "Republican" does (or doesn't do) something it's automatically bad. If the sun shines today it must be global warming.

Never in my life have I ever seen such blatant misuse of media power to throw elections in favor of the Socialists/Soviets - from Don Hewitt (who admittedly skewed the Nixon/Kennedy TV debate in favor of Kennedy) to Dan Rather's crude attempt to foist the election - the propaganda is overwhelming.

But why? Why such hate on the left?

Two Americas: WE get free speech, YOU get hate speech; WE get mansions like Gore, Edwards, Pelosi, Rockefeller, etc. but YOU can't count your own homes, mister real estate entrepreneur; WE are protected, but YOU must be disarmed.

Lincoln said it best, and I paraphrase: "those from within will destroy us..."

Posted by: zucco | September 2, 2008 4:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Your comments are stunningly ignorant and sickening and illustrate very well the left-wing bias that you have.

Posted by: Daniel Ogden | September 2, 2008 4:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If she was a liberal, "her first priority" would be her career, but since she's a conservative, "her first priority" is to stay at home, "barefoot and pregnant", certainly not on the campaign trail threatening to take down the mainstream media-backed Obama steamroller.

Posted by: Brother Crimewave | September 2, 2008 4:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Why is it that if a male voter such as myself is not offended by McCain picking a femail VP, that Sally Quinn is? I happen to like who she is and what she stands for, not that a "woman" was put on the ticket. If we are truly ever going to get past the race issue or the gender issue, the media needs to quit making a big deal of it.

Posted by: Craig | September 2, 2008 4:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If she cared about her child she should have turned down the offer of the VP slot not as a woman but as a parent of either sex. Not because she can't handle the children and the job (there is always help)but she shouldn't have exposed her daughter to national scrutiny. It is tough enough to be 17 and pregnant but to have the whole world discussing it is humiliating. Palin clearly cared more about herself and her career than her daughter. I doubt that she asked her daughter's opinion.

Posted by: Laura | September 2, 2008 4:31 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If she was a liberal, "her first priority" would be her career, but since she's a conservative, "her first priority" is to stay at home, "barefoot and pregnant", certainly not on the campaign trail threatening to take down the mainstream media-backed Obama steamroller.

Posted by: Brother Crimewave | September 2, 2008 4:30 PM
Report Offensive Comment

You are obviously unqualified to be a writer either. Make up your mind (the inability to do so is a women trait), a female can have a career and be a parent too or not? Your rant fails to deliver a clear opinion (hence a rant)

Posted by: Fred | September 2, 2008 4:30 PM
Report Offensive Comment

If Sarah Palin was a Democrat and pro-abortion, the media would be having multiple orgasms like they do for the "holy one" Obama. We conservative are more excited then we have been for years about this choice. For once, we have someone who isn't another "pickled in Washington" legislature who has no experience in the executive branch. She's going to make a lot of people eat their words (and then some). I love it!

Posted by: Art Chick with Brains | September 2, 2008 4:30 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Washington Post rules for posting:

We encourage users to analyze, comment on and even challenge washingtonpost.com's articles, blogs, reviews and multimedia features.

User reviews and comments that include profanity or "personal attacks" or other "inappropriate comments" or material will be removed from the site. Additionally, entries that are unsigned or contain "signatures" by someone other than the actual author will be removed. Finally, we will take steps to "block users who violate" any of our posting standards, terms of use or privacy policies or any other policies governing this site.


I guess Ms. Quinn’s article will need to be removed due to the Post’s own posting standards. Petty personal attacks are all you can muster Ms. Quinn! You can do better research and come up with some fact based comparisons to the democratic ticket can’t you?

Posted by: scott51 | September 2, 2008 4:29 PM
Report Offensive Comment

OMG another politically directed newspaper article. How can you all look in the mirror and not be ashamed. How about focusing on something that matters like Obama's socialist goals for America v. McCains capitalistic society (that which has made America great). My final point- I am also amazed at the fact that newspapers are shocked that their subscribers are falling off. This trashy article is exactly why. Journalism....I think not. Political agenda from the Washington comPost....for sure.

Posted by: kern | September 2, 2008 4:29 PM
Report Offensive Comment

In my 35 years in the workplace (and a male) I have witnessed sexual discrimination 4 times from executives. Each and every time it was a woman executive discriminating and other men, including me, had to defend the woman being discriminated against. 2 times involved women going out on pregnancy leave, 1 time with a woman the woman executive thought "might" get pregnant, and 1 time because a woman was thought to be "too friendly" to males at work.

Posted by: skucount | September 2, 2008 4:29 PM
Report Offensive Comment

So the Post's Style Section writer is judging qualifictions for the President?

Posted by: bristol | September 2, 2008 4:28 PM
Report Offensive Comment

So Palin will fail as a VP becuase you were a "disaster" as an anchorwoman? Geesh!

Posted by: Reality bites | September 2, 2008 4:28 PM
Report Offensive Comment

"And by the way, how can McCain call Barack Obama unqualified, inexperienced, not ready from Day One, not able to be commander in chief, and then put someone like Palin in a position that is a heartbeat away from the pesidency?"

What? You ADMIT that Obama has no foreign policy experience.

If your side wins Obama will UNCONDITIONALLY become president.

If your side loses Palin will CONDITIONALLY become president.

You obviously prefer certainty.

A guarantee that America will be destroyed.

That wonderful combination of Sharia Law and Socialism will do the job.

Good luck!

Jim Mukubansky

Posted by: JIm Mukubansky | September 2, 2008 4:27 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally, you're being a silly, irrational woman. Just kidding.

Seriously, though... why don't you just come out and say you want Obama to win and will write anything to help his cause. At least that would be a genuine article. You sound spiteful and jealous and frantic in the article above.

This column is weak on so many points and I'm sure it will be ripped to shreds for the trash that it is on talk radio, but I'll point out one issue you brought up: Palin's daughter being pregnant will not hurt her among evangelicals... everyone in America has experienced this type of family crisis at one time or another. It will help her identify with them. Plus, the daughter is making the correct choice in marrying her boyfriend (according to evangelical values). So... what's the problem?

You're reaching. Try again.

Posted by: Ricky and Corrie Rater | September 2, 2008 4:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Sally Quinn:

"This would inevitably be an enormous distraction for a new vice president (or president) in a time of global turmoil."

Sally, I hope the next time you go for a job interview, your personal life is examined and the intereviewer concludes that your family obligations would interfere with your ability to the job.

Com'on, Sally, think before repeating democrat talking points. You're insulting women in a real way and this nonsense is going to back fire.

Posted by: The Happy Infidel | September 2, 2008 4:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Are these pictures of Bristol Palin drinking alcohol? Worse yet, are these pictures of Brisol Palin with empty alcohol bottles on her bedroom shelves in her parent's home? Is that her underage boyfriend sleeping in her bed in her parent's HOME? If these pictures are authentic, then why didn't Gov. Palin put a stop to this behavior? Why does she allow her daughter to put empty alcohol containers up on her wall? Will these pictures be authenticated?

http://www.stupidsheeple.com/index.php/2008090140/latest/bristol-palin-gone-wild.html

Posted by: Something is ROTTEN in Alaska | September 2, 2008 4:26 PM
Report Offensive Comment

Check a calendar. This is 2008, not 1908. These questions would not even be thought of if this exact same situation involved a man running for VP rather than a woman. Her husband is a stay-at-home dad. Unless you think fathers are incapable of loving, nurturing and rearing their children as well as a mother, I don't see what the problem is.

Since when does John McCain have one foot in the grave anyway? Has anyone told him? When was the last time we had a president die in office? How old was he? So there goes that argument.

I am one of Hillary's 18 million voters. I refuse to condone the voter fraud and intimidation of the primaries from Obama, so I'll be casting my vote for McCain/Palin.

Posted by: Cindy | September 2, 2008 4:25 PM
Report Offensive Comment

I suspect that this is a witch