'There's a double standard'

Donna Bird,Apopka Fl — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:35:13 GMT

double standards is among the republicans-listen to thier own words- did you hear Romney? listen to it again-
and what in the world happen to Huckleberry? whose ass is he kissing- he was nothing like this before.

'There's a double standard'

Patrice from Pennsylvania — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:35:52 GMT

Give me a break.....unfortunately this is not an ideal world, when you are running for such a position, unfortunately you have no privacy. When Bill Clinton went through his ordeal, the republicans wore his butt out. Talk about double standard. Yes family issues should remain private but, thats the way the cookie crumbles. Considering what Gov Palin is currently going through, she should have not accepted the offer, but of course you people and your once in a lifetime opportunities that your not considering your family in is what the end results look like

'There's a double standard'

Scott, Los Gaots, Ca — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:36:39 GMT

There is no 'double standard'. The media is reporting the news, that's what they do. And some of this news about Palin is coming as a bit of a surprise to a lot of people who are trying to picture her possibly in the position of the President of the United States of America.

'There's a double standard'

Carroll Hope, Raleigh, N.C. — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:42:32 GMT

She just appears to be another rah rah girl!!!

'There's a double standard'

Eric Dale, Birmingham, AL — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:43:46 GMT

So Palin is more experienced than Obama simply because she has been governor of a 670,000 person for 20 months? With that reasoning, there are 48 other governors that would be more qualified than she to be President or Vice President. The one Governor with less time experience is Governor Patterson of New York, but I dare say he has more experience in his short term because of the size of his state. So why Sarah Palin? There were 49 better choices.

'There's a double standard'

Luke LaCroix, Ewing, NJ — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:45:08 GMT

The investigation of Palin is not a double standard. The Barack and Michelle Obama equally investigated. The critique is not a double standard, it's just a clear fact that Obama has better experience to lead than McCain and Obama and Biden have more experience than Palin.

'There's a double standard'

Cleareye — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:46:48 GMT

She has to grow up sometime. Politics is a rough sport, not like shooting defenseless animals. Hillary can tell her all about it.

'There's a double standard'

Wayne, Nazareth, PA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:47:01 GMT

If she's running for VP of the USA, they should rip into every bit of her background to expose potential problems in her character. IF YOU CANT STAND THE HEAT GET THE H OUT OF THE KITCHEN!

'There's a double standard'

deedee — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:47:04 GMT

THIS IS WHAT HER BOYFRIEND SAID... ENJOY!

I'm a f---kin' redneck who likes to snowboard and ride dirt bikes. But I live to play hockey. I like to go camping and hang out with the boys, do some fishing, shoot some s---t and just f---kin' chillin' I guess. Ya f---k with me I'll kick ass."

Status: "In a relationship."

Children: "I don't want kids

Typical republican redneck!!

'There's a double standard'

Sam Ward, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:47:21 GMT

Yeah sounds like a double standard to me, its interesting when reporting the facts becomes a double standard.

'There's a double standard'

chris New York NY — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:52:33 GMT

If anyone is sexist its the Republicans/Fox. How many women hold power positions in your party? Why did the the republican base feel obligated to put a woman on the ballot? Not once did they say she was first considered because she was qualified. But, we did know she was a good looking candidate.

'There's a double standard'

J. Williams, Olney, MD — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:04:29 GMT

You really think if it were Hillary or Obama, the media wouldn't have done as much scrutiny?

Where have you been during the past five months?

'There's a double standard'

Kevin M., Los Angeles CA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:06:49 GMT

Why is it all Republicans are so poorly informed and constantly get the facts wrong? Oh right, they watch Fox.

'There's a double standard'

Sue, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:09:53 GMT

As a woman I deeply resent the notion that there is a "double standard" being applied. This is a PERSON who is expected to be the leader of the free world at an instant's notice. We have the ABSOLUTE right to know everything there is to know about this woman, her family situation and responsibilities included. Obama's entire family has been covered in great detail -- and certainly not with any standard for truth in many cases - and we have no right to know about Palin? This is garbage and utterly without founding and moreover if the McCain camp wasn't afraid the press would find something they wouldn't be putting up the wall.

Where were the Republicans trying to protect the privacy and security of John Edward's kids?

There's a double standard all right - it's that the McCain people can say and do anything they want and no one has any right to challenge them.

'There's a double standard'

KBaum, VA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:12:38 GMT

As a female military service member I have struggled my entire career to fit in to a male dominated environment where I was often told women shouldn't be in the military particularly with families...we now have the first Republican female candidate and she is being attacked for doing it all and doing it better than her male counterparts...Barack Obama gets points for being black, she gets none for being female...just proves the real issue is not race any more, but it is still gender.

'There's a double standard'

Marcy R., Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:13:28 GMT

There sure IS a double standard: Sarah Palin never would have been chosen if she were a male GOP governor from Alaska, who'd been in the job less than two years and had been mayor of a town of 6,500 before that. This, folks, isn't equal opportunity: it's craven political tokenism at its most cynical, and any Republican who can't see that has his or her eyes squeezed firmly shut to the truth.

'There's a double standard'

Gene, MS — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:14:58 GMT

I saw this in a movie where two English Gents made a bet to see if one of them could turn a common flower girl into someone they could pass off as "High Class". It worked and all the Republicans were fooled!
What a joke!!!

'There's a double standard'

andrea yonkers ny — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:17:58 GMT

amen

'There's a double standard'

KB — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:18:15 GMT

I'd like to point out that John McCain, Barrack Obama, and Joe Biden do not have a four and half old infant with down syndrome. My issue with her is over that. You don't accept a VP role when your child needs their mother, then again I feel parents should raise their kids and not their nannies. I just feel that her child needs her more than this country. And yes, I do hold a double standard in regards to that.

'There's a double standard'

Lorraine — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:21:11 GMT

I disagree; I think the coverage has been the same for both parties. The Republican ticket unfortunately has a candidate that has a lot of baggage that keeps coming out this is not the reporters fault. As a voter, I am thankful for the job the reporters do, I hate to think of where we would be without them.

'There's a double standard'

Paula, California — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:21:28 GMT

What double standard ?! She´s running for public office with wee town beauty princess experience. Hey, dealing with China, UK, France, and Germany is NO beauty contest. Does she know law, foreign policy, international relations, and economics ?

She´s no Hillary Clinton ! Get real.
Palin is a BAD BAD nightmare.

'There's a double standard'

joebob baltimore — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:22:21 GMT

i think the attacks on her family are horrible, and the media has gone nuts.

but i think the attack on the choice and lack of vetting is legit. it shows that it's nothing more than a pandering to women, a knee jerk reaction to get their vote and spice up the campaign. i have heard more women insulted by the choice than happy with it. now, any attack on her record is sexist!

claims that she has more experience than obama because obama has never been in an executive role are absurd. by that account, she has more experience than mccain! they claim she will take on old politics in washington, while mccain has been there for 25+ years! really, some unbelievable claims...

so, absolutely yes, her family is off limits. but her record and mccain's judgment on the call are not. huge mistake, as we heard conservative pundits say today, caught on tape.

the extremism on both sides, liberal and conservative, is just mindless... and the media is making millions off it! please, PLEASE drop the soap opera and talk about real stuff! who is best to lead? and that is not measured by attacking a candidate's family!

'There's a double standard'

Jane Doe,Tulsa. — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:22:52 GMT

Huh, if media always covered democrats, then there would be always a democrat president, Bill clinton would never be impeached, Obama would never have to struggle to prove that he is christian. I don't understand what McCain is thinking, if anything happens to him, the most powerful nation of the world would be run by a housewife next door! oh, well, what the hec matters, if junior Bush could be the president of united states, even my cat can be!

'There's a double standard'

Grisel , Springfield, MA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:26:31 GMT

There is no double standard. As a woman I am for equal right. Which means in everything including politics. Was is not Palin who said that when Hillary complained about bais from the media she was whinning. If you can't stand the heat get out of the kitchen.

'There's a double standard'

Joe — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:29:06 GMT

She's right, there is a double standard! Republicans consistently hold others to standards they cannot live up to. They have given us too many examples to list here over the past 8 years, this is but one more. Think about it.

'There's a double standard'

inpendent, cicncinnati,oh — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:31:37 GMT

Hmmm...bad media!
wasn't the media attacking Michelle and the pastor only a few months ago?
It looks more like a woman who is seeking preferential treatment just for the sake of a 'historic milestone' not for her own merits.

'There's a double standard'

Carrie Greenville, SC — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:34:12 GMT

Of course there is a double standard in covering men and women! It is sexist to say she can't run the country since she can't "control her family" because that is never said about men BUT the GOP was more than happy to join in that sexism when it was Hillary Clinton in the race! And so my sympathy for them now is, well, nonexistant.

'There's a double standard'

Elle T — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:36:31 GMT

McShame has done it again.... first he tried to ride on his POW status (what an insult to actual heroes) now this. You're right... if you can't stand the heat get out of the kitchen!!!!

'There's a double standard'

deedee — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:37:37 GMT

Huge ice sheet breaks loose in Canadian arctic
'Shocking event' another sign of warming in polar frontier, say scientists

this is one of the most important issue and it is going to affect all of us!!!

'There's a double standard'

Freida, Charlotte, NC — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:38:00 GMT

Why shouldn't we know EVERYTHING about this beauty queen? McCain doesn't even know her. Her husband was a member of the Independence Party in Alaska who wanted Alaska to not be part of the United States so that they could keep the oil drilling profits for Alaska.

It is NOT a double standard for the press to delve into all aspects of this person who (if McCain is elected - shudder), will be a heartbeat away from being the president.

Look at what they did to Obama just because of his relation with Rev. Wright. I guess the Repugs have found their Rev. Wright now. GO OBAMA!

'There's a double standard'

Elle T — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:39:29 GMT

KBaum... give me a break and don't you dare belittle the plights of blacks. American women have accomplished a whole lot.... hellllloooo Pelosi, Boxer, Feinstein and how about Gloria Steinem???? just to name a few. It's not gender in question.... it's experience or lack off. I have to be interviewed 3 times to get turned down for a job and this so-called experienced hick gets the top slot in 5 minutes?????

'There's a double standard'

Claire - Melbourne FL — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:40:55 GMT

No one can spin a sows ear like a Republican! I can't believe these are the same people who put our Nation at risk with their "follow the leader" politics! GWB had "on the job training" and look where he got us! We need sanity, stability and accountability for a change!

'There's a double standard'

jdoe, abilene, tx — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:41:55 GMT

Simply put, the woman does not have the credentials to assume the responsibility of the office of the President of the United States. That is the real reason we have a Vice President. Being president of the Senate just gives them something to do!

'There's a double standard'

Mia, Los Angeles — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:43:58 GMT

I heard McCain is going to pay her half of what a male VP gets paid to save the country money for those further tax cuts for the rich. After all, as he says "country first".

'There's a double standard'

Carol in Boston — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:44:17 GMT

So, suddenly the Republicans have discovered feminism!

How dare anyone question whether Sarah Palin, who has no experience, is qualified to be VP. How dare anyone question how she could, or whether she should, even consider the VP position, given her family responsibilities, small children, one an infant with Downs Syndrome who will require special care and a 17 year old pregnant daughter who WILL be getting married to the father.

Republicans have at long last discovered the importance of empowering women(and riding in on their apron strings)! Finally they want to see women get out of the house!

'There's a double standard'

nullandvoid — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:45:36 GMT

These women are an embarrassment. When is vetting someone who might be President of the U.S. considered a double standard. Maybe if McCain and cronies had actually done their job and vetted this person, the rumor mill wouldn't be ripe with all these stories. I think they're scared as hell on what might be found out about this candidate. I have a feeling the best is yet to come. It's actually the Republicans who are playing the double standard card. Quit whining you babies and let's see what this woman is all about.

'There's a double standard'

K. S., California — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:45:46 GMT

I am sorry for the Republicans, it must hurt so much to see any of their number questioned in even the slightest way. After all the demoncrats only had to undergo Swiftboating of a canidate. How could the press stoop so low as to ask pertainent questions of a canidate with no national experience, one that is under investigation, and one who promotes extreme right policies. Just like Bush, Rove, et al, who are we to question their actions or policies.

'There's a double standard'

Diana — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:47:16 GMT

I'm uncomfortable with Ms Palin's dichotomies. She line item vetoes funding for young unwed mothers to finish school and have day care and medical assistance. I guess she did that because for her own daughter, she can just write a check. She's a Heath, of Heath Bars, guys. She can pretend to be a blue collar type gal, but she always has an escape button that her constituents don't. Then you have her bridge to nowhere issue. She is quoted in the Anchorage daily news supporting it and now she claims she opposed it all along. Um, no. And why is it that only 18 months into her terms, she got a VERY bipartisan panel to vote to investigate her of corrupt actions regarding this behind who used to be married to her sister, beat sister up and tasered her sister's 11 year old? I wouldn't blame her for overstepping and if she did I would rather she admit it and tell us why.

'There's a double standard'

Charlie,IL — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:49:07 GMT

The Gender Card - Image if Obama started off his existence in politics by using the race card republicans would've had an epiphany. Here's a simple case or ploy by the McCain base to apply reverse discrimination by calling people sexist who question her lack of experience. Since this is the case the same card could have been placed by Obama but he remained bigger than that and focused on issues rather than his blackness. When the pundits questioned his judgement or experience he could of easily played the card. When they labeled him arrogant or risky hey why not play your card. So in reality what there intentions are is to play this card like McCain plays his P.O.W card. So if you ask any informative questions don't say anything just play your card Palin.Oh! Men are so evil to woman yet we are fathers, husbands, uncles, grandfathers, loved ones.If Obama would have played the race card white folks would have ran him out of office. Yet it's perfectly fine to play the sexist card at any point. The true hypocrisy of it all. Charlie

'There's a double standard'

Lornie, Aurora, CO — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:49:30 GMT

Just listening to her now, she is so, so, so FAKE! She thinks being a Hockey Mom qualifies her as a VP. Yes she is Gov. of a state that has more trees than people, I guess they don't talk back. Face it, she wont be able to step from VP to POTUS at all.

'There's a double standard'

Andy, Kalamazoo, MI — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:50:55 GMT

How about her great decision making skills to fly all the way back from Texas to Alaska, when she was IN labor! For 11 hours!!!

'There's a double standard'

scary female — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:51:06 GMT

I do not buy the double standard entirely. we have a right to know something about Palin since she is an unknown. Her family should be off limits, particularly her children. but, I have questions why she would agree to run for VP given her family situation at this time. I also think Republicans drafted her to out do the Democracts.

Thought that Palin could be president is very, very scary.
a scary female

'There's a double standard'

Scott W, Mesa, Arizona — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:54:31 GMT

My Country, my Government cared so much for me that they cast my life to the wind for that of the Corporation and as I watch the Republican Convention and listen to the CEO of E-Bay and the ex-CEO of Hewlett Packard tell the people of the United States watching this so-called Convention that they are for the worker… that they want us to keep more of our pay, what they are really saying is that they want to keep more of their CEO pay and to hell with us…the American worker who labors to make the money for the Corporation that can offer the ego-maniacs their 100 Million dollar Golden Parachutes. I believe that we should be allowed to keep as much of the money we make as possible, yet with my job being outsourced overseas and my taking a position at $37,000 less. The Corporation who employed me received a tax benefit from my Government for laying me off and giving my position to someone living in India who is being paid 8% of my salary and these CEO’s think this is great as it will allow these Corporations to reinvest their profits in this country… but they haven’t, they used the increase of their cash reserves to rejoice in higher stock prices for themselves and their stockholders.
They cared so much for me and my family that I received three months pay and told sorry… well the only good thing that came out of it is that I do actually pay less taxes as I make less than before. The reality is that there are millions of Americans who pay fewer taxes and with the upper one or two percent paying what they usually do which is as little as possible the Government as a whole takes in less money. Now compound that with debt to foreign Governments for oil, and to fund the “Bush war against anyone who he believes is a terrorist namely IRAQ” or the “Goldfinger Imitate” start a war in the Middle East namely a country where they hold the largest oil reserve and keep it in the ground for 10 years or more (if possible) thus raising the price of oil around the world for his Arab buddies and you have found the perfect and fastest way to raise the price of a commodity…OIL and call it “Free Iraq”.
With all the above and the debt of this country in excess of 4 Trillion dollars, how the hell are we going to balance the budget and get America back on tract if we don’t raise taxes… are people living in a dream world. We had 8 years of unprecedented spending and the upper crust living the life of Reilly, while the middle class of America has kept this county lifted up on our back just above the water line but we can hold it up anymore and we are ALL going to drown if we don’t get a LEADER in office who can help alleviate some of the burden that has been placed on us by the Bush Regime!

'There's a double standard'

Mindy, West Chester, OH — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:56:04 GMT

I think this woman needs to stay home and take care of her family; they've obviously been neglected for far too long...

'There's a double standard'

Scott W, Mesa, Arizona — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:56:26 GMT

I have become cynical when it comes to what I am told by John McCain and his campaign as he has had 28 years to change things in Washington and has done nothing. He voted against Veterans 8 out of 10 times he voted for tax breaks for the affluent, he has stepped on middle class America and now when he needs their vote he is suddenly for them… MAVERICK… where was this maverick the last 6 years besides voting in line with Bush 95% of the time. He is part of the problem in Washington and not the solution. He brings Palin into the picture as the only person with the wisdom, experience and strength to aid him in his endeavor of changing Washington…how SAD!!! Palin’s experience has been that of a Mayor of a town probably the size of “Mayberry” and he Wisdom comes from being part of the Independent Alaska party that wants to split from the Union (Country First?) and he strength lies in playing a sport…basketball… Hell… that would qualify any player in the NBA and Andy Griffith to be able to be second in command of the greatest country in the Free World. GREAT CHOICE!!!
Are we to believe that this rag tag group of people who change their positions at the speed of light are the “Saviors of America” that they are single handedly going to part the seas and carry middle class Americans on their backs to that promised land called the “NEW WASHINGTON”, well I as one will not hold my breath, McCain has been a Senator for my State and has really done nothing for our state except represent special interests from our state and feed his own belly! I am probably more impressed with Palin then I am McCain, maybe they could reverse the rolls and she run as President then we would be able to look at the rest of the world and shout in one voice that our leader is prettier than yours!!! But really that wouldn’t work either as based on her presumptive “Abuse of Power” she would probably Nuke a country whose leader had the brass to speak back to her. GOD help U.S if they get elected!!

'There's a double standard'

BRUNO, HERSHEY, PENNSYLVANIA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:57:35 GMT

There is an enormous DOUBLE STANDARD. Where is the scrutiny of Bill Ayers and his relationship with Barack HUSAINE Obama. WHERE is the Media's due diligence? Let me ask you this. If Sara Palin was a black democrat, would the fact that her 17 year old daughter is pregant really be an issue?

'There's a double standard'

Tamara, Normandy Park, WA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:59:08 GMT

Two things: 1) Conservatives argue that Sarah's pregnant 17 year old daughter should be a private matter... Then why don't they believe a woman's uterus is a private matter? And 2) Conservatives are so supportive of 17 year old Bristol Palin & her decision to keep her child, then are they that supportive of the 17 year old inner city girl - without the family support - who decides to keep her chiild?

'There's a double standard'

Ray Carter — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:01:56 GMT

There is no double standard. Let's understand that Sarah Palin and the Republicans bought up Sarah Palin's family life FIRST. From day one they HIGHLIGHTED the fact that their youngest child has a disability, they SHOUTED the fact that their son is going to the war and they touted her husband being a champion. So please don't say not to talk about the family and children when it's something THEY themselves are SCREAMING from the stage. If they TRULY thought family was OFF LIMIT they would not have mentioned all the other points. Even right now Sarah Palin is talking about her family and all the positives they want you to focus on... even her nephew. So when they stop talking about their KIDS, then maybe they can ask the media to stop talking about the kids.

'There's a double standard'

amy, Seattle — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:02:30 GMT

Did McCain really need all these ( infant with Down syndrome, 17 year old pregnancy, and so-called-beauty-queen ) to shake his office and make his polices stronger? If this is what America needs to be a better place then we are really in a bad shape!!!

'There's a double standard'

Tucker Jordan — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:03:11 GMT

Question - is she running for VP of the US? Or VP of the local PTA? Her speech is not quite what I expected of a VP candidate.

'There's a double standard'

Erica W. Orlando, Florida — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:03:56 GMT

I too, as a woman, am truely offended by this vulgar plunder. To insult our intellect as though we view this world with rose colored glasses is just degrading on many levels.
The Republician party has always been based on morals and values, and now after centuries to tell us to a turn a blind eye just for the sake of having a Republician in office is repulsive. How DARE MCCAIN!

'There's a double standard'

Michelle Masl — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:07:32 GMT

I'm insulted that McCain is trying to say that poor Sarah Palin is being "destroyed" by the media because their asking her personal questions. poor Sarah. She can't answer any questions. poor un-feminist Sarah

'There's a double standard'

nurse,nc — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:08:23 GMT

I'm a little worried that we may have Palin as our President if McCain can no longer serve. I worry every time I look at McCain's left cheek. Wonder if his cancer is really in remission?

'There's a double standard'

Sy Sperling, Reno, NV — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:08:27 GMT

Why is it that when all candidates have their good and bad qualities, people have to discredit their own opinions by only celebrating one or the other. The world has no absolutes on its own, Yet us people choose to stay in your own little absolutist bubble. Change will NEVER occur until we realize this.

'There's a double standard'

Scott W, Mesa, Arizona — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:09:23 GMT

I would like to know how McCain claims he was tortured when based on the Bush assessment of what torture is and one that was endorsed by McCain himself...he was never tortured..they just used advanced interrogation techniques?

'There's a double standard'

AT — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:10:17 GMT

A housewife next door... Is that really what you want to go with?

'There's a double standard'

Soto Esther, Dover, DE — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:13:37 GMT

I don't know how mccain pick Palin. She had as much baggage as he know. They both talk out the corner of
there mouth. I 'm sick of hearing about Biden and Obama. Obama is the best candidate, Biden is the best VP. People cannot get past color! I dont want four more years of Bush-Mccain!!! This country need change. Less of the Maverick in Iraq for a 100 years,

'There's a double standard'

Donna DeCamara, Citrus Heights, CA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:13:42 GMT

Obama's plan to tax the very wealthy (more than 1000 billionaires this year/ versus a dozen several years ago); not tax waitresses tips - the republican way.

How do the republicans plan on paying the National deficit? A reminder that using social security to pay against this debt is illegal.

'There's a double standard'

Mary — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:16:27 GMT

No one should attack Palin's family.

Having said htat, there was just thunderous applause to the idea that Obama is not qualified because the Presidency is no place for "on the job training." Talk about a double standard!

Only conservatives are buying into the ridiculous arguement that Palin is not lacking in the exact areas that McCain said make Obama unfit to leave.

In otherwords, if you don't want a double standard, don't support a Presidential canidate who says one thing and does another.

'There's a double standard'

Betty — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:16:50 GMT

As others have said Palin has started a good resume that will help her political career but it's not a resume for the second highest position in our nation.

'There's a double standard'

Jason, Fort Lauderdale, FL — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:17:15 GMT

Marcy R, from L.A. you have hit the head on the nail! You need to read what she wrote! OUTSTANDING!

'There's a double standard'

Charlie,IL — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:17:36 GMT

'There's a double standard'

Scott W, Mesa, Arizona — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:20:34 GMT

Kbaum.. are you saying that you would vote for a person based on gender and not if they are truly qualified for that position? if so...that is what is wrong with America, we chose our leaders based on gender, race, or are they someone who we would like to have a beer with... Palin is no Hillary, I was for Hillary and now find myself for Obama... not based on race or gender but on a belief that they really care about the working class in America. Middle Class includes Women and Men of all races who have been cast aside over the last 8 years for the true base of the Republican Party - the Rich. I was once part of that party for over twenty years (until little bush was elected by the Supreme Court) but can no longer endorse their slanted views on what America should be like. Vote Obama, if we get 4 years of the same then we vote him out and maybe sometime in the future we'll find someone who believes in what America can be!

'There's a double standard'

Jason G, Ft Lauderdale, FL — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:20:40 GMT

Did anyone notice that there was no color diversity in the audience? Why? Is thats what the Replubican party represents? Just White America? That is not America to me! Sorry to you republicans!

'There's a double standard'

Deborah Brouhard, Mes, AZ — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:22:09 GMT

While it's unfortunate about her child,but it points to her most important leadership role -- her family. She is promoting abstinence yet she can't even get her child to believe and practice it? What does that say about her leadership ability? Notice that the Bushes, the Fords, the Carters, the Clintons, didn't have pregnancy issues. I like the GOP saying "life happens". That's great. Now, every time the Moral majority states some nonsense --people can say with a smile "life happens". Next time you men or women get caught cheating, or stealing or drugging holler " life happens" (LOL)! To bad though, most things happen because people make deliberate choices and when caught don't want to take responsibility for them.

'There's a double standard'

air — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:22:26 GMT

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/08/23/AR2008082302200.html

there is a defined, clear a present double standard

'There's a double standard'

load — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:25:00 GMT

for sure a double standard

No matter what you think about Bush, McCain or anyone Republican. Obama is the real problem. How the Democrats can nominate such a person is beyond me. Here are a few of Obama's 'NOT EXACTLY'S'. Before any of you bleeding heart liberals make a comment do a little research as I have and you find each and everyone of these statements true.

1.) Selma Got Me Born - NOT EXACTLY, your parents felt safe enough to have you in 1961 - Selma had no effect on your birth, as Selma was in 1965. (Google ' Obama Selma ' for his full March 4,
2007 speech and articles about its various untruths.)

2.) Father Was A Goat Herder - NOT EXACTLY, he was a privileged, well educated youth, who went on to work with the Kenyan Government.

3.) Father Was A Proud Freedom Fighter - NOT EXACTLY, he was part of one of the most corrupt and violent governments Kenya has ever had.

4.) My Family Has Strong Ties To African Freedom - NOT EXACTLY; your cousin Raila Odinga has created mass violence in attempting to overturn a legitimate election in 2007, in Kenya. It is the first widespread violence in decades. The current government is p ro-American but Odinga wants to overthrow it and establish Muslim Sharia law. Your half-brother, Abongo Obama, is Odinga's follower. You interrupted your New Hampshire campaigning to speak to Odinga on the phone.

Obama's cousin Odinga in Kenya ran for president and tried to get Sharia muslim law in place there. When Odinga lost the elections, his followers have burned Christians' homes and then burned men, women and children alive in a Christian church where they took shelter.. Obama SUPPORTED his cousin before the election process here started. Google Obama and Odinga and see what you get. No one wants to know the truth.

5.) My Grandmother Has Always Been A Christian - NOT EXACTLY, she does her daily Salat prayers at 5am according to her own interviews. Not to mention, Christianity wouldn't allow her to have been one of 14 wives to 1 man.

6.) My Name is African Swahili - NOT EXACTLY, your name is Arabic and 'Baraka' (from which Barack came) means 'blessed' in that language.
Hussein is also Arabic and so is Obama.

Barack Hussein Obama is not half black. If elected, he would be the first Arab-American President, not the first black President. Barack Hussein Obama is 50% Caucasian from his mother's side and 43.75% Arabic and 6.25% African Negro from his father's side. While Barack Hussein Obama's father was from Kenya, his father's family was mainly Arabs.. Barack Hussein Obama's father was only 12.5% African Negro and 87.5% Arab (his father's birth certificate even states he's Arab, not African Negro). From....and for more....go to.....

http://www.arcadeathome.com/n
ewsboy.phtml?Barack_Hussein_Obama_-_Arab-American,_only_6.25%25_African

7.) I Never Practiced Islam - NOT EXACTLY, you practiced it daily at school, where you were registered as a Muslim and kept that faith for 31 years, until your wife made you change, so you could run for office.

4-3-08 Article 'Obama was 'quite religious in islam''
http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=60559

8.) My School In Indonesia was Christian - NOT EXACTLY, you were registered as Muslim there and got in trouble in Koranic Studies for making faces (check your own book).

February 28, 2008. Kristoff from the New York Times a year ago:
Mr. Obama recalled the opening lines of the Arabic call to prayer, re citing them with a first-rate accent. In a remark that seemed delightfully uncalculated (it'll give Alabama voters heart attacks); Mr. Obama described the call to prayer as 'one of the prettiest sounds on Earth at sunset.'
This is just one example of what Pamela is talking about when she says 'Obama's narrative is being altered, enhanced and manipulated to whitewash troubling facts.'

9.) I Was Fluent In Indonesian - NOT EXACTLY, not one teacher says you could speak the language.

10.) Because I Lived In Indonesia, I Have More Foreign Experience - NOT EXACTLY, you were there from the ages of 6 to 10, and couldn't even speak the language. What did you learn, how to study the Koran and watch cartoons.

11.) I Am Stronger On Foreign Affairs - NOT EXACTLY, except for Africa (surprise) and the Middle East (bigger surprise); you have never been anywhere else on the planet and thus have NO experience with our closest allies.

12.) I Blame My Early Drug Use On Ethnic Confusion - NOT EXACTLY, you were quite content in high school to be Barry Obama, no mention of Kenya and no mention of struggle to identify - your classmates said you were just fine.

13.) An Ebony Article Moved Me To Run For Office - NOT EXACTLY, Ebony has yet to find the article you mention in your book. It doesn't, and never did, exist.

14.) A Life Magazine Article Changed My outlook on Life - NOT EXACTLY, Life has yet to find the article you mention in your book. It doesn't, and never did, exist.

15.) I Won't Run On A National Ticket In '08 - NOT EXACTLY, here you are, despite saying, live on TV,
that you would not have enough experience by then, and you are all about having experience first.

16.) Voting 'Present' is Common In Illinois Senate - NOT EXACTLY, they are common for YOU, but not many others have 130 NO VOTES.

17.) Oops, I Misvot ed - NOT EXACTLY, only when caught by church groups and Democrats, did you beg to change your misvote.

18.) I Was A Professor Of Law - NOT EXACTLY, you were a senior lecturer ON LEAVE.

19.) I Was A Constitutional Lawyer - NOT EXACTLY, you were a senior lecturer ON LEAVE.

20.) Without Me, There Would Be No Ethics Bill - NOT EXACTLY, you didn't write it, introduce it, change it, or create it.

21.) The Ethics Bill Was Hard To Pass - NOT EXACTLY, it took just 14 days from start to finish.

22.) I Wrote A Tough Nuclear Bill - NOT EXACTLY, your bill was rejected by your own party for its pandering and lack of all regulation - mainly because of your Nuclear donor, Exelon, from which David Axelrod came.

23.) I Have Released My State Records - NOT EXACTLY, as of March, 2008, state bills you sponsored or voted for have yet to be released, exposing all the special interests pork hidden within.

24.) I Took On The Asbestos Altgeld Gardens Mess - NOT EXACTLY, you were part of a large group of people who remedied Altgeld Gardens. You failed to mention anyone else but yourself, in your books.

25.) My Economics Bill Will Help America - NOT EXACTLY, your 111 economic policies were just combined into a proposal which lost 99-0, and even YOU voted against your own bill.

26.) I Have Been A Bold Leader In Illinois - NOT EXACTLY, even your own supporters claim to have not seen BOLD action on your part.

27.) I Passed 26 Of My Own Bills In One Year - NOT EXACTLY, they were not YOUR bills, but rather handed to you, after their creation by a fellow Senator, to assist you in a future bid for higher office.

28.) No One on my campaign contacted Canada about NAFTA - NOT EXACTLY, the Canadian Government issued th e names and a memo of the conversation your campaign had with them.

29.) I Am Tough On Terrorism - NOT EXACTLY, you missed the Iran Resolution vote on terrorism and your good friend Ali Abunimah supports the destruction of Israel .

30.) I Want All Votes To Count - NOT EXACTLY; you said let the delegates decide.

31.) I Want Americans To Decide - NOT EXACTLY, you prefer caucuses that limit the vote, confuse the voters, force a public vote, and only operate during small windows of time.

32.) I passed 900 Bills in the State Senate - NOT EXACTLY, you passed 26, most of which you didn't write yourself.

33.) I Believe In Fairness, Not Tactics - NOT EXACTLY, you used tactics to eliminate Alice Palmer from running against you.

34.) I Don't Take PAC Money - NOT EXACTLY, you take loads of it.

35.) I don't Have Lobbyists - NOT EXACTLY, you have over 47 lobbyists, and counting.

36.) My Ca mpaign Had Nothing To Do With The 1984 Ad - NOT EXACTLY, your own campaign worker made the ad on his Apple in one afternoon.

37.) I Have Always Been Against Iraq - NOT EXACTLY, you weren't in office to vote against it AND you have voted to fund it every single time.

38.) I Have Always Supported Universal Health Care - NOT EXACTLY, your plan leaves us all to pay for the 15,000,000 who don't have to buy it

GOD HELP US IF WE JUST SIT IDLY BY AND LET THIS PERSON BECOME OUR NEXT PRESIDENT. IT WOULD BE SUICIDAL FOR US TO DO NOTHING TO PREVENT THIS FROM HAPPENING. PASS THIS ON TO ALL THE ONES YOU VALUE, JUST AS I AM DOING.
IT'S TIME THE 'SILENT MAJORITY' TAKES A STAND! GET OUT AND VOTE! PLEASE!

'There's a double standard'

susan burlington nj — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:26:34 GMT

the day i heard the announcement of McCain's selection of Palin as his running mate, i was listening to the TV news on my car radio. i wish i had listened closer to who was being interviewed in the republican party regarding this decision, but his response was "WE'VE GOT THE BABE". this one commment and knee jerk reaction instantly turned my hesitation of voting democratic to a certainty. this comment indicated to me a total disrespect of Palin and the power of female voters. do the republicans think american women are so naive that we would cast a vote for the presidency and vice-presidancy of the united states based solely on sex? will her own party take her seriously in this position of mccain is elected? will her "worth" be measured by the votes she attracts? is palin being "used" by the republican party to win an election? and once the election is over, what value will she hold? will she be shut out of the very experiences she will need should she be needed to assume the duties of the presidential office? presidential candidates select their running mates for various reasons, all which serve to strenghthen their position,whether it be choosing a VP from a state in which they need to attract more votes, or capturing a person who is known, respected and with a strong political following. perhaps running mates may even be chosen for the financial support they would be able to lend to the campaign. the only reason that i can see that mccain would choose palin was for her sex. this to me is inexcusable and an insult to all women. it is also an example of how women's issues will be considered under his presidency. until and unless mccain can convince the american public of any possible alternate reasons for his choice, all voters should consider this one decision of mccain suspect and an indicator of what his term in office would render for the next four years. this is not a game.

'There's a double standard'

Vic Luna — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:28:55 GMT

Gov. Palin can fool the American media and public;
but the Chinese and Russian governments will eat
her lunch...If McCain passes; we are in trouble.

'There's a double standard'

DScott, Spring, TX — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:30:28 GMT

As a woman who struggles everyday balancing family and career, I am appalled that people think because Gov. Palin is a Mom she should be home with the kids because they need her! Maybe some of those Washington dads should have been home....

What happened to all the strides we have made for women, where men and women share equally in the responsibility of raising your children and supporting your family. My husband and I equally share in that with our child - I am an executive, so is he - so, we both have to give and take. While we are not the leaders of the free world, Hillary was the one who told us "It takes a village" - why is that any different for Gov. Palin....

Whether you love her, hate her or are indifferent, she has every right to be where she is and proved this evening that she is a velvet hammer.....

'There's a double standard'

Col Fairfield PA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:31:01 GMT

Palin's speech was NEGATIVE and nothing else. So she's a normal person with a really negative opinion of approximately 60,000,000 Americans that voted for Democrats. That tells me you better fight like hell because any hope for health insurance reform, fair taxes that don't favor the rich, an end to the war, reduction of the deficit.... What do Americans have to hope for if this pair gets elected - four more years of the same! Same negative tactics, same love of war, same mindless policies over and over. Americans, are you better off than you were 8 years ago? We can't fall for this bull again.

'There's a double standard'

Lynn M, Illinois — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:35:05 GMT

I am tired of her badge of honor statement that she had a baby that she knew would be handicapped. Why wouldn't she, she's not raising the child anyway! I feel horrible for her daughter. I believe that Sarah Palin is being extremely selfish.

'There's a double standard'

Pat, Winterset, IA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:39:24 GMT

Is this lady awesome, or what? After that speech, it's obvious McCain made the right choice. The Dems. are going to shoot themselves in the foot if they aren't cafeful. If they don't stop the personal attacks, they will lose the support of the average, middle-of-the-road, blue collar working democrat and find themselves surrounded by nothing but the extreme left and moveon.org drones.

'There's a double standard'

Vivian — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:40:36 GMT

Let's see, John McCain is not part of the Washington Elite, yet he votes with Bush over 90% of the time. The earmarks which he mocked on Rick Warren's forum, he actually voted yes on. She mocked earmarks yet accepted millions of dollars in earmarks. Who is the Washington Elite? Who has double standards? Who would replace half of the Supreme Court because they do not agree with him. John McCain and Sarah Paley belong together. They are both hypocritical, two-faced liars.

'There's a double standard'

Shawn Guthrie — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:44:37 GMT

Let's see if these messages have to be approved,by MSNBCOBAMA most likely any that is pro-republican won't show up.

Her speech made my leg "TINGLE". Oh sorry that was a comment from MSNBCOBAMA also.

We should take all of the lib's in congress and ask them to line up if they have ever had an abortion or pre-marital sex....that would be fair..right??

The dem's are true to form and are angry people, most likely due to losing the white house again.

I will clutch my bible and pray for you tonight, sleeping next to my gun err wife.

'There's a double standard'

Sarah Stars — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:47:05 GMT

I can't help but to think back to Animal Farm and how the Republican party has continued to use the media in an attempt to state their overly simplistic messages like a broken record. If you continue to call yourself a Maverick Reformer you have to state what you are reforming which would be the current Republican white house, not a Democratic White House. I am tired of hearing the same press points over and over again in terms of classifying Sarah Palin as a maverick (i.e. unpredicable nutcase) and then the anger when anyone brings up any critical points regarding who she is and the relevancy to her qualifications to be a vice-president. She was a member of the successionist party, promotes abstinence education in the context of science that it doesn't work, RAISED taxes in Alaska, is under ethics investigation, gave her 5-month old to her daughter to hide an unwanted pregnancy rather than being straightforward about it . . I am personally tired of politics as usual and thank the media for uncovering the hypocrisy of Sarah Palin as a maverick anything when she voted with Bush 90% of the time along with the hypocrisy of Haggard, Foley, Bush, Craig and other politicians who are willing to say whatever to maintain the campaign of fear and ignorance in this country no matter what the issues are.

'There's a double standard'

Chris Dobs, Charleston SC — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:49:21 GMT

Palin did not cover any policies she hopes to address, except a little energy plug, and she striahgt out lied about the "bridge to nowhere". She supported it then flipped.

I'm not a democart or republican, but anyone with reason can see she is NOT fit for the job, and that has nothing to do with her being a woman. This would be true for any candidate. Listen to reason she is the wrong choice and so is McCain unfortunately.

'There's a double standard'

Allen Thoele — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:49:43 GMT

I have always beleived that What Goes Around--Comes Around----Remember the Swift Boat Scam and what Kerry went through with all the fear factor he could not keep us safe---7 years ago A Republican Pres---Republican House---Republican Senate---what got done with Health Care--Energy--Education---Etc--Etc --Etc--NOTHING-NOTHING----And that Dear Americans is what you will get if this charade happens and you elect McCain-----

'There's a double standard'

daddy, slc Utah — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:50:10 GMT

should the RNC be happy, they now get the media attention, they used to complained that democrate get more coverage.

'There's a double standard'

Bev, Aliso Viejo, CA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:51:06 GMT

The Republicans cannot believe we'll be fooled by their cries of "double standard." They are hypocrites, through and through. McCain is an angry misogynist who despises women, and the Palin nomination was nothing but pandering in an attempt to reach Sen. Clinton's supporters.

Got news for y'all ... Palin is the very opposite of everything Hillary believes, everything she stands for. Palin will find poor comfort there among the Clintonites.

(BTW, Palin's camp has announced that the happy couple, Bristol and Levi, her 26-year old rapist, will be exchaning vows the day before Election Day. As far as I'm concerned, that's using your own family for political expediency. If YOU are pimping your own dysfunctional family out, then you've just made 'em fair game.)

Palin's speech was small, vicious, petty and snarky. I expected as much; she's nothing but another ambitious politician. And who the hell IS taking care of those kids? She's got a more-than full-time job as Governor and hubby Todd works on the North Shore, which is week-on-week-off. Who's taking care of her own family?

I despise the Republican because of the very qualities Palin represents - a woman who hunts wolves from helicopters, a woman who puts her career above everything else, a woman who won't give her own daughter a choice on whether or not to keep the baby (at least she *has* a choice), a woman who wants to insert religion - HER religion - into the very heart of our nation's capital) ... and a woman who wants to control every other woman's body.

I was trying to have an open mind listening to her speech, but the pettiness and belittlement completely turned me off. I now have official contempt for Jr. Gov. Sarah Palin.

'There's a double standard'

S Guthrie Layton Ut — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 03:53:12 GMT

Hey MSNBCOBAMA, I am guessing you are NOT printing my comment???

Didn't think so, try harder to get YOUR candidate elected,....it didnt work for CNN either in the primary.

What is great is that most people are smarter then you think!

However....I still have a "TINGLE" in my leg from her speech.

'There's a double standard'

Charlene Gates, Lime Springs, IA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:01:26 GMT

I have had a teenage pregnant daughter and I have done darecare for a downs syndrome child. I know that they both require 24/7 care! I think Sara would be a wonderful vice president, but at this time she needs to make a choice between her country or her family! Her ecpecting daughter and youngest child alone would be a full time job. What is going to happen to the other middle children? She will have no time for them.
I will not vote for John McClain because I do not want to deny Sara from spending quality time with her family. They need her more than our country does. Charlene Gates

'There's a double standard'

RUBY RANES, GARLAND, TX — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:01:41 GMT

FINE LADY. JUST WHAT OUR COUNTRY NEEDS. GREAT PERSONALITY TOO.

'There's a double standard'

tjak jje — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:02:48 GMT

if you guys think there isnt a double standard in the media you are crazy.

'There's a double standard'

M. Walsh, Anc., AK — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:15:45 GMT

Hmmm, selective on the family aren't we. No problem in touting the fact that she has a down syndrome child. However, we need to question her value as a parent when she is running Alaska and hubby is runnin' for Ironman. We know what they were doing, but they didn't have any idea what their daughter was doing. Also, Can't have sex education in schools either - point made!

We were free to call Hillary at 3:00 a.m., but it is unlikely we will find the Palins in!

'There's a double standard'

Tom — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:15:52 GMT

Just in case anyone has forgetten....weren't the last two Democratic Presidents "governors of sparsely poputated states"?

'There's a double standard'

KETTLE — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:20:39 GMT

WHY IS THE MEDIA TREATING THE REP VP WITH MORE RESPECT THAN THEY DID HILLARY??????? YES THERE IS A DOUBLE STANDARD FOR REPUBLICANS, THEY CAN DO WHAT THEY WANT...ONE THING I WILL SAY THAT THE RP VP CAN SURE HANDLE THE MEDIA.....THAT MADE ME FEEL GREAT.

'There's a double standard'

Doug McBrayer, Austin, Texas — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:21:52 GMT

I love how the left compares the media attacks on Palin to Clinton's "ordeal." I guess I consider his personal choices in the White House as a just a little bit of a bigger deal than most. The selective memory of the left always amazes me.

'There's a double standard'

LB, Seattle, WA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:22:44 GMT

I'd like to echo what KB said - "John McCain, Barrack Obama, and Joe Biden do not have a four and half old infant with down syndrome. My issue with her is over that. You don't accept a VP role when your child needs their mother, then again I feel parents should raise their kids and not their nannies. I just feel that her child needs her more than this country."

I've been saying that very thing since I heard about her son. If the Republicans family values mean it is the right thing for her to spend less time with her special needs infant son and campaign and potentially run the nation, what does that say?

As a mother, I can't believe she would accept this nomination if for no other reason, unqualificaiton aside.

'There's a double standard'

Doug McBrayer, Austin, Texas — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:23:44 GMT

Would you prefer a Housewife next door that has direct experience or an individual that has had no responsiblity to lead a complex business, such as a state government. My vote would be on experience, not empty promises and a compelling smile.

'There's a double standard'

KETTLE — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:23:47 GMT

THIS IS NOT RUSSIA, IF SOMEONE POSTS A COMMENT IT SHOULD BE SHOWN....FREEDOM OF PRESS REMEMBER THAT ONE.

'There's a double standard'

dpd from Chicagoland — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:24:05 GMT

Choosing Palin was a bold move, but ultimately will prove disastrous, as every photo-op of McCain and Palin together just highlights his advancing years. She is completely unprepared and lacks the gravity to be President. The double standard that McCain is trying to invoke will backfire on him as well, because people will see McCain returning to regular Repub negative campaigning. It's a sinking ship... they look like a blind date from hell together.

'There's a double standard'

Laura, Bolingbrook IL — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:31:59 GMT

No one gets this it's unreal! PEOPLE Palin is NOT running for President! Obama is! Why don't you compare Obama to McCain instead of Obama to Palin! This is so ridiculous! Everyone keeps saying she's a heartbeat away from the presidency but OBAMA could quite possibly be the president and he has NO experience. He has not even earned his right to be in the white house. Look at John McCain's background and what he's been through. He has earned his right that is for sure. Quit saying Palin is running for President SHE IS NOT. Get a clue people geez!

'There's a double standard'

CFF Pittsburgh PA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:32:19 GMT

The only double standard I can see is the obvious cry of "FOAL" the moment information and facts are sought on the part of a deserving public who one week ago never even HEARD of Sarah Palin. The double standard here is the contrast of her asking for privacy for her daughters' situation when she is only too willing to tell the nations women what to do with their own private decision concerning pregnancy. The absurdities only seem to multiply. Hey, my 13 yo daughter today asked me, "Isn't she a bad role model?" Funny when the moral tables are turned how this is all painted over as "It's only a representation of America"

'There's a double standard'

Candace — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:32:44 GMT

I would like to nominate my 5 year old son for vice president.

'There's a double standard'

Lyn Coffin, Seattle, WA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:36:03 GMT

For what or whom were those delegates cheering during Palin's speech? For every one of her- this is my daughter- this is my son- this is my husband- these are my parents- My god, maybe they should have had her walk down a runway. She's like a sexist cliche come true- Every family has its ups and downs? I'm surprised she didn't give them a casserole recipe. How convenient that Bush didn't come- Sure, elect mini me and mommy. We have the chance to elect a person of caliber and vision in Obama, and I'm terrified we're going to elect Methuselah and Red Riding Hood. What is this Iraq "victory" we have within our sights? Oh, yeah, the same one Bush talked about on that ship- uh... how many thousands of lives ago?

'There's a double standard'

Tom — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:41:35 GMT

What a bunch of whaco libs this bunch is.

'There's a double standard'

Rick G, Wayne, PA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:41:55 GMT

Palin is EXACTLY what the country needs: a true public servant who doesn't care a whit about joining the "inside the beltway club", and understands that Government at it's best is to serve the people. Sarah Palin EMBODIES "WE THE PEOPLE", and I am thrilled.

'There's a double standard'

Michael Wankewycz, Cleveland, OH — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:45:12 GMT

Presidential candidates usually pick their VPs based on the VPs appeal to either strengthen a perceived weakness and/or pull in certain demographic votes that the candidate may not have otherwise received. This is the standard selection process and everyone is fully aware of it. Yet, suddenly it's unfair to pick an articulate woman with questionable experience. Kind of ironic.

'There's a double standard'

Kathy A., UT — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:47:00 GMT

If Obama were a white man with as little experience as he has Hillary would have crushed him before Super Tuesday.

'There's a double standard'

j hill — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:50:42 GMT

I am a woman that loves my country and I am a proud american and I think that when a person runs for an office as important as this one considering McCains problems it is not biased for the media to dig to see what they are all about. i also think that she has two children that need her at home and her other children need her as well she should put her ambition to bed and take care of her own problems.Seems to me she is not taking care of her own house how can she take care of the White House?

'There's a double standard'

Steve, Broomfield, CO — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:59:37 GMT

MSNBC=Media arm of the liberal far left wing of the democratic party. Much ado about nothing here.

'There's a double standard'

DL, Clarskton, GA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 05:08:05 GMT

I agree with Jane from Tulsa, there would be always a democratic president, Obama would not had to struggle to prove he is christian, etc. But the Repulican party has always been that way, if a candidate looks like he/she might get an edge or is doing better than them and they can't use the media to leak untruths about their opponent then they start crying file. They have always been a party of double standards.

'There's a double standard'

meggan w, AZ — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 05:25:24 GMT

Marcy R., you are awesome. Keep speaking the truth!!

'There's a double standard'

Jane Doe, Ohio — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 05:38:17 GMT

"Obama would never have to struggle to prove that he is christian."
um, obama is not as christian. If obama was a christian he would not be for murdering babies.
Palin did absolutely amazing at her speech and all the Democrats are getting scared, which is why she is being criticized so heavily. Obama can talk about change and promise anything he wants, that doesnt mean it is going to happen (and it wont).

'There's a double standard'

Lyb — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 05:41:24 GMT

You've got to be joking me! The republican party and the media pummelled Barack for the last 6 months from Rezco, to Rev. Wright to patriotism, with NO mercy. They jack-hammered Hillary and dogged her for her "pitbull" nature, Bosnia, Bill Clinton, using Chelsey etc. and NOTHING was off the table. HOW COME, all of a sudden, when Sarah hits the circuit, we need to put on "kid gloves" to handle her? BullS***! Gimme a break! She is fair game just like the Dems! Especially after a speech, such as the one that she gave tonight; she has to be able to stand the heat or get the hell out of the kitchen! She opened the door and threw the first punch...so her test will be the media, the Dems and anything else waiting around the corner for her! Buck up Sarah!

'There's a double standard'

Mark, St. Paul — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 05:45:38 GMT

HELLO?!?!

How much has liberal media gone into the fact that in one of his "memoirs", obama admits to rampant drug and alcohol abuse when in his 20's??? Not smoking weed - but coke, among other things.....

THAT is a judgement error - while McCain was fighting for his country, obama at the same age was being a useless, drug using waste of space...

'There's a double standard'

Snowygyrl-Wasilla, Alaska — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 05:50:14 GMT

You left wingers are all sick! You don't want to look at the fact that we can use and need a "typical" American who cares about her country in the White House! How do you think it will look in the history books with a past president named Obama! What country do you want to live in? They're out to "look good" that's it! What's in it for them is their slogan. Praise God there are great Americans like McCain and Palin-I PRAY TO GOD THEY TAKE THIS COUNTRY BY THE NECK! RED OR NOT!

'There's a double standard'

female hunter, Wasilla, Alaska — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 05:51:54 GMT

EAT YOUR HEART OUT HILLARY CLINTON! Sarah's a real woman!

'There's a double standard'

LeeJ — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 06:01:11 GMT

It is facinating how the Republicans can also find common enemies to unite their loyal sheep. Today they have 3. 1)the media which according to them is strictly for democrats. 9) The big time tax mongering democrats who will bancrupt this country. Notice that there was no mention at all on whose watch this economic disaster called our economy fell apart in. and 3) their favorite, reminding Americans that only Republicans will protect us against the never ending onslaught of terrorism. I wonder if they laugh when they practice these speeches in the mirror. Giuliani of all people to attack anyone, they should be embarassed by this repetitive dribble.

'There's a double standard'

LeeJ, New York — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 06:02:43 GMT

'There's a double standard'

Juan Verdejo — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 06:15:32 GMT

What a hell are everybody talking about the pregnant dauther, no body of you have had a family pregnan,? from where are you? didn't any body of you had sex at the school? are you out of the world? She is a mother and is human, not a manequi made to de size. She is natural.

'There's a double standard'

John Savior — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 06:19:00 GMT

why the girl can't have sex and get pregnant? if CLINTON have sex with Wali in the White House.

'There's a double standard'

Poz Ann, Phoenix, Az. — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 06:19:01 GMT

I read all the above comments and I ask myself "where do you people come from?" Are you all airheads or what? The democrats can't stand when they get a pay back to their criticism. Wake up America, this is a Presidential election, not a game of popularity or about stardom. Talk about qualifications; your not even close in your stupid remarks. No substance, no credibility, all nonsense.

'There's a double standard'

Batman, Phoenix AZ — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 06:19:08 GMT

It is intrinsically sexist to ask if Sarah Palin can be a VP and a mother. No one has asked Senator Obama if he is ready to balance fathering with the duties of the presidency.

On a similar note, it's nice that Sarah is happy to welcome infants into her family. It's sad when Barack calls pregnancy a punishment. That is also sexist at its core.

'There's a double standard'

ChiDem — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 06:37:59 GMT

While I agree that questions regarding Sarah Palin's choice to run with John McCain and her homelife is immaterial. Nonetheless, the question could be asked whether or not her husband will take on those responsibilites while his wife has the second spot in the executive branch of government, that I think is a fair question. However, Barack Obama received over 16.9 million votes, won 30 states, and presented himself for the voters inspection. Gov. Sarah Palin has not. Gov. Palin sat out the elections and whether or not it is her or her successionist husband it is clear that an "independence" (pun intended) streak runs throughout that family. Moreover, I stopped listening to Gov. Palin and her false claims of being a reformer after finding out she supported the "bridge to nowhere" and then when the heat got too hot she retreated: didn't build the bridge but kept the funds instead of returning the money back to the government, so much, "for thanks but no thanks" reformer Gov. Sarah Palin. She's a fake, a phony a three dollar bill political hack.

'There's a double standard'

Joe Smith, Eden Prairie, MN — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 06:43:14 GMT

After all the warnings we received from Laura Bush about the "dangers" of sexism, then why is the Republican party the worst when it comes to that issue ? When asked of her qualifications, Bill Bennett said she can "walk and chew gum," and many other Republican males have given her a lukewarm reception at best. Rush Limbaugh referred to her as "another one of McCain's women" and their "babe." Apparently this sort of talk doesn't qualify as sexist...? it doesn't bother Mrs. Bush ? Laura Bush paved the way for women to be treated in a sxist manner, as for nearly 8 years she has been a doormat for her husband and never spoke up on a woman's right to choose and other issues she disagrees with her husband on. I guess Rebilican women aren't allowed to have independent opinions from their husbands.

'There's a double standard'

Joe Smith, Eden Prairie, MN — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 06:53:03 GMT

I just don't get it. This is the party of the so-called "moral majority," right ? At least that's what they are spout off every chance they get. And they never stoppped slaying Clinton for his affair and the fact that he had smoked pot. Well, Sarah Palin admits to having smoked pot (and she says she DID inhale). McCain had SEVERAL affairs while he was married (by his own admission) and lied in court documents filed for the divorce, then he divorced his wife to marry a woman 20 years his junior. In interviews he smugly laughed much of this off and said only that he wasn't proud of his past behavior, but that he and his ex-wife are now friends. While preaching abstinence, Palin's 17 year old daughter is pregnant (which probably actually happened when she was still 16 years old...I thought they call that statutory rape ? Instead, the father of the baby (Levi) is paraded around at the Republican convention convention like he is some sort of reproductive hero....instead of the teenage punk a knocked up an underage girl.
I don't get it ?
Moral majority ? Who ?
If that is the "moral majority," give me immorality anyday !
Sounds more like the Beverly Hillbillies show to me !

'There's a double standard'

Poz Ann, Phoenix, Az. — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 06:57:06 GMT

Don't bother to put my comments on your blog...you just proved to me the way MSNBC operates; I forgot your the channel of Chris Matthews and Keith Oberman, beligerent and incapable of the facts as they are. Imagine, Chris, saying he got a tickle down his leg when Obama spoke...the tickle was his brain leaking. Americans know where you all stand. Thanks anyway...due your caching and moderation. There was a party in Europe not too long ago called the Nazi party....that's the dictatorship of MSNBC.

'There's a double standard'

JT, Las Vegas, NV — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 07:01:48 GMT

The double standard isn't that the news covers Palin stories - the double standard is they refuse to cover anything on the other side. While teams of reporters are scouring Alaska - no one has even asked Obama about his association with Rezco and the million dollar home arranged by a felon. Or Biden's son who is in hot water now - you don't see that in the NYT or Newsweek. But they gave three cover stories to a 17 year old pregnant daughter. Time and most other media outlets didn't even cover Edward's lies and his hypocrisy of trumpeting family values. Then we get all the trash from the media about Lieberman and what he said at the Republican convention; while the same media was heaping praise on the on the Republican Congressman who trashed his own party at the Democrat Convention... etc. etc... So all you Kool-Aid drinkers who want to ignore the double standard of the media because it suits your party - drink away - we'll see in November who the country favors - with or without a fair media.

'There's a double standard'

CAPRICE QUAGLIATA,MONROVIA CA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 07:24:21 GMT

TAKE A GOOD LONG LOOK AT THE REPUBLICAN PARTY...LITERALLY!!!I WATCH THE CONVENTION TONIGHT AND WAS SO DISGUSTED AT THE LACK OF MINORITIES IN THE CROWD.THEREFORE..IF THEY WERE TRYIN TO THROW HILARY SUPPORTERS SOME BONE...GET OVER YOURSELFS!!!KEEP PLAYIN THE MINOR LEAGUES PAILIN-LOL

'There's a double standard'

chris, phoenix, az — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 07:37:44 GMT

Yes Deedee,

Typical Redneck republican at 17- also the same "redneck Republican" who enlists in the armed services of this country so your children don't face compulsory military service, as in most western countries. The military sure isn't made up of liberal big city kids, is it? It takes all kinds in our country, and as enlightened as non-Redneck Republicans seem to fancy themselves, your statement had little point and fairly reeked of ignorance.

'There's a double standard'

Brian, Port St. Lucie FL — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 07:37:58 GMT

How are the republican's abstanace program working out for the Palin family? Im betting they are wishing they had some condoms available while ol' Sarah was away from home on I can only guess more important things than being a mother to her now five kids. Or now six kids since the apparent solution is hitchin' these kids up to have yet more kids. WOW Wheres the shotgun pa-we're havin us a weddin!

'There's a double standard'

t antibellum, bellaire, tx — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 07:39:13 GMT

As a woman who worked in a male-dominated industry most of her life, I am deeply offended by the Republicans' choice of Palin AND by their accusations that anyone who questions her choice is sexist.

Clearly, McCain and his party think women are interchangeable. They think they can pick up Hillary's supporters with this nomination just because she has the same anatomical characteristics -- unfortunately, this just shows that they have no clue why millions of voters supported Hillary so strongly.

Women AND men did not vote for her just because she's a woman; rather, because she's an intelligent, driven, accomplished woman who has spent many years in various capacities trying to make the world a better place, particularly for children. Like many other women, she has worked hard and long to get any recognition at all; in fact, her determination to make a difference as first lady in her husband's tenure earned her nothing but hatred and scorn from conservatives. Women who feel an emotional bond with her feel that way because of what she has accomplished, and what she has gone through to make those accomplishments, NOT because of her gender.

But the Republican party wants us to believe that Palin is interchangeable with Hillary, and that rejecting one is the same as rejecting the other..

Then again, perhaps McCain's introduction of her told us all we needed to know: he couldn't keep his eyes off her ass the whole time she spoke. Palin has an ass; Hillary has an ass. Case closed.

'There's a double standard'

Victoria M., Eagle River, Alaska — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 07:43:11 GMT

As an Alaskan woman, working mother, and registered Independent voter, I defend Senator McCain’s choice of Governor Sarah Palin as his running mate. Although her stance on the social issues is contrary to mine, as I am Pro Choice and don't believe Intelligent Design should be taught in school and that sex education should, I am not worried about her trying to shove her beliefs down my throat because she has proven here in Alaska that she won't.

One of the first issues facing Governor Palin as our new governor two years ago was an attempt by our legislature to deny homosexual state workers the same health benefits as heterosexuals. Governor Palin vetoed this bill, as she stated it was unconstitutional. Although she did state she would support changing the Alaska State constitution, I think it was a very savvy response to pressure from her own extreme right wing prochoice folks for a symbol that she sympathized with their side of the issue. This of course will never happen. Think about it – it would be just as hard to change the Alaskan constitution as it would be to go back and deny women the right to vote. By throwing it back to the legislature to change the constitution, she in essence put it back into the hands of the people. This wouldn’t happen on a national level either – since the legislature is ruled by the Democrats now. She knows it is a political hotbed, and I hope I am correct that she is smarter than to get involved in that issue politically. I think she finds that just having the platform of Governor as a showcase for her beliefs is sufficient to serve her theological and social evangelical desires. She puts her life on the stage for all to see, in the hopes that by showing how she lives, others may be drawn to it. I do not believe she has any intent to make it a part of her agenda when in federal office, based on her record as Governor of Alaska.

What she will make a priority is reducing our reliance on foreign oil. In this area, she is an expert. She understands that we have to transition from oil to alternative sources, and one of the most obvious ways to do this is to tap our own resources now and use them in the interim while alternative sources are being developed. Who really needs to step up in the next few years are the oil companies – they need to increase drilling on American soil while actively developing other alternative sources of energy such as natural gas, wind, nuclear etc. Although I do not know the exact amount, Alaska holds a huge amount of undeveloped oil and natural gas, and Governor Palin has held big oil accountable and stood up to them here in Alaska by instigating the revocation of leases held by oil companies that are sitting on the oil reserves and not developing them, increasing the states take on oil profit, and pushing forward the natural gas pipeline to transport gas to the lower 48. Unlike the good ole boys. Do you know they actually had hats made up with the letters CBC? CBC stands for Corrupt Bastards Club. They and their minions hate her because of her tenacity for ethical reform. She has a proven track record of fighting for Alaskans, and I would almost hate to see her leave her term as governor before she finishes cleaning up our political corruption here, but I understand that she is now needed nationally. She and Senator McCain will change Washington and politics as usual. I understand completely why Senator McCain chose Governor Palin. With his new message of Country First, he has a solid ally to take it to the man in Washington and put our needs in front of politics and corporate greed.

One last thing - this investigation of “troopergate” is such a farce. It is another example of her political enemies trying to bring her down. She was trying to clean up our state troopers who cover-up for the misdeeds of one of their own. Abuse of power? Absolutely not. She had first hand knowledge of the conduct of one of the troopers who happened to be her former brother in law. Has it leaked out to the general media just what this trooper did? Among many other charges, the most heinous are that he drove a state car intoxicated, threatened to kill her father, and tazered his 10 year old step-son, because he said the child wanted to know what it felt like! That is absolutely not the type of person I want in my state troopers, and why they didn’t fire him is beyond me. I can understand her frustration with Public Safety Commissioner Walt Monogan’s seeming support for such another good ole boys network. She may have never known about the conduct if it hadn’t been her former brother in law because of the corruption and cover-up. Wouldn’t you be just as furious with your own state troopers if that kind of person could possibly pull you over?

In summary, I am the exact demographic that both parties want to attract. I have voted third party the last four general elections because I have been so fed up with politics as usual. My response to people who say I was throwing my vote away was that I absolutely didn’t think I was. I wanted my vote to show I wanted a change. That change will happen when Senator McCain and Governor Palin assume office in 2009 as President and Vice-President of the United States with my vote included in the many others that put them there.

Victoria M.,BSN, BA, RN
Working mother of three; person with spiritual beliefs not necessarily only Christian,; and American concerned about our economy and the future of alternative energy development.

'There's a double standard'

Nora, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 07:46:32 GMT

Palin has greater responsibility for her child with down syndrome and the teenage pregnant daughter than the office she intends to hold.

'There's a double standard'

Edie, Texas — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 08:23:17 GMT

After hearing snippits of the Palin speech on Nightline tonight I wondered how many people would be snowed by some of the referenced and comments she made. I am impressed by the many comments I have read here. People in this country are not fooled by the McCain choice for a vice presidential running mate. I firmly believe that John McCain chose her solely because she is a female and he wants to try to get the female voters of Hilliary.

Because she has chosen to be a "public" servant everything about Sarah Palin is up for scrutiny and she has to be aware of that. The Republican Party is aware of that they just want to suppress how deep the shovel is digging.

1. She has a new baby at home with downs symdrome who needs her as a mother more that "We the People" need or even want her as a politician. And the rest of the children need her at home, too.
2. She has a pregnant teenage daughter at home about to marry a young man who does not look like he wants to be a husband and father. That girl needs her mother more than ever now.(My goodness the young man is a teenager, too.)
3. What about the little girl who was licking her hand tonight and smoothing down the new baby's hair? It won't be long before she will become a teenager. She needs her mother right now.
4. Sarah Palin is under investigation for the firing of a law enforcement officer/commissioner because he WOULD NOT fire her former brother-in-law. (And we want to let that kind of vindictiveness near or in the White House?) I hope not.

And those are just for starters. If it appears that I have problems with her as a mother figure, then yes I do. I am a single mother and I raised her sons alone. If Sarah Palin is such a family valued "hockey mom" then tell me please, who is actually raising her children now? Some of them are still very young. And what is the question about her husband being a part of a group who wanted Alaska to secede from the United States? What does he do besides being Mr. Mom? Is he really Mr. Mom?

These are just some things about Sarah Palin and her backgroud and her husband's that should have been vetted fully.

If Sarah Palin is such a perfect choice why is the Republican Party so anxious for the media to stop raising questions about her background? So she has a young son about to be deployed to Iraq. Well, Joe Biden has a young son who I believe is married but also about to be or has been deployed to Iraq. Sarah gets no special points there.

Barack Obama and his wife have been raked over the coals these last few months. And some pretty unpleasant things have been said about them. They have been and still are weathering the storms with grace and dignity.

Sarah Palin has to be able to weather the storms too. She has to answer all the questions that are being put before her (by the media and anyone else). Just like all the other candidates. And if the media backs off of Sarah Palin because she is a woman and because they don't want to seem too harsh, then the media is granting special treatment to her. That is double standard in my book and you are not as unbiased as you want to appear.

You held Hillary up against the light so you have to hold Sarah up against the light, too. She is no more special than anyone else. Especially since it appears that someone else is actually raising her children for her.

The bottom line - Sarah Palin is running in a playing field of men. She (a woman) must be scrutinized, vetted and raked over the coals just as firmly and fully in that playing field as those men.

That is the way it is when you are running for public office in this country.

'There's a double standard'

Georgia Washington, San Pedro, CA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:04:01 GMT

Obama may not have run a business, plus all the other things he supposedly hasn't done, but we've never heard of him wearing a dress either.

'There's a double standard'

Nick, New York — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:10:54 GMT

The republicans have found themselves the perfect windup doll. Write her a speech and wind her up.
Well delivered but no substance. Not a single issue
came out of her mouth. Oh I understand you have to
slam your opponent and praise your candidate but it
would have been nice to hear something other than
John Mcain was a POW, we already know this does not
automatically qualify him to be president yet he seems to think it does. Bottom line, the speech was
written by George Bush's speechwriter this alone
should send chills down your spine. We all know what
a fine job he's done as president. Vote with your head not your not your heart.

'There's a double standard'

D Smith, Honolulu, HI — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:42:50 GMT

Palin is McCain's token "Miss Buffalo Chip!" He wanted his wife to do it but she didn't have the legs Palin has so he vetted her real quick.
Question 1: Do you like Coca Cola with your moose burger?
Question 2: Do you think John McCain is cute?
Question 3: Have you ever used chemicals such as arsenic while cooking?
Question 4: Who would you choose as "your" V.P just in case....(?)

The only double standard here is the republicans getting a taste of their own Moose stew and not liking the taste.

Don't dish it to anyone else if you can't stomach the taste!

'There's a double standard'

Eileen, Pittsburgh, PA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:47:51 GMT

As I recall nobody critized Joe Biden for staying in politics after his wife's tragic death to care for his boys, in fact, his male congressmen encouraged him to stay. I didn't hear the media say the left wing faction was running the Democratic party and the Convention but that is all you hear in the media is about the right wing faction. I didn't hear that Michelle Obama had her speech written but that was the first thing out of the media's mouth yesterday after Palin's speech. Get off it. The media is so bad that me, a Democrat, is now watching Fox news to hear fair and balanced reporting and I haven't watched Fox news in 8 years.

'There's a double standard'

Scott McFadden, Charlton, NY — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:10:14 GMT

The press doesn't impeach the president, Congress does. Obama's religion was questioned during the Democratic primaries with Obama and Hillary duking it out. What evidence that Bush (by himself) has done a bad job! Last time I checked there are three branches of government. Congress has played a major role in our current ills. The double standard is while Palin's family is being ruthlessly attacked, Obama's lack of performance, his inability to back up his talk of "change you can believe in" with actions his association with shady characters, etc, is not discussed at all. Where's the "change" in his selection of Joe Biden, career beltway bandit? WHere's the "change" in his negative campaign against Hillary? How anyone thinks Obama has the background or character to be the most powerful person on earth is beyond comprehension!

'There's a double standard'

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:18:37 GMT

According to the Republicans, they should change the qualifications for running for Pres/VP - According to Republicans, it sounds like if you are a Senator, you don't qualify to run the Pres/VP; only Governors and Mayors are qualified. Correct me if I'm wrong, but don't Senators and Representatives have to work to serve and protect the entire state they are from and also to serve and protect everyone in the United States? Aren't the Senators and Representatives dealing with the Pres/VP during the entire time they are in Congress? Isn't McCain a Senator? Does that mean because he is a Senator he is not qualified to be Pres/VP of the United States? Certainly you can't say that each and every person in this United States is qualified to be Pres/VP because they were a POW at one time in their life. I definitely have a great deal of respect for McCain for his veteran service to the United States; however, that does not qualify you to make the right decisions as Pres/VP of the United States; picking Palin as a running mate after speaking with her twice and his choice of going to war without all the facts proves my point. What's wrong with this picture????

'There's a double standard'

Neil Palmer, Baltimore, Md — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:34:51 GMT

Wow,
I thought reading the Washington Times comments were one sided. You Liberals are as bad if not worse than the Right Wingers. Where does a middle of the road guy go to get balanced debate on politics?

'There's a double standard'

Chrys Mas — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:56:24 GMT

I agree with Jane Doe, Tulsa. Palin could be WORSE than Bush though. She's appears even less of a diplomat and even more singleminded. Somebody said "pit bull with lipstick". Here are stats just released from a collection of major insurance companies: A 72 year old man has a
%15 chance of dying in the next four years and a %33 chance of dying in the next eight years. People need to SERIOUSLY consider this question: President Palin? I don't think so! (and.....I'm a former Alaskan).

'There's a double standard'

Tom Tom, Boston Ma — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:59:00 GMT

Does it really matter who is President they don't lead this country, they are front/ spokes person. NO ONE person leads the United States. Wake up America and start putting pressure on the right people, your Senators and Congress.

'There's a double standard'

vanna70, columbus, OH — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:00:14 GMT

What double standard? Should the media leave her alone because she is female? I don't think so. Equal opportunity for all, right? You can't have your cake and eat it too, Sarah. Can't wait to see her first debate. Can she actually speak for herself or will she have a speechwriter prompting her answers as well? Let's face it ladies, Sarah is no Hillary. Alas, just when we move one step ahead, someone like Sarah comes along and moves us two steps behind. How out of touch can the RNC be?

'There's a double standard'

An Independant Woman, Toledo, Ohio — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:06:20 GMT

After what I heard last night, you bet I want to know everything about this woman! She scares the @%#%! out of me. This is a person who aspires to take the oath of office to "uphold the Constitution", yet mocks Obama for wanting to read people their rights? And her running mate yesterday implied he wants to curtail the Freedom of the Press and get them to not look into her background and stop being "mean" to her? Fellow Americans, this propensity for the Republicans to bend the rules of the Constitution is how we're now in an illegal war, getting some of our phones wiretapped, etc. Apparently, the rules are not for them. My fierce hope is that when the shine wears off Palin's speach, people really stop and thing about what was said because this is very, very serious stuff.

'There's a double standard'

John Forbes, Tallahassee, FL — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:13:34 GMT

Sarah Palin is a professional hairdo, hired to say the things about the Dem's that McCain isn't skilled enough to say. Personally, I'd love to see a literate and open-minded President with at least a passing knowledge of: constitutional law, the IMF, the World Bank, world history, military procurement regulations, Congress and how bills become law, the U.N., and the Federal Reserve system. It might also be nice to see someone who actually has travelled a little abroad to gain some insights that might be missing from a small and narrowly focused life in Wasilla, Alaska. Ms. Palin isn't in any way qualified to be the V.P. Further, in an age of renewed religious fundamentalism, the last thing we need is another redneck, bible thumping, creationist in the White House who can't see past a hardened and rigid ideology. C'mon people. Watching the way she was paraded on stage last night and the subsequent furor over how she "took it to Obama" is like watching American Idol.

'There's a double standard'

LS, Florence, KY — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:16:14 GMT

After hearing from the Republicans the last few days, I definetly can see why this country is in a crisis.The Republican Companies have run America in the ground with their hiring practices and it shows, they don't hire qualified people for their jobs,and its ok to know nothing and hold top notch job and say you will get it. Their is so many unqualified workers in the work force which is sad. They have put a title on good old boys. Trashing someones intelligent level is appauling when they don't even have it together. Barak is a very intellegent man, we are very fortunate to have him running for predident of the United States for the democratic party instead of McCain who can barely put two sentences together. Any one can speak off telepromter when someone writes the entire speach for you. The debates will make the Republicans look really bad and tell the true story.

'There's a double standard'

Nat ,Palmer,Alaska — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:27:25 GMT

Wow,what have we all came to..Judgemental,malicious,think we know it all,sexist,racist's,demeaning..and i could go on..But why?? This is about who's right for the Presidency..Personally speaking,after hearing on the news "Alabama",considering charging their people money weekly for being overweight!! What the hell is this world coming to?? Plz,lets stop the insanity,and really look and LISTEN,to the people we are going to choose to keep our constitution alive!!!Freedom of speech is one,but there are morals,oh i forgot,most of the united states has forgotten what that word is..Shall we dig up everyones baggage,for what,the past is the past,its what we do here and now that effects our future..Myself,Obama,does not get my vote..

'There's a double standard'

James, Houston — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:45:07 GMT

Amazing how the media will refuse to report about John Edwards affair for over 8 months while he attempts a white house bid. Then they jump all over a 17 year olds affair hoping to sling dirt on a candidate they don't know.

'There's a double standard'

Chris Chilson — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:46:36 GMT

Yes, there is a double standard. Has anyone attacked Nancy Pelosi for aspiring to be House Speaker? She has 5 kids, you know! Nobody has ever said she has no business "leaving" her kids and holding an important job. Nor should they.

Has anyone attacked Joe Biden for being a Senator while raising his kids by himself. No, he was praised for it. He should be.

Why can't you let Sarah Palin climb the ladder? This is a clear double standard and you should all be ashamed of yourselves.

'There's a double standard'

Anne, FT. Collins, Co. — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:48:03 GMT

I will forget this weeek and remember last week when I saw a gathering of all peoples looking forward to making important changes and uniting respectfully with each other as one nation. I am caucasion, 72 years old and to finally see everyone represented was the joy of my life!

'There's a double standard'

Working mother Jane Doe, Virginia — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:58:18 GMT

"The most powerful nation of the world would be run by a housewife next door!" I say yeah. Any woman who has managed to juggle a family (and a large one at that) and a career is fit in my book. Women already run this country. We run the families, the activities, the social calendar, the family budget, the healthcare and a host of other tasks too numerous to mention. To those who think women don't already have the toughest job in America, try being one! It's sad though, I think this election has already been decided by the media and hype surrounding Obama. Everyone has been so entranced to support him regardless of his qualifications. Change. Change we can believe in. That's alright though. In a year when he's in charge and the country that feels like it's already circling the bowl really gets flushed- you'll wish you had chosen the old man and housewife next door.

'There's a double standard'

Scott — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:59:40 GMT

There is a double standard. Dems are running on a platform of change but they want women to be barefoot and pregnant,and staying home to mommy the babies. How is that change all you dumb democrats? Yes I belelive that they are in it for change, they CHANGE their mind when they sense that they are losing votes. As an independent I will be voting for McCain/Palin, Obama Hussein just scares me too much. You say Palin has no experience? Well at least she votes on things and has her name on some laws. How many does Obama have? Zero. What a coward he is. He votes "Present" instead of making a choice? No thanks! I don't want that indescisive coward in office answering the phone at 3 a.m..

'There's a double standard'

Jim, St Charles,MO — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:01:16 GMT

To Paula in CA - How does Hillary have experience? She was married to a Gov and President? I own a Motorcycle shop and have been working on them for the 21 years that I have been married. My wife works with me at our shop, talks to people on the phone about parts and orders parts and schedules jobs in. But she doesn't think she can repair and do services on bikes just because she has "experience" in this industry. If she were that arrogant, someone could die because of one mistake.

'There's a double standard'

Kevin Murphy ,Jamesport,NY — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:09:38 GMT

Yeah.. like Kieth O and Chris M (softball) don't have there lips planted on Obama' sButt

'There's a double standard'

East Anchorage High School Alum — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:19:11 GMT

Okay, can EVERYBODY stop whining here? I'm wondering what news these republicans watch that they think the media hasn't beaten up on Hilary, Barack and Michele. Does no one remember the New Yorker cover that painted Barack and Michele as militant muslim radicals who supported Osama?
Now, I grew up in Anchorage and let me tell you--we don't exactly look upon Wasilla with a great deal of admiration, unless we're fishermen. It's pretty much just a hick town in comparison to Anchorage and Fairbanks.
Let's forget a moment about Bristol's "Maury Show" baby-mama, shotgun wedding-so-that-it-all-looks-like-family values-schtick and consider a few things about Alaska and Alaskans--particularly Sarah Palin.
The woman does not particularly strike me as someone I could trust with the fate of my country. Even more than Ronald Reagan, she appears the type of person who shoots from the hip, without seriously considering the long-term consequences. She knew her daughter was pregnant before she accepted this offer. I mean, really, the kid is FIVE months along. Didn't she realize that the vultures would begin circling as soon as she said 'yes'?
Number two, back to my point about Alaskans: As the United States grew and expanded westward, the first people to settle the western coast and Pacific Northwest included fugitives from the law and people who lived on the fringes of society. Now, I'm not saying that Alaska is a hotbed of criminals, it appears pretty safe as far as states go. What I AM saying is that Alaska still draws those square pegs that just don't seem to fit anywhere else. Remember, the state only recriminalized possession of marijuana two years ago--and no it wasn't during Sarah's term as governor. Alaskans value their uniqueness and despite what Palin would have you believe--their liberalness. That's what makes it such a cool place to live (no pun intended). But I digress.
Back to Sarah--Don't be fooled by the experience hype. She's not all she's cracked up to be. My sisters: don't be fooled by the gender hype. Women can be just as oily and slick as men. You KNOW this. Think of all the women you know and consider whether you would trust many of them with the things that matter most to you.

'There's a double standard'

Jim, Canton, Ga. — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:22:48 GMT

I don't know how anyone can think that republicans will look bad in a debate. Obama could not give a straight answer on any question asked in the live political forum. He dances around with his answers until something accidentally comes out that half way sounds good but doesn't make any sense. Go McCain and Palin!!! After last night's speech, and your still voting democrat, God help us all!!!

'There's a double standard'

Steve, Melbourne Florida — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:23:02 GMT

What a bunch of knuckleheads you are.

1. The news media is bias. Try checking the NUMEROUS sites reporting the EXACT numbers of media time for Obama vs. McCain...nearly 10:1 coverage in favor of Obama.

2. Media freaks out when Chelsea is asked about father's affair saying she shouldn'y be attacked even though she's campaigning for her mother. Bristol is NOT RUNNING and you defend attacking her? HYPOCRITS!

3. NONE OF YOU questioned Bill Clinton not spending enough time raising Chelsea...you left it to Hillary. Palin has a H-U-S-B-A-N-D who will certainly be helping with the children. Again...HYPOCRITS!

I am ASHAMED of my Democratic Party of arrogant, two-faced snobs. THAT'S WHY I'LL BE VOTING FOR THE OTHER TEAM THIS ELECTION!

'There's a double standard'

Kim, Tallahassee, FL — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:27:56 GMT

The main reason why the media is largely focusing on Palin's 17yr old daughter is because of Palin's own political views. Out of her own mouth, she is against sex education in schools and is for abstinence only. Her daughter is a walking example of what Palin is against. It is impossible to ignore that and whether the media had talked about it or not, every American can see that for themselves. Maybe Palin should have considered that before exposing her daughter to that kind of embarrasment.

'There's a double standard'

Ghost of Tom Paine — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:29:50 GMT

The misguided belief that a person must be a "carrer" politition to lead is part of the problem in America today. Many common people have just as much ability as the smug snobs on both sides of the political street. Perhaps what scares the media and the left so much is the possibility that one of the "people" may do a fine job thus exploding the myth that those in power are entitled to it. Many of us are tired of having the media or politions tell us we need to scrap our constitution and gut our bill of rights in favor of a one world oligarchy run by the U.N. No one has a monopoly on common sense and what masquerades as leadership in Washington is a joke. While I personally do not care for G.W. or his "War on Terror" the idea that Mr. Obama is going to "change" the world for the better is also disconcerting."O" would attempt to disarm us which would lead to an invasion eventually. When asked after World war two , several high ranking Japanese generals stated that they had not tryed to land troops on our mainland because they knew that the "people" were armed and they did not wish to be bogged down in a Qagmire. This is Historical proof that the 2nd Amendment serves as a deterant to agression from without and within as it puts tyrants on an unshure footing. Furthermore the idea that the U.N. or any other police state peacekeepers can or will protect us is a ly considering their record around the world. We would do well as a people to remember the lessons of history and not just give lip service to it as entertainment on the History channel.America has many problems not the least of which is the idea that we should be the worlds policeman.Not everyone is destined to lead nor are all those who attemt leadership qualified. Congress and the House are both guilty of losing touch with people behaving in a depraved manner much of the time,it is no wonder that many people feel left out and no longer care by whom they are led."Those who ignore politics are destined to be ruled by their inferiors". Thank you,Carpe deum.

'There's a double standard'

pj — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:43:11 GMT

McCain picked her because she is a "skirt," and he thinks women will "relate" to her. I can relate to her, but can she do the job as a vp? I highly doubt it. She is part of Big Oil. For McCain, it's ALL about "The O."

'There's a double standard'

Jeff, Elkhart, IN — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:48:53 GMT

Say whatever you want to bypass the real issues. OBAMA HAS ZERO EXPERIENCE TO GOVERN! Liberals attempt to smear and dish out personal jabs when they can't defend their candidate. Drill baby drill!

'There's a double standard'

Theresa Wohlfert, Portland, Michigan — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:49:45 GMT

After watching Sarah Palin speak last night I am very afraid. She showed she is nothing but a vindictive female redneck. Could you see her keeping US out of another war. She would be the first one there with her gun. Please get a clue we don't need a bi-- in the White House. She has no class just looks, no common sense just hatred for all.

'There's a double standard'

richard frye — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:52:36 GMT

Sarah Palin is obviously an accomplished politician, and a successful woman. The issue is less than two years ago she was the mayor of a small town in Alaska and now she could be the Vice President/President of the United States. There were alot more experienced accomplished potential candidates who were overlooked for the sake of selecting a person who could help win the election. The country deserves the best possible candidate not the best looking candidate.

'There's a double standard'

Shawn Guthrie Layton Ut — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:53:10 GMT

Dear MSNBCOBAMA, Why did you not post my email, are you scared?

If you did not post mine there must have been a MILLION others in favor that there is a double standard.

Watching your competitor this am, and then switching over to MSNBCOBAMA, its pathetic.

Again I beleive that the media CANNOT win an election people are smarter then you think.

Since you wont print this either I will change my MSNBCOBAMA home page and now block my MSNBCOBAMA cable channel.

Have some guts!

'There's a double standard'

Marcia, Tampa, Florida — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:56:34 GMT

OMG! Hello out there, everyone is so wraped up in their own cobwebs, mirroring themselves, that they miss the big picture....ITS ABOUT THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Lets all make this world a better place to live and affordable for all.

'There's a double standard'

Katt Brown, Las Vegas, NV — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:57:26 GMT

I listened to her speech twice and was just as inflamed the second time around. I am a retired Deputy Chief of Corrections, female with a family and by the Republican standard I qualify for VP. I was a Republican since I could start voting and this year I changed my party affiliation to Democrat. It pains me to see Senator McCain insulting those of us women who have been professionals and mothers and wives and sisters and daughters by dangling a women as VP in order to intice us to vote for him. Sorry John, just because Governor Palin is a woman doesn't make me feel like changing my vote. I'll stick with Obama and Biden.

'There's a double standard'

Grace, Atlanta GA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:01:42 GMT

Governor Palin has been an executive of her state who cut gratutious spending, brought ethics reform to her state and her own political party, and negotiated to build infrastuture such as a pipeline that will help the economy of her state as well as the economy of this country. Helping to bring energy independence to the United States, is vital to national security. Barack Obama is a junior senator, who speaks eloquently, but has yet to sponsor or author any legislation. Is that not the job of senator? What can he outline other than speaking eloquently and reading a teleprompter to demonstate that he has performed as a senator? Has he authored legislation? NO. Has he effectively headed an important committee? NO. Sorry, a talking head doesn't get my vote!

'There's a double standard'

nicole, toledo, ohio — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:02:30 GMT

What all of you Democrats on here seem to not understand, is that Palin has been questioned endlessly about every little thing that has to do with her family. How is that important to her VP nod? It would be fair if, for instance, the media would run circles about Obama's friendship with known terrorist Ayers, or about his half brothers and half sisters, especially the one living off of $12 a day. The list goes on, but I'm sure you don't want to hear about it.

All of you Dems on here would be lucky to have 1/10th of the accomplishments under your belt that Palin has. It's time to give her some respect.

The REASON there is a double standard is because the media is always giving Obama a pass on these wacky things in his past(Ayers, Wright, etc, etc), and now they're drilling Palin. Now THAT is a double standard folks.

'There's a double standard'

Corey Atlanta, GA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:05:05 GMT

Last night was absolutely horrible and even much more tougher to stomach. Gov. Palin was used as a puppet by John Mc Cain and did everthing that he wanted her to do. Either she is so naive that she is stupid or she just doesn't mind being used.

Sarah gave us NO substance AT ALL. She constantly and sarcastically bashed Obama for his accomplishments, but she has done nothing herself. If I'm not mistaken, she only has a Bachelors Degree from a school in Idaho. I'm not saing that should take away from anything she may have accomplished in her life, but I think that point needed to be made as she berates him for being a "Community Organizer".

Also, the Republicans say to leave the family out of the media, but they constantly parade them in front of the American people for photo-ops. Now that's a "double-standard".Also, the McCain campaign has now brought the child's father, an 18year old kid from Alaska to the Mainland to use him, yet they want us to keep them out of the media.

I seriously can't wait for the debates to begin. I see straight through this fraud.

'There's a double standard'

Jean Semexant, orlando Florida — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:05:52 GMT

Talk the talk, walk the walk. What happen to conservative family value,and abstinence are they only applied when is not about republican? It is matter and we all should take it into consideration.If it was my daughter the conservative will say I did not raise her properly or teach her good value, that's double standard.

'There's a double standard'

SEB — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:07:44 GMT

Let's see, Obama was completely torn apart when he decided to run for president by the media (do you remember that assault by ABC at a debate for not wearing a lapel pin?), Hillary's base was crying "sexism" long before Palin came along--whom by the way, is quoted as saying Hillary's whining does nothhing for women. Double standard? Yep, but it's the GOP not the media

'There's a double standard'

mamonks — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:08:03 GMT

The rnc are the good ole boys. They will do anything to control the american citzens. The iraq war was just one of the blunders they heaped on the american people.. RNC would not replace Bremer in iraq, the excuse was it was to close to the american election. Country first the rnc says. What they mean is country sit down we are running this show ...VOTE

'There's a double standard'

Atlanta, GA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:13:25 GMT

Last night's speech Sarah Palin delivered was in my opinion like being at a comedy show! Her role was to get a crowd excited for the main event and that's what she did. Using lie after lie after lie to accomplish this. She didn't talk on any issues we're facing, i.e. economy. She spent her entire time making jabs at Barack Obama. After 20 minutes or so I found the match between Venus and Serena much more exciting!

'There's a double standard'

Mike, Ossining, NY — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:17:14 GMT

Look carefully at her record.
They don't want the media to pay attention to her pregnant 17 year old daughter yet her and McCain's stand to only teach abstinence in school and not properly educate our kids about the choices and risks proves it doesn't work. McCain originally wanted one of his good buddies in the Veep spot but was pressured by the religious right to choose otherwise. I don't know about you but that is the last candidate I want in the White House. Not to mention their stands on abortion, environment (Palin doesn't want Polar Bears listed as endangered because it will cause problems for oil companies to drill in Alaska). For all the family values they claim they have what about protecting our world for future family members. We'll see how she does in a debate where things aren't nicely scripted for her and the heat gets turned on full force. Or will the media back off her like they did with Hillary because she is a woman?

'There's a double standard'

W J — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:21:15 GMT

Please do not compare Clinton's experience with Palin's. He WAS the issue, his morals and ethics....not the same as having an unmarried pregnant daughter. After saying that I do not care for attacks of a personal nature, most everone has some area in their life that they would not want paraded out in front of the entire world. I understand that having your dirty laundry aired is a fact and believe me I am sure Palin and her entire family were aware of it also. I think it is brave knowing you have issues to step up and face those who will judge you for them.

'There's a double standard'

Vince, Hegins, PA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:23:11 GMT

i'd like to know Obama's list of accomplishments! I'd like to hear Obama's colleagues come forward and tell stories of his heroism and patriotism in the past. Oh wait...Ayers and Jeremiah Wright....hmmmmmm

'There's a double standard'

Ray Reyna — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:28:53 GMT

Where's the double standard? You're reading it right here! NBC feels they, not the people of this country hould be selecting our so called public servants. Did I say servants?
R, Reyna Dallas, Texas
PS. Yes I'm Hispanic! With a brain!!!!

'There's a double standard'

Jen, Kansas City, MO — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:29:57 GMT

Last time I checked there were three branches of the government. How is the state of this country a republican problem? Let's all get over ourselves and start trying to fix what both parties together have destroyed.

'There's a double standard'

Kurt Hanke, Everett WA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:34:25 GMT

Amazing to read what liberals have to say here. Same planet - different worlds.
Governor Palin, and any Republican for that matter, is held to a higher standard by the media than democrats are. But because ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN, MSNBC, PBS, NPR are all liberal all the time (save for Joe on MSNBC and Glenn Beck on CNN), liberals are spoiled - their thinking is never challenged by those in the media.
Dems thrashed around with their usual inability to do anything right - even conduct a primary - and ended up nominating their least qualified candidates. It is now apparent that the McCain - Palin tickets is far more appealing to the American public, and the liberal media elite want to somehow quash that. They are using a double standard and have not subjected Obama and Biden to anywhere near the same scrutiny as her. To wit: Biden's lobbyist son who has benefitted from Biden legislation, Obama sitting in a racist church for 20 years without challenging it, Obama serving on a board with terrorist Ayers and kicking off a campaign in Ayers' home and then claiming he doesn't know him, Obama't total lack of experience - the most inexperienced Presidential candidate ever, Biden's inability to vote on the winning side of any foreign policy issue, etc, etc.
The liberal media elite have lost any sense of journalism and are now totally in the tank for dems - oh yes, there is a double standard.

'There's a double standard'

C Mack, Manning, SC — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:41:48 GMT

As evidenced from these comments, both here and in my office this morning, a lot of people are scared of Palin. Here is a woman who seems to have great intelligence and a grasp of what's needed in leadership. I haven't yet made up my mind, but intend to give much prayer and thought to that decision. Before you run people in the ground, do your research. Hold judgement until all the facts are in.

'There's a double standard'

Jim Davis Houston, Tx — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:42:42 GMT

I see that every chest beating Democrat has already weighed in. Some of you are correct, Sarah is no Hilary, thank god. Do we need to know all about Sarah's daughter? Maybe, maybe not. I certainly don't care. I was that age once and came from a very structured and religous home, parents that cared and were always there. Didn't stop me from getting into trouble doing things that I KNEW were not right. Fact of being a normal 17 year old kid I guess. the difference between what Clinton did and Bristol is that Clinton made the choices himself and they were bad ones. At his level, bad personal decisions of that magnitude don't lent much faith to making decisions for others. Sarah did not make the decision for Bristol. She has her own mind and made her own choices. Clinton deserved to to get roasted for his decision, Sarah does not deserve to get roasted for someone else's.
I say good. Let's get back to the small town ideas and ways of life and maybe she can bring some of that to Washington. Do you really think the tax and spend Dem's can change anything?
It doesn't matter to me that Obama is black. Could care less. Still don't think he can do anything but talk. Pahlin? Don't care that she is a woman. Can she do it? Lets see. I am much more willing to have her as a somewhat inexperienced VP than have a Pres. that has no more experience than her.
By the way, I am not a Dem. or a Rep. I AM AN AMERICAN

'There's a double standard'

s jamme cornville, AZ — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:50:32 GMT

can we sift through the hype and look deeply into the candidates qualifications and abilities to lead (and learn as they do so)? i believe that it isn't so much what happens to us in our lives as HOW WE DEAL with what happens...that should be the focus of the scrutiny of any of the candidates. i am a kennedy/mcgovern democrat that hasn't been interested or engaged in the political process for years. after hearing palin and taking in a huge number of print and live media reports/analysis/commentaries i am truly energized to learn more, see more, and actively make a decision about who (which ticket) provides the most potential for leadership.it's up to me to do the sifting and apply my own standards no matter what is offered by the media.

'There's a double standard'

MW, Baltimore, MD — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:59:00 GMT

The media's relentless focus on her 'lack of experience' is what shows me that true SEXISM is alive and well in America. Throughout the Democrat primary, we heard how Obama's lack of experience represented 'change'. Let me get this straight... an in-experienced President is Good, but an in-experienced Vice President is bad? Huh? Not even a week passed before the media started this multi-phased attack on Gov. Palin. It took them MONTHS before they even acknowledged the existence of Rev. Wright and I have yet to see a 'full report' on Obama's relationship with William Ayers. The bias is sickening and that's exactly why this East-Coast Democrat is voting Republican this year!

'There's a double standard'

pierrette, philadelphia pa — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:01:23 GMT

CLEARLY, IT HAS COME DOWN TO A RACIAL AND GENDER ELECTION. WHAT ELSE CAN THE REPUBLICANS SAY BUT PUT DOWN BARACK OBAMA TO ELEVATE SARAH PALIN?...THEY HAVE A REPUBLICAN PRESIDENT AND HAD THE MAJORITY OF CONGRESS THE LAST 8 YEARS AND PUT OUR COUNTRIES ECONOMY IN A TOTAL MESS, WORLD LEADERS AROUND THE WORLD HATE US, HEALTHCARE ONLY RICH PEOPLE CAN AFFORD, ABORTION RIGHTS AT STAKE, SHALL I GO ON...ONE THING ABOUT PALIN AND HER DAUGHTER, SHE GAVE HER AND HER DAUGHTER A RIGHT TO CHOOSE BUT WANTS TO TAKE THAT RIGHT AWAY FROM ME AND MY DAUGHTER, YOU AND YOUR DAUGHTER...HMMM! DOUBLE STANDARD YOU BET YA! to me, it scares me that a dominantly white republican group who has no intention on focusing on minorities, see a future in a woman who has views from the stoneage.

'There's a double standard'

Craig, Columbia, Missouri — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:06:31 GMT

i think this is a joke, every posing on this site slams the republician party for the choice of VP, the problem in our country today is that a large percent of the people crying the most do not have an idea what drives our country, all they want to do is cry about it instead of trying to make a difference by electing officials to office who will effect change and run with the system. Obama will run with the system just like the rest, if you think he will change things it is time to wake up and smell the coffee. stock market spectulators are the reason our lives have been turned upside down not the president.

'There's a double standard'

Tim, Glen Burnie, MD — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:14:43 GMT

Come on people, lets get real - you all gotta get off the "kool-aide" - of course there is a double standard. Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton and George Bush (II) were all "only" Governor's of states - they had little or no "experience" in foreign policy either and, they were all running for the TOP office, not the VP, so they too were just a heart-beat away from being the President. Another point - if Mitt Romney had been selected VP, he too just being a little ole governor I'll bet my pay check they would not be saying he is not unqualified based on his lack of foreign policy experience - but Sarah Palin is a LADY, so she is being questioned and beaten up on the subject by the press and liberal shows by the talking heads - that is called being "sexist". For starters, Obama says that Iran is just a tiny country which poses NO threat - better hope he wakes up real FAST. Iran can close down the Straits of Hormuz in a heart beat (granted, eventually we will regain control, just as we did back when Japan bombed Pearl Harbor) but in the mean time it means - no ships IN or OUT of the Persian Gulf, meaning NO OIL coming out - and with Iran's ties to terrorist they can easily send teams, or support teams, of insurgents to get into places like; Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and blow up pipelines and cut back on OIL flow. God forbid if that day comes, then you will be saying - geez, I remember Obama saying Iran was just a small country and NOT a threat. Stop and think folks, what that would do to our economy - unfortunately OIL is and always will be part of our lives - we need it for driving automobiles, trucking food and other manufacturing products across the country, keeping trains running, keeping airplanes flying, etc., etc., etc. Sure, some day we hopefully will have alternative's such as nuclear, wind, even solar, etc., but you still need OIL (gas) for the reasons I aforementioned. Oil basically makes up part of almost everything we use or consume. Finally, for now, Obama may have been a Senator for one term and gave a speech at the 2004 Democratic convention that started his career, but what has he done - voted against the war (okay), but he has also voted to cut funding - once your committed then you cannot let your soldiers and sailors "hang-out-there-to-dry", and he voted against the surge - which seems to be working, but you would not know it from watching the liberal news or reading the liberal media - they do NOT cover it, only when bombings where happening daily and troops were dying was it front page news or covered during prime-time TV news, and even then, the good and positive things that were being accomplished in Iraq were never mentioned. I believe in his 4 years as senator he only made one trip overseas (could be wrong) and that was his visit for one week prior to the Dem convention - didn't even bother stopping in to visit the troops recovering in the hospitals. The first 2 years he spent preparing to run for President and the last 2 years he has spent running for President - and he is part of the current DO NOTHING congress, which has the LOWEST rating of ANY congress, ever. Granted when the Republicans had control of the congress this time - they did nothing, either and they can be blamed for spending more, but the answer is not bigger government which you would get with Obama - and how would he pay for all the new programs he says he'd fight for - i.e., government health care, for one - gotta raise taxes...!!!! Of course, it is well known at the Fed level and at the state level, whenever Dem's get in - taxes GO UP - just like they have here in Maryland.

'There's a double standard'

Margaret Doe, Bay City, MI — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:16:49 GMT

I agree with John Forbes of FL. Sure Palin's speech was good. It was written for her by the Republican speech writers and she practiced delivering it- in front of them several times. If something should happen to McCain(I pray not)- I cannot see her as the Pres. of the US. I am concerned over her foreign policy,international relations and economic knowledge. She is an inexperieced "lovely" woman. The
republicans keep saying she is a spit fire and a bull dog. With Palin this is a good thing and the press and Republican Party felt the same traits were a bad thing when Hilary Clinton stood up for what she believed in.
Hilary Clinton.(A smart,intelligent, experienced lawyer and Senator). With Hilary, the press wanted to
show pictures of her with wrinkles and bags under her eyes during her campaign. Had they ever showed a man that way? NO! Now pretty little Palin will be praised.???We don't need a trophy vice president.
Yes this is a double standard. Palin made the decision in my vote.McCain lost my vote with choosing Palin- someone he had never met before!???!

'There's a double standard'

Tom from Columbus, OH — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:17:08 GMT

I wonder how many of you realize just how big government will be if Obama becomes president. There isn't any way this country can pay for all the progams he has promised. Does anybody else realize he has promised everything to everybody? That just cannot happen, it is impossible! Has anybody heard that the troops ARE leaving Iraq? Has anybody heard that unemployment is LOWER than when the slickster proved how low-life he was? Does anybody realize that the President doesn't make the laws, he can only veto them, and that can be overridden? When everybody stays at home on government assistance, where are the dollars going to come from to continue the monthly checks? Double standard? Palin is the vice-presidential candidate, why is everyone comparing her to the opposite party's presidential candidate? If you really look at things, the Dems can do what ever they want and nobody in the press cares. They do make a stink when somebody points this out. They simply trash those who point out the truth. Big Bill's episode was not a private issue, not when it occured in the Oval Office! Think of the security risk if some terrorist organization realized how easy it was to take the pres. out of commission? The democrats have no standards! How can they hold anybody to any standard? Is their any reason the Democratic Presidential nominee forgets that he is White, too? He's as much white as black, but that doesn't seem to be news.

Think about this, too, all of you who love Obama, how many times have you heard him retract his previous statements? Will this go over in diplomatic discussions with terrorists? When he says, "That isn't what I meant to say." It will be too late, the bombs will be on their way.

'There's a double standard'

joella blount kc missouri — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:17:40 GMT

I think pilan and her family as you all say represents america and her immoral ways. what's new.they rather put her and her family in the white house instead of a black man. use the woman and her children like they have always done since slavery.woman didn't the right to vote until blacks fought for their freedom and right to vote. just watching women agreeing with men to exploit us and our children is disgusting. the world is laughing at america and their double standards. it has nothing to do with woman working and taking care of her children it's about judgement and white america is all about fearing that black man. it's shameful but that's white america. i think you deserve mccain and pilan

'There's a double standard'

Andrew, Minneapolis, MN — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:18:06 GMT

As a mostly moderate voter, I visit all news sites just to see for myself if there is a bias among them. After reading through this thread it is VERY apparent that this outlet must attract a certain type of viewpoint. I can only conclude that it must have something to do with the way the news is presented here. I, myself, would not chose to spend my time among people I don't have common interests with and I can see the same holds true for people on the web. As for the question; yes, the media has been unfairly giving Obama preferential treatment over ALL his rivals. Even Hillary got the snub during the primaries. He is considered the "Golden Boy" because he looks good on camera and he is an amazing speaker. The question has yet to be answered, however, of whether or not people back him because he is a minority that has risen to a position of influence, or if he could actually do something good for our country. As for me, I would appreciate equal treatment of all the candidates by the news outlets so I can decided for myself.

'There's a double standard'

KD, Atlanta, Georgia — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:24:45 GMT

This will be the last time I read from this site - or post to it. Right, Left or Middle - it's critical for the future of this country for voters to LISTEN to the candidates during the September debates and make an informed decision - not one influenced by spin or liberal media or even the one or two conservative media in the minority. I pray that voters will THINK and form their own opinion and not be limited to others influence. ... especially the opposition (only).

'There's a double standard'

Frank Wheeler, Vancouver, Wash. — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:25:31 GMT

98% of the comments above are from people that have not investigated her tough record and never will! THEY ARE NOT INTERESTED IN THE TRUTH. They get fed their deceptive baby food from their media, which they know would NEVER lie to them!

'There's a double standard'

Tom, Monroe, WI — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:26:38 GMT

The only double standard is she would not have been nominated if she were a man. Sure she can read a speech written by someone else. But it is obvious she was selected for who she is from the waist down rather from the neck up.

'There's a double standard'

SJ, Mpls — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:28:54 GMT

Holy smokes you people are delusional. The double standard commentary refers to the fact that she is being questioned whether or not she can be a mother to young children and VP at the same time. I have not heard ANYONE ask Obama if he can be a father to young children and President at the same time. I'm a lifelong democrat and don't approve of many of her positions, but at least I know what the double-standard comment is referring to.

'There's a double standard'

MJ, Mpls, MN — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:29:56 GMT

'There's a double standard'

Nick, Kalamazoo, MI — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:31:52 GMT

This double standard business is ridiculous. The GOP would be going after a Democrat with similar issues to Palin with reckless abandon. They're complete hypocrites and are just using this current line of rhetoric to detract from the issues. Notice that whenever a reporter has asked someone from the GOP to address the criticism about her lack of experience or any other issues about her credibility that they won't answer the question but instead play this double standard card or try to bring the subject back to criticizing Obama. If they wanted to be able to legitimately use the double standard issue then they shouldn't have impeached Clinton for his personal life. They brought this on themselves.

'There's a double standard'

richt, san jose, CA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:32:08 GMT

She herself shows the double standard. When she dishes it out she is a pit bull with lip stick. But when attacked she sheds that schtik and becomes the sweet hockey mom.

'There's a double standard'

Dan, Omaha NE — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:34:26 GMT

To Nat:

The Republicans are masters of digging up dirt on people and slandering people in the media (mostly the right-wing blogosphere and AM radio). In fact, Karl Rove is the KING of this practice.

I'd like to give you a pass because it appears that you are not very well educated...but for you to criticize Democrats for mudslinging while conservative America uses the previously mentioned propaganda vehicles to question Obama's citizenship, origin, religious beliefs, his "playing of the race card", etc, is hypocrisy at its finest.

'There's a double standard'

Rebecca, Dallas, Texas — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:36:33 GMT

The double standard that bothers me - is the same double standard that has dogged me all of my career....
My husband and I are police officers. I was surprised to find out that he has NEVER been asked how he expects to raise his kids AND do a good job... WAKE UP AMERICA.
Either ask ALL of the candidates(NOT JUST THE WOMEN)the same question about how they can possibly raise their kids while campaigning and holding office - or SHUT UP about it already.

'There's a double standard'

Wayne, Moberly, MO — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:37:53 GMT

Yes, there is a double standard. The Media goes out of their way to hide Obama's flaws, and digs up ancient minutiae on Palin. For example, we got treated to media coverage of a 20 year old DUI charge of Palin's husband, but… how much media coverage did Michelle Obama's raise get? She's making $121,910 per year for the University of Chicago Hospital, but 2 months after her husband takes office in the US Senate in 2005, she gets a "raise" to $316,962. I don't know about you, but do you REALLY think her performance was so stunning that she earned a 261% raise? How many people do you know who got 261% raises in one year? Or do you think there's ANY chance this might have been a backdoor way to gain influence with her Senator Husband? Well, the media just says it's no big deal and has largely ignored it, except for puff pieces that say "nothing to see here, move along". (see link below) But I'll guarantee that if Sarah Palin's husband got a 261% raise from his job in the BP oil fields 2 months after Sarah took office, the media would be SCREAMING and it would be the top story every night for weeks. Where's the screams about Michelle's raise? Yes, there is a double standard, but if you think it's not heavily biased in favor of promoting a liberal agenda through slanting the news and censoring what does and doesn't get reported, you're not paying attention. http://blogs.usatoday.com/ondeadline/2006/09/hospital_offici.html

'There's a double standard'

Sanaa, Brooklyn, NY — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:40:25 GMT

I think the biggest issue is that NO ONE has EVER heard of Palin before, not once. I mean, no one knows who the heck she is much less where she stands on the issues.

No, this is McCain grasping at straws. He needed to find a way to ad progressive substanance to his campaign in order to match Obama/Biden.

Ok, if we pick a woman with little experience, who is a small town governor, who has a kid who will be deployed to Iraq, another kid who is pregnant, and another kid with down syndrome...we will cover all basis: the war, right to life, children w/special needs, challenging Washington, and the working class/everyday people aspect...all nice and neatly rolled into one and anytime someone has anything to say, such as the fact that she wasn't vetted properly, we'll just blame double standards and the fact that she's a woman. Perfect!

clap.clap.clap. well done republicans, yet another smoke and mirrors set up.

the reality is there are other women that would have been better suited for the job than Palin, any of the republican senators for instance, or hey what about Condoleeza Rice, though I shudder at the thought, she is practically there already, so the experience thing would be a non issue but then how could McCain with his 25 years of Washington Politics jump on the "Evolved Politics" bandwagon with her on his ticket.

Double standard, my foot! For YEARS the repblicans have hit democrats on every personal level they could find, they are known for playing down & dirty...now that the media has decided to play by their standards (most media in this country is owned by Reblican Rupert Murdoch anyways)you want to cry STOP, double-standard...

John McCain is just trying to do anything he can to win, not because he cares what happens to regular everyday people of this country, not because he cares if people kids are dying in a needless war or have jobs, lose their homes, or have healthcare but because he likes to win. Same as Bush.

Wake up America before there is no America. We can't afford four more years of Bush/McCain policies!

'There's a double standard'

Reid — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:48:35 GMT

Then why isn't the "Liberal Media" exposing the fact that Palin herself had a shotgun wedding proving that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Typical do as I say not as I do Republican values!!

'There's a double standard'

David S, Boston, MA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:52:12 GMT

Palin's speech was clearly aimed at revving up the Republican basis, which (no surprise) it did. The issue is: will the "small town America" approach appeal to any sections of the electorate other than that group. The world in the age of globalism is a very different place now. Any future president (even in waiting) must be able to convince the American people he or she understands that new reality and the necessity of confronting forces (economic, military etc) beyond the purview of the average citizen of Wassila. This was a remarkably small-minded speech, negative in tone, lacking in any vision and essentially trotting out well-worn "Washington is broken"-type rhetoric. It was "policy-light." In fact, there was virtually no policy in it (ok other than the demand to drill in Alaska - there's a shocker) You can almost hear the cogwheels behind the scenes frantically trying to "educate" SP about the policy issues, about which I strongly suspect she knows next to nothing. I also wonder what impact the barbs aimed at Barack Obama will have on independents. To belittle his experience as a community organizer is a cheap shot and misses the point: since then he has been an Illinois legislator and a US senator. To excoriate him for his lack of executive experience ignores the fact that Palin's own boss has spent his entire political career as a legislator. One also wonders how SP will perform in a non-scripted, non-choreographed, not necessarily sympathetic setting when detailed policy questions are fired at her. We shall see.

'There's a double standard'

Karen Aurora, CO — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:56:32 GMT

Amen Scott Mcfadden! Its about time America looks at the character of Obama. If this election would be based on character alone, Obama and Bidon wouldn't stand a chance. Bidon's voting record changes as often as his underwear. He believes in whats popular at any given moment. Obama screams "change" but can't tell you how he is going to bring about change. Take off your rose colored liberal glasses. We need people like Palin in the whitehouse.

'There's a double standard'

Jo, Montclair NJ — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:56:52 GMT

Hmmm.....Double Standard???

Does anyone remember Ann Coulter making some incredibly horrible comments about John Edwards' child that died??

But NOW....NOW...we're supposed to keep the kids out of it? Hmmm.

How about the hard time Dick Morris and others (mostly FOX of course) gave Hillary Clinton when she complained about sexist bias. But NOW....NOW.....now the media is being sexist and unfair to wittle Sarah and they have to stop!! Hmmm.

Hypocrisy, much??

How about all the comments when the movie Juno came out by the Republican shock jocks?? What about the comments about Jamie Lynne Spears when she ended up an unmarried teenage mother? I believe it was about the declining morals in America and "where are their parents???" But NOW.....NOW....it's a Republican white girl who is pregnant and we have to leave her alone!! She's moral and having her child, not an abortion!!! For shame all you liberals with your comments! Hmmm.

Are people really so stupid that they don't see the double standard that (most, not all) Republicans use?

It's mind bending.

'There's a double standard'

Sylvia, MA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:59:24 GMT

Morals!!?? Please so McCain and Palin are morally upstanding and Obama and Biden lack morals? Not getting it. How so?

I love how the Republicans keep calling themselves the party of change. Remember 16 yrs. ago when Quayle took on Murpphy Brown ( a fictional character) and called single motherhood the downfall of morality in this country? Now supporting unwed mothers is the cornerstone of morality (at least for the republican party). In 16 more years they may actually recognize the rights of gay couple and a women's right to choose( and consider it groundbreaking).
They change- it just takes a really, really long time.

'There's a double standard'

Jeff, Rural Valley, PA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:02:09 GMT

Looks like you are all bitter liberals denying the truth about who the candidates are and what they are all about. Since I'm from PA, I suppose I had better cling to my guns and religion... something I'm proud of. Sarah is a wonderful choice and I can proudly say I will be voting for her and McCain.

'There's a double standard'

Tim, Glen Burnie, MD — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:06:18 GMT

People question whether Palin should be in office and raising a family - can she do both successfully. Why haven't people questioned men when there in office and rasing a family - double standard, sexist. The wife takes primary care of raising the children, so, doesn't it seem logical that Palin's husband will be (or has been) filling that role. And, in most cases, these people in high-profile jobs like this (and possibly where both parents work) have others who are watching and caring for the children - while Mom and Dad are working - happens all across the states. There are many successful women who are senator's, congress woman, govenor's, mayor's, company CEO's etc., who are doing "both" jobs at once - so why all of a sudden is it a question as to whether or not Sarah Palin should be accepting the position of VP. I believe this is a "slap-in-the-face" of/for ALL women who either hold office or for that matter, just work - they're able to "shuffle" everything and make it all work. Then, you can take it one step further -what about "single-Mom's" who are out there working and raising a family (and for that matter, single-Dad's, too). Obama asks the media to "back off" from digging into his wife - OK, but now if you do that then you have to "back off" on digging into Palin's family - too...!!!!!! Can't have it both ways - and, keep in mind - Obama's wife "is" out there on the campaign trail speaking in behalf of him - therefore, that really makes it fair game to question the things she says about him or what she says about herself - i.e., "...this is the first time I'm proud of my country..." If your going to "dig-dirt" on Palin and/or McCain and the Republicans, then you have to do it across the board on Obama/Biden and the Dem's - such as his association and friendship with Low Ayers who admitted to bombing the Pentagon and other places and then saying he wished he had done more harm - come on, what is a matter with this picture. I'm positive that the American people are smart enough to "read thru the lines" and clear the smoke and see, realize and understand how double-sided the coverage is - and the more the liberal media bashes Palin, the more WOMEN are going to get the hair on the back of their necks raised up in anger - and in the long run it hopefully will turn around in Nov and bit them in the a$$ - so, keep it up...!!!!!

'There's a double standard'

Shonda, Lockport NY — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:11:39 GMT

I am insulted as a woman, a mother, and a special education teacher. I do not understand how a mother of a disabled child is going to have the time to run a country. Lets face it John McCain is in his 70s and he is a cancer survivor, the odds of her having to take over are high. She is from Alaska, that alone lessens her credentials because the citizens of Alaska are not faced with the societal issues that the main land states are faced with. I also find the Republican party as a party of hypocrits. The party that does not believe in sex education should look at their Vice Presidential candidate and question why her teenage daughter is pregnant. Maybe the "abstinence" talk was ineffective. Now it is suddenly ok for teenagers to engage in sexual activity. As long as she has the baby. Obviously, Palin can not control her teenage daughter so how can she run a country.

'There's a double standard'

Leigh, Boise, Idaho — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:17:46 GMT

Let's stay on subject people. I'm not sure it's exactly a double standard, but I think the media has gotten malicious in their reporting and scrutiny of Palin's family. Attacks on anyone's race, gender, or family should be put down and let's look at what's really important and what we need for this country. My mind is not made up, but Obama will not get my vote because of his record and lack of experience.
If the media was really out just to provide information on a candidate so I could make a better decision, unbiased and truly cared for truth, I would listen more. But it's not so. They've become spin doctors, pushing their own agendas and I'm not talking just about FOX either. Let's get a mind of our own and choose what is wise for this country and our future.

'There's a double standard'

James, Jacksonville, Florida — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:20:28 GMT

There is no double standard if there is a double standard it's on the repulicans part they are always preaching family values among other things now they have Sarah Palin on top of that there is her abuse of power situation this is proof as to why the GOP is so hot for her because she is just like they have always been. I think Obama and Biden have been acting with a double standard where it comes to Palin though because if she were a male they would be all over her background stories but instead they are showing her the respect they shouldn't. Face is people this women jis no H. Clinton hell i think Barbara Walters has better experience then Palin I think you would be hard pressed to find anyone in politics anywhere with less experience then the repulicans choice for Vice-President

'There's a double standard'

Tom, HH, KY — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:21:58 GMT

It is quit simple, the republicans want to change the constitution. Not for the better. If you take a persons freedom of choice away then you can take their freedom of speech and then their privacy. The religous right is trying to turn this country into a theocracy. They are not satisfied with just freedom to practice their religion. They feel that all Americans should think and act like them. There is a double standard, the Republicans can smear, attack and degrade whom ever they want but a non Republican is an elitist if they question the republicans actions or motives. It is a shame that McCain cannot speak for himself anymore. He has to do and say what the "men behind the curtain" tell him. McCain has allowed the Republican elite to use him as their puppet and Palin is their ventriloquist.

'There's a double standard'

JM, pasadena Md — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:22:06 GMT

Independent woman from Toledo: When Palin referred to Obama reading rights to people, I believe she was talking about prisoners of war that are not American citizens, and thus do not have any rights to be read. I agree about the press coverage though. To me, nothing is off limits when your running for high office. One other thing: How is the war illegal if Congress voted for it? Oh, and don't be fooled into thinking that only the Republicans bend rules. That is something all politicians do left or right.

LS from Florence: Republican Companies? What does that mean? Last I heard, companies were privately owned/operated, and not government controlled.

John Forbes: I echo your comments about "seeing a literate and open-minded President with at least a passing knowledge of: constitutional law, the IMF, the World Bank, world history, military procurement regulations, Congress and how bills become law, the U.N., and the Federal Reserve system." Unfortunately I do not believe that either of the candidates fit that description entirely. I will say that Byden and McCain are much closer to that than Obama or Palin. My vote will likely go to McCain because of that.

'There's a double standard'

Jo — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:23:48 GMT

Sexist! The fact that you are running for office you know that you are going to be scrutinized. She is power hungry and she accepted the position at the cost of displaying her family’s private life. I am so sick of the republicans double talking. When Jamie-Lynn Spears got pregnant, a lot of those republican conservatives blamed Lynn Spears and now that McCain has thrown this in their lap they are now double talking, “this should remain as a private family issue” they are bunch of hypocrites whose only interest is looking out for the rich and not the little people that keep this county going. Last night on John Stewart he showed the republicans bashing Obama and his lack of experience and now that Palin is made VP he show those very same republicans double talking and glazing over her experience . She is being used as a pawn, as a woman this is insulting. We are a lot more intelligent than that, we can make sense out of non-sense, Mr. McCain.

After her speech last night, they call claimed that she came out “fighting”, I was not impressed at all. All she did was mock Obama and Biden, spoke of her family privacy, compared hockey mom to a bull dog, talked about McCain’s time as a POW and because of that he is the right man for the job........WE HAVE HAD MANY POWS that have put their life on the line for this county, he is not the only one. I was looking for a little more substance in the speech and I was left with more qualification questions. . Republican have this delusional response to our current VP mess, McCain is feeding them hog wash and telling them its vodka and they are all in line drinking it up.

'There's a double standard'

James, SATX — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:36:09 GMT

I don't think it's a double standard when the RIGHT has constantly bashed Mrs. Obama. I didn't hear anyone say, "Hey, lets back off of Michelle, she's a woman." I hear her name brought up everyday by FIXED Noise, Sean Hannity and Rush Limbaugh; so no, she is not off limits. Her 17 year old daughter is off limits though. But Sarah Palin should have thought about that when she accepted being John McCain's fifth choice (Lieberman, Ridge, Pawlenty, and Mitt Romney) for VP. What happended to the maverick? He let a bunch of talk show host force him into selecting Palin. PUPPET!!!!!!!!!!!

'There's a double standard'

KB, Small Town, Alabama — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:50:45 GMT

I believe that we are all intelligent enough to know that there are double standards based on race, gender, etc., I can't however say that it necessarily applies in this case. I think that is right that the media invesigates all candidates for public office thoroughly and without limitation so that the public can be informed. I don't think that information found regarding a candidates family members should become the topic of main stream conversation. The focus then shifts from the candidate to people who are "exposed" by association.

I am concerned about the apparent lack of thought taken with the selection of Gov. Palin as Mccain's running mate. I'm concerned that Mccain did not investigate her and her background as thoroughly as the media is now doing. What does that say about his thought process and his leadership? It becomes obvious that this selection was made because she's a female and as a female I find that insulting. Are we (females) not suppose to have the thought capacity to spot and obvious ploy to steal Hillary Clinton's (not a supporter) thunder?

'There's a double standard'

LP, Palmyra, VA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:01:19 GMT

Are you kidding me?!?!? No sexism!?!?! When did the media ask John F. Kennedy, Jimmy Carter, or Bill Clinton how they were going to take care of their children?!?!? Everyone assumed that the good little wife would take that role. Well why aren't you assuming that Palin's husband will be the primary care giver? Your not saying that a Daddy's role is not important now are you???? -OR- That a man is not capable???? Because you know that would be... sexist!

'There's a double standard'

Cenk Uygur — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:08:31 GMT

Christian-right leaders and conservative stalwarts have praised the decision of Bristol Palin, the daughter of Governor Sarah Palin, to carry her child to term. She is 17 and conceived this child out of wedlock. Now imagine she wasn't the daughter of a prominent Republican politician but an average person. Now imagine she was black.
What do you think conservatives would have to say about her? "Typical, urban youth with no sense of responsibility raised with loose morals who plans to depend on the state to take care of her child." You know it. It's not within dispute. That's exactly what they would say.

Barack Obama has told everyone to lay off this because it is a personal, family matter. Yes, but it also has public policy ramifications. Governor Palin is for abstinence only education. Well, that obviously didn't work.

Has she learned her lesson? Will she now amend her policy position on this matter given her personal record of failure in implementing this ridiculous stance?

Notice I am not blaming Bristol. Quite the opposite. People like me are the ones that defend the Bristols of the world. It is conservatives like James Dobson, Rush Limbaugh and yes, Governor Palin who usually attack people who find themselves in Bristol's situation. They demand a dogmatic adherence to moral strictures and chastise and belittle women who have children out of wedlock. Especially if they are women of color.

Which brings us back to Obama. Do you think the Republicans would lay off of Obama if his 17 year-old daughter had gotten pregnant out of wedlock? You know the answer to that question. Everyone does.

"This is what the permissive liberal attitude gets you. If you allow your children to think everything is acceptable, they have no boundaries. They wind up getting themselves in trouble like this. It's a predictable result of the liberal lifestyle."

And that's before the subtle and not so subtle racial implications are brought into this. There is a constant double-standard of how black and white people and politicians are covered in this country. When a young black girl gets pregnant, she's looking to get money from welfare. When a young white woman gets pregnant, she made an unfortunate mistake and her family is being supportive in trying to help the make the best of it.

Cindy McCain was addicted to drugs and stole from her own charity to feed her addiction. Now what do you think the Republicans would have done if Michelle Obama had done that? How do you think the press would have covered it? You think they would have called it a simple mistake and moved on?

When presented with these examples, no matter who you are, you know in your heart that this double standard exists. All of this is not said to condemn Bristol Palin or Cindy McCain. This is to get you to think twice about your own assumptions about the next time you hear a story of a young African-American woman who got pregnant in the inner city or a minority who got addicted to drugs and committed a crime to feed that addiction.

There but for the grace of God go Bristol Palin and Cindy McCain.

'There's a double standard'

Mark Campbell, Brookhaven, PA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:22:35 GMT

As a 10-year officer in the United States Army, serving during the first Gulf War, and as a Christian man in his 40s, working hard to provide for my family and raise my children in, as Scripture says, "the way they should go", I find it necessary to make 2 points. First, it truly is necessary for our Commander-in-Chief to have military experience, because ONLY a military veteran, male or female, has the insight into the mission, operational requirements, the willing and all-too necessary sacrifices, up to and including even the ultimate sacrifice, and needs of both the ones serving and their families, which our draft-dodging, playboy President Bill Clinton did NOT have, which is why President Bush had to revamp and retool our military almost as soon as he took office; afterall, the NUMBER ONE priority of the President is to provide for our nation's defense. Secondly, our President needs to have proper moral grounding in order to be able to make the decisions that will best protect us and help us move forward. Young Barack claims to be a God-fearing Christian man, yet appears willing to compromise some of God's commands and guidelines regarding several moral issues for the sake of getting broad-based voter approval. Sodom and Gemorah, having long ago gone down the same moral road that we have been going going down as of late, were destroyed. Nikita Kruchev made the observation that the USSR would never have to come to blows with us, because, just like the Greeks and Romans, a morally bankrupt nation will eventually collapse. Democrats call immorality PROGRESSIVE thinking. Is internal collapse brought about by one's own policies and behavior really "progressive" ? This country was founded by Godly men, and our Judeo-Christian heritage is what has guided us to be the great nation that we had become. Following God's design wasn't always easy, but allowing Him to work, through constant prayer and faith, made us the beacon of the world, and is what made other people want to come here. That's progressive. Do we want to abdicate the throne God has graciously allowed us to sit on, as salt and light to the world? John McCain and Sarah Palin are imperfect human beings, as we all are, but, like King David of Israel, they are still looking to God for the strength and wisdom to guide and govern in the proper way. If you want a weak military, and risk greater harm to our shores, and if you think that the continued promotion of the homosexual lifestyle and illegitimate pregnancies,the continued extermination of many pregnancies, and the loss of American businesses and the the jobs they create here, due to higher taxes, is what will be best for this country, then, by all means, vote for Obama and Biden. But be careful what you wish for. You just might get it, and have to sleep in the bed you've made. Those of us that hold Sarah Palin in high regard for her unwavering commitment and Godly faith, in the face of her family drama, as well as her proven track record as the leader of Alaska, and who also hold John McCain in the same regard for his faith, service, and commitment to this country, will be voting Republican, so the country we love and hold dear will continue to be blessed and be able to bless others around the world. Give the elitest media it's day, and let it promote what it wishes. Game on, as they say. They've already lost, because McCain and Palin are above the fray, and have an unwavering faith and commitment to God and country, and the support of all the right people.

'There's a double standard'

Jane Doe, Ohio — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:52:18 GMT

It is disgusting how one-sided the media is. They dont dwell on the negative issues with the Democrats, but when a Republican does the same thing, you will hear about it for days. I am so sick of it. The Democrats are all over Palin because her daughter is pregnant. According to them, that makes her a bad mother. But nobody talks about how Obama was a illegitimate child, does that make his mother bad? No, of course not, but it doesnt make Palin unqualified for VP either. The media is also bringing up the fact that Palin's husband had a DUI over 20 years ago, but I havent heard hardly anything about Biden's plagarized speeches. Obama can promise change all he wants, but it doesnt mean he will deliver (and he wont!) With McCain and Palin in the White House, gas prices will go down, because they actually have a plan, unlike Obama. He doesnt back up his "change" at all. Change, change, change. I am sick of his crap. The only change that will come from Obama being president will be negative. Obama will be the ultimate downfall of the United States.

'There's a double standard'

Tu Bailey Brunswick, Ga — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 17:09:02 GMT

Mrs. Palin, please go home and clean around your own doorstep before trying to clean around the country. Your young baby, two innocent daughters, and soon to be new mother, Bristol need you. Or are you to busy with your own agenda to think of anyone besides yourself? Sorry America. I don't believe that any skirt will do. Just because she has female plumbing does not get my vote. She is about as qualified as my hairstylist to do this job. Honey, cut your teeth on another country not ours. Take the beam out of your eye, Mrs. Palin. Go home and take care of your personal responsibilities and leave the nation's management to someone who has their life in order.

'There's a double standard'

abegail, new york city, new york — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 17:10:11 GMT

In the animal kingdom, it is said that the female of a species is worst than the male. This female republican candidate is even scarier than Dick Chaney.

'There's a double standard'

Young; Clinton, Ms — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 18:53:48 GMT

Talk about a double standard FORMER MASSACHUSETTS GOV. MITT ROMNEY: "We need change, all right A— change from a liberal Washington to a conservative Washington! We have a prescription for every American who wants change in Washington A— throw out the big-government liberals, and elect John McCain and Sarah Palin."
THE FACTS: George W. Bush, a conservative Republican, has been president for nearly eight years. And until last year, Republicans controlled Congress. Only since January 2007 have Democrats have been in charge of the House and Senate. How mcuh change should we really expect?

'There's a double standard'

Chris,Cincinnati, Ohio — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:09:10 GMT

The media is completely pro democrat. I am amazed the stupidity of the people who post comments on here. My whole life I have listened to the media and how they always bash anything repbulicans do. We never have a balance point of view and if you think we do you obviously done pay attention. By the way I am a Democrate!!

'There's a double standard'

Poz Ann, Phoenix, Az. — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:32:02 GMT

Whow, I am impressed. You posted one person's view, and from Alaska, that he would not vote for Obama. As for the rest of your posts, same old, same old. You can criticize Bush and Cheney, they deserve it; but McCain was not in the administration and he did go after Bush more than once. It's Senator McCain. And, by the way Obama voted 96 times with Bush, just as McCain did. Now when it comes to bashing a young woman with knowledge and experience, some of you have the nerve to tell her to go clean her doorstep. You criticize her for not talking about immigration...Obama has been campaigning for three years and he hasn't covered as much ground as Palin in one speech. Biden learned everything in his first couple of years in the Senate and then repeated it for how many years???? Whow. Get real people.
I'm just a democratic who can think for myself without media bias.

'There's a double standard'

Aimelire, Washington DC — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:44:07 GMT

Governor Palin is being treated with kid gloves when compared to the other candidates and the current president. It would be a problem with Republicans if the unmarried Bush daughter became pregnant, or Chelsea Clinton or in a few years, one of the Obama girls. It is unconscionable that Bristol Palin is being treated as if being an unwed pregnant high school senior at 17 is perfectly natural and is no one's business. She is now part of the face America presents to the world and our values. Our American children will also be looking to her and our culture's take on her as to what is acceptable in society. We are telling them that if they or their girlfriends have pre-marital sex and get pregnant, we’re okay with that. That’s the message we are sending concerning Bristol Palin.
Palin--unlike Obama, McCain, Sen. Clinton and Biden--is someone that none of us-Democrats or Republicans-knows very much about. Gov. Palin's political views--and her personal morals are a direct link to those--are important for voters to understand. There is a chance, after all, that she could become the next President of the USA.

'There's a double standard'

Scheller, PA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:47:28 GMT

I am a woman and tired of our gender being set back by women like Govenor Palin who use gender bias whenever things get uncomfortable. If you want to work in a public position, then your entire life is public. If you want your privacy don't be such a celebrity seeker. It is sexual bias to allow Govenor Palin to spew hate speech and then not allow the reporters, or politicians that she has attacked to set the record straight. I give no sympathy to a woman who exposes her family to the public eye, shoots her mouth off like a pitbull, and then whines about being the victim when she is investigated and scrutinized.

'There's a double standard'

Bob Kenny — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:00:12 GMT

Double standard? Well, being governor of a poorly run state was considered great experience when it was Clinton, and also when it was Carter, but being governor of a well run state is not good experience? I think it is because it is a FEMALE governor, somehow the responsibility of the governorship is not good enough??? BS !!. And as for investigation into family, lets see if we can tape someone interviewing Obama's dad in his hut !!

'There's a double standard'

deez ballz — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:12:34 GMT

Make up your mind republicans. One minute your "dishing it out" then the next your playing the victim. Just another play out of the right wing sympothy playbook.............

What a ticket, Mcain "the womanizer" and Palin "the unfit mother"

'There's a double standard'

Feeling Sorry for the Kids, Livermore, CA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:32:22 GMT

Double Standard, give me a break! We have a right to know everything about her life the same way we learned about Obama. The truth of the matter is alot of people genuinely have concerns about the toll it will take on her family. Let's face it this is not the same as having a normal 9-5 job, VP will literally make her an absent Mother. We all know in the majority of families the mother is the rock, the go to person, the kissing boo-boos, she's going to miss so much. It appears she's missed alot of what's going on in her family already just being Governor.

'There's a double standard'

Mary, phoenix, AZ — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 21:08:13 GMT

1. Smart women are not confused that Senator Clinton and Governor Palin are in any way aligned politically just because they are women.
2. Smart women do not value a mix of “feminine and toughness” over smartness – they don’t care about looks – whether women or men – they care about results.
3. Smart women do not support invasive wars or occupations that cripple our nation and other nations simply because of fear or greed.
4. Smart women to do not allow others to use them as lightening rods rather than real contributors in whatever endeavor they find themselves.
5. Smart women control the content of their speeches.
6. Smart women do not claim to know more than they do.
7. Smart women do not overstate the efficacy or importance of their own part in policy knowing that their record is public
8. Smart women research the responsibilities of a job before they apply.
9. Smart women rarely choose to have a fifth child after the age of 40 because they know the risks it poses to both the baby and mother.
10. Smart women rarely board a plane in premature labor without notifying the airline of their pregnancy or first meeting with a physician in person to weigh the risks.
11. Smart women understand the diversity of this nation and don’t make their political decisions based only on their religious faith.
12. Smart women know that the GOP has not advanced conservative family values in any significant way and the rhetoric is simply that - rhetoric – pared down to a few key sound bites to attract not so smart voters on emotional and tangential issues.
13. Smart women know the issues that face our nation this election are not guns, gays or God, but complex economic and international policies that have left this nation in extreme debt and families in extreme distress... on almost every front one can conjecture.
14. Smart women recognize that the GOP choice of the VP candidate was for political rather than substantive reasons.
15. Smart women are not impressed with VP nominee Sarah Palin.
16. Smart women realize that the support of some GOP women for Palin is born of frustration and the faint hope that maybe this time power or money will trickle down to women by the good and considerate graces of the male based power in the GOP.
17. Sarah Palin does not appear smart, and perhaps Palin’s claim to be a hockey mom and pit bull with lipstick is the only testimony that she gets some things right sometimes.

'There's a double standard'

Lu, LA, CA — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 21:27:37 GMT

Double standard... not so much. Think about, when a man is running, he is said to have a "Good woman" behind him. Because she dealing with the family and having to be the first lady. Same is expected in my eyes for her and her husband. Who is taking care of their children, if she is busy running a government and he is running a fishing company. Pro Life, when you can take care of them.

'There's a double standard'

Michelle, Honolulu, Hawaii — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 21:35:19 GMT

If I hear the word "REFORMER" one more time--I will throw up!!! I have asked many people WHAT DID SHE REFORM?? No one seems to know. I watched her last night, I was looking for "meat" ,policy,economy,what does she believe in? I heard "hockey mom". She did say they were going to lower taxes. (Even though she raised taxes in Alaska). No double standard, I am a woman, I was looking forward to a professional speech on what you were going to bring to the table--we got LIPSTICK!!

'There's a double standard'

Jim Marino, Collinsville, OK — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 21:44:31 GMT

You Sarah Palin bashers must really be scared. Your trash her for the benefit of your candidate. If you really believe you have the best candidates for President and VP what's the problem. It's in the bag, right! Let the games begin. It will be of historic impact like the 1948 Chicago Tribune story but with the current candidates "Obama Defeats McCain". It's a done deal.

'There's a double standard'

robert — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 22:08:04 GMT

The bridge to "nowhere", first I was for it, before I was against it....Let us first pray for the 33% of the low hanging fruit that fell off the tree along time ago...and that cunning snake! First of all women, did you see the irony of the speech Palin make to the "World"...in front of her children? Talk about christian values....to lie in front of her own children! Perhap's the question should be asked, why is there only 66 books in your bible, maybe it is time to find the other 11! Come out of "Plato's" cave...away from the road to the puppet show....oops they are getting ready to show you the shadow of the dragon to scare you again....but that get's your vote...drill here, drill now...my my.....

'There's a double standard'

Peter Souders, Washington, D.C. — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 15:52:54 GMT

Oh my goodness. The republican party is the biggest double standard I have ever seen. Fox news called Michelle Obama "Obama's baby mama" and now these people are complaining about the fact that America hasn't accepted govenor Palin as a savior without questions? The "Obama's Baby Mama" issue blew over very quickly, far too quickly if this is the attention we give to a non-existant double standard for govenor Palin. The woman is corrupt, theres an investigation going on into her office in Alaska. She's on record saying that there is no such thing as a double standard (with reference to Hilary Clinton) and now shes up front in the group that wants to play the gender card.

Bill O'Reily is just as bad. Who remembers when Jamie Lynn spears got pregnant? He called her parents "Pinheads" (yes, thats a quote) and claimed that they "clearly had no control over the girl." Now that it's one of his own, he's claiming teen pregnancy is a personal issue as long as taxpayers don't have to pay for it. Talk about your everday 180 degree turns. Its crazy.

And Karl Rove is back in on the action, claiming he has the utmost faith in Palin's experience as mayor or the 2nd largest city in alaska (a city with 9,000 people) and her 2 years of being govenor. However, when Tim Kaine (govenor of Va.) was being tossed around as a possible VP candidate, Karl bashed his experience, as he was only govenor of the 105th largest city in America (Richmond: population, 200,000 and a metropolitan area of 1.1 million.) Suffice to say, Karl needs to look at the definition of "double standard".

And, to top it all off, lets talk about McCain's war experience. McCain was a P.O.W. in Vietnam. He was tortured, but he never broke. A hero of sorts, since he was a famous P.O.W. There was another Vet who ran for this office four years ago. I believe his name was John Kerry. Injured in combat, saving a fellow soldier. Instead of treating him as the war hero that he was, the republicans created a whole shadow of misleading and false information, claiming Kerry never did any of his duties in Vietnam. It came out later that the "swiftboat campaign" was nothing but lies, and Kerry was a hero afterall. But that campaign did sway enough people so that Kerry lost the election. Now, with the "war hero" on the Republican side, you won't see any of this sort of thing. Its sad, but the Republican party has officially gone beyond repair with regard to their morals, and claiming a "double standard" with the VP candidate Palin is stupid and ignorant.

'There's a double standard'

brendakhart biloxi,miss. — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 14:24:41 GMT

my family loves obama.mississippi is for you.way to go is an expresson we us here.keep up the fight to be the best president of the u.s.