September 4, 2008
Does Palin Have Independent Appeal?
Posted by TOM BEVAN
RealClearPolitics
time-blog.com
The Obama campaign emails out these unfavorable reactions to Palin's speech by Independent voters from a panel hosted by the Detroit Free Press. Here's one example:
"I was completely underwhelmed. She was a Republican novelty act with a sophomoric script. It was not even a speech I would expect for a someone running for the local PTA, much less for vice president." -- George Lentz, 66, Southfield independent
It's too early to tell how Palin's speech will play with Independents and undecideds around the country. Keep in mind that we are speaking about one speech - albeit it a very important one in terms of defining her - and that we also have to consider how Palin will wear with the public over the next 60 plus days as she campaigns around the country and confronts Joe Biden.
One thing we know for sure is that conservatives are ecstatic about her, and the intensity of their support appears to have only increased after last night. Richard Viguerie, the cranky old school dean of the conservative movement who has obliterated George Bush and John McCain for their various apostasies, declared flatly this morning: "Sarah Palin is the next Ronald Reagan."
Watching Palin's speech from the floor of the convention hall last night, you did get the sense among the Republican delegates that they'd found their Obama: a vessel into which they could pour their hopes and energies and who would help provide a cathartic outlet for their anger and disappointment. It's clear that Palin has exploded onto the scene and taken that role whether she asked for it or not - and whether she's ready for it or not.
Last night was merely her confirmation. She had the crowd even before hello, as evidenced by the surprisingly long standing ovation they gave her before she stepped to the podium and uttered a single word.
A galvanized Republican base is critical for McCain's chances, but by itself will not win him the election. McCain continues to have a strong appeal with Independents, but now that the focus of the conversation has shifted so overwhelmingly to his choice of running mate, the question is whether she holds that kind of appeal as well. We simply won't know the answer for at least a few more days, as the public comes to grip with and digests the rapidly unfolding drama of the last week. |
