A Political Intervention

Palin's resignation is one of those moments where I am so heavy with opinion that all semblance of wit, humor, and sharp analysis is lost under its crushing weight. So I will rely on Mr. Glenn Thrush of Politico, who is clearly grappling with what many in the non-editorial objective world of journalism have dealt with since last August when Kaptain Klondike was thrust into the glare of our collective headlights; that is, how to report on and discuss a political figure who is so perplexing in her actions that she almost beseeches the shunning of good journalistic practice in order to bemoan her puzzling and difficult to witness decisions.

I share Mr. Thrush's frustration, which I liken to that of a person who is struggling with a friend's vexing behavior, warranting the dismissal of norms and the crossing of lines in order to truly confront the problem at hand. Sarah, you're losing it. This is an intervention.

Five Questions for Sarah Palin via Glenn Thrush of Politico:

1. If you're leaving your elected position with more than a year to go because you can't handle negative publicity, personal attacks and GOP back-biting, how could you possibly handle the rigors of running for president -- much less being President?

2. How can you say you didn't take a "quitters way out" when you just quit?

3. Hillary Clinton, Liddy Dole and Gerry Ferraro had a secondary goal in their political strivings: tailoring their actions and statements to destroy the notion women couldn't compete against men in the political arena. Palin suggested that was her goal too in '08 -- and her defenders never hesitated to cry sexism when she was attacked -- so what does quitting say about her commitment to furthering the image of women in American politics?

4. Is Alaska really ready for a "Mission Accomplished" declaration? The recently announced gas pipeline deal, for instance, is expected to have a major impact on the state. But it's still largely a work in progress with many key details yet to be concluded.

5. How hard would it be to raise the estimated $500,000 you say you'll need to pay for the defense of nuisance ethics complaints when you are the biggest fundraising draw in the Republican party?

Responsible journalism seeks to cut through the bullshit spin of foundering politicians and expose the true intent behind their actions. Youuuuu betcha.




Step into the rain: secondrain.blogspot.com