Gut Reactions

I've been listening to NPR discuss McCain's choice for VP, Alaska Governor, Sarah Palin. When I first saw the announcement this morning I was excited. "Woo-hoo!" I thought, and reconsidered my decision not to vote Republican. That was my gut speaking - it needs a Republican fix. On reflection I realize that McCain made a very sly decision in choosing a female running mate. Given his past remarks towards his wife I can't imagine he is much of a feminist. Given his position on other things I can't imagine he'd welcome female input. His VP choice is another calculated move meant to sway voters.

I wonder how many on-the-fence Republicans whose guts resemble mine will rejoice at this move and go over to the dark side. I wonder how many disappointed Hillary supporters will follow. I wonder how many conservative traditional males will see a black candidate on one side and a woman on the other and not vote at all. I wonder if the minute Hillary was NOT chosen as Obama's running mate McCain (or his people) jumped for joy and rang up Palin.

I am still excited. One way or another we will break a centuries-old tradition in November. Be it an African-American president or a female vice president we will have crossed an important line. The difference is that, if elected, Obama will actually have a chance to do something.