Quotes of the day
posted at 9:30 pm on November 14, 2009 by Allahpundit
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“All in all, Ms. Palin emerges from ‘Going Rogue’ as an eager player in the blame game, thoroughly ungrateful toward the McCain campaign for putting her on the national stage. As for the McCain campaign, it often feels like a desperate and cynical operation, willing to make a risky Hail Mary pass in order to try to score a tactical win, instead of making a considered judgment as to who might be genuinely qualified to sit a heartbeat away from the Oval Office…
“Yet, Mr. McCain’s astonishing decision to pick someone with so little experience (less than two years as the governor of Alaska, and before that, two terms as mayor of Wasilla, a town with fewer than 7,000 residents) as his running mate and Ms. Palin’s own surprisingly nonchalant reaction to Mr. McCain’s initial phone call about the vice president’s slot (she writes that it felt “like a natural progression”) underscore just how alarmingly expertise is discounted — or equated with elitism — in our increasingly democratized era, and just how thoroughly colorful personal narratives overshadow policy arguments and actual knowledge.”
***
“The Palin problem, then, might be that she cynically incites a crowd that she has no real intention of pleasing. If she were ever to get herself to the nation’s capital, the teabaggers would be just as much on the outside as they are now, and would simply have been the instruments that helped get her elected. In my own not-all-that-humble opinion, duping the hicks is a degree or two worse than condescending to them. It’s also much more dangerous, because it meanwhile involves giving a sort of respectability to ideas that were discredited when William Jennings Bryan was last on the stump. The Weekly Standard (itself not exactly a prairie-based publication) might want to think twice before flirting with popular delusions and resentments that are as impossible to satisfy as the demand for a silver standard or a ban on the teaching of Darwin, and are for that very reason hard to tamp down. Many of Palin’s admirers seem to expect that, on receipt of the Republican Party nomination, she would immediately embark on a crusade against Wall Street and the banks. This notion is stupid to much the same degree that it is irresponsible…
“Once again, one is compelled to ask which would be worse: a Sarah Palin who really meant what she merely seemed to say, or a Sarah Palin who would say anything at all for a cheap burst of applause?”
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For somebody I supposedly appointed to such a sensitive position, you seem to be spilling a lot of beans!
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 3:42 AM
While I am really disappointed to see Mr. Hitchens stoop to the use of the teabaggers reference, he at seems to think that Gov. Palin capable of fooling enough hicks to get elected. Would that be the same hicks who’s deep insight and perception gave us President Obama? The punditry class is so lucky, they can have it all ways and never get called on it. As for said teabaggers remaining on “the outside”, he doesn’t seem to grasp that that is the whole idea. Who in their right mind would want to be a part of the corrupted political swamp that is D.C. or the glitter of the mirrored reflection the New York intelligentsia who are too stupid to realize that they are talking to themselves?
Cindy Munford on November 15, 2009 at 3:43 AM
Sometimes it is just to stifle enthusiasm and political momentum by hijacking a thread to change the topic of discussion. There are many strategies to disrupt what needs to be discussed.
Study closely the threads where conservatives and libertarians get fired up and we become actuated by our passions to attend a tea party for example. Well the enemy feels threatened by that (activism on our part) so they want to chime in and rain on the parade by various psychological means.
Its a psy-op. A concern troll, by pretending to be middle of the road, and hence reasonable (artificially of course) then one is more inclined to consider their position and legitimize it or create a cloud of doubt.
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 3:44 AM
Oops. loose lips sink ships. :)
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 3:45 AM
should be “at least”
This is what happens when you wake up and visit HotAir in the middle of the night.
Cindy Munford on November 15, 2009 at 3:47 AM
I know what you mean about thread hijacking. Liam amd Ann did a little hijack number the other evening; culminating in Liam asking Ann if she’d communicate with him outside HA.
As for disagreements with other legitimate points of view, I’m occasionally reluctant to post dissenting thoughts for fear of being lambasted.
Mentioning my uncertainty about Palin was only inspired by Lox.
anXdem on November 15, 2009 at 3:57 AM
Well said for a nite owl. :)
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 4:01 AM
Its OK. We all have doubts cause we live in scary times. Power corrupts and we need to take out the garbage and fight the media distortions.
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 4:04 AM
There were many “if’s” in my logic. It could be a Times’ slime. And even if not, perhaps as some have said here, the “natural progression” quote is not necessarily an egocentric attitude to have. I am sometimes wrong in my reactions. So, I want to read the whole quote in context. It just struck me as very odd.
Sarah Palin was qualified to be Veep and is qualified to be President. She has executive experience that is credible. She seems to be a solid conservative on all issues. She can be very inspirational. She has a common touch with people. She can be very charming. She’s attractive.
She has made a few missteps that have resulted in too high a percentage of voters, including some conservatives, doubting whether she can be an effective candidate and president. She can reduce those doubts or re-enforce them over the next two years. Obviously, the MSM will not help her.
What to do about the liberal elitist and misogynist attacks against her, I don’t know. Most of them aren’t worth the air that carries them. So, she has an accent. Ah ha. So, she’s not a NY fashion plate. Ah ha. So she’s not a constitutional scholar. Thank God!
But, her high negatives in the polls are not due simply to elitism or bigotry or liberalism. She has a lot of work to do. Unfortunately, every single mistake, even the slightest, will be used to reinforce the notion that Palin is not qualified. It’s very unfair, but I see no way around it.
And supporters screaming invective at doubters doesn’t build, it subtracts.
See my previous comment.
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 4:04 AM
The fact that Palin is down-to-earth, not high fashion, and seemingly not elitist is appealing. She has some good quals, insights, and instincts. Still, as you mentioned, she has a lot of work to do. Many people (myself included) are accustomed to old pols who’ve earned their political stripes, and know the issues and process. It’s not easy to embrace someone so divergent. Time will tell whether Palin wins those of us who are still unsure over or not.
anXdem on November 15, 2009 at 4:23 AM
For me, it’s not so much about whether Palin can act the appropriate politician. I see where you are coming from, but honestly, that’s not where my focus is. My Palin short comings would probably be rooted more in her actual policy/philosophy. Why is she a conservative? What is her brand of conservatism? Would she be willing to make unpopular decisions in order to stick with the right principles? Much of this is unknown. I admire her folksy demeanor and the connection she has with much of the base, but as said above, there are some philosophical issues that are a little fuzzy. Admittedly, she is probably more of a favorite than some of her fellow Progressive Republicans, but I don’t restrict myself to Republican candidates ;)
MeatHeadinCA on November 15, 2009 at 4:29 AM
No, the hicks that voted for Obama were the Brie Hicks. We anti-Obama folks are the dupes of the Vast Right Wing Conspiracy. Get with the program.
What are you talking about? They love getting congratulatory calls from one another.
This won’t work. You have to actually want to put on the hip waders and go into the swamp and start draining it. Sorry, it stinks and is not gentile work, but I assume you’ve changed diapers.
It seems that far too many want a cut of the action, even many conservatives.
They’re not stupid. They are very smart. The problem is that they “know” that they are the only one’s worth talking to. So, even though they are very smart, this demonstrates they have no wisdom or humility or ability to laugh at themselves. And without that, intelligence is of little value.
Now, please stop popping in here in the middle of the night and scaring me. That was mean! You almost made me wet my pampers! Then, you’d have to change them. Hmmmm… Now there’s a thought. I wouldn’t mind getting some pampering from you.
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 4:31 AM
Excellent point. Even many seasoned pols bend to popular winds rather than holding to principles, and corruption motivated by avarice extinguishes their integrity as well.
It’s 4:35 A.M. here in NY, so I must sleep. Thanks for chatting, MeatheadinCA.
anXdem on November 15, 2009 at 4:40 AM
Goodnight. Sleep well.
MeatHeadinCA on November 15, 2009 at 4:42 AM
I never said they did, but they might have…and perhaps even did in conversation about it.
They didn’t write it in a book or say it to someone who wrote it down.
So what?
This would be so unlike the NYSlimes, noted Republican lover, to make a leading GOP Conservative leader look bad.
I’d be shocked, shocked! if they were twisting her words!
I’ve never heard her say anything in this vane except that she has a “servant’s heart,” which is exactly what I want: a public servant.
Lincoln and Washington would concur.
Chill, Lox.
I think you’re getting wee-weed up Sarah Palin and myself for knee-jerk reasons.
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 4:51 AM
Those are good questions. perhaps I should, but I don’t know the answers.
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 4:58 AM
I have been a Sarah fan since the day she walked onto the national stage in Dayton. She’s authentic and that was good enough for me.
.
But there are some cracks in her that have appeared that trouble me. The whole Levi Johnson thing … how did this woman raise a daughter that would allow such a piece of slime to impregnate her?
.
There’s the quitting as governor thing. Spin it how you wish, it was a reckless move.
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There’s the willingness to allow the McCain clan to play Prof. Higgins with her, drape her in expensive clothes, go along with it all.
.
And that silence to Couric’s question about her reading material … I know the source of it. Palin isn’t a reader, at least not anymore (she may have been as a teen). She is not an intellectual in any sense. That can be a big plus but it’s only a plus if you balance it with a kind of deep-seated wisdom that comes from a clear inner eye and life experiences. Here Sarah shows some, doesn’t show some.
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I haven’t given up on Sara but I’m not a cult-follower like the Obama crowd. It behooves (how ’bout that word?) us conservatives to demand more than just gut level reaction to all things political.
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Sarah must move past the gut test. The next two, three months is critical for her.
MaxMBJ on November 15, 2009 at 4:59 AM
Sounds like you need to buy a copy of her book.
As to “brands of Conservatism,” I only know of one kind:
Conservative Conservatism (Accept no substitute).
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 5:03 AM
Libertarianism, libertarianism, conservatism, Conservatism, neo-conservatism, paleo-conservatism, &c.
Perhaps in my spare time I do need to read her book.
MeatHeadinCA on November 15, 2009 at 5:05 AM
Many parents wish that they could make their children see the light… Unfortunately that’s not the case always. If Sarah and Todd are sincere (which they appear to be), they most likely are deeply hurt by the choices that their daughter made. Now, there daughter will have to live with the fact that her decisions brought shame and hurt to her family (not just her parents). It’s sad, but something that the family must move on from.
MeatHeadinCA on November 15, 2009 at 5:08 AM
As far as the resignation part, yes, I don’t agree with this decision, but it was hers to make. This would be something to read more into. Someone posted a link, pages ago saying that in her book, she says her son wanted her to stay in office, but then she went on to explain why she didn’t. Perhaps the book will give more insight. :/
MeatHeadinCA on November 15, 2009 at 5:10 AM
I imagine it’s next to impossible to completely control a beautiful teenage daughter.
Have you been successful in that regard?
Did you ride herd on your gorgeous teen daughter to keep her legs crossed and keep them that way?
And superficially, Levi is a cute boy.
I imagine he was one of the heart throbs of the high school.
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It was anything but reckless.
She resigned after fielding and winning more than 15 ethics violation cases against her and more were on the way.
She was targeted for destruction by Obama and his minions who brought these charges.
McCain was at the top of the ticket and in this situation, her boss.
She pretty much had to do what Team McCain told her.
How do you know she “isn’t a reader?”
Have you read her Facebook Notes, her articles for NRO and the WSJ?
Are you sure there’s no intellectuality behind her thinking? Because I think that there is.
I’d say she did more than a good job of running Alaska, which is more than you can say for a lot of governors lately.
Sarah’s supporters will never be as vacuous as Obama because she brings so much more to the table than he ever did or will.
You’re right, the next months and years are critical, which is why I pray for her every night.
She passed the gut test for me when she started her Facebook postings..and then Obama started to respond to them.
This lady is a leader at a time when Obama’s Conservative opposition could sure use one.
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 5:12 AM
You must read it–I’ve already bought 2 copies.
As for brands of Conservatism, I hear Palin leans towards the Libertarian, but most of us are having such trouble with plain vanilla Conservatism that I think we should leave it at that.
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 5:14 AM
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 5:03 AM
For half a moment my brain was saying compassionate,Thank You!
heshtesh on November 15, 2009 at 5:15 AM
Yes, I’ve also heard this and gotten this impression. That is refreshing.
MeatHeadinCA on November 15, 2009 at 5:17 AM
I knew about Palin before McCain picked her and she definitely leans LIBERTARIAN.
John Ziegler is a Liberatarian/Conservative and I think there is a reason why he was allowed access to Palin. JZ know the most about her aside from people in AK.
His Talk show out of LA was the best analysis of political events ever. I have been clued in to many insights by listening to JZ including getting a heads up on her resignation.
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 5:40 AM
I smell troll, but I’ll give you the benefit of my doubts. For a minute.
If you use commons sense, you can answer your own questions.
Levi.
Well, don’t know if you have kids or not, but at a certain point, they leave the house. I’m sure he was charming to Bristol, came off as a nice guy to her, and got her caught up in it all. Who knows what Todd and Sarah thought, but I’m sure their antennas were up.
Again, if you know teens, they are going to do what they do. They’re kids, they’re stupid. We all did stupid stuff back then. get over it.
It’s not what happens to you in life, it’s how you handle it. The Palins have handled it well. They stood by their kid. Supported her. I imagine they chewed her ass too, but in the end, they love her. End of story.
McCain.
Look, I know it seems like Sarah was running for POTUS because the second she showed up, she was IT. McCain was just that old guy in the way. Sarah had the jazz, the energy, the power.
But in reality, Sarah worked for McCain, she was his “employee” for the lack of a better word. it was her job to support his policies, no matter how stupid, and back him up.
As someone said in another thread, she F’ed up, she trusted them. As an “employee” of McCain’s, she felt she should take direction. I’m sure she realized quickly something was wrong, but short of walking away from these jackoffs, what was she to do?
It very obvious tensions were high. This was a mess, and not of her making. Again, get over it.
“Quitting”
See, this is where I know you are a troll, or stupid. EVERYONE who truly cares about Sarah and has followed her knows the story of what was going on. How Obama was directing the attacks on Sarah in Alaska through Axelrod and Pete Rouse, his former campaign chief of staff, now WH adviser.
It was through this direction that all of the phony baloney “ethics complaints” were continually being filed. It was costing her a lot of money, and the Alaska tax payers millions of dollars.
She stepped down, in part to stop this filth from stealing any more money from the Alaskan people.
It wasn’t “reckless” it was noble. it was righteous!
It was also one of the most brilliant tactical moves in history. It stopped Obama’s concerted attempt to destroy her, dead in it’s tracks!
Couric…
Again, this is where your trolliness just drips out.
How the f#@% do YOU know she “doesn’t read” you imbecile?
And what do you mean she isn’t “intellectual?”
That’s horseshit.
You ever look at some of the stuff she posts on Facebook, with tons of references and links?
Or when she talks about the books she reads?
Lets see:
City Council Member
Mayor
President Alaska Council of Mayors
Chairman AOGCC
Governor
Chairman IOCC
Best selling author
High paid lecturer.
Care to give us YOUR resume?
Go away troll.
gary4205 on November 15, 2009 at 5:42 AM
Posted at 5:43… Hmm
MeatHeadinCA on November 15, 2009 at 5:45 AM
I don’t see how the out-of-wedlock pregnancy of Bristol can be held against Sarah. However, how Palin talks publicly about such issues is important.
I would say highly risky, not reckless.
Palin’s advisers missed the fact, though, that the successful unemployed candidate, like Ronald Reagan in 1980, George Bush in 1988 (who, as vice president, had what Tony Soprano might have dismissed as a classic “no-show” job) or even Richard Nixon in 1968, had already established his credentials as substantively “heavy” enough to handle the job he was seeking. Sarah Palin hasn’t done that.
Does this mean she can’t run for president in 2012 if she wants or that if she does she can’t win either her party’s nomination or the presidency? It does not, but it will make it more difficult, particularly since any disillusionment with Barack Obama will be blamed on his lack of experience when elected. Voters will be looking for someone they will be confident can handle national problems.
Without a job to demonstrate that she’s that person, Palin’s task could prove incredibly difficult.
— David A. Keene, chairman of the American Conservative Union; July 27, 2009.
Yes, but McCain was her “boss,” so to speak.
That was one of her biggest missteps. At the moment, I bet Palin is reading a lot. If not, that is another misstep. What is wrong with not being an intellectual? I want a smart president. But intellectuals seem so out of touch with what it means to be a human being, as opposed to being an intellectual. I’d prefer a wise president, but wisdom is very rare. She is more precious than all riches, and all the things that are desired, are not to be compared with her. — Proverbs 3:15
That’s very conservative of you.
If she plans a presidential run, every day will be critical all the way through.
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 5:50 AM
On Tuesday yo better tune in to Rush. Cuda will be interviewed live 1:00pm ET
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 5:52 AM
I posted the followig in the Newsweek dumps on Palin thread last night but it seems to fit here as well.
On the other hand the media ignored, or never bothered to look at Obama and his past or present. Had they taken a few minutes and done a google search they would have easily seen him for what he is. He is an American hating, marxist loving, social justice, redistribute the wealth, corrupt Chicago machine politician who has spent 1.7 million dollars in lawyer fees to keep from having to produce ANY of his personal records. He has in his administration more than 30 unelected. unconfirmed czars that We the People pay and yet they answer to him and him alone, not us. He gave to his union buddies the car companies, bypassing bankruptcy laws that have been in place from the start and at We the Peoples expense! He has labeled half of the people in this country as terrorists while bringing actual terrorists to this country, giving them full rights and a show trial that will cost We the People millions of dollars and decrease our national safety.
I could go on and on and on, listing dozens and dozens things this man and his administration, czars, fellow democrats, union buddies and ACORN cronies have done to We the People and this great Country, things that done by any conservative or republican would have landed them in jail, but it is pointless to try talking about the truth to a liberal, as there is only their way and no other. Most liberals won’t even try telling you that what you are saying is not true, but will immediately resort to name calling and personal attacks. so please continue your frenzied attack on Palin and other conservatives and ignore the destruction of this great Country by our Marxist-in-Chief.
The only thing I ask is that you keep your crying and whining to yourself when you wake up and find that YOUR Freedom and Liberty are gone, the same as mine.
stacy on November 15, 2009 at 5:53 AM
Link1
Link2
Buckle Up. The ALL Out Assault is just beginning.
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 5:58 AM
I’m trying. (Double entendre intended.)
Obama just has me very sensitive to any personality trait that might be anything like his. He does sort of freak me out at times. Can’t imagine why.
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 6:01 AM
It could be a troll, as new ones have been popping up all over the place lately. I think they were handing out sockpuppets with every new enrollment last time. However, it’s comments were not irrational or hate filled.
And, it has to be okay for us to have reasonable doubts about our politicians, have reasonable questions about them, and have those doubts and questions addressed without hostility. We’re conservatives who are notoriously difficult to herd.
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 6:12 AM
NObama didn’t have to prove he was “substantively ‘heavy’” (because he couldn’t) and I’m not sure what you’re looking for in Palin to prove the same.
If her ability to deflect the MSM’s attacks, to be the vocal leader of Conservative Opposition as a private citizen plus her record as Governor, Commissioner and Mayor isn’t enough, I can’t think what would be.
I tend to think *demands* like yours that she earn or prove her bona fides are just more Sexism.
They wouldn’t demand all this of a man.
Unless we’re re-electing an incumbent, it’s always a roll of the dice whenever we elect someone “new” to the highest office in the land.
David Keene can bite me!
You go to war with the army that you have, per Rummy.
We are at war now in the ObamaNation and Sarah is our leading General (along with Rush).
Until or unless someone better than her comes to the fore, she’s got my money, my vote and my support.
How are you or anyone else going to verify this?
Put Palin in a jail cell with books and monitor her?
Putting up all these hoops for her to jump through and prove herself to you is just ridiculous!
It’s more than obvious that the lady not only reads, but has put book-learning in practice and seen what works and what doesn’t in her career in public office.
If you judge Barack by these same standards, he would have an epic fail, as we’ve all seen.
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 6:22 AM
Does the media, elites, Rahm, Axelrod, etc. really believe that their
“Don’t throw me in that there briar patch” Alinsky crap is going to work about Sarah……They (all the above) are making her “teflon”…….who else do we know that is teflon….oh yeah…..the bad guy……We now know all about Sarah and we are still “all in”……the bad guys knew Wright, Ayers, etc. and they were “all in” for the bad guy……We (the good guys) have our own teflon hero.
And her sins are what? Too much money on wardrobe, weird relative, etc.
Afterall, do you really want to play that game homey? O’s brother is sex offender…. all his pals are terrorists and commies..let’s weigh the sins shall we?
nondhimmie on November 15, 2009 at 6:36 AM
And you know this how? From Levi perhaps?
I have heard just the opposite. Either way, to make such an assertion without support is engaging in speculation. Doncha think?
Then to say “She may have been as a teen” sounds kind of silly. Both her Parents were school teachers.
Anyway, the media would love to know where you got your info. They would pay big $$ if you had the inside scoop on how little she reads.
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 6:46 AM
What? Are you from AP? Geesh. Enough of this “I know the source … trust me … Palin isn’t a reader.”
Your credibility is equal to the non-credibility of AP.
If you can’t name your source and make reference to it … shut up. You’re being dishonest.
TheAlamos on November 15, 2009 at 6:50 AM
Bring in the kitchen sink. They haven’t thrown that at her yet. O wait they did. Never mind.
Journalism is dead, dead dead.
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 6:53 AM
He must have her confused with Obama.
mizflame98 on November 15, 2009 at 6:54 AM
I’m past being pissed at these people who denigrate SP. Now I feel sorry for them…
And on another note , I wonder how Rick feels these days…
jerrytbg on November 15, 2009 at 7:00 AM
You know what? I like Sarah Palin, I really do…but the truth is someone like Liz Cheney could have breezed those interviews without a hitch…even with that last name as baggage.
Right now I am more concerned with the crazy crap our socalled president is doing than I am with the day to day stuff of an over and done with campaign.
Maybe it is time that people just agree to disagree on a lot of this stuff, and move forward. This kind of back and forth is tedious and accomplishes nothing.
And after awhile, who cares anyway?
So, I am not denigrating Palin, not at all, but there are more important things to think about right now.
Terrye on November 15, 2009 at 7:04 AM
.
I’ve posted here many times. I think my posting history will confirm my non-troll status. At any rate, I think the opposite of a troll is a bandwagon Kool-aid drinker. I’m definitely not that so if that’s the only kind of people acceptable to you, bye bye.
.
.
I’m an educator, a teacher, actually presently teaching internationally at a university in E. Europe. I’m one of the only two conservative American profs on campus (half the faculty here are Americans). I’ve taught over 30 years.
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I write this to let you know I know an intellectual when I see one. I don’t like a lot of them. Many I consider pseudo-intellectuals (including myself, sadly, to some degree). But I can assure you, Sarah Palin is not an intelletual. Anyone who defends her on those grounds is insane. I doubt highly — HIGHLY — that she had ever read Hayek before she stepped into the limelight or even heard of him. Friedman? Maybe, maybe not.
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Her sprinkling of quotes by Thatcher, Churchill, Lincoln, etc. smacks heavily of essay-bolstering. They don’t ring true. True intellectuals speak from their “pockets,” not from their pocket dictionaries/thesaures/Bartlett’s.
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Now it sounds like I really am a troll since I’m not giving Sarah the benefit of the doubt here, but truly, I’m for Mrs. Palin. I like her because the things she stands for — defense, oil drilling, pro-business, pro-life, pro-family, pro-freedom — she lives those things out. She does have the right instincts and I love that about her.
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But an intellectual she is not. That’s fine with me because we’ve got one in the Oval Office right now (actually, more of a pseudo, I believe) and I really, really don’t like where he’s steering the ship of state. Maybe it’s time for a true citizen-politician to rise up, as Palin has truly demonstrated she can.
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I’ll vote for that … but not for some ridiculous defense of her as an intellectual.
MaxMBJ on November 15, 2009 at 7:07 AM
Nice job dodging the objection we had with your statement and cherry picking a strawman from a very long post.
This above was the objection we had. We were just wondering how you knew this. We didn’t get an answer.
And now you claim this:
Sounds about as objective as Freudian Dream Interpretation or the rudiments Body Language Decoding and stuff like that.
We know she is not an intellectual. But Newt is.
As far a ringing true, her words seem to resonate with millions of people.
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 7:24 AM
Christopher Hitchens is stuck within the convolution of his own making. Either he believes in evolution or he does not. Since he does, then his failure to acknowledge it is his own selfish, elitist doing. It simply doesn’t do to equate Palin to Bryan. He even fails to appear witty.
Sissy Hitchens is ever ready to exploit the fate of others for his own profit. Damned Brit without Grit. He endangered his hosts when he “bravely” scrawled on a political poster against their will, just to provoke an incident that by no means corrected any injustice, but flamed danger to those he left behind when he returned home to safety outside of Sharia law. But then, even at “home” in Britain, there are districts ruled by Sharia law, not by the Queen, not by Parliament.
If Hitchens actually wanted to accost Sharia law, he’d support people like Sarah Palin. But he’s just a hypocritical loser, bitter.
maverick muse on November 15, 2009 at 7:24 AM
I expect Palin
To dismantle Washington
And ignore Wall Street.
Haiku Guy on November 15, 2009 at 7:30 AM
Please never again advocate that any politician be judged with the same standards that were used for Obama. He was and is a lightweight without any bone fides. He’s the president and still doesn’t have any. All he has is a pretty face and a pretty voice that helps conceal a very vindictive and extreme leftist ideology, along with a herd of idol worshipers who deny he has a single fault and obsessively scream at any of his doubters.
Really?!!!! Then let’s see how much I shall have to change my opinion of him. Hmmmm….. Not at all!
I’ll bite. What flavor are you offering today?
Here’s my flavor: I am a conservative, think-for-myself, hard-to-herd, American citizen with one vote. Deep dish. However, I do have sprinkles on top.
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 7:30 AM
As if your lack of intellectual integrity via your empty scholarship is to be taken seriously.
“Ridiculous” applies to you, regurgitating vocabulary as if intelligent people will buy your line. Think again and clean up your own vomit.
You project your own faults onto others, a well known and typical juvenile behavior. You do it most unconvincingly against Palin.
maverick muse on November 15, 2009 at 7:37 AM
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Here’s how I know that Palin isn’t a reader:
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-The Couric non-answer.
-An interview with Charlie Rose where she talked about some Runner’s magazine she liked and mentioned C. S. Lewis.
-The fact that off the cuff she doesn’t exude quotes from the great writers
-My experience with literally thousands of students who I have helped with reading over the past 30 years.
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I have supported Palin strongly throughout the past year. I wrote on her behalf to my local newspaper. I trumpeted her natural political skills to colleagues and even got a few to change from Obama to McCain.
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David Frum and the snobs that reject Palin from the right are so put off by her lack of intellecuality, or more precisely, non-Ivy Leagueness, that they can see no good in this woman. They have revealed themselves to be as vacuous intellectually as the people on the right they deride, actually more so, much more so. They have lost their ability to see an elephant when it sits opposite them in the living room.
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That’s their loss. We who still have eyes can see Palin has a personal core and insight that is clear and strong. But we who have eyes should not close them to her deficiencies.
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Finally, this defending Palin as an intellectual reminds me of the left defending Obama as an athlete. He does play basketball, that I’ll give him. But an athlete he is not. Any true athlete watches him and knows that. He throws like girl, bowls like a, well, what did he say? A special olympian? And even on the basketball court, he emits non-athletcisim. He holds the ball too long, has no jump shot, is passive.
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Let’s not become like the Left and pretend what is obvous isn’t obvious.
MaxMBJ on November 15, 2009 at 7:37 AM
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 7:30 AM
Good morning.
maverick muse on November 15, 2009 at 7:38 AM
MaxMBJ on November 15, 2009 at 7:37 AM
Judging Palin via Couric is unwise.
Denying Palin’s intellectual acuity based upon the hologram created by her opponents is unwise.
To the point, why should Palin resemble another Ivy League elitist, such as either Clinton or either Obama, in order to “prove” her intellectual abilities?
You use “intellectual” to reference mannerisms, not intellect or cogent abilities.
maverick muse on November 15, 2009 at 7:45 AM
somebody else who wants the taxpayers, “hicks,” & “teabaggers” to remain unrepresented, just like McCain refused to acknowledge the conservative base by pursuing the then uncatchable, unread moderate and independents that Dems depend on to win for their Carter retread administration. Change and Hope that we could believe in, NNNNOTTTTT!!!!!
Whether or not Palin runs matters not, she is feared and a Democrat basher with sound arguments, better her arguments or else the hicks will rediscover the use of the 2d amendment for the pending taxation and loss of Drs for without representation in this, “the people can go to jail for not paying their health insurance bills,” Congress. I think the 1700ish Revolution was started on a whole lot less tyranny than this Democrat led admin and House.
mdetlh on November 15, 2009 at 7:49 AM
Most of the night, I’ve been thinking about the victims of the Fort Hood terror attack and posting in the Obama to Congress: Back off the Hasan probe thread. Some of that was really difficult for me.
And I’ve been having a hard time hearing myself think with the sump pump going off continuously due to three inches of rain.
And I’ve been naughty because I got all scared by a snippet of quote from Palin that reminded me of something Obama would say and that freaked me out.
Then at dawn, I found a big branch outside that came down in the storm. It was riddled with Woodpecker and Chickadee holes, so I spent a lot of time examining them because stuff like that fascinates me. Holey trees.
So, other than all of that and my other usual oddities, good morning.
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 7:50 AM
Sarah knew this question was a “Gotcha” and refused to give Katie any red meat.
It didn’t mean she doesn’t read.
She was dodging the question for obvious reasons.
C.S. Lewis is definitely for thoughtful readers.
Does Barack? John Kerry? Al Gore?
She gives good quotes, like from Lincoln.
Read her Facebook Notes.
Good work, but this doesn’t say anything about the topic.
Frankly, you’re being an intellectual snob.
You have no way of knowing how much Palin reads or what she reads.
Read her Facebook.
She also has had articles in National Review & the WSJ.
The lady is obviously very bright and not incurious.
(BTW, they said the same things about President Bush and he read over 100 books a year.)
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 7:52 AM
You know, I don’t think there would be this level of scrutiny or vitriol if it were Huckabee’s or Romney’s book. The media is letting us know in no uncertain terms who our candidate should be in 2012. And that’s why Allah is so cranky toward Palin!
varnson on November 15, 2009 at 7:54 AM
I will be reading my copy of Going Rogue this week to see how Sarah mentions this “natural progression” business.
(It would be so unlike the Sarah I “know” to be boastful or arrogant.)
I hope you have your copy reserved, too, Lox. :-)
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 7:55 AM
That’s why we like you, you’re abnormal. And you admit when you’re wrong, so we don’t have to. :)
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 8:02 AM
Based upon my experience, I don’t think Palin is an intellectual either. So, what’s the problem with that? I don’t think she would make a great English Lit lecturer. Or a constitutional scholar. And what’s the problem with that? Palin isn’t stupid. I lay odds she has above average intelligence. I don’t see that being an intellectual is a necessary, or in some cases even desirable, qualification for being president.
However, I confess that I love CS Lewis, so I may not be qualified to comment on this issue. I can’t even find my CS Lewis quotes to plop one in here! Drats!
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 8:03 AM
For many people Sarah doesn’t fit the stereotype they’ve been led to expect of “Presidential” material. The joke is on those people as you examine our political situation. Forget our screwy choices for President, consider our choices for congress! What a pack of mangy mutts.
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The framers anticipated “real” citizens getting involved. Now we’ve got one in Sarah Palin and she’s not elitist enough to satisfy the unwashed masses.
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Professional politicians helped get us into this mess, maybe it’s time to think outside the box?
Metanis on November 15, 2009 at 8:05 AM
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I agree with you about Bush. Obama hasn’t read any books since he became president, if I’m to believe a few of the reports I’ve read.
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Sarah Palin is not an intellectual but she is smart. possibly smarter than Obama on a straight up IQ test. Camilia Paglia, also an educator, agrees with me on this: Palin has natural smarts, not Ivy League smarts.
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But many people, hell, maybe all people, judge your intellect by how well you talk. We call it articulation. Sarah is quite articulate in expressing primary color values. But she’s mono-lingual: she can’t speak “Ivy.” While I don’t ever want her to speak just Ivy, she needs to be able to mingle in those circles, to fight Ivy with Ivy. That she needs to work on.
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Well, I’ve said enough on this topic. Call me what you will — a snob, an idiot, whatever — but if you call me a troll, it just shows how blinded you are to your viewpoint.
MaxMBJ on November 15, 2009 at 8:08 AM
I really lucked out. I got an Abbey Normal brain.
Moi? I’ve never made a mistake in my life! How dare you!!!!
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 8:08 AM
Exactly. The media have created the false narrative about what populism is, and they are trying to smear Palin with that definition.
onlineanalyst on November 15, 2009 at 8:18 AM
Why???
What does she need to mingle in those circles?
Most of those people have been nothing but trouble and have brought only Liberalism and Socialism to our country.
No, thank you!
I’ll take “You betcha!” any day over Locust Valley Lockjaw at the yacht club over Scotches.
Gov. Palin isn’t fighting “Ivy,” she’s fighting Soviet Russian.
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 8:23 AM
+1,000,000
Welcome to HA, new, terrific commenter!
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 8:25 AM
I don’t mind these attacks on Palin. They tend to show the biases of the authors. But what I find gob-smackingling stupid is that just about every Palin complaint also applies to Obama, from the lack of experience to the ability to saying anything to please the base.
Mote and beam, people. Mote and beam…
karl9000 on November 15, 2009 at 8:29 AM
BTW, I’ll bet that the only books Abraham Lincoln ever read were the Bible, Pilgrim’s Progress and some Illinois law books…
No-one ever accused him of either “not being a reader,” “not being intellectual” or of quoting C.S. Lewis, yet he’s one of our most important Presidents.
The Founders did not intend for the presidency to be occupied by an Ivy League egghead or a policy wonk.
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 8:35 AM
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 7:50 AM
/Must be an environmental conspiracy. Our A/C condenser coil went out overnight. Praise be we’re out of the summer, and have a storm brewing bringing cooler weather this week.
I’ll go on over to catch up on your entries regarding Ft. Hood. You may have seen my earlier criticisms of our host’s “wait” until the coast is clear to see what this potus determines suitable (what evidence remains after the destruction of documents and silencing of sources the Chicago Way) for the public to know before Congress “may” ask to review the evidence. Obamarx the un-Constitutional authoritarian pirates authority from those with authority.
btw, I’ll bet that you caught last week’s commentary regarding how few in Congress know what’s in the Constitution.
Regarding Palin, she has intellectual curiosity and the ability to think clearly. Enhance those gifts with her faith in the Spirit, and there are the makings of a true and loyal friend. Enhance that person with love of our Constitutional Republic, and you have the makings of a reliable thinker who takes responsibility to conserve what is good in America very seriously. Bear with Palin as she learns from well experienced conservatives like Fred and Rudy and so many others. Show me an Ivy League “intellectual” and witness the sophisticated narcissist. Yes, character, wisdom, and sophistry interplay politically. So far as evolution is concerned, allow Palin to evolve as she sees fit to meet her calling as best she can, whatever that is.
That’s life according to the American Dream. Those quacking the “inexperienced” racket won’t admit that it applies most appropriately to Barack Obama, the most corrupt POTUS ever. Obama’s evolution is taking what he “inherited” and dissolving our Constitutional Republic further by utilizing Bush’s DHS and Treasury Czar progressive platform and equating “compassion” with PC, into a Marxist Authoritarian Dictatorship and proud member of global governance that Gore fronts.
maverick muse on November 15, 2009 at 8:38 AM
She can fight “ivy” with common sense and common english like “Here’s your ivy” snobs!
By the way MaxMBJ your post reeks of snobbery.
donh525 on November 15, 2009 at 8:50 AM
I mean they are not the swing vote. They’re the base and while you must turn out your base, it isn’t difficult to do. What you need is independents to win.
Kafir on November 15, 2009 at 8:51 AM
They can’t hijack what we don’t allow them to hijack.
Or not at all. Its just the internet. Why waste energy on those who have no desire for rational discussion? We’re not going to change their minds.
We give them too much importance, which of course is what they want.
Trolls aren’t interested in facts or the truth. There are two types: (a)immature idiots who post outrageous garbage because they think it’s hysterically funny to see the angry or sarcastic or upset reactions and (b) those who are mentally ill, in which case we shouldn’t contribute to their mental illness.
Personally I find it says more about the person who keeps replying to a known troll than it does about the troll. Adults should exercise self-control. Its a free country though, those who wish can reply to them as they like.
beachgirlusa on November 15, 2009 at 8:52 AM
A good post, but I do mind the attacks on Palin. She represents my views in many ways and I take the attacks personally. Do you think the attacks on her are just on her or on the beliefs, hopes, and dreams of many Americans? They are not just attacking her!
donh525 on November 15, 2009 at 8:57 AM
Liberals and Obama supporters are not identical with Palin critics or doubters.
The parable of the mote and beam does not just apply to those with whom we disagree. It applies to everyone, including me and you.
I very often have difficulty seeing the beam in my own eye. That’s why I like talking with people who do not see things exactly the same way I do, even though I know they have motes in their eyes. However, by doing this, I find it easier to discover the beam in my eye. Especially when somebody is poking me in the eye. How do you find the beam in your eye? Do you have a better technique? Mine method sort of hurts at times.
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 8:58 AM
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 8:35 AM
Although you mention some books that Lincoln read, you slight him by betting against all the others he read while growing up in the “wilderness”. His mannerisms were not haughty, but Lincoln was a well read man.
There is something to be said about Couric demanding to know which MAGAZINES Palin had read, not asking which Presidents, historians, authors or topics caught Palin’s interest.
My original response to this supposed “gotcha” remains valid. Why should Palin effectively endorse a publication, providing free advertising, particularly to those she may distrust? Just because she reads a book or an article does not mean that she would be convinced by what the author writes. Yet by stating that she reads X,Y,Z she becomes responsible for everything within X,Y,Z whether she agrees or not.
We agree, Couric proved in edit that any depth in conversation with Palin was cut and deleted from the story. This entire interview was all about Couric who hasn’t the guts to run for political office, but preens as lady in waiting to Obama, reading the feed from the teleprompter.
The world wants to look at a non-intellectual female, watch Couric, or Hillary Clinton, or Michelle Obama. “I, Me, Mine”
maverick muse on November 15, 2009 at 8:58 AM
Very well said.
beachgirlusa on November 15, 2009 at 8:59 AM
Lox, Jenfidel, Maverick, Beachgirl. Kudos, each of your posts is like reading a page from a good book.
donh525 on November 15, 2009 at 9:08 AM
Bless you, don!
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 9:10 AM
Lox is very wise, despite his youthful playfulness.
beachgirlusa on November 15, 2009 at 9:12 AM
I continue to be amazed at how many people cling to the elite’s mantra that the outward appearance and intellectual snobbery are the values to seek in a leader. We only have to look as far as Washinton D.C. to see where that has gotten this country. Obama, the attractive, no accent orator, is an empty suit, Pelosi, the label clad, botoxed, millionaire is a first class incompetent, and on an on,. Throw in the elite republicans who are not only intellectually dull, but cowards to boot.
One couldn’t have watched the town hall meetings without seeing just how truly below average intelligence these people are. Their biggest skill is their ability to lie convincingly, and now that people are really paying attention, that is catching up to them big time.
Their attack on Sarah Palin comes from fear. They know we’re paying attention, and they know the power she has because she’s real. As far as I’m concerned, you can take the slick phonies, and I’ll take the real people who love this country and have the courage to fight for it.
texanpride on November 15, 2009 at 9:19 AM
Lincoln studied Euclid, The Elements to hone his reasoning powers. Such an exercise hardly improves ones linguistic skills, but strengthens the argument structurally with logic, contrary to the way Sophists are trained to appeal to the vagaries of human emotions.
Palins arguments have a sound structure with none (or very little) of the gloss of rhetoric. And Paglia has written about the distinction between Rhetoric and Palin’s Death Panel Polemic.
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 9:20 AM
I see much eloquent speech here, some of it worthy of The One. I tend to be a simple, shallow fellow, and judge the lady thus: the great quantity of vituperation directed at her by the liberal element demonstrates that they are scared $hitless of her. That is enough for me.
B.A.Freeman on November 15, 2009 at 9:20 AM
He is not exactly Atlas is he? Lox Shrugged. :)
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 9:22 AM
You want to force down mannerism “smarts” that turn my stomach. As if sophistry does not weave more intrigue and corruption.
If Palin talks with the same affect as John Bolton, I’d be happy. Fred Thompson doesn’t need to speak “Ivy” to deliver a hands down knock out blow to the effeminate PC Ivy debate squad.
To hell with poison “Ivy” that sold us all out to the global governance to which they presume to belong.
Where’s your criticism of “Ivy” linguists who can’t speak plainly without incriminating themselves? You honor that which debases humanity. Buy that on your own, not at our expense.
maverick muse on November 15, 2009 at 9:22 AM
That was mean!
If I had nude photos of you, I’d post them right now.
Or maybe I’d just stare at them.
Got any?
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 9:22 AM
Palin is a reader. Her father made that extremely clear when he was interviewed during the campaign.
Spirit of 1776 on November 15, 2009 at 9:23 AM
The elitism of the teabaggers just comes from a different place. It is the “Im elitist because I am not elitist” or “Im special because I dont have a degree from a good school” brand of elitism, it is the same style, just for different reasons. It even elicits the save irrationally devotional behavior.
Squid Shark on November 15, 2009 at 9:25 AM
Very well said.
beachgirlusa on November 15, 2009 at 8:59 AM
donh525
Thank you.
maverick muse on November 15, 2009 at 9:27 AM
But I offer a larger trunk than you do.
Loxodonta on November 15, 2009 at 9:28 AM
Thanks for sharing that!
Lincoln’s learning, which you could call either home-schooling or being self-taught, fascinates me.
The man was remarkable.
Let it also be noted that George Washington had very little formal schooling to speak of.
I don’t believe Harry Truman went to college at all.
And LBJ–love him or hate him, but he was a powerful POTUS-went to San Marcos State Teachers’ College.
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 9:28 AM
What a bunch of bull hockey!
Anyone can be a Tea Partier.
Please don’t call us that other term: it’s nasty.
And the “irrationally devotional behavior” is our love of country and the recognition of all that so many have already sacrificed to preserve our great republic, many members of our own families.
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 9:30 AM
Any politician who runs for an office higher than the one he or she already holds thinks that holding the higher office is a natural progression. Otherwise they wouldn’t bother running.
You’re overreacting. Obama’s clearly a narcissist, but not simply because he thought he was a natural for president.
ddrintn on November 15, 2009 at 9:32 AM
Formal education can be an intellectual straight jacket. It breeds conformity. The process of habitation and regimentation can destroy ones sense of wonderment and draws the very boxes that one needs to transcend, except we don’t see them.
In the sciences I have found that I have had to unlearn much to proceed forward in a new research directions. Whats that saying about the beat of a different drummer?
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 9:34 AM
You are implying that any group that assembles is elitist. That’s not true. Elitism is not this school vs. that school, or what have you. It’s the attitude that aristocracy is the natural order of things. Perhaps aristocracy is, in fact, the natural order of things, but as Jefferson would argue, that aristocracy is fluid and based on ability.
When the media seeks to destroy an individual blue collar man who has the audacity to ask a question based on his perception of the facts (JtP), that’s behavior rooted in elitism. When people rally around JtP, or go to tea-parties, that’s behavior rooted in the insistence of equality.
Spirit of 1776 on November 15, 2009 at 9:37 AM
So why did you have to use a sump pump? Not enough trunk for the job?
Geochelone on November 15, 2009 at 9:38 AM
And that it is segregated; know your place, in other words.
Spirit of 1776 on November 15, 2009 at 9:39 AM
Just saying anyone can be a Tea Partier does not change the message. You will attack populists sometimes but build them up in others. The basic theme is anti-intellectualism. Anytime a well educated conservative gets up and dares to say something even mildly critical of the TP movement, they are immediately branded a RINO and sent off the reservation. Degrees from the Ivy League are very often used as talking points. The rise of Glen Beck, who embraces all of these themes is a perfect example.
BTW, I was a Tea Partier once, I went to the Apr 15th ones and was an active player, but the July 4th ones showed me where the movement was going and I was out.
Squid Shark on November 15, 2009 at 9:40 AM
You may experience that on an individual basis; you will always find people who dislike other people.
But the idea that the movement is anti-intellectual is, pardon me, hogwash. Conservatives as a whole love Sowell, love Scalia, love Thomas, each an intellectual. Most like Burke, Locke, Jefferson.
They like Rush without his education, and Coulter with hers. You are painting with so large a brush it no longer makes acturate distinctions, imo.
Spirit of 1776 on November 15, 2009 at 9:44 AM
You are correct, that was once the definition of elitism. But the manner in which it is used by modern Tea Party populists is much more in line with my definition.
As for JtP, I supported him against the attacks that came his way, but the way he was lionized was eerily predictive of what would happen to a similarly idealized populist icon. (first name Carrie)
Squid Shark on November 15, 2009 at 9:44 AM
FIFY
TugboatPhil on November 15, 2009 at 9:47 AM
Nope, sorry, just this.
beachgirlusa on November 15, 2009 at 9:47 AM
The message of the “Tea Parties” is from our Founding documents.”
It’s about “government by the consent of the governed” and going to our elected representatives for a “redress of our grievances.”
End of story.
I, personally, have never attacked populism, although I don’t know that “populism” is the right term.
Tea Parties are about “we, the people.”
Uh, no.
The basic theme is Conservatism and patriotism.
In America, you are free to be as intellectual or as ignorant as you choose to be.
???
I really don’t know what you’re talking about.
Do you?
Why don’t you tell us: Where is “the movement” going?
Jenfidel on November 15, 2009 at 9:48 AM
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