1. EnoughWithTheClothes | 10.26.08

I am not a big Palin fan, but this fixation on the clothes is yet another sign of the vapid nature of our Media. I really don’t care if the RNC spend years worth of wages on clothing her and her family. It is just another sign of their utter incompetence. They haven’t broken any laws.

2. CLb | 10.26.08

Don’t you wear your wedding ring on your left hand and shake with the right?

3. windle | 10.26.08

How can your cheap $35.00 wedding ring ’squish’ your fingers when you are shaking hands unless you are shaking hands with your left hand. I don’t think she thought about this before she presented this silly, unecessry falsehood.

4. Joe Hollingsworth | 10.26.08

How mean and rude. Do you know how many democrats never have to pay for their clothes? Several designers have stated they were shocked that Gov.Palin had to pay for ANY of her new clothes. Designers want their product advertised by celebrities. That is why at the Academy Awards, they give out “swag” to the elite. They want them to be seen wearing that “Swatch”, or that “Opium cologne.” Why has nobody asked about Bidens hair plugs or Manchelles late night snacks of caviar and lobster. From the looks of her backside it is quite frequent. BTW, didn’t John Edwards pay his lover $600,000.00 to leave the country with his spawn? Didn’t the democrat cong. from Palm Beach who took Foley’s place named Mahoney pay his secretary $150,000. to shut her mouth???????

5. Mandelay | 10.26.08

In spite of all the stories of “voter enthusiasm,” this will be the election about which no one gave a damn. If you are interested in finding out how a candidate’s web site accepts credit card contributions without a) matching the name to the card number and b) without calling for the 4-digit security code, then by all means go to:
http://noquarterusa.net/blog/2008/10/26/my-contributions-to-the-obama-campaign-under-fictional-names/#more-5680
The story at that link is worth a bona fide honest investigation … and, if you don’t give a damn about the frightening implications of this, then just keep reading about the polls, and the wardrobes, and the crisis we may get. Sadly, the crisis has come and gone and now we live with the aftermath, totally unawares.

6. An Actual Alaskan. | 10.26.08

The ADN didn’t Endorse Obama today. They did an article from a view point where why Alaskans might side with one candidate or another. It was a “mock” endorsment. Don’t forget in the very same article they had reasons why the did support John McCain.

7. Joe | 10.26.08

Palin is losing it… which is pretty scary considering she did not have much to begin with!! She sounds so fake and unintelligent.

8. Us | 10.26.08

Palin…. U go girl!

9. out_of_touch | 10.26.08

Sorry, but if you seriously believe that it’s OK for the RNC to spend campaign funds on clothing their VP then you probably shouldn’t be allowed to vote.

10. m martin | 10.26.08

I think it’s sweet that Palin keeps the ring that means so much to her. How many of us “upgraded” our wedding bands later, yet, we still have so much sentiment for our original band? It’s the thought that counts in the end, not the “bling.”

I am a Democrat, voting for Obama, but I really like Palin. She has a lot of gumption for a woman and she is smart as well as pretty. I think the clothes issue is ridiculous and petty. This would have never been mentioned if she were a man. John Edwards $400 haircut bothered me a lot more!! It made him look vain and fake. Palin has the pioneer spirit that so many American women in this country had in the early 1800’s. I hope she doesn’t let this experience stop her from serving in politics.

11. john adams | 10.26.08

Can someone explain to the rest of us the big deal of spending 150K to dress up a VP candidate when Obama spent MILLIONS dressing up his plane and removing the AMERICAN flag off the tail? It’s all disingenuous distractions on the DEMS side. God help America if BHO gets in.

12. george | 10.26.08

Todd Palin IS a very RARE actual conservative, for a change.

Sarah is just another politician welfare queen living high on someone else’s dime.

13. Laurie Larson | 10.26.08

This would be a non-issue if it were not for Palin’s continual harranging about what an everyday Joe she is–she’s not–she and her husband’s reported net worth is close to a million dollars.

14. Marco | 10.26.08

I’m also not a Palin advocate but I also think that this is just another distraction, by the media, to turns away from real issues. Who cares what if she or her party bought the clothes, it’s their money they can do what they want with it.

15. Hubris Sonic | 10.26.08

Wow, Todd is cheap, I totally believe in Sarah Palin again… not.

16. O’Biden vs McPalin | 10.26.08

EnoughWithTheClothes, the problem is that she presented herself as a reformer and fiscal conservative on a campaign that slammed their opponents as a celebrity and elitist.

The hypocrisy of their campaign and argument is the issue here and not necessarily her wardrobe.

17. LanceZ | 10.26.08

Hopefully, her wardrobe was not paid for with public funds.

18. Angelou | 10.26.08

When they think no one is looking they take advantage of what’s in front of them and abuse it, Palin can keep the whole stage, lighting and keep Elizabeth Hasselbeck, and take them all back to alaska,

19. samitestar | 10.26.08

I think the clothing purchase proves what so many cynics have thought, that Palin is window dressing. A pretty distraction that the GOP was hoping would sway voters. Unfortunately, with the economy going down the tube and everyone feeling the pinch, looks aren’t going to cut it, substance and change is what the electorate is looking for.

Not to mention the fact that Palin seems a bit batty.

20. Raven | 10.26.08

I agree that the wardrobe should be a non-issue except when you say you are one of the people. The people can’t understand how their house, that is being foreclosed on, costs less then they spent on two months of clothes for her campaign. It’s out of touch with my values and the values of those they need to win this thing.

21. Mike | 10.26.08

Sorry, DON’T CARE.

22. Jean | 10.26.08

I just read about a voter in Arizona who said “I work hard for everything I get, and so does Sarah Palin.” No, her clothes are given to her. The taxpayers pay her extra to work at home. The taxpayers pay for her daughters to travel with her on business and to have their own hotel rooms in posh hotels. If she supported the distribution of these benefits to everyone, I suppose that she would be branded as a socialist. Because she does not, she’s elitist. Folksy, my foot.

23. JX | 10.26.08

Eh, the issue is not about how much was spent on clothes.

It is that despite claiming to be such a maverick , she feels the need to conform to the image expectations .

She claims to bring the ideals of Wassila but clearly feels that the outfits she wore there is not good enough at the national level .

Ah, everyone knows the hypocrisy/disconnect between the message she supposedly brings and her actions but pointing it out is a sexist thing….

24. redice | 10.26.08

It’s not the vapid nature of the media that causes the clothing fixation. It’s the vapid nature of television viewers in a celebrity culture and networks that pander to them.

25. AlvinC | 10.26.08

Nine more days until we are all out of our misery.

26. Gadzooks | 10.26.08

Gosh a mighty she wrassled that here point in a pin , a hypocrite pin ! Now for some straight maverick double dealing on that gosh a mighty pipe line , her rampant cronyism , Serial ethics violation uh huh , Illiterate or lying about the legislatures ethics finding , serial abuse of office for personal reasons , accepting favours from officials and influence peddlers don’cha know , Such a sweetie !
By accepting the clothes she has demonstrated who she is obligated to . By dealing with a lobbyist she has corrupted any appearance of fairness with the mavrickie pipeline deal , Yaah ! In plain English she has violated Alaska’s state ethics law , while wrongly claiming she was cleared of ethics violations ! Ooh feel the mavrickee ! Hiring unqualified non vetted friends and school chums to surround herself with sycophants , ummm taste the corruption !
I am so happy for her and her gosh a mighty family , yessirree

27. windle | 10.26.08

I also wonder when Sarah Palin last really attended one of her children’s hocky games (since her only son is in Iraq), and when she last shopped at her favorite consignment store for clothes for her children, herself, or the First Dude, maybe better known as ‘The First Gentleman’ ,in Palin circles.(Is there another state in the Union whose spouse of the Governor is refered to as ‘The First Gentleman’, or “The first Dude’, or ‘The First Lady’, or ‘The First Dudette’? How does this play to the rest of the civilized world? I, for one, and deeply embarassed by this ignorant woman’s gall and obvious self-serving ambition……”The job of the Vice President is to become President.” Like Tina Fey, if the ticket(GOP), wins this election, then damn it, I will leave this country if not this earth.

28. Xarold | 10.26.08

Duuuude, and I tought my $1000 bucks diamond ring in special was cheap.

29. O’Biden vs McPalin | 10.26.08

john adams, the difference here is that the plane is campaign property. And like I earlier mentioned, Obama never presented himself as a budget slashing maverick with a history of reform.

Remember her initial claim to fame was that she was against the bridge to nowhere…only to find out it was a lie. Then troopergate. It’s the hypocrisy not the actual deed.

Actually I blame the McCain campaign not Palin. She never asked to be thrust into the spotlight unprepared, un-vetted and also be molded into something she’s clearly not.

30. purerichard | 10.26.08

Hey Jimmy, that was a very funny article. I don’t agree with the people who think the media is “fixated” on her clothes. That’s only a small percentage of the stories that are out there about her. For that matter, if she was saying anything interesting, beside mainly repeating talking points and her stump speech, maybe the clothes would get less attention.

31. PicabosMom | 10.26.08

Good grief, for the simple minded, here is a reality check about the clothing: Some was returned already because it did not fit, some has been worn for her appearances, and some is still stored in the belly of the plane for future use if needed. If it is not used, it will be returned also. Anything that she has worn will go to auction and profits will go to charity. you can darn well bet it will auction for a pretty penny being the history of her being elected as the first female Vice President of this great free nation.
I wonder though, just how much do you obamabots think little hussien will get when he auctions off his greek pillars??? lolololololol

God bless you Sarah… just continue to be yourself rest assured you always always always make us proud!

McCain-Palin 08
Palin-??? 2012

32. Pam | 10.26.08

It has nothing to do with a media “fixation on clothes”. It has to do with hypocrisy — Palin pretends just to be an average Joe six-pack and Joe plumber with her folksy language and references to average hockey-mom. But hockey-moms don’t shop at Neiman-Marcus and spend 150K on clothes. It’s all about hypocrisy and the media _should_ bring hypocrisy to light. Thank you media!!

33. Alex Hng | 10.26.08

I am a registered Democrat. Shame on those who poked fun of Sarah because the attires she NEEDED for the DNC campaign. How cheap and low are these nick-picking people! She deserved more than that. I changed my mind now and decided to vote for McCain/Palin.

34. josh | 10.26.08

It’s just another issue where the mavericks act first and brush off the consequences later.

Sort of like the selection of palin in the first place.

I agree that spending $100K on clothes isn’t really the issue… but it does make them appear stupid for spending more on palin’s hairstyling than they did on mccain’s foreign policy advisor.

Maybe that is why he didn’t blow everybody away in the first ‘foreign policy’ debate??? Blame it on palin’s hair! I have to admit her hair does look pretty good.

35. Lordastral | 10.26.08

Hey Joe Hollingsworth,

Before you go complaining about “Why has nobody asked about Bidens hair plugs or Manchelles late night snacks of caviar and lobster”

You should probably do your research in order to avoid being called a despicable little liar. The report about Michelle Obama allegedly feasting on lobster and caviar was absolutely false, just like so many Republican attacks.

http://www.observer.com/2008/media/consider-posts-lobster

Why don’t you go back to the RNC headquarters and try and use a different smear.

36. PicabosMom | 10.26.08

Good grief, for the simple minded, here is a reality check about the clothing: Some was returned already because it did not fit, some has been worn for her appearances, and some is still stored in the belly of the plane for future use if needed. If it is not used, it will be returned also. Anything that she has worn will go to auction and profits will go to charity. you can darn well bet it will auction for a pretty penny being the history of her being elected as the first female Vice President of this great free nation.
I wonder though, just how much do you obamabots think little hussien will get when he auctions off his greek pillars??? lolololololol

God bless you Sarah… just continue to be yourself rest assured you always always always make us proud!

McCain-Palin 08
Palin-??? 2012

37. Lordastral | 10.26.08

Hey Joe Hollingsworth,

Before you go complaining about “Why has nobody asked about Bidens hair plugs or Manchelles late night snacks of caviar and lobster”

You should probably do your research in order to avoid being called a despicable little liar. The report about Michelle Obama allegedly feasting on lobster and caviar was absolutely false, just like so many Republican attacks.

http://www.observer.com/2008/media/consider-posts-lobster

38. What the…? | 10.26.08

John H. - Did you say “Swatch”? As in a Swatch watch? Were you referring to swag from the 1986 Academy Awards? Seriously, Swatch is your idea of a high-design luxury item? And, I’m sorry, but “Opium cologne”? How are people supposed to see someone wearing perfume? How dumb are you?! I’m sure you think $35 is a good deal on a wedding ring, don’t you?

39. NES | 10.26.08

AS usual, the ignorance of the members and followers of the GOP is all too apparant.

The replacement of North American’s commercial markings included the removal of two stylized U.S. flag images which are used in the airline’s logo (a registered trademark of that company). The North American flag/logo on the forward portion of the fuselage was removed and the one on the tail was replaced with the Obama “O” campaign logo, while the traditional depiction of the U.S. flag adjacent to the plane’s registration number was retained:

Again, the GOP and it’s Koolaid addicts would much rather deal in lies and deceit. So much easier to spin than the facts.

40. KG | 10.26.08

They say enough said about the wardrobe ..then they push the point again … do you get the irony.

I guess the question all Americans needs to ask themselves is ” Do you want to have Palin as your President”..

Enjoy.. the elections.

41. TXFight | 10.26.08

If they want to focus on the clothes, fine. Can we at least point out that Ms. Pro-America isn’t even using American designers? How about some Michael Kors instead? Just a thought. If Jackie Kennedy can be basically shot for loving Chanel, and she wasn’t even running for office, maybe we could get Palin to wear an American designer too. Oleg Cassini is still alive!

42. Susan A | 10.26.08

Palin is, once again, a hypocrite…saying out of one side of her mouth that she’s like every other hockey mom and Joe 6-pack and yet at the same time, buying and wearing $150,000 worth of designer clothing. You can’t have it both ways, Sarah. I’m your typical suburban mom and let me tell you, I wish I were wearing $150,000 of designer clothing, but I’m not. Practice what you preach and be honest, for once.

43. Ron | 10.26.08

Of course they haven’t broken any laws. There is no law against deceiving the public and pretending to be someone that you are not. Palin said it herself that the clothes are props like the lighting and stage and McCain. Does not seem that Palin will do ” Meet the Press ” If John McCain is elected President let it be known that we know nothing about the Vice President except what the campaign has written for her.

44. Allan Truesdell | 10.26.08

I guess the “folksy” mavericks in Alaska wear their wedding rings on the right hand to prove they can “buck the system”!

This lady is a total fraud.

45. Bennie Quincy Shaft | 10.26.08

Palin is a flake!

46. Paula | 10.26.08

Jimmy Orr, you are a fruitcake. So like the liberal media to fixate on the studipest things, such as the cost of Palin’s wardrobe and now the amount that was spent on her wedding ring. Were you there to know about what their financial situation was at the time? No! Don’t you have bigger issues to write about like our economy, the war at hand, socialized medicine and the socialization of America? The woman is from Alaska and you think anyone there would be impressed if she wore Dior? Mink muckalucks? Probably. When you are young and in love, many women would be thrilled with the paper ring from a cigar. You need to stick to the fact that are important to Americans. We get enough garbage elsewhere!

47. Chris Whitney | 10.26.08

I was born and raised in a small, blue-collar community, and have worked hard my whole life. America has its faults, as do all countries, but I love the United States, through and through.

Before John McCain allowed his campaign to be turned into the state it is in, I respected him greatly. I hardly recognize the man now. I strongly oppose him and his running mate now, however. It is because of my love for this country that I oppose people like Sarah Palin, George W. Bush, and Mr. Adams. People who seek to divide our country into “Blues” and “Reds”, “the Real Americans” and… what?

We are ALL real Americans, those who call this proud country home, who work hard everyday and pay taxes. E pluribus unum, my friend. “Out of the Many, One.” I don’t care what color your skin is, whether you are Muslim, Jewish, or even a Pentecostal Christian - I would give up my life to protect ALL of my fellow countrymen.

Love it or leave it seem like apt words to me, now more than ever.

48. Bluestate | 10.26.08

Windel, the ‘first dude’ moniker was invented by Gary Sebelius, husband of the Democratic Kansas Governor. Feel better now?

http://www.kansascity.com/entertainment/columnists/hearne_christopher_jr/story/839241.html

49. Wondering | 10.26.08

OK, since when did clothing become a platform to fight over? Well, I thought about that, she is “using” these cloths and will not be keeping them. Sounds like the beginning of her being comfortable for payoffs. But really, this is only clothing. But there is something more to consider, we are in a world that takes no real issue on waste. What happens to the clothes that Palin wears? Speculation from what the media says, it will be donated back. Who can afford clothing of that notch? Not me. I know they are not giving it to the Goodwill.
So I really think this topic of what she wears and such is just a smoke screen from the real issues.

BTW~ What purpose did it serve for her to mention the cost of her ring and tell everyone she bought it? And the reasoning for her not wearing her wedding ring is because it is uncomfortable when she shakes hands. Wedding ring on left hand, shaking with the right hand. Has it gotten too small and she just thought she would give a pathetic cover up.

Oh see, politics just got thrown to the way side. Palin, what are we going to do about our energy crunch?

50. jacob | 10.26.08

> Sorry, but if you seriously believe that it’s OK for the RNC to spend campaign funds on clothing their VP then you probably shouldn’t be allowed to vote.

Hm… You must be a Democrat? Most Republicans believe in letting everyone vote however they choose…

51. Limey | 10.26.08

I was recently sent an e-mail image of a McCain and Palin poster showing Palin totally topless….so it appears that her $150,000 still wasn’t enough to clothe the whole body.I was deeply offended by the sight of this poor woman who could not afford to purchase even a bra with this money…..Somebody please donate another $150,000 so this impecunious VP can at least cover up the only two really admirable republican assets that ever existed…..! I should not be receiving naughty salacious and mean spirited e-mail images of this poor helpless woman is such a wanton state……Call Victoria’s Secret somebody please, I am only suggesting that she wears a simple but very expensive bra…. Actually I think they have a jeweled bra that is only $11,000,000 for Pete’s sake…..let some republican tycoon donate that and let’s get over this silly story.

52. Faye | 10.26.08

Hey, $150,000 is peanuts compared to the $2million Obama and campaign is spending for hopefully his election night celebration in Chicago. If you thought the pillars (Greek temple) was something, just wait until you see his stage on November 4th!

53. Clete Munson | 10.26.08

Vote for someone smarter than yourself. Shouldn’t you really?

54. joe the millionaire | 10.26.08

i just dont get it. republicans are screwing over the middle class and they still vote for them. ok, i ll be honest. i am a wealthy new york elitist. and if you average joes are that stupid to vote for mccain good for me. i somehow care for an average joe and i hope for them to be smarter this time. i truly love this country and think obama would be better for the average joes and economy-which i know few things about. but honesty for me is a win win situation

55. Shelley P | 10.26.08

I don’t care if they bought Palin clothes; Obama’s suits look awfully Armani to me, and there’s no question that looking attractive helps win an election. I truly do not care one whit.

However, if I had donated to McCain’s campaign, I would, however, have a problem with Palin’s 7-year-old daughter getting a Louis Vuitton bag, among other expensive items (this has been proven and not denied by the McCain campaign), and they would absolutely not get any more money from me.

It doesn’t make her bad. It doesn’t make her wrong. But if she thinks her 7-year-old needs Louis Vuitton bag (the bargain places sell that model for no less than $2000), then maybe SHE’S the out-of-touch elitist.

56. mike | 10.26.08

Has anyone ever actually watched a politician shake hands with a crowd of people? They use both hands a lot.

57. Bluestate | 10.26.08

Have you seen Palin (or any other candidate) shaking hands? It’s not a formal meeting, it’s people jumping at your from every direction.

58. Dain | 10.26.08

Give me a break. 33 years ago when we got married my wife and I were going to college. The rings we bought each other were cheap. What has that got to do with anything? We just repaired her Rolex for $1200 bucks. The rings mean no less than the Rolex.

59. l mar | 10.26.08

i like how people are attacking palin about this wardrobe issue but i bet all of you who have heart burn about this probably didn’t care about pres. clinton shutting down lax airport for a hair cut while parked on the runway.i’m sure the delays and great incovinience was alot more costly!

60. Average Jose’ | 10.26.08

The point of the wardrobe malfunction is that the average republican joe is coughing up 25, 100 bucks in donations to get the word out on policy, issues, etc. I wouldn’t want my hard earned dollars going to Neiman Marcus. I don’t care if they don’t fit or going to charity. Nor do i want it compared to John Edwards’ haircuts or Hillary’s custom pantsuits. And yea, she over compensated and threw her husband under the bus. Now we all know he’s a tightwad.

61. FredGrady | 10.26.08

A response to the commenter who remarked that Obama took the American flag off his plane. When his campaign took the plane over, it put its own livery on, in place of the North American Airlines livery that previously covered the plane. He put his campaign’s emblem on the tail. Obama’s campaign plane still has a flag on it, in the same place one will see flags on United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines jets: next to the aircraft registration number. Some right-wing partisans mangage to put photos on the web taken from an angle where a wing obscures the flag that still graces Obama’s plane.
What lies behind this foolishness? Right-wingers claim that that Obama is anti-flag and anti-American. That is a slur founded on trivial and inaccurate observations. For those who persist in the slur: how do you explain that McCain failed to wear a flag lapel pin in the third debate and — worst of all — he flies around in a European plane (Airbus) instead of Obama’s charter of an American plane (Boeing)?

62. Kelly | 10.26.08

You go Sarah - You’re one spunky lady!

63. Babs Johnson | 10.26.08

Who is more cross-eyed, Bobbie Batista or Sarah Palin?

64. funny | 10.26.08

Isnt it funny how no designer wanted her to promote thier clothes? and the RNC said “if we hadnt bought her stuff then the media would say she looks cheap in her walmart clothes”, is that what she was wearing when she campained to get elected in alaska? “she looked cheap in her walmart clothes and they elected her anyway”? And let me tell you something about the media, they are doing what they have to do because Palin’s campain doesnt trust her to speak in a interview so she doesnt do them, so the media has to find something to write about. Maybe if either they trusted her more or she didnt come off as DUMB she could give the media something more to write about…little something to think about.

65. Bob Duke | 10.26.08

I feel sorry for Sara, she is the victim of John McCain and the republican party

She is actually a naive politcian and no match for the real world .

She has no business being in the position that she is now. No republican in teir right mind would want her to step in , if something should happen to John
McCain
Hopefully that concern will be taken care of by a Democratic win.

66. vlm | 10.26.08

The liberals spend so much time and effort criticizing Gov. Palin’s clothes, how about Obama’s recent trip to Hawaii to vistit his ailing grandmother on his campaign plane instead of chartering a plane and paying for it out of his own pocket. The rules state that no campaign funds can be used for personal use and that certainly is considered personal use. It had absolutely nothing to do with his campaign. It would cost a lot more than $150,000 to fly round trip to Hawaii on his campaign plane. Could it be that he also went to Hawaii to see if he could find his birth certificate, that is, if there is one in Hawaii. It doesn’t appear that one exists or else he would come forward and produce it in order to stop all the rumors. It’s hard to believe that a candidate for the office of President would not have to undergo a background investigation by the FBI. I worked for the federal government in a MUCH LESS capacity and I had to have an FBI background check before I was employed.

67. Joe | 10.26.08

Obama for president: Opinion | adn.com
The unqualified endorsement of Sen. Obama

http://www.adn.com/opinion/story/567867.html

You might want to revise that statement about how the ADN didn’t “actually” endorse Obama, because there’s a link for you right there. Palin is a bad joke. I don’t really care about her clothes. But I don’t think she’s fit for any office. I’ve been a Republican my whole life and I’m voting against the both of them. I’m a Christian, too, but that’s all the more reason. I don’t want either of them representing me, especially not with how much brazen lying they do. If they can look themselves in the mirror after this, it will be because they don’t have reflections any longer.

As for the thing about how, allegedly, you can donate to Obama with stolen credit cards, do you think that normal people don’t read their credit card bills or something? You know what a charge back is, right? Obama would lose something like $25 (as well as the entire donation) for any donation processed on a stolen card. They’re not stupid. Even if they wanted to do something illegal, it would be stupid to commit a crime that doesn’t even pay. I mean, just how stupid do you think they are? They’re not Republicans… ;P

68. Anthony | 10.26.08

For god’s sake. The party wants to win. If you asked any member of the RNC if they thought their party should do everything they could to win, I am sure 99% would say yes. So they invest in her image and make sure that when she is meeting foreign diplomats she isn’t wearing something from her “favorite consignment shop in Anchorage” of all places.

Something everybody should be steamed about is that the RNC numbskulls who were put in charge of Palin’s wardrobe would be so dim that they failed to consider that the first female vice president’s wardrobe rights might carry a little weight, and negotiate accordingly. I mean, come on people! What designer wouldn’t slather at the thought of being able to say they were the exclusive designer to the first ever woman to get within the Final Four of the U.S. presidency? Idiots!

69. kim | 10.26.08

alex, you are changing your mind over an issue of her wardrobe?!? get serious. we all know you really are a registered republican. quit faking it.

70. CP Ollerin | 10.26.08

I always though the Monitor was a well balanced, objective publisher. I thought wrong. This story lacks substance. Instead of publishing something tangible to help voters decide between the candidates, this nonsensical story is printed. I suppose my comments won’t be published either, just like before when you guys took my comments offline. What’s the matter, is reader feedbak only published when it is trashing the Republicans. Who cares about clothes unless your readers can only handle dribbles of 4th grade subject matter. Can the CSM start acting like a real news channel and provide something of the truth..from both sides. I hope some of you readers have more sense.

71. KRJ | 10.26.08

6. Actual Alaskan. Is it something in the water up there that you all have to lie through your teeth about everything? Here is a part of the article from the ADN, after they endorsed Obama in the headline;

The election, after all is said and done, is not about Sarah Palin, and our sober view is that her running mate, Sen. John McCain, is the wrong choice for president at this critical time for our nation, the paper said.

What part of that statement says they are supporting McCain?

72. KRJ | 10.26.08

John Adams, Here we go again. Obama spent $500,000 refurbishing a plane that belonged to American Airlines and he had to remove the flag because it is their copyrighted logo. Also, politicians redo planes to reflect their campaign. Checkout John McCain’s. Plus Obama has a flag in his logo.

73. Monica | 10.26.08

I sometimes think that Elisabeth Hasselbeck has reached the height of stupidity on the View in expressing her partisan views. The level of idiocy was even higher on Sunday during her introduction of Sarah Palin at the rally. She sounded so stupidly smug and totally ignorant. She parroted what the campaign wrote for her without a second thought. She criticized “the others” in bringing up Palin’s wardrobe as being sexist. She had to inject that. Did she forget when the media went crazy for weeks and months at the cost of Edwards’s hair cut? Was it sexist then? She was so stupidly yelling and relishing her role to the point where we could no longer watch her. We had to turn the TV off. What annoys me about her that she is so black and white in evaluating people and situations? She is so narrow-minded. I think that she really hates Barak and Michele Obama. She thinks she is so perfect. Palin and Elisabeth fit well together. If Palin is Elisabeth’s role model, then we know for sure how superficial she is. They are both empty suits.

By the way, the choice of a $150,000 wardrobe for Palin shows how elitist McCain and his campaign are and how out of touch they are with the real people, the Joe plumbers of the world. Their action speaks clearer than their words. They care less about Middle America. Does the middle class shops in these exclusive stores? As for Palin, if this story had not been out, she would have continued wearing these clothes. It’s too late now trying to mend things

74. Dylan Voltaire | 10.26.08

In answer to the very wise comment #2:

“Don’t you wear your wedding ring on your left hand and shake with the right?”

Don’t you spell Obama with a backward-B, when you scratch it into your own face?

Don’t you do “whatever it takes” to win the VP and take whatever powers you feel to push your agenda in spite of the Constitution?

75. cav | 10.26.08

She has to look good on the SNL set when she’s paling around with Alec Baldwin!

76. r_u_kidding_me | 10.26.08

Is it so hard to see through her double standards? She calls her self a ‘reformer’ who will cut back spending, cut earmarks and every pork under the sun. Did it ever cross her mind to say ‘thanks but no thanks’ when RNC volunteered to dress her up like they did, spending all that amount? Nobody cares if the RNC wants to pour money down the drain, but what is Palin really standing for?

77. John | 10.26.08

Take a look at all candidates. They shake hands in all directions using both of their hands. And it’s sad to see how materialistic this country is that the issue of a $35 wedding ring is giving people an opportunity to drive her or anybody else into the ground who would do such a thing. I purchased my wife’s engagement ring for $100 from an individual who had bought it for someone who never ended up getting engaged. It doesn’t matter where you bought it or how much you spent. Lay off the materialistic aspects of all the candidates and look at what they really stand for.

78. al344 | 10.26.08

Everytime anyone dare question Obama about anything that may be controversial or that may require him to actually explain a past action or aquaintance etc. we get the same old line that Americans want to hear about the issues. Yet the media seems to be obsessed with everything but the issues when it comes to Sarah Palin. Since Obama wants to spread the wealth so much, he should give some of that over 400 million he has from donors to people who really need it. Why aren’t they questioning his spending? Oh I almost forgot about the double standard. Please forgive me.

79. CBM | 10.26.08

Sarah, you are awesome!

80. Tom | 10.26.08

Todd Palin built the house they live in with his friends. That’s about as thrifty as the Amish. If you don’t like him fine but give the man his due.

81. Duncan | 10.26.08

She’s not qualified, and never will be.

82. Chris | 10.26.08

Since Palin and her husband make over $200,000 a year you would think she could afford her own clothes, makeup and hair. I mean all the Joe Six Packs and Jane Barbies buy their own such items. Honestly, Palin cannot relate to the average American citizen since she is everything but average. Except her intelligence and that is below average.

83. kristin | 10.26.08

Sarah is amazing; she says everything that represents my life as a mom and an carries the same values that I believe in. I also shop consignment shops and like her it’s not the about the “ring” it’s what it represents.

84. Alan | 10.26.08

I wouldn’t vote for McCain-Palin with a gun to my head, but my wife and I spent $35 for each other’s wedding rings nearly 20 years ago. This is a ridiculous post.

85. I. Hope | 10.26.08

She sure lies alot and backbites. Is this the born-again type Christian she has become?

86. Edward | 10.26.08

If the RNC was trying to make Palin look more professional and polished by spending the $150k. What was the DNC trying to make Obama look like with with fake Greek columns?

Just curious…

87. Henry Rosenberg | 10.26.08

The “late night snack” was a hoax. Check it out on snopes .com. Michelle wasn’t even in New York when the supposed caviar got ordered.

88. UD | 10.26.08

Sarah is amazing ! But not a good record, misuse of office- which is proven and this clothing scandal. 9 more days

89. Troy | 10.26.08

70. CP Ollerin said:

“I always though the Monitor was a well balanced, objective publisher. I thought wrong. This story lacks substance.”

The *candidate* lacks substance, CP. Sarah chose to prattle on about irrelevant issues. So what else was there to report? Nada.

I’m still waiting for her to say something heavy. Waiting…………..

90. jennifer | 10.26.08

ok, wouldn’t a famous person use both hands to shake with? helloooo, twice the handshakes.

91. JohnTTT | 10.26.08

Oh God, I can’t imagine a boss, a leader, and a vice President like that. If ever she got in the Office, she would probaly drive everyone nuts with her daily clothing business a la Peggy Bundy style.

92. Leslie | 10.26.08

I also love my consignment shop. And my local thrift store. And when I really want to splurge, I shop at Target. Maybe Sarah has to shop at these places becuase it’s probably really expensive having to maintain two homes. You’ll remember when her financial records were released she and Todd listed two homes. How many of you can afford to maintain two homes?

93. Eva Chasida | 10.26.08

It’s disturbing to me that any online publication with the name “Christian” in it can draw such vitriol, but it’s even more of a concern to me that a self-proclaimed Christian like Palin can splatter covert racism around the country at rallies and then divert to a subject like clothing at a time when her hateful speech has invoked such horrific stunts as McCain volunteer Ashley Todd’s false accusations of an attack by a black Obama fan in PA. Surely it’s time to set aside her hate-mongering and employ some “straight talk” herself about who she is and what she believes and in doing so, hopefully reflect God’s love (rather than exploiting America’s prejudice.)

94. Eyesk | 10.26.08

I would like to comment about the comment about “the vapid nature of our media”… While this may be true, I would like to posit an alternate suggestion that the media actually isn’t vapid, but rather that they think the general public is.

I would posit that they push these things down our throats because they think this is all we care about. They point to how the next day we are all talking about such-and-such.

Duh… if that’s the only reporting they give us, that may be why that’s all we have to talk about. I have a higher opinion of the general public - republican, democrat, and independent. The Media likes to think we are racist and sexist, too, when in actuality it sometimes seem that they are the ones with the biggest hang-ups on race and gender.

And look at how they super-hyped the Palin-Biden debate - they were probably in tears that they couldn’t sell advertising time during it.

95. Jim | 10.26.08

to Joe Hollingsworth: Are you really that uninformed? The New york post, where that story was first reported, has recanted that statement, saying it was completely false, and the she was not even in the hotel when it was supposed to have occurred:

“The source who told us last week about Michelle Obama getting lobster and caviar delivered to her room at the Waldorf-Astoria must have been under the influence of a mind-altering drug. She was not even staying at the Waldorf. We regret the mistake, and our former source is going to regret it, too. Bread and water would be too good for such disinformation.” From the New York Post, October 21, 2008.

And M. Martin: A $400 haircut makes a man look vain, but hiring a Hollywood stylist and paying her more than anyone else in the campaign (literally over $25,000 in a month) to style Palin doesn’t? Talk about your double standards.

For those of you thinking the clothes are a sexist issue, if you really think we wouldn’t be talking about it if it were a man, just see the edwards comment. We’re still talking about that how many months later?

96. apesca | 10.26.08

So imagine you’re a lower income individual that believes in the message being put out by the GOP. You know that your party is being outspent, and are receiving a fraction of the amount in donations that democrats are. So, against your better judgement, you stretch your own wallet, and you donate to John McCain. You send the GOP, maybe a hundred dollars, maybe more.

Your budget is tight and times are tough, so you are making a substantial sacrifice, but it’s okay because deep down you believe in John McCain, and you believe that helping him overcome the odds is worth giving up a night out with your wife, new clothes for your baby girl, whatever you could have otherwise used that money for.

Day’s later you get the news that the McCain campaign has spent $150K on clothes, not just for Ms. Palin, but for her entire family. Your money, and the money of countless others like you gone, not to help your candidate match Obama in advertising, not to help get the party vote out, but to the coffers of Neman Marcus, and Saks 5th Avenue. Meanwhile, you receive an email from the McCain campaign. They say that they are being outspent, and out-raised, and would deeply appreciate any further donations that you could supply.

I personally cannot imagine a bigger slap in the face from ones own party. This outrage is entirely justified.

97. Peter | 10.26.08

Taxpayers, if $150k for clothing is okay for her party’s interests when she is not VP yet, then 1 million dollars for clothing would be also okay for the nation’s interests if she becomes VP.

This is not a fashion show. This is an election to pick up someone who more cares how to feed average people than how to dress themselve up.

98. Jeff | 10.26.08

Usually it would not be a big deal that the RNC chose to “dress up” their nominee with expensive clothes. However, Sarah Palin has repeatedly said she is just an average person. Then why agree to wear the clothes to begin with? If she truly felt that she was representing the average person than refuse the idea of the clothing and to wasteful spending. It has only become an issue because she purports to be an average Jane. This was a mistake and truly shows a lack of understanding what the true average American has to do these days just to get by.

99. mavisdarling | 10.26.08

An Actual Alaskan. | 10.26.08

“The ADN didn’t Endorse Obama today. They did an article from a view point where why Alaskans might side with one candidate or another. It was a “mock” endorsment. Don’t forget in the very same article they had reasons why the did support John McCain.”

Sounds like you are afflicted with the same disorder that Palin is. Just keep tellin’ yourself that your version of the *truth* is actually true, and pretty soon, it becomes reality in your mind!

100. Scott | 10.26.08

@An Actual Alaskan.
“The ADN didn’t Endorse Obama today. They did an article from a view point where why Alaskans might side with one candidate or another. It was a “mock” endorsment. Don’t forget in the very same article they had reasons why the did support John McCain.”

Did you not read the entire article? The last paragraph states:
“Yet despite her formidable gifts, few who have worked closely with the governor would argue she is truly ready to assume command of the most important, powerful nation on earth. To step in and juggle the demands of an economic meltdown, two deadly wars and a deteriorating climate crisis would stretch the governor beyond her range. Like picking Sen. McCain for president, putting her one 72-year-old heartbeat from the leadership of the free world is just too risky at this time.”

I don’t think “mock” means what you think it does. Mock, would be what I’m doing to you right now.

101. Sandy B | 10.26.08

Does it bother anyone that this information is so readily disclosed when it comes to the RNC but no one is asking the same disclosure of the DNC? Much of the information regarding money spent, contributions, reassignments, etc. are presented by the McCain campaign, yet the Obama camp never seems to release the same types of information regarding their campaign. I mean, why do we have an account of what the RNC spent and where, yet we don’t see that with the DNC? Just wondering….

102. gloria ginsberg | 10.26.08

Great and funny article. I luv and understand your sense of humor. It made me laugh out loud. Thank you,
Gloria Ginsberg

103. Jimmy | 10.26.08

I know everything about Sarah Palin is bad because if the democrats don’t tell me the biased news media will. I really would like to know more about Obama and Biden but if I mention even his name Hussien Obama people are offended. How will he handle Russia, Iran , North Korea, etc., etc. When he tries talking to them they may be rougher than me. It takes a certain character to stand firm in crisis. Take President Bush for example. The majority of American democrats and republicans alike all wanted to defend America after 9/11. Bush asked America if you want we will go to war, but it will be a long difficult war. Everyone said GOOOO! After a few years who is standing firm. I have heard every country insult our President even to the point of democrats. Bush has been blamed for war to bad weather, to bad investment. History will show that he was one of our greatest leaders. It will also show how America was defeated from within. If Obama were to win I hope Republicans give him the same wonderful support that democrats have given their President Bush.

104. Sophia | 10.26.08

What a nicely choreographed performance, just happen to bring up warm weather and the jacket she grabbed etc. First of all, democrat or republican, spending 150,000 in two months on clothes is simply outrageous when most americans are struggling. Secondly, if she had not spent most of her initial campaign talking how how average and simple she is and how she is just like you then it would be a not so hypocritical. Obama and others don’t spend time saying how they are just like us… it reminds me of that section in People’s magazines that presents movie stars drinking coffee, walking, etc. and says THEY ARE JUST LIKE US, how ridiculous, yes, they eat but how are they exactly like us? So she is not like us, we don’t spend 150,000 dollars on clothes and then pretend to be so frugal and conservative in our spending.

105. Tom | 10.26.08

Lets remember, she’s wearing $150,000 worth of tax payer money. McCain couldn’t raise enough funds so they used the 80 million from the presidential race fund. And besides, so called maverick didn’t have to accept that clothing, she could have simply insisted on getting clothes elsewhere. So trying to blame the RNC for buying it for her is just a scapegoat.

106. Wes Doobner | 10.26.08

TOM #80 said “Todd Palin built the house they live in…that’s as
thrifty as The Amish”..

Yeah, but Palin billed the state of Alaska $17,000 for living
in her own home!

107. Kjames | 10.26.08

Yes, how much the RNC spent on her clothes is insignificant, except that Palin’s argues we should vote for her because she’s a hockey mom who understands how “real” people are struggling. The $150,000 (how can one even spend that much on clothes??) makes a mockery of that argument. More relevant is how this reformer (pretty much the only other reason for her candidacy) collected 300 days worth of per diems (totaling $17,000) for days (as governor of Alaska) when she was home. And this is not even getting into the Alaska legislature’s assessment that while her abuse of power was not illegal, it was unethical. Why is she McCain’s running mate again??

108. Diane | 10.26.08

In answer to commenter #2 CLb above, I’ve been to Sarah’s campaign rally in Carson, California. She shakes hands with people with both hands as she leaves the platform. There are a lot of people waiting to get autographs or shake her hand. Pay attention.

109. O’Biden vs McPalin | 10.26.08

@Sandy B.: The RNC disclosed the information themselves. No one forced them to. And the DNC already claimed they do no such thing as spend campaign money on personal effects.

@al344: campaign money is meant for campaign related expenses. Even if he wanted to Obama cannot just spend the money on other non-campaign issues.

@faye: Not only is the money Obama spending (rightfully) being spent on campaign related issues (Greek pillars and all) as opposed to personal effects, but he is also spending HIS OWN campaign’s personal funds as opposed to the party’s own funds which was the case with Palin’s wardrobe. Also like I earlier mentioned, Obama never made himself out to be a hockey mom, average Jane, budget slashing reformer and maverick. It’s about the hypocrisy of the deed my friend.

110. Larkin | 10.26.08

At this same event, while talking about the earrings that were a gift from her mother in law (presumably Blanche Kallstrom, rather than Faye Palin) she described her mother in law as “a Yupik Eskimo, a Native American, a native Alaskan.” Blanche Kallstrom is ONE-QUARTER Yupik. She was born in Alaska, so I guess she is a Native Alaskan and a native American in the sense that all Americans born in this country are Native Americans. It’s just such a distortion. Sarah Palin opens her mouth, lies fall out.

(The other woman who is frequently described as her mother in law is Todd Palin’s stepmother, Faye, who when last heard from said she couldn’t imagine what Sarah could bring to the ticket and is a supporter of Obama. )

Not to mention the fact that Wal-Mart Moms everywhere routinely cavort with celebrity airhead Elizabeht Hasselback. (How does that woman keep her job?) Thank God this will all be over soon.

111. edward | 10.26.08

The RNC money is not the same as the McCain election fund which is paid for by the taxpayers. The RNC has it’s own donated money that it is running it’s own ads, and supporting the candidates in various ways. And yes buying clothes etc for Palin and her family to use.

112. Dan | 10.27.08

Seems that a LOT of people don’t get it. Or have conveniently short memories. You’re right when you say this shouldn’t be an issue. However, the last two election cycles have found right wing talking points running with $400 haircuts to represent how out of touch John Edwards, etc. are.
Limbaugh and his ilk made hay with this sort of thing and it’s they and the media tail that have been given to repeating such nonsense that are responsible. So now when Republicans such as McCain and his 8 homes, private Learjet and Palin’s 150K wardrobe come up, well, it’s sweet sweet irony now, isn’t it?
If we stuck to issues instead of personalities we wouldn’t be in such fixes.

113. Rob Parker | 10.27.08

Re: #59

…has the astonishing power of your intellect considered the link below?

http://www.nytimes.com/2005/09/21/politics/21airforce.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

Sen. McCain I’m not Bill Clinton…

114. Cyndy | 10.27.08

Goodness! So many Democrats threatening to leave the USA if their guys don’t win the election. That would be like CHRISTMAS MORNING for REAL Americans. We can only hope…

115. Jill | 10.27.08

Elisabeth Hasselbeck is missing the point. For all of us watching, a gift or loan of $150,000 worth of clothing is reported as INCOME. The IRS would require this to be declared at least at the rental value, if and when she returns the clothing. The point is she accepted it. She only mentioned it would be turned to charity once it was reported upon. This was not announced up front, so I can’t trust it. The fact that she is now wearing her own clothing again tells me she knows it wasn’t right as well. This entire election comes down to who’s judgment do you trust. The clothing issue is just one more example of Palin’s judgment. She didn’t reject it until someone else pointed out how this was not appropriate, so now, after the fact, she rejects it. This is very similar to the Bridge to Nowhere, which she rejected after the Congress removed funding for the bridge. She did accept that too, before the project was officially killed. She has a consistent pattern of not having the right judgment, but later attempting to correct course and claiming credit for decisions she did not make. And that, is dishonest, not sexist.

116. ajay | 10.27.08

Of course this isn’t about wardrobe…its about judgement or lack thereof. $150K of ANYONE’s money is still a lot of money to most of the people Palin professes to represent. No one forced her to accept these “loans”. Nor did anyone force her to get the good people of Alaska to pay her a per diem to work at home, or to buy her daughters’ plane tickets. Frugal? Is that what they call it these days? Used to be called something else.

117. Joe Wurzelbache | 10.27.08

Ms. Palin so far has caused more divisions in the country then shown her ability to lead and build the country. Her one lie leads to another…the more I know her the less I like about her. She is more Bush then Bush. Here you have it.

118. Joe Bo | 10.27.08

I just washed my clothes so I will have something to wear to work this week. Underwear, socks, pants, shirts, MY WHOLE FABULOUS WARDROBE.
Darn it! I’m just running (for) to work. I’ll spring $16 for a haircut next month.
My Chapter 7 bankruptcy closed in September. I earned $16,000.00 last year. I’ll cumulatively gross close to $150,000.00 in about 9 years (except that I’ll be 67 and sweeping up at McDonald’s for half what I earn now. So make that NEVER for the 150k.
OK fine, I’m a loser. How many losers does it take to make a winner? How much more do I owe the winners?

Just put it on my tab.

119. cunamara | 10.27.08

Sarah Palin wants the media to cover the issues- Like her leaving the town of Wasilla mired in $22 million in new debt and ongoing litigation? Like her abuse of power? Like her rank incompetence to the point that an administrator was imposed upon her to do her job? Like her failure to actually pay attention during the negotiations of that $40 million pipeline, leaving it too mired in litigation and possibly never to see the light of day? Like the fact that as of October 23 she *still* didn’t know what a Vice President does and couldn’t explain it to a 3rd grader? Or that she has put her own political ambitions ahead of her party, her country and the presidential candidate? Or maybe further investigation should be paid to the reports that her handlers have found her the least educable candidate they have ever dealt with? I think that Mrs. Palin very exactly does *not* want the media examining the issues, hence her continuing to fan the flames over this stuff.

120. Kevin | 10.27.08

Just like the lights….the stage….the clothes….Sarah Palin is just a prop.

121. Jill | 10.27.08

Sandy, the Obama campaign did release details of Obama’s clothing expenditure, which you may have missed. He spent $1500 on his DNC acceptance speech suit, which was ordered from a union shop that manufactures suits sold in many retail outlets in the United States. Yes, that’s expensive, but it was from his personal funds, not campaign money, taxpayer money, or DNC money. Biden also buys all his own clothing, and hairplugs. This is a newsworthy issue and discussion point just because of the contrast, and the enormous difference in scale.

122. thrifty | 10.27.08

“Those clothes - they are not my property,” she explained. “Just like the lighting and the staging and everything else the RNC purchases. I’m not taking them with me.”

Hmmm … kind of like an actress playing a role.

123. Lisa | 10.27.08

apesca, that was a great post. After reading that I can see why people are so upset, I didn’t know the campaign was asking for donations also. But even if they were not, it’s still taxpayer money. I thought there was something wrong with Sarah Palin always looking different everyday, her hair always different, and I thought that was just her knowing how to do that because she was a former beauty queen. She looked great and fashionable, but is that what we need right now? These are pretty serious times. I used to be able to buy myself clothes at Macy’s occasionally back when Clinton was president, now I will definitely be looking at consignment stores. But I don’t mind rich people being rich, but I don’t like vice presidential candidates pretending this is a beauty pageant.

124. constance123 | 10.27.08

Mandelay: This is just totally bonkers. How could a credit card transaction be validated without a name and number? And not only is the link you give bad, the website noquarterusa.net doesn’t even exist.

125. Shona | 10.27.08

Wardrobegate. Troopergate. What’s next.

In little things we trust. How about the designer diapers for baby Trigg? Are taxpayers going to receive their refund. We cannot recover them for charity. Can McCain give an answer. This can be a small thing, but here is where I am getting:

Palin and McCain cannot run away on this wardrobe issue with the word “donation”. This word “donation” should be removed in politics. I can’t use money from my employer e.g. at a bank or school, and if found, then claim I will donate it. Every thief has a defense tactic; so as Palin and McCain. How can we trust them. Can the draperies at the White House end up in Alaska, and then we claim it was only for a day they will be returned. No. This should be a lesson. Palin has a lot of apologizes for the public, but she is cocky. Never expect one. She owes the people of Alaska an apology for the Troopergate. Donors for the Wardrobegate.

Back to this word “donation”:
At the convention, they pretended to be with the poor by mobilizing delegates to the party’s national convention to collect aid for victims of Hurricane Gustav, which struck the U.S. Gulf Coast. After a week or so later, hurricane Ike struck with much damage than Gustav, no John McCain, Palin, Cindy, or Laura Bush were to be found to mobilize the base and call for donations. Picture perfect for convention, but not consistent.

126. Tom | 10.27.08

Palin should join us at Sears. Mevyns about to close may have been saved by that $150,000. Even at WalMart were we are buying hockey equipment for our children in this economic tight world.

127. Angela | 10.27.08

Alex Hng losing your vote to McCain-Palin does not change the direction of where our country is heading. If you were one of those ones fixated on married Sarah as she talked on TV, move on. We dressed her up. If her children were also dressed up by our money, then they are open to public scrutiny.

128. Jackie | 10.27.08

well I guess that explains the “you can actually see Russia from an inlet here in Alaska” comment.

The McCain team felt it more important to dole out the big bucks for hair do’s then Foreign Affairs advice.

If you make this kind of choice during a campaign, what kind of choices will you make during a presidency?

Thankfully it doesn’t appear we will ever be forced to find out.

129. Ella | 10.27.08

I am voting for Obama, but yay, finally something about Sarah that I can relate to! I also purchased wedding rings for myself and for my husband, about $35 each. I doubt diamonds can add any more value than these bands already hold in our eyes. And I never considered to “upgrade”, how can you “upgrade” your memories? So I wish media would keep in check the nonsense about who wears what and who shops where; not much substance in this type of “reporting” and people are already getting tired of it.

130. Already voted | 10.27.08

So… Republican campaign strategist Elizabeth Hasselbeck is slamming the media for talking about Sarah Palin’s RNC-supplied wardrobe. And then Gov. Palin jumps on the media, too. WHY?!? Hasselbeck and Palin are only ones talking about it. It’s last week’s story. I guess it’s better than talking about real issues…

131. Jean Persell | 10.27.08

Sarah Palin often goes through the crowds graciously extending both hands. Also, for fairness, I think there should be a spending limit for all candidates. It seems obscene to see the many millions raised and spent in advertising and campaign expenses by Obama and his vast organization when so much good could be accomplished with the excessive money raised while the economy is sinking. If one doesn’t like McCain/Palin, don’t vote for the spendthrift Obama — why not consider an intelligent alternative candidate, such as Nader?

132. Terence Jackson | 10.27.08

How galling it must be for a columnist like Jimmy Orr to write such an article that teases the irony that while Sarah and co. proclaim the media has nothing better to do than talk about clothing, they in response ONLY talk about clothing. Irony just doesn’t work in America. No one gets it. It’s probably reasons like this that this election is still basically a toss up. Jesus wept.

133. fud | 10.27.08

“Don’t you wear your wedding ring on your left hand and shake with the right?”

I believe you are correct there. Shake with the right, stab your running mate in the back that plucked you out of backwoods Alaska and took your political career to the next level with your left.

134. Actual Oregonian | 10.27.08

To Actual Alaskan, gee you say ADN didn’t endorse Obama - ya must need glasses.

from the ADN:

EDITORIAL

Obama for president

Gov. Palin’s nomination clearly alters the landscape for Alaskans as we survey this race for the presidency — but it does not overwhelm all other judgment. The election, after all is said and done, is not about Sarah Palin, and our sober view is that her running mate, Sen. John McCain, is the wrong choice for president at this critical time for our nation

135. Wintersmith | 10.27.08

Ir’s OK for the campaign to spend 150K on her clothes… as long as it’s OK with the donors.

It’s not OK for the campaign to then keep claiming that she’s an ordinary gal.

It’s not the money. It’s the hypocrisy. It’s the contempt for the actual “ordinary voters”. It’s the assumption we’re just hicks who’ll be dazzled by her woo-ha wardrobe, or a fellow country-clubbers who also pick up $2,000 Italian jackets without batting an eyelash.

It’s the narcissism of thinking they can have it both ways, and sulking when they’re told no.

136. Dave | 10.27.08

Lol, just class warfare at it again. I would think the Bama voters would be glad of the wardrobe expenditure.

That is thousands of dollars of campaign funds NOT spent on political ads or organizing.

Get your heads out of your collective hindquarters! You’ll be buying new drapes for Michelle’s white house soon enough!

137. CelesteBlueDawn | 10.27.08

“Reporters would prefer not to cover Palin’s record in Alaska, her credentials in energy policy, or her role in negotiating a $40 billion natural- gas line deal in Alaska.”

Well MAYBE if she talked about said topics the reporters WOULD start covering such things. All I ever hear from her is trash talk about the other party, and deflecting something she got caught with/on.

Again, Hasselbeck, another B-Lister talking about something they truly have NO clue about…

Nice catch CLB; YES, one does wear their band on the left and shakes with the right hand. Maybe they do things different in Alaska. ::smirk::

138. Kathy | 10.27.08

The press is just preaching to the choir now and acting like a bunch of snotty, catty immature high school girls telling their classmates who gets to be in and who doesn’t. Sickens me

139. Sara B | 10.27.08

What a joke! I do admit to having some feminist in me but I’m not a fool.

A nearly life long Republican who will vote Dem this time around.

SB

140. Roman | 10.27.08

With respect to Sarah Palin, who could or should have the right to argue the price or the conditions of how she received or obtained her wedding ring. I know of many couples whose life together began with far less. However, regarding her Neiman-Marcus and Manhatten retailers have offered her their best with equally demanding prices - the rub is that the $150,000 paid for clothes that will be “donated” beyond the election makes this an even greater farce. The money thrust upon the vendors of the wealthy (and Neiman-Marcus qualifies in customer appeal but dreadful apparrel - over-the-top rags) would have been better spent on other contenders or wanna be’s in the Republican party - those politicians who cannot raise the money needed for their own elections because of the loss of “brand” made possible by their reckless behavior over the past several years in both houses. Sarah Palin in on her own personal campaign, recognizing long before John McCain and others that her job in Alaska is a dead-end task while she could make a fortune either in future national politics (more of less) or having her own narrow-minded tv talk show on FOX - there remains an audience of mentally myopic “pro-Americans” who have never served the interests of their own commuities to say nothing of their own country. Palin should keep the wardrobe - she earned it, now let her pay taxes on it !

141. shoemaker | 10.27.08

Palin’s wardrobe wouldn’t be as much of an issue if dumbell mccain hadn’t made such a HUGE stir about obama liking arugula, thus making him an elitist. He also likes green tea which means he’s probably a commie.

What’s serious is the hypocrisy of the republican philosophy. They’re teaching our children that it’s ok to lie and be greedy. That’s how the roman empire fell. the lie.

142. Pat | 10.27.08

This is a ridiculous discussion. It is sexist. Of course her daily clothing selection is not appropriate for the campaign. What is the big problem? I would rather have Sarah Palin as vice president than a junior senator as president! He needs at least eight more years of studying how all the systems work before trying to be elected. He was a bit premature. Vote McCain/Palin in ‘08.

143. Character Counts1 | 10.27.08

Clearly Palin lacks a sense of propriety, but does this woman have any sense of ethics?

144. Carol | 10.27.08

Okay, enough is enough, this is ridiculous. I can’t believe how low the press has become in their efforts to destroy Sarah Palin while supporting Obama. There is something so dirty and disgusting in this election. But excess and lack of fairness can turn tides, causing just the reaction that the press does not want. I have just become a Palin fan.

145. Tom H | 10.27.08

I find it funny that Elisabeth Hasselback has once again shown how disconnected her brain is. She claims that this whole clothing thing is so “obviously sexist” (and of course Palin agrees). It wasn’t long ago that the right-wing media was utterly fixated on what John Edwards was spending on haircuts. After that they spent every second that they could talking about Gore’s weight gain.

Parts of the media care about unimportant, shallow things (because the PEOPLE care about unimportant, shallow things). That’s true no matter what sex the subject is.

Hasselback and Palin playing the gender card is disingenuous at best.

146. suzifla | 10.27.08

McCain says they “live a frugal life” and she shops at consignments stores? Yet their income and assets don’t seem to match the average American’s definition of “frugal.” Does that candidate think he can say anything (trust me–I know how to do that) and everyone will automatically believe him? What a cynical view of voters’ intelligence.

147. just a thought | 10.27.08

who cares people …let it go…this just shows how we as humans think.. we all act more holy then she is…pretty sad….alot of people who has posted here acts that way… when she admits shes a down to earth girl she still gets put down.. why complain so much just get out and vote…one more thought before i stop writing who has 1500 or 2000 dollars to spend on 1 suit they that you wear? Mccain and Obama has they both do…for Gods sake use ur brains that God gave you…I dont like either one of them to be honest. and i prob will not vote.

148. Palinopsia | 10.27.08

She already spent $150,000 why didn’t she bother spending $15 for lip waxing before she appeared on newsweek magazine!!!

149. Arun1 | 10.27.08

The ring was purchased by her but she had the gun too with her to make him propose.

150. Stan P. | 10.27.08

I would have no problem with the upscale wardrobe, but they made sure the press was there when they went shopping at Walmart, or should I say pretending to shop at Walmart. They tried to make it look like they were just regular “Joe’s”, but the truth came out. You can’t have it both ways….people want honesty!

151. Amelda | 10.27.08

I’m a die-hard Obama supporter, but even i think the hyoe about the clothes is ridiculous. EVERYONE on the national stage gets “done.” A stylist or make-up artist has touched everyone you see on the screen. There’s the lighting people, the guy/gal who tells you where to stand, the mic check people. Nothing you see on TV is unstaged or with rare exception (so rare that it’s often noted) unscripted. Palin is no exception. Magazines produce cover shots that often cost upwards of 50k. 150k for 3 months for a woman running for a national office and has to make amillion appearances is NOTHING in the grand scheme of image production. Let’s be frank, we are not trying to see our world leaders in Wal-Mart clothes. As shallow as it is, we judge people– and harshly– by their image. Palin in a cheap suit wouldn’t have gone over. Period. There was no way she could win on this issue. We want our leaders to look like leaders (and our celebs to look like celebs) and you have to spend to get that effect.

Michelle is a Black woman who’s hair stays done and near-perfect. Black hair, to look that good, that often, has to be maintained constantly. A running tab of her hair bill would look equally outrageous.

There are a lot of other VALID reasons to criticize Palin. Let’s stick to those.

152. Michael | 10.27.08

Actually the important comment out of this was McCain defending her by saying “shes not even wealthy”. The Palin’s are millionaires. This once again shows how out of touch he is.

153. WeeFree | 10.27.08

Re: 56. mike | 10.26.08

“Has anyone ever actually watched a politician shake hands with a crowd of people? They use both hands a lot.”

Yes in India. In America you get a hearty pump with only the right hands touching.

Quit trying to excuse Palins’ confused mind.

154. scribe | 10.27.08

That PALIN was given $150,00 in clothing is not the point. That she claims to be an average, no none-sense, kind of a person is the point. That she now feel the need to explain this episode away is the point. That she points the finger at OBAMA as being elitist , while she accepts these lavish gifts, is the point. Hypocrisy is the point. If hypocrisy is one of her character traits as a candidate, what can we expect if she gets in office? The BUSH administration is notorious for ruling in secret, and we see where that has gotten us. Palin, even more so than McCAIN, represents what is wrong with politics in this country, say and do anything to get elected, then go back to business as usual. Pandering to the rich with 700 billion dollars in tax payer money, and at the same time shouting socialism, if any one even mentions trying to give the working people a tax break. This is the” PLANTATION MASTER” mentality and it represents the epitome of hypocrisy. There is a candidate that has been running against this kind of politics since day one of his campaign. That candidate will get my vote!

155. gaynell | 10.27.08

If anyone has watch Sarah Palin come out to shake hands they will plainly see that she is continually shaking hanks with BOTH hands so she can shake as many as possible. I agree, it is not how much the ring cost but the meaning it stands for and apparently they know what that is.

156. Susan O | 10.27.08

You, the press are really showing your lack of intelligence by continually reporting on such frivolous topics. I don’t know if you think it is clever, but it is a sad time for America. We can not get the truth reported. It does not matter what Gov. Palin says or does or wears, the press will find something wrong. Such a diversion from the issues may give and your followers a chuckle but you will not be laughing when if we the poor get a share of your wealth. In spite of all your efforts Gov. Palin continues on strong and above it all because she has the experience, the values, the intelligence, the real strength of character that we need in our leaders. You are only hurting yourselves by being so derogatory and insulting. Remember when you point your finger at her you have four more fingers pointing back at yourself!
I can not believe people are even jumping on her for saying her ring made her fingers sore……….you get serious, my goodness when they are reaching out to as many people as she does every day just watch and see how they reach out with both hands!

157. Martha | 10.27.08

Just when I think the mainstream media can’t go any lower….they do.

-A Proud Conservative Hispanic

158. overdue | 10.27.08

To those who compare Obama’s and Palin’s spending habits:

Palin is spending the RNC money on clothes for her and her family. Fine, if the the RNC is happy with that, so be it. Nevermind the hypocrisy of her wearing fancy FRENCH clothes, bought in elitist NYC, while trying to sound like Everyman Joe.

Obama and his family, and Biden (McCain, for that matter, too) pay for their own clothes.
Obama, his $1,000 suits, Michelle her $150 dresses, McCain his $400 shoes.

The planes for both candidates are paid for by the candidates. Comparing planes and other travel expenditures is like comparing apples and apples.

Except if you want to compare Palin’s travel expenses in Alaska. Who paid to lodge and shelter her family while traveling around Alaska?
The taxpayers!!

159. overdue | 10.27.08

And don’t forget her $22,000 make-up tab for the first two weeks of October.
Her make-up artist was the single biggest earner in the Republican campaign that pay period.

160. Janet | 10.27.08

What in the world is going on in America. Why attack Gov. Palin about her clothing? I didnt expect to see an article like this on a Christian site. What is wrong with their ring? It is sentimental and why replace it? Get to attacking Obama.

This is just a means to distract from Obama’s comments about share the wealth and his ties to Ayers..

161. SEC | 10.27.08

What idiots. First time I have read this magazine and the last. Those of you who say she is stupid for not wearing her ring because it hurts when she shakes hands and then blast her because it is her left hand… have you NEVER viewed a political rally!? The candidates put BOTH hands out there so that as many people as possible can shake hands. Good gawd. No wonder you people are viewed as freaks. You know nothing and try to act as tho you do! Go ahead, vote for the Socialist. See if you get to practice your faux religion if and that’s a IF he gets in.

162. Mike | 10.27.08

Bill Maher is right-Palin is a category 5 moron

163. AL | 10.27.08

Years ago, in a marketing seminar full of women, we discussed the issue of shaking hands with others. Many women agreed that men often crush their fingers together and rings on the right hand can cause pain. One woman showed us how to shake hands without ever facing a “ring against fingers” crushing handshake again.

Someone should tell Palin that wedding rings are normally worn on the LEFT hand. But, perhaps she should learn the simple handshake technique that avoids that crush. It’s simple: Make sure you make contact first and wrap your fingers and thumb around the palm of the person’s hand in a slightly angled downward motion. This allows for a firm handshake and gives you control over crushed fingers.

It is utterly ridiculous to spend 150K on clothing and accessories! I have serious doubts about where the six-figure wardrobe will go, since she is “not keeping it.” Only fashionistas and the elite would know the difference between a Chanel suit for 10K or an Ann Taylor suit for $300. But what the hey…it’s only money. Spend Baby Spend!

Palin is a disgrace to American women, and THIS woman gives her zero support!

164. Shirley | 10.27.08

PLEEEEAAAASSSSEEE, Media and shallow Democrats, put Gov Palin’s wardrobe, hair, makeup and accessories to rest. You are obssessing over this one issue and cannot seem to think about anything else IMPORTANT, like campaign issues such as the economy, energy and foreign policies. Face it, Gov Palin looks like a million bucks, and the RNC spent *ONLY* $150,000 - I think they got their moneys worth. What about all those bank CEO’s that will get bonuses this year for doing such a goo-ood job FROM the bailout money being doled out by Paulson & Pelosi? Why doesn’t the Dems & Media go after that big fish? Oh, nevermind, that issue is much too substantial, kind of like Obama’s Socialist ideas. WAKE UP & SNAP OUT OF IT!!!

165. Ann J. | 10.27.08

I have been married for 30 years and raised 6 kids and never had a wedding ring…Do you know how many people buy clothes at a comsignment shop???
We have a candidate advocating socialism in it’s purest form and you are concerned with rings and clothes …As of to day I will start hitting as many anti-bo sites as I can find and advocating they start e-mailing the maker of every product sold in the US and every business in the US and tell them that if they advertise one product on one of thes stations or in one of these news papers then they will not be bought …We have reduced the New York Times to junk bond status it will not be difficult to do it to others…

166. Margaret C | 10.27.08

Some times a person has to do things for the greater good,and I hope that is correct in how I said it. Governor Palin will bring change,good change to our country.So she had to wear things that she would never buy for herself.Clearly this is something that she felt she didn’t need to do.I am so very happy that we have a choice to have someone as strong as Governor Palin to vote for along with A Great American hero,he has proven his love for country and he is not a quitter! When given the chance to run,he stayed. We need someone to be there for us,In McCain and Palin I can feel safe,maybe Obama is someone who really isn’t a bad person but I can’t trust him to do the right things when it comes to our country.I know the history of Mac and he gets my vote!

167. George Field | 10.27.08

The writer of this article as well as many of the commentors need professional help with their hate problems. Where are manners these days. Where’s kindness. Where’s keeping your mouth shut if you are unable to say anything that’s fit for decent ears?

Isn’t it amazing that the anti-war left are so emotionally violent and hate filled.

This kind of hate is what’s wrong with America.

168. Tom | 10.27.08

I’m sure that Todd bought her a nice riffle to make up for the cheap ring and I’m sure that it warmed her heart more than any rings…

169. Carlton | 10.27.08

Hey, get over yourselves and your snobbish elitist ways. Maybe Sarah is not fixated on jewelry and clothes like you are. This is not news, this is “yellow journalism” at its height and you should be ashamed of yourselves.

170. C. Reaves | 10.27.08

To An Actual Alaskan (post #6):

No, it was not a “mock” endorsement (what the heck is that anyway?). There were no reasons given why they would recommend voting for McCain/Palin, just reasons why they couldn’t recommend it. I can’t decide if your comment is just another example of the far-right’s tendency to ignore reality in favor of wishful thinking, or the other far-right characteristic to speak the most blatant falsehoods that are plainly absurd - whether it be about WMDs or newspaper endorsements. Thankfully, the American people seem to be waking up from the long nightmare of Republican Orwellian unspeak where lies are truth.

You don’t have to believe me that it was an endorsement, read it for yourself:
http://www.adn.com/opinion/story/567867.html

171. C. Reaves | 10.27.08

Is there really anyone out there so gullible to think that the plan from the start was to donate those clothes to charity after the election? Also, her idea that they might be returned to the stores would be fraud. You can’t buy a party dress for a few days and then take it back to the store for a refund. No one is naive enough to belive that story either, surely.

And speaking of legality - Federal election law clearly states that campaign funds cannot be used for personal gain. It says nothing about temporary gain being OK.

Sure, the clothes themselves are a trivial story, but the actions show a predelection toward graft, greed and deceit.

172. tom irwin | 10.27.08

I would think that twenty years ago a young couple starting out as man and wife that $35. bucks would be alot. Especially in the wilds of Alaska. I’m also sure that Todd Palin today is financially able to give Sara a more expensive ring, but to them the the ring though inexspensive is the one that counts. And just think its paid for, no need for a government bail out to pay it off.

173. Smit | 10.27.08

Palin was very clear about the $35.00 ring. I also read they eloped to save money. Five kids aren’t cheap either.

I have heard NOTHING to change my mind, it is gonna be SARAH 2012. What a role model, whether the libs like it or not, she is showing young American girls YOU GO GIRL, you are your own limit!

174. anna | 10.27.08

people, quit it. RNC spent a fortune and she wore them (or not). It was pretty stupid and irresponsible. Not to mention completely opposite of “average Jane” image they are pushing so hard.

But please do not make fun of people who don’t spend loads on rings, jewelry and weddings. I believe they are really frugal, and sensible. My wedding ring cost $20. So there. And my husband and i are still happily married with a family of our own, while some of the most expensive weddings around us are falling apart.

I have finally found something to agree on with Sarah Palin. It is not the money spent on the ring, but the commitment it represents that counts. If she and Todd Palin are happy togehter after 20 years of marriage, I say that that $35 wedding ring has worked great! Good for them! (if it is indeed $35. With her, you never know what is the truth, and what is not).

let us not rip apart their personal lives and preferences. They made personal choices that hurt no one. Leave them alone. And let us hope that if she becomes VP or POTUS, she will not meddle in other people’s personal lives and choices either, on when and how to have babies (or not), and whether to marry the person they love (as long as they are not related by blood :)).

If she does, then she is not only hypocritical, she is completely out-of-touch and non-compassionate. And in the end, that is what matters. Not her clothes or shoes - it is her mind and heart - and they are a bigger question to fear than her wardrobe.

175. Jay Arr | 10.27.08

There’s a posting from “A real Alaskan” on here that states that the Anchorage Daily News did not endorse Barack Obama today and in fact praised both candidates. Wrong. The endorsement was carried on the AP wire along with the following out take “Sen. Barack Obama, the Democratic nominee, brings far more promise to the office. In a time of grave economic crisis, he displays thoughtful analysis, enlists wise counsel and operates with a cool, steady hand. The same cannot be said of Sen. McCain.”

176. Jean C | 10.27.08

Ann J. (166) mistakenly believes: “We have a candidate advocating socialism in it’s purest form…”

Actually no, Ann. We have a President DELIVERING over 700 billion dollars worth of socialism. Right now. You and I are paying for it.

We also have a president who tried to hide his economic incompetence by “distributing the wealth” earlier this year. What did you think our $600 financial stimulus checks were all about? Government blowing us a kiss?

177. tnp | 10.27.08

Since they invited it, lets finally examine and talk about Palins record in Alaska. Especially her sleeping with the enemy Todd Palin who is a devout member of the Alaskan Independence Party that is hell-bent on seceding from the US.

178. tnp | 10.27.08

How can I get my stimulus check that the IRS is holding? I needs my money, honey!!!

179. tampagurl | 10.27.08

3. windle | 10.26.08

How can your cheap $35.00 wedding ring ’squish’ your fingers when you are shaking hands unless you are shaking hands with your left hand. I don’t think she thought about this before she presented this silly, unecessry falsehood.
_____________________________________________________________________________

It’s perfectly obvious that this blog is full of Obama supporters and stupid ones at that. “Windle” you are beyond stupid! I don’t suppose you’ve paid close enough attention to the fact that politicians use both hands while moving through the crowds. They don’t do a full handshake, people crab their fingers.

Does Shara intimidate you Obama fans so much that you are willing to find fault with her no matter what? Obama spent 800,000 to steal votes and another 105 million in just 2 weeks to try and brain wash the rest of us, and what do we hear???? Cricketts

Shara doesn’t need to explain herself to hypocrites, that fall all over themselves trying make excuses for Obama’s lake of integrity! Obama may look like a shiny new car but under the hood is a lemon!!

180. C. Reaves | 10.27.08

Yes, I’d like to talk about Palin’s record in Alaska, except that she refuses to talk about it and refuses to release all those public-record emails she placed on Yahoo to get around the public disclosure laws.

I’d also like to talk about her witch-doctor pastor exorcising the witches, her Sec of Agriculture who “likes cows”, her getting per diem while she was at home, and the $22,000 the state paid to transport her kids around Alaska and to a week-long vacation in NYC.

Add the $150,000 in clothes, the $22,000 in make-up and the $23,000 paid to her hair-stylist in two weeks - and anyone who doesn’t see a pattern of misuse and abuse has to be blind a bat.

181. tampagurl | 10.27.08

89. Troy | 10.26.08 wrote:
The *candidate* lacks substance, CP. Sarah chose to prattle on about irrelevant issues. So what else was there to report? Nada.

I’m still waiting for her to say something heavy. Waiting………….
——————————————————————————–
Well Troy, maybe she should say something like Biden did. You know…How Barack will be tested by an international crisis within his first six months. “Watch, we’re gonna have an international crisis, a generated crisis, to test the mettle of this guy.”

Yep, Biden and Obama are so darn smart, just like their followers! God please keep those two idiots out of the White House!!!!

182. tampagurl | 10.27.08

My husband gave me a miter saw for Christmas one year. It was the best gift I had ever received. Do you have a problem with women that break out of the box and don’t conform to the typical little women nonsense?

Really, you democrats complaining about the cost of her clothes, don’t have a dog in this race.

1. You didn’t contribute to the campaign and it’s not your money.
2. The cost of her clothes doesn’t matter, you still wouldn’t vote for her.
3. It’s fine with me if they use my contributions for her clothes.
——————————————————————————–
169. Tom | 10.27.08 said:

I’m sure that Todd bought her a nice riffle to make up for the cheap ring and I’m sure that it warmed her heart more than any rings…

183. mkk | 10.27.08

You Go Girl!! Show Americans that Women can be JUST as venal, shallow and currupt as men!!!!

184. Patriotic | 10.27.08

Heaven forbid we, the voters, patriotic citizens of the United States of America, should ever be able to hear a word from the “unfiltered” Sarah Palin. Enough is Enough! Palin is a joke, and a bad one at that. She is so unpatriotic that she even refuses to take questions from the voters, but only gets here messaging out at racist rallies and through bought and paid for infotainment outlets?! Go Home Sarah.

185. Troy | 10.27.08

Tampagurl 183: Actually I DID contribute to McCains campaign. That’s why I’m so mad at him.

He could at least TRY to win.

Glad you like your miter saw. They’re pretty cool. Saves a lot of hassle. And time.

186. JaninNC | 10.27.08

The media can’t find anything valid to attack Sarah for, so they have to find stupid little petty things. How ridiculous. Todd and Sarah aren’t rich–they’ve worked their entire lives, and doing hard work. Who cares how much they spent on a wedding ring? The fact that their vows have lasted 20 years and they still have a very solid marriage is priceless. They’ve been busy raising kids, and I think it’s great they’ve kept the same ring they had when they got married–the ring they had when they made those vows.

Sarah shakes hands with both hands at rallies–there’s thousands of people crowding around her to shake her hand, and she’s reaching out with both hands. She’s not standing as people come down a line so she can only shake with one hand.

Go Sarah!

187. Republican VN Era Veteran | 10.27.08

God bless you Sarah… just continue to be yourself.

.. it’s been hilarious.

But be aware that if you come back to the lower 48 after losing the election, I will have to change my party affiliation.

188. NeoCon | 10.27.08

Can someone ask how much Obama spent on his frequent marijuana and coke binges?

189. tampagurl | 10.27.08

I apologize Troy, we’re in agreement about McCain. I can think of a few things I wish he would have done different.

And yes my miter saw is cool but I like my router even more
——————————————————————————-
186. Troy | 10.27.08

Tampagurl 183: Actually I DID contribute to McCains campaign. That’s why I’m so mad at him.

He could at least TRY to win.

Glad you like your miter saw. They’re pretty cool. Saves a lot of hassle. And time.

190. CafeLady | 10.27.08

I’d like to respond to two comments that have been made in this blog. One is comparing John Edwards $400 haircuts to the $150,000 spent on Palin’s hair, makeup, and wardrobe. Are you serious. $400 vs. $150,000? For $150,000, John Edwards could have 60 years of $400 haircuts. The second comments is about Obama removing the American flag from his plane. Really? If you haven’t had your head in the sand or lived in top of a mountain somewhere, then you would know that the rest of the world has discovered that all the really crazy unbelievable stuff about Obama IS crazy and unbelievable ’cause it was ALL MADE UP! If you don’t believe me, check http://www.snopes.com OR the http://www.barackobama.com for facts and actual pictures of his plan. Of course, I’ve given up on anyone that still believes all the nonsense written about Obama. They don’t want to know the truth. I just wish they would grow a spine and just admit that they don’t want to vote for him. Of course, that would take more courage than blaming your vote on some of the outrageous lies beind spread about the Senator.

191. Dan | 10.27.08

To the Palin supporters:

Were you also Clinton supporters?

If so, why not?
What’s the difference between them for you if you did not support Hillary?

If you did support Hillary, what, besides gender, would cause you to support Palin?

192. Robert | 10.28.08

Saying that it’s sexist is an all-too-typical diversionary tactic, something which no one can argue Democrats do anywhere near as often as Republicans do. IT’S NOT ABOUT THE CLOTHES! It’s what it says about the character of those involved in making, and accepting, these purchases.

Also galling is the meme “And they fight for our every (sic) right to be here today.” First, it should be “our very right,” but you don’t need a decent command of English to be on TV, that’s been clear since the ’80s. Then, this is so hypocritical when Republicans are especially intolerant of differences, and recently (since 2001) intolerant of dissent. No president ever caged in protesters a 1/2 mile from a speaking event in an Orwellian named “free -speech zone.” Guess what, the whole USA is supposed to be a free-speech zone.

So in fact, the flag-waving Republicans, including intolerant people like Sarah Palin, are actually the least pro-American among us. They should all spend a little time in a country like the PRC, it just might clue them in how vital free speech and a thriving marketplace of ideas is to the greatness of our country. Sadly, this latest campaign of theirs has retreated once again to the tried-and-true tactics of fear and denigration of anyone who doesn’t look and think like them. Signed,

An Ivy-League-educated Patriot

193. tslat | 10.28.08

NeoCon sez:
Can someone ask how much Obama spent on his frequent marijuana and coke binges?

My answer:
Only if someone asks Cindy McCain how she lured her husband away from his first wife, and why she put her stolen husband’s political career in jeopardy by “palling around” with Frank Keating, and how much dough it cost to get out of the charges of stealing prescription meds from her pet medical charity.

194. Sarah | 10.28.08

Re #114
The idea that there is a “Real America” and a “Fake America” is stupid. In fact, it’s down right elitist! Is Cyndi actually implying that “Real” Americans only vote for John “nut job” McCain? New York - ya know, the city that actually experienced September 11th first hand - will support Obama…. but maybe their just not REAL Americans like Cyndi suggests. I think by “REAL” she means “STUPID.”

195. Andrea Brooks | 10.30.08

I’m no Palin fan but…About the ring thing…have you every seen a pol work a crowd? You’ll notice they have to shake all the outstretched hands with both the left and the right.

196. Uffda | 08.01.09

Okay, the whole thing about, “Don’t you shake with your right and wear your ring on your left hand?”

If you watch any video of Palin on the rope line, she’s grabbing all the hands she can with both of her hands. I’m just sayin’.

197. anonymous barb | 08.02.09

It is so say that the shape the world is in that grown adult men and women have nothing else to do but to gossip and lie about someone that they are jealous of, oh I forgot that is one of the reasons our world is in the shape it is. May God bless us all

198. MO Inkslinger | 08.02.09

If you care to look at the pictures of Sarah Palin when she was major of Wasilla, she worn a very thick gold wedding band not the one she is wearing today.

1. McCain says “unscripted Obama” wants to redistribute wealth | csmonitor.com | 10.27.08