Palin was a political Hail Mary, a long bomb in the closing minutes of a game that John McCain and Co. were certain to lose. They didn't care if she had the policy or political or emotional capacity to serve as vice president, let alone president. They were willing to drive the country off a cliff, if that's what it took to win.
Sarah Palin, the Republican nominee for Vice President in the 2008 US presidential election, was a surprise pick by John McCain, who was trailing in the polls. This quote suggests that Palin was chosen more for her political appeal than her qualifications or abilities. The author, Dee Dee Myers, a former White House press secretary, is criticizing the McCain campaign's decision to choose Palin as a way to energize their base and attract new voters.
The quote highlights the superficial nature of Palin's selection, implying that she was chosen solely to appeal to a specific demographic or political group, rather than for her actual qualifications or abilities. This criticism suggests that the McCain campaign was more focused on winning the election than on selecting a qualified Vice Presidential candidate.
The quote is set against the backdrop of the 2008 US presidential election, which was marked by a significant shift in the political landscape. The election saw the rise of Barack Obama, a young and charismatic African American candidate, who was seen as a symbol of change and hope. The McCain campaign, led by John McCain, was struggling to connect with voters and was seen as out of touch with the changing mood of the country.
Dee Dee Myers is a former White House press secretary, serving under President Bill Clinton from 1993 to 1994. She is a prominent Democratic strategist and commentator, known for her sharp analysis and insightful commentary on politics and current events.
The quote highlights the importance of considering the qualifications and abilities of a candidate, rather than just their political appeal. It also underscores the need for political campaigns to focus on substance over style, and to prioritize the selection of qualified candidates over the pursuit of short-term political gains.
The quote has sparked controversy and criticism, with some arguing that it is unfair to criticize Palin's qualifications, while others see it as a necessary critique of the McCain campaign's decision-making process.