Palin's Performance Garners Intense Media Exposure

by Maris Cohen

KALAMAZOO, Mich.-- Gov. Sarah Palin surprised many skeptics with her candid and assertive performance last night in this year's vice presidential debate, not showing any hesitation during her face off with Sen. Joe Biden.  The debates, held in St. Louis, had been widely anticipated by the press largely because of Palin and her array of media blunders, most recently seen on The Today Show with Katie Couric.  Last night, however, Palin did not display the same indecisiveness that she had previously in other interviews, and was able to banter comfortably with Biden about the failing economy, gay marriage, and the war in Iraq.

While Biden stuck to the issues at hand, Palin focused on giving a solid performance and appealing to the audience with her honesty.

 "I may not answer the question the way you want to hear, but I'll talk straight to the American people and let them know my track record," she said.

Palin also admitted her relative inexperience to the audience.  "Oh yeah, it's so obvious I'm a Washington outsider," she said.

Although Palin did better than most predicted, Biden came off strong as well.  Biden, however, did not focus on his vice presidential opponent as he did her running mate.  He did not hesitate to criticize McCain's proposed healthcare plan and response to the failing economy.  He also emphasized the merits of his running mate, Sen. Barack Obama when discussing what to do about the Iraq war.

"Barack Obama offered a clear plan. Shift responsibility to Iraqis over the next 16 months. Draw down our combat troops...The only odd man out here, only one left out is John McCain," Biden said.

Though neither candidate emerged as the clear victor, the media interest in the story is indisputable.  Over 50 million viewers tuned in to watch Palin and Biden face off, an unparalleled figure for a vice presidential debate.

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