Warning: Political Commentary Follows

As I've been watching and reading the coverage of Sarah Palin's selection as a running mate for John McCain, I've been getting more and more worked up. I realized as Nate and I were walking the other day and I went off for about ten minutes, that I felt strongly enough about the issues this raises to spout off to a broader audience. And, though it may not seem like it at first, this actually has less to do with the values espoused by the Democrats and Republicans and more to do with my disappointment in the way the public responds to females in politics.

Aside from their political views, both Hillary Clinton and Michelle Obama have received criticism from the general public on their roles as women, their strong wills, their roles as wives, and their outspoken demeanours. However, in my view, both women are smart, extremely well-educated, and have successfully managed career, family, and marriages. They both have made steps to create new opportunities for women and provided an alternate model of a politician's wife. Still, they are no favorites of the general public, especially conservatives.

Sarah Palin, in contrast, from the moment she stepped on the stage has become an instant celebrity and darling of the voters. I wish I could say it was due to the same characteristics I listed for Clinton and Obama. Unfortunately, according to what I read/hear, she's well liked because: "she's hot," "she's a soccer mom," "she's a good public speaker," "she's a hunter," "she's fresh" and so forth. Clearly, Palin has leadership skills and is a smart and polished person. However, it seems ironic, and tragic, that the reasons for accepting her onto the national stage have little to do with her preparation, career, or education.

I wonder how much her ready acceptance has to do with the fact that she's characterized as an "everyday woman"--a soccer mom, PTA mother, fashionable dresser, etc? (Not that there is anything WRONG with any of those.) I wonder if the public feels less threatened by her than women like Hillary and Michelle? I wonder if we are more willing to embrace her because she's going to be mentored (or patronized) by the older, masculine, McCain? Thus, she is still in a safe place for a woman as opposed to Clinton as President. I wonder if we really are taking a step forward with the way her candidacy as vice-president is being characterized?

It certainly doesn't feel that way to me.