Palin Surprises as VP Candidates Discuss Economic Crisis, War

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Gov. Sarah Palin surprised last night in her showing at the Presidential Debate at Washington University in St. Louis.

            The Alaskan governor was the focal point entering the debate after a series of interviews done with NBC’s Katie Couric.  The interviews received much attention as Palin, in the eyes of many, failed to impress.  Late night comedies such as Saturday Night Live have parodied these, creating popular skits and adding fuel to the flame.

Avoiding answering directly, Palin read mostly pre-practiced statements.  Palin looked confident and calm in dealing with her opponent, Sen. Joe Biden.  She even managed to correct him, stating the motto of those in favor or drilling within the United States as “drill, baby, drill.”

Biden also performed well, making clear points about the war in Iraq and the economy.  Speaking of the middle class, he stated that Republican presidential hopeful John McCain “wants to add $300 billion in new tax cuts per year for corporate America and the very wealthy while giving virtually nothing to the middle class.”  He also referred to them as “the economic engine of America.”

Biden, instead of targeting Palin, many times took aim at John McCain.  The voting records of both McCain and Barack Obama were called into question on multiple occasions.

Countering Biden’s more traditional style, Palin spoke in very plain speech, using words like “darn” and “doggone.”  Republicans will try to use this “everyman” tactic to appeal to a large range of voters.

Two debates remain featuring both presidential candidates.  The first, scheduled for Oct. 7, takes place at Belmont University while the second and final remaining debate is scheduled for Oct. 15 from Hofstra University.