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I couldn’t help but see it as a reflection of her noble character. I truly believe that Sarah is honoring a friendship that she values and respects.

If she does value and respect McCain, then I'd have to question the soundness of her judgment. He's been a major enabler of some very bad policies, leaning across the aisle to work with Senator Ted, others, on some very bad legislation. He preens about his "bi-partisan spirit"; but it's all vanity. While he admires himself for having the reputation of working across party lines, the real point is the way he's done it has put our First Amendment liberties at risk — campaign finance reform for instance; not to mention that the illegal immigration problem seems not to trouble him at all. He seems blind to the demographic and cultural aspects; and so just wants to give all illegals "amnesty."

In this, he seems to be thinking like a Democrat — e.g., oh goodie! Look at all those new voters for me to gratify!

In short, bringing McCain along into "true believer" status strikes me as impossible on its face. He likes himself just the way he is, thank you. Sure, it would be a great thing, were it to happen. But my sense is McCain is an old dog who isn't interested in learning any new tricks.... And as influential as Sarah Palin may be, I don't believe she has a magic wand by which to transform this frog into a prince....

Just my humble opinion for what it's worth, jonrick46. I'm a political realist, that's all.

"If she does value and respect McCain, then I'd have to question the soundness of her judgment. He's been a major enabler of some very bad policies, leaning across the aisle to work with Senator Ted, others, on some very bad legislation. He preens about his "bi-partisan spirit"; but it's all vanity."

While you are right and it is true that McCain is anathema to true conservative policies and bi-partisan ad nauseam, can the GOP already behind in seats 59-31 afford to lose even McCain's seat? We don't have the luxury of playing with House money.

This may just be a three-fer on Palin's part. She's demonstrating loyalty ( will then McCain owe her?), may help influence and reign in McCain's pesky "Maverick" side, and help integrate the Republican Party against a bigger threat: Further dominance of an overwhelming Dem superiority.

my sense is McCain is an old dog who isn't interested in learning any new tricks....

You're probably right, but he could be worse - he could be in a Snowe/Collins class.

I agree with your assessment of McCain's mercurial political values. I believe his behavior is a reflection of a cultural philosophy that avoids anything that causes conflict. It is the “don't make waves” mentality that wants everything to be a pleasant working environment so that it's easy to get the job done. It tosses out moral convictions that will cause discomfort with those who don't share your values. This type of conflict avoidance is just what you would expect from a person who spent 5 and a half years as a POW. I have heard that McCain's low threshold for stress results in a violent temper that has staffers working hard to keep under control. He is a troubled man.

McCain's character is a perfect fit for what I call the independent mindset. This mindset is a culture of its own. It is the get along Charley who goes with the flow. They are fence sitters and reachers across the aisle. Their independent characteristic is a reflection their doing what works best for them.

Sarah Palin is everything that the independent is not. She is what the independent wishes they could be but are afraid to do it. They have no faith and strength in their convictions. I think this is the attraction that McCain has for her. He wants to be able to do what she does and endure the stress that comes with it. He could learn from her and this is how: She could teach him about her own relationship with Jesus Christ that brings her the strength he needs to endure all that brings him pain. Instead of a “bipartisan spirit” he will have the power of the Holy Spirit at work in his heart. If she succeeds, don't you think it would be even better than a magic wand?