"Suspect"? You *know* the discussion had already taken place, and with the McCain folks as well. Everybody knew what was coming, and they were clearly ready when the "leak" began. Smart folks, and honorable.
I've been to Alaska a few times though each time I've been somewhat insulated from the local culture. But the more I see of it the more I like the people -- so different from rich-city (liberal) phonies.
I spent the first five years of my life in Alaska. On an island.
I have a kinship there that won’t quit. Partly because I still have “folks” there!