[PerConPat]

There is no way that an outsider like Palin can stand toe to toe with a consummate insider like Biden. He attempted to turn the debate into a history of McCain's Senate record, but Americans are used to listening to politicians twist the voting records of their legislative peers. And Palin was wise to stay on topics that she knew best.

Palin did not effectively counter the deregulation ruse that Biden repeatedly floated, but there is time for McCain himself to address this. I would have liked to hear her stress that time lines for troop withdrawal in Iraq funding legislation were both dangerous and naive.

On the whole, Palin showed herself to be a courageous, informed competitor who successfully gave proof that she is executive material. Most importantly, she connected with the common man and woman while Biden demonstrated that he is above all a member of the establishment. I think she acquitted herself quite well.

[grey_whiskers]

You can see a dramatization of the debate here: Biden is the gerbil. Sarah is...well, the 'Cuda.

Warning: extremely unsuitable language, cartoon violence, very funny.

Cheers!