ABOUT allDAY

allDAY is the official TODAY blog, your virtual window to Studio 1A and the people who make America's favorite morning show come alive. Whether it's exchanging views with the anchors and contributors or going behind the scenes with the producers, editors, camera people and more, we'll bring you the buzz here at 30 Rock, and we hope you will make this a regular part of your online routine. We want this to be a conversation, so please respond with your comments and questions directly to the blog, and we'll do our best to post what you have to say.



The mommy wars: Here we go again

Posted: Wednesday, September 03, 2008 7:28 AM by Rina Raphael
Filed Under:

From Janet Shamlian, NBC News correspondent

I arrived in my daughter's classroom for an end of the school year performance. A mom I'd met but didn't know well greeted me in a voice that ensured the entire room would hear: "It's great to see you in person instead of on television for a change.” While I was verbally rescued by other parents, she scored the intended bulls-eye. The truth is, I missed the Halloween party, the holiday party and all the field trips last year. And that doesn't include what I missed for my other four children! Her comment was months ago, but it still burns more than yesterday's workout.

I was reminded of that day by the chatter swirling around Vice-Presidential nominee Sarah Palin, also a mom of five. TODAY is reporting on the emerging criticism over her navigating a demanding job and campaigning for an even bigger one, all while raising a large family with special needs and unique circumstances. From "she's a bad mom" to "her daughter wouldn't be pregnant if she'd spent more time at home", there are hungry-man plates of judgment being served up from the corner cafe to the blogosphere. Here's a shocker, most of it is coming from other moms.

Women with these types of jobs rarely go it alone — just like their male counterparts. There's usually a supportive spouse and relatives or a loving caretaker in the picture. And it helps when you work for a family-friendly employer (thank you, NBC).

Politics aside and as a journalist, it's intriguing to see the so-called mommy wars resurrected and reignited once again. As a working mom, it's disheartening to see another — whomever she is — attacked for her choices.  WATCH VIDEO

MAIN PAGE

Email this EMAIL THIS

Comments

This was a topic just brought up by Gulianni.  I am also a working mom and have had the fortune to get promoted move forward in my career and have a great and balanced family life.  My husband and I are a team, and took turns when kids were sick, ect.  My kids are now teens and we still have a team approach.

I understand your comments very well.  I have also experienced it from the other side.  When I do take a day off from work for a field trip.  The non working moms have assalted me, for volunteering. Like becasue I worked and they didn't they were more worthy to go on a field trip than me.

My question to the VP candidate would be to talk about how she plans on balancing work and home.  Will her husband be in DC or Alaska?  Will they have a nanny?  When a child gets sick, who gets called?  I think having her talk about this, will rally the support of other working moms.

Alice Peebles, Albany NY (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 7:46 AM)

I am NOT a Mommy, just s teacher. I'm used to people thinking that I have all the time in the world and sit around eating bon-bons because of school hours and lack of children. Women like me get both ends of that very short, sharp stick, primarily from other women. Perceptions go like this: if I do well, it's because I don't have children to attend to. If I do well, my efforts will never be measured as fulfilling and as miraculous as having a child (according to many of the Mommies I know). Okay, fine - everyone makes choices and with something as monumental as parenthood the whole decision-making process is rarely obvious. Mrs. Palin's family is her business, and so long as she does not presume to lecture the rest of us on conservative family values, including abstinence and sex before marriage then more power to her as a parent and a professional.    

Sandy Fraser, Ormond Beach, Florida (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 8:00 AM)

I trust that she has a great support base to help her with her five children. What I don't understand is why put your family through the scrutiny it faces as a result of her running for VP? If her daughter miscarries as a result of the stress she will surely blame the media instead of herself! But like the RNC says: God, Country, Family! Now her daughter is the celebrity.

Lisa, Marylad (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 8:05 AM)

I think that folks need to get a grip!  As a mother who has had to help my daughter get through a difficult time of having a baby out of wed lock and dealing with all the issues and problems that come with it, I feel for both Senator Palin and her daughter.  All that this has done is make Senator Palin more real to me.  She understands what I have been through.  I have a beautiful granddaughter, but it wasn't an easy road.  As much as we try to raise our kids right they are bombarded with so much pressure to grow up to fast.  Our kids are a product of a society that does nothing but push premarial sex and inappropriate behavior on tv and in the music they listen to and the video games they play.  So if you really want to focus on something, focus on the society that produces a generation that thinks premarital sex is ok and young men feel that they have no accountability of their actions.

M. Adams (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 8:10 AM)

Yesterday, the press reported that the Palin children boarded the plane for Dayton last week thinking that it was a trip to celebrate their parents anniversary.

Could Sarah Palin really be such an irresponsible mother that she didn't even factor her children into this decision.  She didn't discuss with them the implications of accepting this position and what it would mean for their lives - especially a pregnant 17-year-old daughter?

Becky Mikkelsen, Decorah, Iowa (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 8:10 AM)

Why do you even have to ask those questions?  No one asked those questions of Obama.  And you would be offended if someone asked those questions of you.  Can't you see that she is already handling these challegnes as Governor of Alaska?  I do not need to know how she will handle her personal life.  I only need to know how she will lead my country.  The rest doesn't matter.

Jennifer Hoffman, Coral Gables, FL (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 8:11 AM)

I hate that they ever brought it up, the daughter is seventeen and off limits.  I'm sure not everyone in their community knew she was pregnant, and they should have never knew unless she shared it herself.  Not only is she just a teenager, she is a teenager of a politician, they deal with enough, the press should have left that alone.  There are millions of pregnant teenagers in America. So this new VP to be is normal, like the rest of us.  It could be my daughter, she is only five now, but when she is a teenager, it could happen to her.  Are we saying as American's that if you are in politics your daughter can't get pregnant?  What was the point of telling the whole world about this young lady? Isn't there a law somewhere about privacy and young people that prohibits the media to even talk about this stuff.  She is not a celebrity.  She is definately not the first teenager to get pregnant.  It won't effect my vote.  All it does is make me mad that it happened.  I would like to know more about Palin, right now, I have heard nothing except that she is a mother of five children and her 17 year old is pregnant.  What about her resume'?  Another thing, this story, about the pregnant teenager in Alaska, daughter of Sarah Palin, is this supposed to be shocking?  I live in a very small town, about 3000 people and at least four teenage girls that I know are pregnant now or just had a baby.  Two graduated in May, and two are seniors.  It happens everywhere.  When I was a teenager, at least six girls had babies while in high school or just after graduation.  That was 22 years ago!  All this stress my hurt her baby, America needs to leave her alone!

Jennifer Cady, Lewiston, Michigan (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 8:12 AM)

There are many women out here that balance children and work.  If you are organized and can build some flexibility into your work obligations it does allow you the opportunity to "do it all".  Of course, it can be a real balancing act at times but I manage to maintain a job, volunteer at school events and parent my children.  I don't understand how Governor Palen is taking so much criticism over her daughter's pregnancy.  A seventeen year old daughter can not be monitored all the time.  I think they are making the best out of a tough situation.

CH Garst, Charlotte NC (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 8:13 AM)

It's ashame that after all women have done to be accepted in the workplace and also raise a family, that women should be the first to critisize Sara Palin.  I thought we had all finally come to the conclusion that we do what works for us and our families instead.  Suddenly the glass ceiling is guarded by women not men.  We are keeping ourselves locked in the past.  As for her questionable mothering for her daughter getting pregnant...how about the questionable mothering from the boy's side?  We are still blaming and punishing women and totally forgetting that it takes two to tango and someone else is to blame.

Valerie, McMurray, PA (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 8:14 AM)

What Senator Palin needs to say to all the "Mommies" out there, " I am you, you are me, were moms we get the job done, period! So lets band together, mother or not, working or stay at home and put our differences aside and move forward!

L Robertson, Rocky Mount NC (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 8:41 AM)

I think that women who believe Palin is somehow shortchanging her children by running for VP are quite sexist and ignorant, and are also quite rude to her husband and husbands in general. Perhaps such women do not have a husband with good parenting skills, but they are in the minority.

Greg, Media PA (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 8:49 AM)

I so agree with Valerie McMurray.  Shame on American women for this personal offensive on Gov. Palin.

It blows me away that many third world countries have managed to elect women to high office and yet, in the most progressive country in the world, we can't get past the shape of our candidates' genitals!

Shame--especially--on the women of the media!  Have you forgotten the days before Barbara Walters and what she endured to get you where you are?

E. Lipton, Newton NJ (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 8:51 AM)

I am a dad, with two girls, and live in a household of women.  It is a proud day when in America a woman is selected as a Vice President candidate.  It is a sad day when American's, including Meredith Vieira, seem to be on the attack, implying that Gov. Palin is not qualified for the job because of this personal matter.  When did unbiased journalism disappear? I am especially disappointed in Meredith's biased partisan comments about Gov. Palin, when she is a working mother, who has evidently transcended the glass ceiling in her own industry.  Let Gov. Palins family be a family and stop the madness.

M. Hadaway, Hiram, GA (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:04 AM)

Sham Sham Sham on the entire media and press, especially all the high profile women on TV. They have it all and no one questioned if they can do their job and raise a family.  Maybe the general public should not watch any morning shows because how can the women do their job and be a good parent.  Stop and look at themselves before reporting about others.  Maybe we should do away with their job like they would like to do away with others jobs.

Mary Martin (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:12 AM)

What's the real issue here? John McCain's reasons for picking Mrs. Palin is to be questioned. I believe he chose her solely because she's a woman. His pick is purely political. He's hoping to sway the disgruntaled, uncommitted female Democrates who wanted a woman, Hillary, to be on the ticked. John McCain is the real sexist.

McCain says that he'd rather lose an election than lose a war. McCain's pick of Mrs. Palin says to me that he's willing to do what ever it takes to win an election even if it means pimping a female governer.

On the other hand, Mr. Obama had the courage not to use Hillary to gain the vote of so many woman who think a woman should be on the ballot. He could have very well done so. Hillary would have been a great pick to ensure winning all of the Democratic female vote and possibly capturing many of the female Republican vote. Instead, Mr. Obama put the well far of the country first by chosing Mr. Biden a seasoned and proven veteran.

The question of how she's going to be an effective mother and VP is not one of sexism. It's one of reality. What's most interesting about this is how so hypocritical the conservative Republican party is about their own beliefs. They are strong on no abortion, but unwedeness is okay. They are strong on fighting corruption, but hiding your pregnant daughter's belly behind your down syndrome baby son is okay. You know, having five children doesn't mean you are a good mother. She has a special needs child that will require more of her time than usual and she's willing to devote the most critical years of her child's life to being VP. How much does she really care about her family?

Donald Ephraim, Upland, CA (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:12 AM)

I think the reason working women are being the hardest on Palin is because we live it EVERYDAY.I doubt there is a mom out there that doesn't realize you can have it all, but there are sacrifices and consequences by you, your spouse and your children.Its not fair but its fact, its different for women than men, plain and simple and will always be.

Donna, Knoxville TN (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:17 AM)

What is it with the media concentrating on the faults of women running for President or VP instead of the issues that we are facing today?  Are you reporting what people are interested in or what you think makes a better story?

Linda Morales, Waco, TX (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:17 AM)

I guess women will never be able to get past this maternal so called burden that has been put upon them. Truthfully, I know many men that are basically better care givers then women. I think that if you are strong partners the rolls can change and should. The health of the parents reflect in the children and all families have there troubled times. It is not the problems that bring the family down but the resolve. It seems like the Palins have this under control and that is all that matters. What ever any one else thinks or believes this family looks strong and will work this out in their own way without our help or discussion. Please let's look at this candidate for what she brings to the table because if she can do both she is far better than any male constituant. I give her my support as a working mother and grandmother your job is never over and that is the beauty of being a parent. I look forward to hearing what she has to say tonight and if it is what I beleive I will support this ticket. No matter what her family issues may be or become.

Gay LaBarre, Atlanta, Georgia (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:17 AM)

didn't we just finish crucifying john edwards for his personal life? please keep an eye on the overall picture. this woman is seeking the position of vice president. is she competent for that position? she didn't run in the primaries so is this her dream on something that the party came up with to manipulate the voters? i say pray for her daughter, she is getting ready to marry someone who has said he doesn't want children no matter who her mother is she is in for a bumpy ride

an (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:24 AM)

The issue of her being a working mother is not the biggest problem she brings to this country.  The biggest problem with Sarah Palin is that she is a Religious Zealot.  Listen to her speech about God wanting us in Iraq etc.  Every other word coming out of her mouth was God.  It is ok if she runs her personal life by 'Her Religion'  But this is a free country, and there are many other Religions, and also many who choose not to have a religion, and 'this country' SUPPORTS that too.  Sarah Palin is a self centered Religious Zealot and should not be in a position of Power.  "it would be a very scarey sitition."

ge`pennsylvania (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:26 AM)

I find it hard to believe the media attention that is being given to this issue. As parents, we try to give our children the ability to make good decisions. No one is perfect, and people do make bad choices. How we deal with the consequences of those decisions is even more important. The media wants to lay blame on everything from the amount of TV children watch, to whether or not a mom works outside the home. Is there a Mommy War? Or is this just another  media made-up from nothing story? The Palin family is standing by their daughter, and their daughter shouldn't have to become a media sensation just because we have nothing else to talk about.

Lisa, Kennesaw GA (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:36 AM)

I am disappointed with the media and with many women out there who keep slamming Gov. Palin for something women have been fighting to achieve for a long, long time.  Having a family doesn't preclude having a life outside your home. The rest of us lean on spouses, family, hire sitters, daycare, etc., when we need it, why wouldn't that work the same for her?

As far as "putting her daughter in the spotlight", that's ludicrous. Her daughter made decisions that she now is going to have to live with, period.  Nothing about being a mom says you have to pass up opportunities because your children make hard choices in their own lives. If so many people weren't so judgemental it wouldn't matter how many spotlights were on her.  So perhaps rather than criticizing Palin for putting her daughter in the spotlight we should be criticizing those that have used the spotlight to take better aim at a woman who has done nothing but try to improve the world her children live in. We all want to make decisions based on our own beliefs so why should she be any different?  I don't agree with many of her views but I can't deny that she's a worthy role model for any woman. What's not to admire about being an attractive, intelligent, tough, hard working woman who can still manage to have a beautiful family?

Suzette Mocarski, Strongsville, OH (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:37 AM)

Why do you belive that were the most progressive country in the world? The fact the we're still struggling with race and gender is proof that we are not. South Africa elected a Black Man years ago. And he did a great job. That's progressive! Elect the best person for the job. And we all know who that is. John McCain is a good guy, but he doesn't have a vision for the entire country. Barack Obama will be a blessing to all people of this great land.  

Donald, Upland, CA (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:38 AM)

The question is not whether Sarah Palin can, with
help,deal with a responsible job and five children. Women can and do do this all the time. However,choosing to have a special needs child involves always putting that child before personal ambition. Similarly, having a pregnant teenager is not a crime, but knowingly throwing that child to the lions of the press to further personal ambition certainly should be.

joan smith, esperaza, france (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:38 AM)

Yes, we are behind other nations in electing a woman, but for goodness sakes let it be the right woman.  So she is a 'mommy', why does that qualify her for office?  She sold an airplance on ebay.  C'mon folks do you know how stupid we look when we take this stuff seriously.  I am sure that she will greatly impress the people of Russia, China, Iraq, etc. with this feat. And her next trip out of the country will be her second.  
Here is a woman who makes a conscious decision to have a down's sydrome baby at 44, but then does not do what she asks others to do, - stay home and take care of it.  Here is a woman that is anti science and anti birth control and anti choice and anti sex education. Now she has a pregnant kid - makes the decision to announce the fact to the WORLD and then says the subject should be off limits.  And, her supporters - the very people who scorn this behavior when people are poor and disadvantaged - now embrace this and are actually "proud" of the decision to get married at 17.  C'mon people.  I believe Abe Lincoln was wrong - you can fool all of the people all of the time.  
Mommies you better ask yourselves - do you play with assault weapons as she was photographed doing - do you want your children to be home schooled and non competitive academically - to be pregnant at 17 to carry on the tradition - to disregard science - perhaps we should all move to the Branch Davidian ranch.

H. Neer, Tamarac, FL (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:40 AM)

I don't question or bring judgment to the working mother/single pregnant teenage daughter issues that abound here, but my concern is with her being a viable VP. The Vice-Presidency of The United States of America is not a 8-5 job. It is 24/7 as I see it. Is she up for that? If she is, surely there will be great sacrifice of family. That is her choice. I know if elected, I don't want a part-time VP. I am paying for more than that.

I find it ironic too that she wants to be such a staunch Republican, while her family is needing or will need the benefits that Democrats fight so hard to get for us. If not elected to office, her daughters and possibly herself will certainly be needing some public assistance for health care for themselves and their children at some point in the future, public assistance for day-care for their kids while needing student loans or grants to hopefully continue their educations.

It appears to me Gov. Palin needs this job and free housing to support her family because they are outgrowing their spread in Alaska. How many nurseries are in the VP's home...will 3 be a record? Do the taxpayers have to pay for all the nannies? I see this family as being funded by taxpayers for years and generations to come, whether in office or not.

     

joel embry (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:47 AM)

We're not talking about any job! We're talking about the world's second most powerful position.  A woman can do it with ease but should she if she has a 4 month old with special needs? Should she if she has a teenager who will need her (not dad) for the next 2 years solid, without excuse? Women have been working moms for a very long time. That's not the question. The question is can THIS woman, with THESE issues do THIS job? I say no...something must be sacrificed.

Working Mom Sabrena, Plano, TX (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:48 AM)

What I can't fathom is why I've heard so many people on both sides saying that Palin's family situation should be off-limits. Considering that Palin supports abstinence-only education, coupled with the fact that Alaska has one of the country's highest rates of sexually transmitted infections, of course what's happening in her family is important for us to discuss. I could never support a candidate, regardless of gender, who has so little regard for women as to want to deny us accurate, honest sex education and the right to make our own medical decisions.

Debra Mollen, Lewisville, Texas (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:49 AM)

It is very frustrating listening and reading people talk about how Governor Palin is “trusting” her family into the spot light and how could she do such a thing!!! Let’s get something straight; it is not Governor Palin doing it, she is just doing HER job. It is you the networks and the Democrats looking for something. Both sides say “let’s leave the children out of this” and yet that is ALL you hear and see. WHY? What we should be talking about is how history is being made and not once have I heard the networks talk about it. Regardless what happens people HISTORY is being made. We are going to have either a black president or a female VP. How are they going to run the United States? THAT is what the networks should be coving, NOT that Palin’s daughter is pregnant! Let’s focus on the issues and leave family out please

Steve Pellegrino, Bangor, Maine (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:51 AM)

Why does everything in this country have to be one extreme or another? You're either a virgin or a slut, either an alcoholic or dry, and so on.

You can be a mother and have a demanding and satisfying career. But do you have to have a soccer team of children on top of that?

Both (at the time) of us had very demanding careers and were not really sure if we wanted children but ended up with one anyway. We were thrilled after the fact but I also knew we couldn't really do it all with more children and keep our sanity. This allows me to work (40 hr week) and then spend my available time and resources on the child I chose to have. I insisted on an aminocentesis because I knew I didn't want or need more challenges in life, even one child provides enough of that- at least in this day and age.

These were/are all choices I feel empowered to make and I use all of my rights as a woman to do so.

FYI: The child rearing challenges and demands of the Clintons doesn't even compare with those of the Palins.

Joy, MI (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:51 AM)

Being a mother of three teens I can easily relate to these challenges, however, my children's lives are not being scrutinized worldwide. Certainly having a family should not hold any woman back from reaching for whatever professional level she aspires, however, in Palin's case the timing seems very unfortunate. It is fair to assume that her issues are not short term especially with a special needs infant. I understand the demands of children with special needs and can't imagine assisting to run the country alongside.
I believe it is her choices that resonate with women, not that she is a working mom. Equally, it is sad that Palin's daughter is now living proof that her mother's favored sex education program "abstinence" doesn't work.

As dynamic, beautiful, and accomplished she is, I think it is going to be very hard for American's to embrace her. I'd love to hang out with her, but help run the country, no thanks!

Heidi, MA (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:52 AM)

It's nice to see a conversation on this topic. As a working mother, I too have gotten the "Don't you miss your children speech?" as if they can't be away from me for more than a half hour without some kind of irreparable damage. I've learned to ignore the comments and steer clear of situations where I'm alone with certain "mommies", but it is interesting that the majority of judgements on "EVERYTHING" come from women....from you're a bad parent because your house is not clean enough.....to you're a bad parent because you work....women, in general and for lack of a better statement, need to get a life....

Michelle Miller, Gallipolis, Ohio (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:56 AM)

Ms. Palin, or her campaign, brought the questions about her ability to successfully combine her roles of mother and national level politician by promoting Ms. Palin as a "hockey mom".  Not only would I question the ability of any male to successfully combine such roles, I question the honesty and grasp on reality of anyone who claims to be a "hockey parent" while also claiming to be a ready to actively pursue a national campaign. Are the McCain's prepared to pay to relocate the venue of Ms. Palin's children's games, or to transport Ms. Palin to the games, regardless of where Ms. Palin's political responsibilities may take her?  Or perhaps John McCain really is not intending to make political use of Ms. Palin's publicized purported experience and expertise in international relations? Or, can Ms. Palin still be so confused about the daily duties, obligations, and responsibilities of the Vice President of the United States that she believes that if elected she will be able to continue carpooling members of the hockey team to their practices while cleaning up the corruption in Washington via cellphone?  

Kathy, Corpus Christi, TX (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 10:24 AM)

Judging by the above comments, women are ready to rally around Sara Palin and her choice to be a parent and vice president!  All morning the Today Show has been talking about Sara Palin and her pregnant 17 year old daughter, Bristol.  Stop already!  According to Barrack and Joe Biden, a candidates children are absolutely off limits, so stop beating the issue into the ground.  I am a Barrack supporter, but what about the fact that he has two young daughters and Michelle works as well.  Like Sara and her husband, they will find a way to make it work because they love their family and their country and are willing to sacrifice for both.  The double standards are terrible.  Stop reporting on her children and stick with her credentials!!

C. newcomb, East Moline, Il (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 10:25 AM)

I think that its bias for people to be so judgemental on Palin, just because she is a working mother.  I say good for her.  Alot of mothers have to work, even just to make ends meet with the cost of rising gas prices, and what happens if Obama is elected then more moms are going to have to work because of Tax hikes.?  I dont here any judgement being made on Hilary Clinton, and shes been in the same spot light, if not more, when Chelsea Clinton was a child, or at the fact that Clinton just cant give it up, and live her life as a mother and enjoy whats left of her daughter being in college.  I think people need to look past at the fact that shes a mother, and start looking at the real issues that surround our nation.  Her being a mother and having to deal with the same things mothers in middle and lower class have to deal with shouldnt determine how well she will do her job as a Vice Pres.  Maybe its about time we have people in office who have things in common with us little people.  Maybe then things of importance will be addresed and fixed.  Whats so wrong with being a mother, if it were the other way around, and they would have told her no for the job, because of being a mother, everyone would be crying and complaining that she was being treated unfairly.  What happened to the beliefs of this country in Everyone is created equally.  You all are throwing that right out the door, along with every other thing our country is suppose to represent.  I for one admire her.  From a Stay at home MOM

Regina James Farmington, New Mexico (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 10:30 AM)

Yes women can raise a family and work at the same time.  My wife does it very well and I love her for it.  I also believe that the approach Mrs. Palin is taking with her daughter is admirable and the best way forward.  However, I think the point is being missed.  Teen pregnancy is a social problem and Republicans should stop trying to get everyone to just accept it.

A second issue I have with Mrs. Palin being the presumptive VP nominee is that she is currently under ethical scrutiny/investigation in her own state.  Does the party need more questionable ethics involvement?

Andy Silver Spring, MD (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 10:32 AM)

What's the big deal???? Did we ask Obama how he was going to be a good father to his daughter's??  No, the Double Standard has to stop.  Sarah Palin has already proven what she can do from her record alone.  This nasty spin makes me sick.  She's a strong formidable women...and that scares a lot of people!  I think she's exactly what this country needs.....Her personal life is no one's business, No ONE'S!!!!  For all we know her husband plays the mommy role very well and will be helping her every step of the way.......we shouldn't even be talking about this.....

Sheri, St. Louis, MO (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 10:36 AM)

I don't have a huge problem with the 17-year-old being pregnant.  It is more common now with both parents working and the republicans don't want sex education in schools.  My major problem with Gov. Palin is that as a mom of twins with special needs, who is going to give the baby who has downs syndrome the attention he needs?  She only took 3 days off for maternity leave and her husband has a full-time job and owns a business.  

D Martin, Paducah, KY (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 10:48 AM)

As a single working mother, I have to agree that Gov Palin's timing is less than optimal for her special needs baby, as well as for her pregnant daughter.  I think that it is crucial to make the best professional choices when it comes to your children above all else, although it is not my place to judge her for her choices. I have not heard much about Palin's husband other than that he is a professional snowmobile racer. Perhaps he plans to be a stay-at-home dad, which would make complete sense and rock the Republican stereotype of the head-of-the-household/breadwinner nonsense.

On a different note, I do think that Palin was chosen in a very obvious attempt to garner women's votes. I am very concerned that she is under-prepared, under-experienced, reactionary in her views on abortion, evolutionary science, and global warming, that she served as a director on Ted Stevens' 527 group, and that she is under investigation for abuse of her public office. These are the real issues. A friend sent me a picture of her in a very tight, extremely short (think barely covering her buns) leather skirt and platforms. I shudder to think what the world will say once the international press circulates a copy. I do hope that her attire can be explained as a Halloween getup and not just her party clothes. And I have to wonder if McCain saw this picture before he chose her as his Presidential running mate.

Kitty Siegel, Knoxville, TN (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 10:54 AM)

I work part-time from home(it part time, but a lot of responsibility) and I home school my daughter (I have a friend and tutor who help).  

My children are my proirity over my job.  I could do a whole lot better at it if I didn't have kids.

I think women need to stop judging each other!  On both sides of the apron.

If I had the oppotunity to be the Governor of a State...there are ways to do juggle it.  Hire a housekeeper, a cook, a personal shopper....spend all your free time with your kids.  And...if your job doesn't pay enough for that, then it probably isn't worth it!!!!  

When I HAD to work for 9 months when my daughter was 2 my mom watched her....I was heart broken...but, it was so good for both of them.  If your children are being nutured...vs. day care....big difference.

If a mom's heart is with her kids...then let her work it out and stop judging.....we all do things differently.

Beth Webb (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 10:55 AM)

I do not see this as being an issue with the VP being a mother or female. I am a mother of four. The problem I have is that as a family we obviously have issues with the 17 year old all over the net drinking. Where are the parents? The special needs that the baby will have, how supportive can the entire family be if the mother is trying to assist running a country. Beyond that what happens if for some awful reason McCain passes - I believe if we all look deeply into ourselves we are not absolutely positively sure that Palin can solely run our country with any amount of advisors. And lastly as the mother of four girls do we really want her putting into law the beliefs she has to rule our daughters... I do not. I do however feel very sorry for the entire family because I do not think they were completely ready for the press that is now covering them. I believe if I were Palin at this point I would have had to say Thank you, but no thank you - maybe next time.

A. Peters, Birmingham, Alabama (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 10:55 AM)

Nobody questionly Hillary's dicision to run for senator......Maybe if she had stayed home and took care of her "WIFELY" duties Billbo wouldn't screw around so much.....

ph vicksburg ms (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 10:58 AM)

I haven't made my decision on McCain/Palin yet, but I have had similar experiences to Ms. Shamlian...  and I'm a stay-at-home mom.  There's always someone around to make a comment.  If you're a working mom, someone makes a snide comment.  If you're a stay-at-home mom, someone makes a snide comment.  If you have no children, someone makes a snide comment.  From my perspective as a stay-at-home mom of 9 years, it has been insinuated that I must not be that educated or I must have been in a dead-end job when I had my first baby and decided to stay home.  I an college educated w a double major.  I was making good money when I quit.  I was offered more money to stay.  I was called by another company when my baby was 2 weeks old to ask me to interview for another job that would have been a promotion in title with even higher pay.  Even if I were not educated, my choice to stay home with my children should not be demeaned.  Another mom insinuated that I was not setting a good example for my daughter since I was not working and showing my daughter all the possibilites she should be able to have in life.  Unfortunately, the comments cut all ways.

J (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:01 AM)

You're missing the point! Most families have both parents working and raising a family! Women have juggled this for years!!The point is, she's not qualified!!!!I would choose a Harvard Law Degree over a Jounalist degree any day! She doesn't even know what the job entails!!When she asked the question, "What exactly the VP does", because her job as Governor is cool!!!What kind of representation do you want to have for America!!!People be real!!Also all the ethics violation and the other baggage she brings, the country just doesn't need this scrutiny!!!We look ridulous to the other countries!!! Vote wise, vote Obama/Biden!!!!For the sake of the country!

Working Mom of 2 (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:04 AM)

Working mom of two better realize the sacrifice her children will have to make in the future if you vote Obama- Please think of your children and their future..

Kristie Hinzman, Columbia Falls, Montana (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:27 AM)

I am beginning to believe that the issue of whether or not she can be VP being a mother of five is being overblown as a distraction from the real issue:
Is she qualified to be VP?  The spin that she has foreign policy experience because Alaska is close to Russia is a joke. Women of America should be insulted that a more qualified Republican woman was not picked.
Yes, we want a woman to be VP and better yet, President.  But let's not lose track of the fact that they first have to be qualified.

Samantha Prince, Daytona Beach, FL (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:28 AM)

First, 2 of her 5 children are adults,  second, she has been working for a number of years and seems to have successfully managed it all.  there are downs syndrome children in our "at large" family whose parents work, take the kids to therapy, use sitters.   So, what makes Mrs. Palin any less capable of handling her family with the help of her husband?

I worked for years, Oregon (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:28 AM)

One question I haven't really seen addressed on this subject is not how will Sara Palin handle the job of Vice Presidency if elected, but how will she then find time to support her 5 children in  Alaska...expecially the current and future needs of her "special needs" child and her 17 year old daughter who is pregnant.

Susan Carrazza, Longmeadow, MA. (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:29 AM)

"We're not talking about any job! We're talking about the world's second most powerful position.  A woman can do it with ease but should she if she has a 4 month old with special needs? Should she if she has a teenager who will need her (not dad) for the next 2 years solid, without excuse? Women have been working moms for a very long time. That's not the question. The question is can THIS woman, with THESE issues do THIS job? I say no...something must be sacrificed."

WELL SAID Plano mom...my only advice to Sarah Palin is "..stay home and mind baby" That child needs its mother. We have enough able people ( men and women ) to run this great country. That child has one and only one mother and it needs her NOW. 5 years later yes we may think of Sarah Palin in a different light. But not NOW!! She neeeds to be home with baby and grand baby..Lets not bring shame to womanhood by sending a mother with a special needs infant to the front lines. That child has only one mother we have enough good people. I say NO to S Palin. "Mommy stay home till your children have grown up and are strong enough to be on their own. You are showing extreme irresponsibity with this decision."

Houston, TX (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:30 AM)

First, 2 of her 5 children are adults,  second, she has been working for a number of years and seems to have successfully managed it all.  there are downs syndrome children in our "at large" family whose parents work, take the kids to therapy, use sitters.   So, what makes Mrs. Palin any less capable of handling her family with the help of her husband?

I worked for years, Grants Pass, Oregon (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:30 AM)



SEND A COMMENT

PLEASE READ: All comments must be approved before appearing in the thread; time and space constraints prevent all comments from appearing. We will only approve comments that are directly related to the blog, use appropriate language and are not attacking the comments of others.

Message (please, no HTML tags. Web addresses will be hyperlinked):

Your name, city and state (John Doe, Seattle, Wash.): 

 Your e-mail address (jdoe@msnbc.com):

Your website (it's okay if you don't have one):

Remember me? (We'll keep it private)

More allDAY

Recent Posts:

Archives:

Categories

Syndicate This Site

Add allDAY to your news reader:
live.com xml
myyahoo msn
bloglines newsgator
google

MSNBC Weblogs

More Links