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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

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Comments

Mother or not, woman or not, experienced Palin is not. We all should be concerned by the pick of John McCain. He has took a stab at women and men by picking a inexperienced mate. A soul mate in his words on NBC. There are many women in politics that are qualified to help run this country, for McCain to say Palin is the most qualified is a slap in the face.

The debate that if she was a man there would be no debate is absolutely true. If Sarah Palin was man his wife would be holding their infant son not their daughter. Quite frankly I don't want to see her child carring her other child all over the country. If Palin can do the job good, if McCain thinks shes the best person for the job fine, but leave you children at home. The McCain motto of Country First is why I believe he picked Palin. I love my country but my family will always come first.  

N. Woodruff, Middle Georgia (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:35 AM)

My question for Gov. Palin would have to do with her stance on sex education and her approach to birth control for teens.  Is it 'abstinence only'?  As this seems to be the stance of ultra-conservatives, including George Bush.  I have a 16 year old daughter.  I would prefer that she hold off on having sex at her age, but I have talked with her, explaining that I hope she waits, but if she decides otherwise I want her to use the protection necessary to not get pregnant or get an STD and give her the information she needs to put this in place.  I do not want to depend on the fear of pregnancy to stop her - it obviously didn't stop Gov. Palin's daughter.  This personal issue is therefore very relevant in the political arena because these issues are legislated in our schools.  We have a right to know where she originally stood on this and if that has changed.

Donna Yost, Glenwood Springs CO (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:37 AM)

Okay, there isn't a mom war. As for moms working or not working, we all put how children first. They come before husbands, country, and sometimes God! My question with Gov. Palin is "Did she consider the amount of stress and lack of privacy that her young teenage daughther would endure as a result of media inquiries. I am a pregnant mom and have two boys ages 4yrs and 6yrs old. This pregnancy is hard enough being mature and dealing with my normal life. A teen couldn't possibly be ready for motherhood and American politics spotlight!!! So, the question isn't if Gov. Palin is qualified, is pro-life, can she handle politics and family, or what we think about teenage pregnancy, but "JUDGEMENT"!!! Why would you subject you daughther and her boyfriend to this political mess?

DRMOM, Memphis,Tn (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:43 AM)

Anyone remember DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL candidate Bobby Kennedy with his 10 children, plus one on the way?  Did anyone think it was inappropriate for him to run for THE PRESIDENCY - highest office - with 6 more children than Gov. Palin?  If I remember correctly, it was excused to his Catholic faith - they have large families.

AND - Let's not forget that democratic presidential candidate, Barack Obama, does not come from your typical home-town American family - even using drugs at some point.  Should that preclude him from running for the Presidency?  I think his family did well with the chips they were dealt with and he eventually turned out fine.

It's not what is thrown at you but how you deal with it that breeds success.  I'm sure Governor/Vice Presidential Candidate Palin is able and will do the same.

Let's talk accomplishments please.

Namuy, Tucson, AZ (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:43 AM)

I believe that that sarah is a great person,But judgement surround the issue of her selection and there decision to guide her kid (17)into marry.I was taught two wrongs don't make it right.I personally deal with a situation like this with my child.We guided and support the kids. Stop having sex and get an education.There current decision is about saving face.Please don't set then up to fail.We're raising our grand child.And both children involved listed and wenton to pursue there education and never got marry to each other.And my grand child has two parents.Something wrong with this family judgment and you want to put her in the white house and a step away to become the president of USA

Lawrence Morrison (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:46 AM)

Hey, as long as she doesn't expect the other employees to pick up her slack when she goes to school events or when her kids are sick, she'll be fine.

Miranda (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:53 AM)

I don't think the issue here is Palin's children or her parenting, and yes that should be off limits. What should be discussed is her lack of experience, foreign policy skills, the ethics investigation into her, her  controversial views on global warming and other issues etc. There are plenty of reasons for people to be wary of McCain's choice here. There are plenty of reasons to question his judgement in selecting Gov. Palin that have  absolutely nothing to do with her mothering abilities or anything related to her family life. I wish the media would focus on her real policy weaknesses not her personal life.

Working Mom Salt Lake City UT (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:00 PM)

During this week we have heard too much about Governor Palin’s young daughter who is pregnant at 17 years of age. I am extremely disappointed in the media who has continued to barade us with this news. Leave this poor young girl alone already, she is facing a life changing experience and a private matter which should not be anybody’s business but the young couple expecting and their family’s.  Why should we, as a society, be involved in a family matter that is not our family matter? We all make mistakes and how dare we discuss this. I understand this is Sara Palin’s daughter and she is currently John McCain’s VP pick however this is a family matter and does not infringe on Governor’s ability to be a successful VP running mate. If possible can we stop talking about this pregnancy and leave her and the father to be alone?
On another note, I was watching the Today show’s segment of women criticizing Sara Palin’s decision to return back to work shortly after giving birth to her son.  I believe it is women like the one’s interviewed why women have a harder time moving up. Women should be supportive of working mom’s regardless and be excited that women can and are doing such great things.  Who cares how many children she has and that she is working, men do this all the time and may I add that some men have children that they do not take care of.  Men work, have families and have successful careers including in the political arena. There should be no discussion about Governors Sara Palin’s ability to have a family and have a successful political career.

I’m a single mother who has had to work, raise two children and continue my education so if single mothers all over can do the same I am absolutely positive Sara Palin, who has a supportive husband, can do the same if not more. Leave the poor family alone and out of politics.

Maria Briones, Westminster Colorado (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:00 PM)

I don't care if she has 100 children! She is not ready to be Vice President. I interviewed a secretary longer than she was vetted.
As to her parenthood, that is her business. But if you will watch her church appearance and listen carefully to her... she makes her beleifs a part of her governing, thus MY business... (1) "Soldiers must only be sent to war when it is a mission from God;" (2) Global warming is a natural occurrance, so drill, drill, drill; (3) The world was created by God in seven days, evolution is a farce; (4) The public schools are no place to educate your children, teach them at home---but don't be there; (5) Do not teach sexual education to children or teach protection; (6) Abortion should be outlawed... NO WOMENS' RIGHTS.
These are some of the things that bother me. Don't turn this into a "mommy" thing or a gender thing. That's cop out BS!

Bill Charlotte (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:01 PM)

At best, this attacking both Palin and her daughter is offensive. Mom's who - everyday - balance family and work are good Mom's.  At worst it is bigoted and 'hatemongering'.  

I have always worked since having children.  I have also never missed a game, play, concert or any other school event.  It is called priorities and time management.  Children of working mothers are just as well-adjusted as children of 'stay-at-home-mom's (this has been researched and studied ad naseum).  

In fact, I would saya case for the opposite can be made - children of working Mom's see their parent balance different aspects of life - and a mother's career can institute a work ethic in their daughters that may exceed that of the daughters of stay-at-home mom's.  Also teaching their sons that keeping the home up is not only the job of a woman.

I refute those who say Palin is a bad Mom because she has a career.  Hogwash.  Her children know certainly, that they are her first priority; but that their Mom is a capable and confident woman who contributes greatly to the country.

Cowgirl Up (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:01 PM)

We keep missing the real issues.  Yes, there are sexist comments coming out just as there are racist comments aimed at Obama.  It is all a distraction to cover up the fact that Mrs. Palin is on the extreme, extreme RIGHT of the party.  Sure, at first blush she relates to working mothers, but this is a woman who is so opposed to REAL reform, social reform.  Who is their right mind tries to  ban To Kill a Mockingbird from her small time library?  Do not let the convention spin and the fact that she's a woman distract you from her EXTREME agenda.  I am insulted by this VP choice, and ALL women should be insulted - it is pandering; it is desperation; and it is shameful.  The McCain camp should be ASHAMED.

Kathy is Troy (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:02 PM)

I have no problem with working moms. In this economy families often need 2 incomes to get by.   The problem here, is that Palin is not working in an office or some other normal day job.  She is running for Vice President of the United States and I don't think you can compare this to someone who works a 9-5 job.  I also don't think its appropriate for her to do this while having a special needs newborn.  Even if her newborn was not challenged, it still wouldn't be right because newborns need their mothers attention more than their fathers in the beginning stages of life.  That's not a sexist statement its a fact.   Newborns spend 9 months in the womb and are most familiar with the mother's voice and need that comfort and reassurance when they are born.  The first year of life is the most crucial for their development.  If she didn't have the newborn and it was just the other kids, I probably wouldn't care so much, but its because of the newborn with special needs that I think this a very poor decision on her part.

Rob R (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:02 PM)

I am appalled at the attack on the families of any of the candidates.  I would like to see NBC take the stance that they refuse to participate in these dialogues.  Gov. Palin has obviously been able to do an exemplary job in her roles as mayor and governor.  How she handles her personal business is her business and no one elses regardless of her role in government.  The only time I would expect her personal life to be an issue is if it had actually impacted her ability to do her job in the past.  If she says it will continue to not be a problem, then we have to give her the benefit of the doubt until she proves otherwise.  No one can or should try to control their family members; nor can they prevent them from making mistakes.  No one can predict if they are going to get a terminal illness or be impacted by a family members illness in the future or any other future event.  If Gov. Palin chooses to share her story on how she balances her personal life and her role in government, I'm sure we would all be able to benefit from it....but that should be her choice and whether she does or doesn't should not impact our vote nor our opinion as to whether she can handle her job as Vice President.  Stick to the facts as to her accomplishments as Mayor and Governor and be confident that she will carry her abilities forward in her role as our next Vice President of our wonderful USA.  President Clinton actually made a point when he reminded us that the Republicans did not think that he was experienced enough to do the job, and I'm assuming most Democrats think that his personal mistakes while in office (as disgusting as they were) did not impact his ability to run our country since they allowed him to speak at the convention.  No one can have the experience nor the knowledge to cover all the demands of the job as President or VP because no one can anticipate what they will be faced with (i.e. what candidate has stood down in a nuclear attack?).  What we need to focus on is whether they have shown the intelligence and capability to handle the potential aspects of their role and whether we agree on what they hope to accomplish in their role whether it be Republican or Democrat.  Please, NBC, step up and leave the families out of this election.

Disgusted with the media (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:03 PM)

It is a sad state of our country and a very sad state of the media that these questions are even being asked.  As a woman and a stay at home mother of three, I am APPALLED that questions are being asked about whether or not Gov. Palin can balance being a mother and VP.  Has anyone asked Barack Obama if he can balance being a father and President?  NO.  Has anyone asked Barack Obama if he should choose fatherhood or the Presidency?  NO.  Did anyone ask Sen. Biden if he could balance being a father and a Senator after his wife was tragically killed in a car accident?  NO.  Mothers and women everywhere whether you stay at home or work should unite and let the country and the media know that we will not tolerate this sexism any longer!  I support wholeheartedly a woman's right to choose whether she stays at home with her children or decides to be a working mother.  It is an individual choice!  

Audrey, Birmingham, AL (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:03 PM)

I am beginning to think we are watching a circus. We are talking about the Vice President of the USA. Not A corporate executive,not a supervisor,not a promotion. This is a job that is 24/7,requires that she be at the beck & call of the American People. If, God Forbid a president dies,this person has to step in as President.Does a Family Person take on such a huge responsibility when they have a Special Needs baby and don't know what that even entails yet? The American People deserve more whether it is a man or woman candidate.

Connie, Cincinnati,Ohio (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:03 PM)

Working Mom of 2 said:  "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!!"

So, being the Governor of one of the 50 states does not qualify her for the VP spot?  

Hmm....Clinton was Governor of Arkansas before becoming president.  Regan was Governor of California before becoming President.  There are MANY Governors who has then run (and been elected) to the highest office.

I would say that running a state government and budget, employees and laws would qualify her more than Obama being in office as a Senator (no budget; no plethora of employees; no state duties) for 18 months qualifies him for the run for President.

Cowgirl Up (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:05 PM)

It is truly amazing.  She is running for VP not her daughter.  as a business professional their are only so many hours in the day.  your learn to balance home and job no matter what your job.  Actually her staff and support network will increase not decrease.  Secret service will have an eye on the boy friends as well.  Obama does cocaine at a young age the press focuses on her husbands dui.  Obamas mom was a single mother and had obama at 18. The press is in a frenzy over the daughter.  i hope this back fires on the liberals it has created a tremendous distaste in my mouth for the press and will feverishly support Palin and McCain.  if you want to know more about Obama how about his corrupt ties in Chicago - Illinois politics oops he is a liberal.

Todd , rock Island illinois (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:07 PM)

Why would I want my daughter to work a full time job and have five kids? Isn't there more to life than this? Why is everyone trying to shove this dream on my family? As one other family I know noted, not for us.

Nancy Bush, Menlo Park, Ca (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:08 PM)

The issue is not her being a working mother.  The issue is her judgment.  All of us working moms do the best we can and balance the competing interests in our lives.  But does it really show good judgment for the mother of a four minor children, including one pregnant teen and one baby with a disability, to take that much time away from her family to run for VP?  What does that say about her ability to recognize priorities?  I could see it if her kids were all of school age, like the Obama kids, but she has a baby and has a baby having a baby.  Does taking on the enormous task of running for, much less serving as, VP under those circumstances, really reflect well on her judgment?  Her husband may be the most involved dad in the world, but he's not mom and, should McCain win, they won't have a mom for the next four years.

Tammy, Virginia (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:09 PM)

J: "If you're a working mom, someone makes a snide comment.  If you're a stay-at-home mom, someone makes a snide comment. "

J - this is SO true.  I myself have been a target - and have then in defense, sadly, unloaded on the other side.  

It is regrettable that as mothers - with similar priorities (our children) we cannot support each other rather than tear the other side down for their choice.  I am trying - and succeeding in not resulting to this type of reactionary behavior.

In this instance; I hear a lot of jealousy and envy that Palin - a woman - seemingly has it all.  I am happy to support her.

Cowgirl Up (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:09 PM)

Of course Governor Palin can't raise her family AND attend to the 24/7 scheduling of a candidate or vice president.  It's time for her husband to step in and take charge of the home just as candidates wives have been doing for centuries.

Taryn Cass (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:10 PM)

The bigger question is how does one balance the two.  Let's be real, the VP job is demanding, being a parent (Mother or Father) is demanding.  What can get lost as I have seen with friends and family, the over demanding job tends to weed out the demanding job of parenting.  If they win the election all I hope is that her family does not suffer the consequences.  America has lost too many families to one thing or the other.  As for families being in the spot light, if you don't want the attention then don't run, unfortunately the 2 biggest jobs in this country are in the lime light no matter what, you are a dignitary and a representative of this country (What spot light are you going to dodge from that)

Terry, Disabled Vet, Des Moines, IA (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:10 PM)

I see NO ONE in the MSM asking Brack Obama about his inexperience. That is why this whole display sickens me. They did the same thing to HRC and I see NOT ONE Feminist group coming to her defense. This just goes to show that feminists are not for women, only LIBERAL WOMEN.

Dawn, Hampton Roads, VA (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:12 PM)

Working mom's have been there and done that or we provide child care for someone who is going through it.  The answer is not "We never ask men that question so we shouldn't ask women."  The right answer, IMHO, is that WE SHOULD BE ASKING MEN.  No one asked but I think Joe Biden during his introduction, included information about how he has juggled job and home demands for years.

M. Galasso, Stafford, VA (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:12 PM)

Wrong, Janet, wrong.

Working women (like myself, 40-ish mom of 2 teens) are objecting to the mile-wide, inch-deep career of Sarah Palin.

She has chosen to do a lot of things in her professional life BUT she has not performed her duties well.

Sarah Palin mismanaged her mayoral position (turning a balanced budget into a 20 million dollar deficit), mismanaged her Governorship (Troopergate).

It isn't sexist to say to someone, "You're not performing your current duties very well, it's time to refocus and cut back."

And that's what we participants in this particular Mommy War are saying.

Katrina, Nevada (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:13 PM)

Beth Webb said: "  If your children are being nutured...vs. day care....big difference."

I think there is a time for each.  Being in a good (stress on good) daycare can be rewarding for children.  They are socializing with peers and learning to compromise and play at an early age.  Being able to limit time in daycare - perhaps keeping them home one or more days/week can add to the benefit of early play with others.

Daycare can also build the child's immune system sooner and make for healthier children who can battle simple colds much better than a child who doesn't interact with groups until 5 or 6.

Children who ahve a loving home environment can flourish in most any setting that is safe and supportive.

Cowgirl Up (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:13 PM)

I agree with the previous comment.  I've been a stay-at-home mom for eight years, and then a full-time working mom for the next eight years.  I could care less what other women do - every family situation is different.  The real point should be her way too far-right policies!  No woman should vote for her or John McCain.  McCain is against equal pay for equal work, he's against coverage of birth control pills (but he's for coverage of Viagra), he's a pro-choice war-monger, he makes jokes about rape, calls Chelsea Clinton ugly, calls his wife a trollup and the 'C' word!  Please people, for the love of God and all women, don't do it!

Theresa Menzies (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:14 PM)

After watching the Democratic Convention and parts of the Republican Convention, I think a  McCain Palin ticket would take us back in time and move us forward in wars. I am very worried about because I don't want any of my kids to have to go to war.  Most of the rest of the world supports Obama and I am starting to see why, they don't want to see us start any more wars.

Lorraine (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:16 PM)

I have not heard one - NOT ONE - person question how Barack Obama would handle being president while raising 2 young, school-aged daughters.  Both Barack and Michelle have held challenging and demanding careers, and are raising a family.  Why is anybody questioning the Palin's ability to do so??

Kalyn, Washington DC (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:16 PM)

Working Mom: " Vote wise, vote Obama/Biden!!!!For the sake of the country! "

HAHAHAHAHAHHA.  Please.

Vote for the ticket who thinks it is ok to abort a viable fetus in the 8th month.  Right.

Vote for the ticket who advocates raising taxes on singles at $34,500/year and couples at $63,500/year.  Right.

Vote for the ticket who will instill windfall profit taxes on corporations - thus driving them right out of the country.  Right.

Vote for the ticket who is looking to provide National Healthcare that will make Canada's travesty look good - and will likely result in ridiculous taxes to balance a failing budget.  Right.

Vote for McCain/Palin - the right choice for America.

Cowgirl Up (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:17 PM)

http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/41461-why-do-women-give-mccain-a-zero

All women need to watch this video. You should be very scared of John McCain.

Tampa (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:17 PM)

Um, I went to Yale and let me tell you, a degree from an Ivy League school is no indication that anyone is brilliant.

There are plenty of college dropouts (Bill Gates anyone?) that are brilliant business leaders.

I don't care what school someone went to. I care about their accomplishments. And Barack Obama's leadership accomplishments - other than being the figurehead for one heck of a campaign - would be what again?

One interesting point - people are able to criticize Sarah Palin because she's actually been the leader of a state and a city. Barack Obama is simply one of the crowd in the Senate and has hid from tough votes plenty of times by voting 'present'.

I liked Sarah Palin from her first speech. The attempts by the media to crucify her have disgusted me. No one delved into Barack Obama's background with nearly the same fervor. He gets treated with kid gloves and given the Hollywood Treatment, especially by the glossy magazines and the newspapers.

Aaron, Brooklyn, New York (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:18 PM)

Women can do anything men can do.  ANYBODY would be challenged to balance all the drama in the Palin home (special needs infant, pregnant teen, ethics investigation) with a 'regular' job that you left at 5.  The VP office is no place for someone who has that all on their personal plate, unless they plan to abdicate some of their personal responsibilities.  One is not allowed to abdicate the VP responsibilities.  Something has to give.  If Palin intends to be the great mom, this is a poor fit.

Mash, Louisville, KY (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:18 PM)

I am a Grandmother who is raising my grandchildren.
Sarah Palin will do just fine as VP.None of us know what our children will do. Will they follow our example or go another way they are individal persons.Sarah is dealing with so much that each american family deals with today.She is one of us Mid america all the way.
Anyone questioning her ability needs to take a good long look in the mirrow.Sarah will be looking back at you.  

Linda Cnota (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:19 PM)

Mrs. Palin does not put her kids first, so what makes anyone think that she would put the citizens of the US first especially if it does not advance her agenda. I am a Christian and a Democrat. If Mrs. Palin is suppose to represent Christian values, she would not put her family and children through the ordeal that is coming their way. The Bible is very clear of our role as a parent. Your child and family always come first. It is not some crazy doctrine but it is about "where you hear lies" and where your love is. My heart is always with my child. I left a 6 figure job and an Executive position to ensure the welfare of my child. His needs always trumps anything else. And, I would not force my 17 year old daughter to marry someone to save my career. That is just child abuse!!!

Vantresa Stickler Annapolis MD (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:20 PM)

Sarah Palin is neither qualified nor fit for the VP spot.  
-  Sarah has a BS degree in communications, and lacks the necessary critical thinking skills that Political Science requires.
-  She admitted that "she has not really paid attention to the war in Iraq" how pathetic.  
-  If Sarah Palin were a woman of color, the Republicans and "soccer Moms" would be outraged by her lack of experience, as they would find it difficult to identify with her.  
-  Many women are suffering from the bias "similar to me" and are ascribing intellectual attributes that are absent in Ms. Palin.  
-  Most women of color have been “working mothers” for eternity, as they have never had the luxury of being a stay-at-home mother, so Sarah Pailin’s accomplishments is not new.
-  If McCain were serious, he would have selected an unencumbered intellectually savvy woman such as Olympia Snowe, or Kay Bailey Hutchinson.  
-  McCain discriminated against mature women based upon age; apparently the dog in McCain still likes very young women.
-  Palin exemplifies the most egregious form of AFFAIRMATIVE ACTION.  

Sonja (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:20 PM)

I am a Grandmother who is raising my grandchildren.
Sarah Palin will do just fine as VP.None of us know what our children will do. Will they follow our example or go another way they are individal persons.Sarah is dealing with so much that each american family deals with today.She is one of us Mid america all the way.
Anyone questioning her ability needs to take a good long look in the mirrow.Sarah will be looking back at you.  

Linda Cnota (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:21 PM)

I'm not attacking Sarah Palin, just questioning her judgement. At a time in her life where her family needs her more than ever, is this the appropriate time to be spending more time away from them? And, what are her intentions if she is elected? Will she uproot her 17 year old daughter and take her and the baby away from the father? I blogged about this over on http://findingme.typepad.com

Karen, Easton, Maryland (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:22 PM)

Well obviously she shouldn't have taken the job, it'll take too much time from her kids.

You know what else takes time from your kids?  researching politics to make an informed vote... lots of time and effort there.

Should we rescind voting right for women?  I'm just worried about the good of the children here...

Or, to be honest; why is it that nobody thinks the dad can do the work here to watch the kids?  Why are the teenage kids incapable of helping as well?  Is this really something that only mommy can ever do properly?

If so, then we need to get mommies out of the workforce and away from politics.  Because there is an important job that ONLY they can do, and that requires ALL their time... right?

Or did my sexist century old tripe somehow not fit the current progressive left talking points?  They seemed to line up quite nicely... how odd.

Robert Colo Spgs CO (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:22 PM)

The question of her qualification for the job is the issue, not whether she has five or ten children or whether her daughter is pregnant, or whatever.  She is absolutely not qualified for this position, one heartbeat away from the Presidency.  I've been a working mom all my life and know what that entails. McCain was looking to appease his right wing at the potential expense of this country.  We can't let that happen.

J. Spengler, Hampton, VA (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:23 PM)

Here's what drives me crazy about women - so many of them are so DESPERATELY INSECURE about their life choices that they need CONSTANT REAFFIRMATION from other women ("Am I a good mommy?"  "Am I good wife?"  "Am I a good lawyer/doctor/CEO/manicurist/whatever?"  That insecurity is what drives the nasty remarks.  After all, if you're secure about your own life choices, you don't have to run down other people's.  

The snide remarks that this author heard I hear about all the time.  The ONLY thing that shocks me is that SHE'S shocked those comments come from other women. Sheesh!  What planet has she been living on?  Women judge each other all the time, in ways they would NEVER tolerate from men.  I have found the men in my life (including my ultra-conservative father and stay-at-home hubby) much more supportive of my life choices than a lot of the women in my life.

What Sarah Palin is enduring from the FEMALE commentators is absurd and insulting.  I've heard snarky remarks about her hair, her shoes, her clothes.  If men were saying this, the women would be up in arms.  But it surprises me not one whit that it's the women who are advancing these personal attacks.  (And incidentally, questions about her experience are legitimate, in my view.)

Here's my advice for women of the world.  If you want to stay home and raise your children, bravo!  And stop caring about the women who don't, who don't understand how hard you work, that you don't eat bon-bons or work with a personal trainer all day.  Women who have jobs outside the home, do your jobs and balance your lives the way you see fit, and stop caring about the stay-at-homers who might be jealous of your wardrobe, your paycheck, your independence, or your adult conversations all day long.

Women would be a hell of a lot happier if they stopped worrying about what other women think of them.

Laura, IL (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:24 PM)

Hey people need to let up. First we have a woman running for the vice president, a long time coming. People need to be thoughtful in their comments about Mrs. Palins returning to work three days after her disabled son was born. She was doing what she had to do. I have first hand experience on this issue as I returned to work, with baby in tow in two days or less, people expected me to be available. I also had to leave my disabled husband at home to provide for my family three times and do my job. That is what Palin has done. People do things for different reasons. We should do what we can to respect others and support who ever is appointed. At least she is willing to serve, what are you willing to do that?  The only thing I don't like is that the Palin administration is slow to meet with injured workers and discuss thier current problems with the workers compensation system. We all have things we don't like, but what are we doing to work together and support goverment. The world cannot change until you have that mind set. I still have not decided who I am voting for, but I would not attack either side in such a manner. At least things in her back ground relate to most americans, so those whose life is so perfect should not cast stones at anyone as none of us are that perfect. She needs to do her best and that is all she can do.

Barbara Williams,Chugiak Alaska (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:24 PM)

I belive she is and will be a good VP. I had read about her months before her nomination.MY WIFE AND I HAVE RAISED FIVE CHILDREN and balanced it all out as a team.This bringing up her daughter  in politics is a no! no!,this is how dc works keeps your mind off of what is fact. take a read on how they voted and how many days they showed up!( a united steel worker in va.) voteing MACAIN/PALIN.

m.r . warthan princegeorge virginia (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:25 PM)

The bottom line is she is NOT QUALIFIED to be the Vice President of the United States of American.  If a man had this same resume, it would be the same.  Male/Female is doesn't matter.  What matters is knowledge, leadership, etc...  Gov Palin is not ready for this job at this time.

Marc, Phila, PA (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:25 PM)

Obama's mother had him at age 18, out of wed-lock. Obama readily admits he used alcohol, marijuana, and COCAINE. Obama doesn't even give his campaign manager credit, instead saying that HE has run his entire campaign thus far. Why are there all the questions if Palin can balance family and office? Were those same questions asked of Hillary? Nancy Pelosi? For that matter, has anyone asked how Obama will balance being a father and his duties? A father's presence is every bit as important as a mother's presence.

Voting wise is not voting for a dishonest drug addict. Voting wise is voting strictly for the pair that matches your values.

Travis, Bluffton, OH (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:25 PM)

Palin is someone who wants to do a super time consuming full-time job when she has a lot of children and numerous small ones.  That tells something about who she is- something that means different things to different people.  It says something about her character- and character seems more important to many voters than what policies candidates favor.

Olive Dougherty, Philadelphia PA (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:25 PM)

How stupid do you have to be to be McBush's VP? A woman who opposes sex education and is incredulous enough to actually believe that abstinence-only indoctrination works, is parading around with living proof that it does NOT work - her own pregnant teenage daughter. Yet she STILL opposes sex education. Its unbeleivable how Republicans will cling to their false doctrines in the face of reality. As my father taught me: a smart person learns from others' mistakes; a dumb person learns from their own mistakes; but a fool never learns. I certainly do not want a fool such as Palin "one heartbeat away from the presidency".

Eric, Raleigh NC (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:26 PM)

I think that being a working mother makes you even more capable of handling demanding jobs. I  am a probation/parole officer with two adopted children, and am adopting two more children. All are under 11. I have a demaning, high profile job and my husband also has a demanding high profile job. I am handed more responsibility at work, can handle being team mother to three teams, have time for myself and manage to get everything done every day with time to spare. I think being a working mom has made me more organized, more balanced and even smarter, if I dare to say. I salute her decision to be a working mom.  her daughter is pregnant, who cares?  Bill Clinton had women in the office and was impeached.  Barak has never led anything at all!  She is a heartbeat away, yes. But Barak is the heartbeat.  Let us get our heads on straight, leave her alone and listen to her.  She is an intelligent woman.  No law degree- even better.  Congress is full of lawyers, look at how screwed up we are right now.  maybe we need less lawyers and more plain folks in Washington

Kat, Ft.Myers, Florida (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:26 PM)

First of all, if all of her children were older kids, it would be less complicated.  Older kids are in school, etc.  But to think that she has this INFANT, and a SPECIAL NEEDS *INFANT* as she is contemplating a job where she will be working a CRAPLOAD of hours is just SAD.  And I don't want to hear about the double standard, WHO does this?  And it's absolutely voluntary, she's already got a high profile job that I'm sure pays well, what, does she WANT to spend less time with her baby?!  But that's the least of it.  

McCain has pulled an incredibly shallow and pandering move in selecting this woman as his veep option.  She is laughably unqualified.  Let's face it, they were looking for a walking vagina, and it looks like there are women out there foolish enough to fall for it, god help me.  Evidence already suggests that the little experience she has as governor is already filled with a lot of high-handedness.  And she's got awful ANTI-WOMAN politics.  Oh, and is yet another Republican who seems to think we are/should be living in a theocracy.  Ms. Shamlian, you and others like you are a fool for thinking the job this woman is up for, is somehow like you and your job.  Please!

LGH, Jersey City NJ (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:28 PM)

Yes it was Palin who thrust her daughter into the spotlight.  Her job was Gov. of Alaska, the national media would never have known if she would have told McCain "Now is not a good time for me to accept this offer."  And yes, it is a parents job to love, protect and teach thier children how best to navigate the world.  Yes, often parents have to sacrifice opprotunities because it is not what is best for the family.  Of course the media is going to look into the life of a canidate the the lower 48 never heard of.  As Hillary said,"If you can't take the heat get out of the kitchen."

JulieRae71 (Sent Wednesday, September 03, 2008 12:29 PM)



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