Dispatch Letter to the Editor

Written on Friday, August 29, 2008. The day Sen. McCain announced his running mate. Published in the Columbus Dispatch on Sunday, September 7, 2008.

Arizona Sen. John McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as vice presidential candidate proves one of two things. First and most likely, McCain sees Palin as a qualified and responsible choice for the vice presidency. He might think of her as a Washington outsider whose views could help change Washington. Or second, his choice is based on purely political motives. Palin, being a woman, could help McCain grab disillusioned supporters of New York Sen. Hillary Clinton. This cynical view is unlikely.

A political icon such as McCain clearly understands that his vice presidential choice would be one heartbeat away from the presidency. McCain especially, at his age and with his history of cancer, must be cognizant of this possibility. Assuming the second option is false, McCain must view Palin as a qualified, responsible pick who, at a moment's notice, would be able to assume the presidency.

McCain believes this person with, at best, experience equivalent to Illinois Sen. Barack Obama is prepared to lead. This proves unequivocally that McCain's argument questioning Obama's experience is unfounded.

It further shows that McCain himself doesn't believe the arguments his campaign has been lobbing at Obama. Going forward, McCain would be hypocritical to continue attacking Obama's preparedness.

NICK GEIDNER
Columbus

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