Palin abandons her principles for adulation of the crowd

[The Straight Story]

Palin abandons her principles for adulation of the crowd

ELSTUN LAUESEN


"Shoeless" Joe Jackson of the Chicago White Sox was a hero to his fans. Then he became entangled in accusations that he helped throw the 1919 World Series to the Cincinnati Red Stockings. Famously, a young boy shouted to Jackson on the street: "Say it ain't so, Joe."

Now let's say that the game is Alaska's future and the Chicago White Sox symbolize Alaska the Owner State and the Cincinnati Red Stockings represent the Oil Companies and their political forces. Alaskans woke up last Friday and learned that you had just walked off the field before the game was over. I know you didn't abandon us for money. Why did you do it? You walked away before your job was completed here in Alaska. You have broken faith with Alaskans. I remember you once saying that you didn't approve of withdrawal from Iraq until the job is done there. Doesn't Alaska deserve the same consideration as Iraq?

In fairness I must disclose that I am a supporter of Barack Obama, but that is not the reason I am disappointed with your decision to be Sen. McCain's running mate. From that perspective I should be celebrating your decision. In one impulsive moment the McCain camp has opted for an appealing narrative over the practical requirements of leadership in these challenging times. Be honest with yourself, Sarah: should we feel comfortable knowing that you are one beat of a 72-year-old heart away from the leadership of the free world? In that context, what does your selection say about Sen. McCain's judgment as commander in chief? If McCain can't read the reality on the ground in America, how good is his judgment about Iraq, Iran or Afghanistan?

My disappointment in your decision to run for vice president is personal, not strategic. I thought that you really did reject politics-as-usual and that you really did care about the future of Alaska and that you really were committed to the defense of Alaska against powerful interests. How could I have been so foolish? I now see that while you are not subject to corruption, you are vulnerable to flattery and attention. Rubes like Pete Kott could be bought with a fistful of dollars; you abandoned your principles for the adulation of the crowd.

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