Countless Philadelphia-area GOPers have told me they're elated over her selection, and I believe them. Although they're not saying so, I suspect many were deflated watching the events in Denver last week and needed a boost. They feel the Big Mo, as Bush 41 once called it, has come back to their party.
But, of course, the support of these delegates was never in doubt. After a week with the Dems in Denver, and now with the Republicans here, I'm reminded that party activists at the conventions represent the ends of the ideological spectrum.
Instead, tell me how Palin's speech tonight is received in the Philadelphia suburbs, and I think I can tell you the name of our next president. I expect her to make an intelligent presentation, to accurately lay claim to a record (limited) of competent public service, to state her political independence and to appear telegenic.
I have no doubt that most Americans will like the former Miss Congeniality personally, but when her views are known, is she really the best selection McCain could have made to expand the tent in an area like ours? I have my doubts.
While anyone would have to admire that she's a pro-life politician who actually walks the walk, I'm perplexed as to how the McCain campaign could pick her and think she'll play in Abington, Merion or West Chester.
Sure, the McCain-Palin combo lets evangelicals vote for the ticket with a smile instead of a scowl, but those voters wouldn't have sat out this race, given the stakes.
No, this election won't be determined by the extremes; it will be settled by the middle, and you have to wonder if Pennsylvania moderates will embrace Palin's passionate pro-life views.
THEN THERE'S her resume.
Is she more knowledgeable than Mitt Romney on the economy? No way.
Stronger on terror than Tom Ridge? Impossible.
Capable of leading on Day One? Nobody could make that case.
