This is supposed to be a scientific blog. However, Political science is my second calling, so after reading an article from the Guardian online I felt I should make some comments regarding the issue.
I'll declare right now that I have a liberal bias. With that out of the way I find myself becoming rather confused by Palin's presidential strategy. Although she has yet to admit it, Palin's political ambitions are probably the worst kept secret in politics. Although campaigning early is far from unheard of (Mike Huckabee practically lives in Iowa) Palin's approach is far outside the norm. What got me were her personal attacks on Obama regarding his race and his supposed apologetic attitude towards the United States. Ideological opinions aside, I find myself wondering give such ammunition to the Obama campaign so early. Politics, like chess is ultimately a game where the conservation of moves is paramount. the less moves you have to make to accomplish a strategy, the less open you are to blunders. Form a horse race perspective, I'm shocked that Palin is offering so much so early. Most political books by potential candidates are broad manifestos on issues, they are vague when it comes to specific ideologies and they rarely make poignant personal attacks.
Ideologically, I'm happy for as scary as it sounds, Palin is currently Obama's best opponent for him to face off against because as liberal as he comes off, the still has the potential for moderate appeal. There is nothing moderate about Mrs. Palin.
No comments:
Post a Comment