How can one parse Ms. Palin's performance as acceptable on any level? She memorized "speechlets" that were punchy, folksy and biting and performed them well; of note, in response to any question. This is her skill set. No thinking, no learning, no insight, just memorizing and performing.

Does Ms. Larimore reject a metric of exceptionalism applying to the second highest office simply because Palin is the chosen GOP running mate? How can one be so cynical?