Well, my Cheney comparison was a little unfair. I'm sure Dick could rattle off a Supreme Court decision or two - either by name or by substance - besides Roe v. Wade, if asked.

Palin's responses to Katie Couric's questions reminded me so much of those undergrads who haven't read the book or paid attention in class and then try to '7-crown' their way through the essay questions on the mid-term. Lots and lots of words, often redundant, usually vague, basically saying nothing.

As for her being "beautiful," aside from that not being a relevant criterion on which to vote, I just don't see it. Is this yet another example of our expectations being set too low? Does the American public have such a distorted view of what other female political leaders look like that any slender, well-dressed, attractive woman who comes to national attention is now a "hottie" or a "MILF?"