Decius wrote:

It may be idiotic, but the people like and will elect unqualified populist candidates. They dislike 'elitism' and Obama's qualifications also make him seem an 'elitist.' That is why the 'fucking stupid' argument is being touted by so many, who aren't voting on policy or ability but on values.

An extreme (and foreign) example of this is that there are literally illiterate BJP members of Indian Parliament who beat out their better educated and more tolerant opponents because of their populist appeal.

Dude, if they were running her as a populist candidate against "elitist" Obama I wouldn't be nearly as frustrated as I am with this "she is just as qualified as he is" line. You've framed the argument for Palin in a much more honest way that her supports seem to.

Well yeah, if they are honest their arguments don't work. Her supporters will continue to play silly fundy mind tricks to make her seem credible, and it will work for a lot of them.

It will come down to her performance in the debates. Will she be able to sound plain-spoken but intelligent and informed, or will she come across as ignorant?

RE: The election is basically over.