An Ohioan Woman Says NO

Admittedly, I am against knee-jerk reactions to situations that frighten me. In the case of Sarah Palin assuming the role of Vice President, and possibly President, I feel no different. My knowledge of her beliefs, interests, accomplishments, and political agenda is only what I've read recently in the media. With that said, based on the hype, and my own common sense, I can honestly say that she does not represent me. She may very well represent the image of a strong woman who's made her mark in Alaska, where men are men, and tough is good. Not bad qualities for a politician. She sounds competitive, and resourceful. Not bad either, except that George W. Bush possesses the very same qualities (minus the appearance of intelligence).

Here's what bothers me: I don't want another politician like George W. Bush, or perhaps worse. I want a President who encourages me to think for myself, one who isn't going to patronize me by telling me what I should read, believe, think, or feel. A leader isn't someone who comes to the table with their mind already made up; nor someone who is so independent that they say, "No thanks, I'm not interested in your perception." A leader listens to contrary opinions, and respects the ability of others to make responsible decisions based on their own beliefs, and their consciences. Ms. Palin sounds to me like someone who feels the need to control those who disagree with her. That's not Presidential.

We have all suffered through this kind of arrogance with George W. Bush for eight long and miserable years. Sarah Palin does not represent the librarian whose books were banned; nor the founding fathers who separated Church and State for good reason; nor the individuals who believe birth control should be their choice; nor those who are not afraid of fighting for the freedom to make these choices. Sarah Palin represents those who feel the need to control their personal space, and the personal space of others. Sarah Palin is not Presidential.

To those women who would vote for McCain/Palin because Hilary was not chosen, I'd point out that an X chromosome does not make an individual Presidential, anymore than a Y one does. Voting for Palin only to get a woman into the White House, is short-sighted, and could be disastrous to our country. I would like nothing more than to see a woman achieve what we've waited years for. Let us remember the differences that separate women such as Joan of Arc versus women like Eva Braun. We all know women we wouldn't want governing us. Let's agree to make Palin one of them.
-Margaret S., 63 years young, Columbus, OH