CRITERIA

Messages, can be stimulating yet uninspiring. The substance of communication is not only in the skills of an individual to deliver words, but the intelligence in the words delivered. Therefore, being an intellectual, should be a requirement for any candidate vying to become the president of the United States of America. Though such attribute does not necessarily define character, it nevertheless commands attention and inspires respect. It points confidently at one's ability to understand and analyze complex situations and his or her thought process in making informed decisions. As indicative of the last eight years, the position of Leader of the world should never be open to Joe six pack, or like characters.

Excellence is as rewarding as mediocrity is derisive. Though elitist in concept, the option of selectivity should be rightfully reserved in the recruiting of leadership. Ambition is essential in the quest for achievement, but alone, it is an insufficient element. Leading the most powerful nation on earth is not a job for the unprepared. The agendas involved are too intricate for a candidate whose intellectual abilities are lacking.

Governor Sarah Palin of Alaska, despite her Miss Congeniality appeal, is not an intellectual. Her speeches, her rare interviews, and her measured performance at the vice presidential debate clearly confirm that such asset is missing in her credentials. As McCain campaign operatives are busy giving each others high five, it is sad to observe that they are only celebrating their candidate's escape from being ridiculed by her democratic counterpart. While Alaska may be wild about Palin, that State does not offer her the challenges of a city like Chicago, for instance. There are stark differences and conflicting dynamics between those two geographical locations. It is doubtful that Sarah Palin could have ever been elected Mayor of Chicago on her own. However, if elected alongside John McCain, she will be a heartbeat away from joining in immortality, the ranks of women of the caliber of: Golda Meir, Indira Gandhi, Margaret Thatcher to name a few.

Is Sarah Palin really the best, that America has to offer to history?