The Small Town Governor faces big test in first debate

Sarah Palin came out of nowhere (read: rural America) like a rocket, boosting John McCain’s poll numbers and delivering a knockout speech at the Republican National Convention.

But in the weeks that have followed, she’s drawn increasing criticism from reporters for avoiding press conferences.

Her two big outings — with anchors Charlie Gibson and Katie Couric — weren’t big hits, even among some Republicans.

Here’s a key passage from Politico, the on-line political journal:

Conservative columnist Kathleen Parker, a former Palin supporter, says the vice
presidential nominee should step aside. Kathryn Jean Lopez, writing for the
conservative National Review, says “that’s not a crazy suggestion” and that
“something’s gotta change.” Tony Fabrizio, a GOP strategist, says Palin’s
recent CBS appearance isn’t disqualifying but is certainly alarming. “You can’t
continue to have interviews like that and not take on water.”

Governor Palin’s debate against Democratic Senator Joe Biden offers a chance at redemption and more.

If she proves herself capable and bright and charismatic — attributes supporters say she has in plenty — Palin could reverse the narrative and score big.

If she stumbles again, Palin could prove to be a serious liability for McCain going forward.

Two possible implications: McCain could see some of his big lead in rural America dimished; in the future, politicians may be more leery of calling on relatively untested small-town leaders.