Like that well-worn adage, it's not what you say, but what you do which counts. Anyone who runs for office knows their past record is fair game--why should the rules be different for Palin? The very fact that Mrs. Palin has less public exposure in the lower 48 should merit even more scrutiny--not less. Good journalism involves getting "dirty secrets" aired--even if that truth is uncomfortable to some. Apparently this annoys the Palin camp, but who cares--let the cards fall where they may. It's rather ironic how the detractors use similar methods seen in this article--how telling.

My take on the debate might be expressed like this:

McCain: I want to represent Americans who mostly comfortable or fearful of change. Reform? Sure, I'll nod to "reform" if that's what you want to hear, but inwardly I'm deeply resentful of Americans expecting I'll fix the system--do I look like I need reform? My friends--just get me elected and hope I'll help you--if you deserve it.

Obama: I want to represent Americans worried about their future, who recognize reform is necessary for their "pursuit of happiness". I want to sound optimistic, although I'm unsure of whether I will be just an uplifting, transitional president, or a real leader who can initiate much-needed reform in DC. Vote for that hope.

I'm reassured that many Salon readers understand the crux of the real issue here--that throwing shopping dollars at our problems will not fix what ails our economy.

"For American consumers to buy $400 billion worth of goods now would require maxing out a ton of credit cards, and digging themselves even deeper into debt"

Exactly, and yet we've heard a slew of industry pundits trumpet over again how our "duty" is to get out and shop. Who really benefits here when all this junk is shipped from overseas and tacked on to Americans already enormous credit debt?

So keep buying that stupid junk, because the banks need your business. The "economy" they care most about is their own. It's about time for Americans to care for themselves by getting out from under credit and not blowing money on this stupid garbage.

Does anyone remember what a real economy is about? Hint: it's not about "lifestyle upgrades".