It didn’t take long for the national media to descend on our community with requests for interviews and information on who they termed “a relative political unknown.” Initial inquiries to this newspaper were generally “Who is Sarah Palin?”-type questions. More specific questions sought to uncover clues to her political and public service background, with the intent of finding out if she really has the experience required of a VP candidate.
Although the national media doesn’t yet know this, many of the same questions were raised about Palin during her gubernatorial campaign. Paul Jenkins, Voice of the Times editor and Palin critic, asked, “How would somebody with just six years’ experience as Wasilla mayor — and none at the state level — be able to manage an enterprise as complicated, complex and dynamic as Alaska?” Former two-term Gov. Tony Knowles emphasized Palin’s relative inexperience as he sought to separate himself from Palin during the 2006 campaign.
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Wasilla and the Mat-Su Borough know that Palin’s experience goes beyond six years as mayor. We know she also served on Wasilla’s city council for four years and about her years of volunteer work serving the community she calls home.
Another thing we know about Sarah Palin is that she is not perfect. But, as we outlined in a 2006 editorial endorsing her for governor, her willingness to acknowledge this shows uncommon strength of character. We challenged her in that same editorial to stay true to her message of inclusiveness and to the open, accountable brand of government that Alaskans were hungry for. We closed the editorial by saying if she does, the people of Alaska, like the people of the Valley she calls home, will be proud to call Palin one of their own, too.
As she has so many times in her life, Palin took up that challenge — and succeeded. Alaskans have embraced Palin and her style of governing, evidenced by the remarkable approval ratings the governor has enjoyed. She has shown that she’s not afraid to make hard decisions because it’s the right thing to do, although those decisions may be unpopular with some. She’s been fair and true to her convictions and to the people she serves.
While some question Palin’s experience, they cannot question her leadership. A person is either a good leader or not, and Palin has exhibited great leadership skills in all positions she’s held. There is an argument to be made that leadership, and the qualities that define a good leader, are inherently more important than experience.
Just as the people of Alaska did, the nation will learn this, and more, about the Sarah Palin we know and have known for most of her life. They will learn that she has made mistakes along the way, but has the mettle to overcome and learn lessons from them that, in the end, make her stronger and seasoned.
I point out that Palin has made mistakes because, based on questions we’ve been fielding over the weekend, I know that much of the national media attention will be focused on those mistakes and some of the controversial issues during her terms as mayor and through her governorship. What shouldn’t get lost in all of this are the accomplishments in her career and the overall record of success she has enjoyed, as they greatly outnumber the mistakes and controversies.
Although journalists and politicians don’t always mesh well, Governor Palin has always been respectful of the job we in the media have to do. She has earned my respect and support as Wasilla’s mayor and Alaska’s governor and will have my support for vice president of the United States of America.
Kari Sleight is publisher of the Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman and Anchorage Press.
Comments
11 comment(s)Heads Up or Blanket CYA wrote on Sep 13, 2008 12:29 AM:
And what exactly makes her such a great leader? With all the past experience you've touted, can you give examples on just what makes Sarah a great leader?
And we all now know that community worker types don't really do anything. Because Sarah said so herself. "
Long time Alaskan wrote on Sep 12, 2008 9:20 AM:
Sarah will be a wonderful VP. She has the courage required to make tough decisions and she isn't afraid of stepping on the good ole boys' toes. Even if these good ole boys are in the media itself. "
Susan S wrote on Sep 8, 2008 11:27 AM:
Judy R Iowa wrote on Sep 7, 2008 4:49 PM:
Jason in Minneapolis wrote on Sep 4, 2008 4:07 PM:
joe.shuren bouvet island wrote on Sep 4, 2008 12:25 PM:
Charles wrote on Sep 3, 2008 12:08 PM:
Just a CT Joe wrote on Sep 3, 2008 9:55 AM:
Ann in St. Paul MN wrote on Sep 2, 2008 9:20 PM:
Cartman_ wrote on Sep 2, 2008 3:15 PM:
Publius wrote on Sep 2, 2008 2:29 PM: