So is this all smoke & mirrors for a less than enthusiastic convention?
I don't think it's smoke and mirrors, but I DO think that the hype generated by this pick was viewed as a bonus when looking at all of the VP hopefuls.
She brings a lot to the ticket:
She's hot.
She was an athlete and earned the nickname "Barracuda" for her tenacity and competitiveness.
She hunts and fishes.
She not only espouses but 'lives' traditional family values.
She handles herself well in front of a camera.
On the experience side:
She ousted and established Republican for the gov. primary and then defeated the incumbent.
She immediately went after waste and corruption and did so with success.
She rebuffed big oil in her state when they were confident she'd do their bidding.
An unresolved investigation notwithstanding, she clearly challenged the establishment, works to a high ethical standard, and has a proven track record of governance (smaller, less wasteful government) in accordance with her ideals.
She enjoys an 80+% approval rating.
Her entire package strongly appeals to your average American.
Having said all of that, she's a risky pick. She doesn't have much in the way of experience and her strong religious beliefs are a turn-off for some. By picking Palin, McCain is trying to accomplish 3 things:
1. Inject some youth and excitement into his campaign.
2. Trying to enthuse the conservative base by picking someone with strong conservative credentials.
3. Vying for the female vote, in particular, disguntled Hillary voters.
He's staked much more of his campaign success on the shoulders of his veep pick than is usual. If she doesn't perform well, he sinks his candidacy.
