Gal,
Obama/Biden were careful to say at the convention how much they like McCain, respect his service, etc. They have said he isn't a bad person, but that he just doesn't get it on the issues.
This is how I see it...
Per usual, people are ready for a moderate change. By default, the Democrats provide that. As such, focusing on issues, given the pendulum swinging for change, is their strength. This is nothing new and has been a part of our politics since 1776.
This poses McCain with a unique challenge. He needs to paint himself as an agent of change, even though he is of the same party as Bush. Palin adds serious cred in this regard. However, to say that 2 Republicans are going to be reforminsts after the GOP had total power for 6 years just doesn't fly.
The best chance the Republicans have is to line up strengths vs. weaknesses. McCain has truly proven himself over and over again. Obama hasn't.
Biden is proven, but stodgy. Palin is like a female Obama - very much unproven, but is a crowd-pleaser.
This election should come down to McCain vs. Obama and McCain would love nothing more for it to be about himself vs Obama as opposed to platforms. McCain is far more proven than Obama.
Ultimately, I think this election comes down to Palin. I really do. I think the strenghts, weaknesses and strategic advnatages and disadvantes between the 2 even out. Biden is a known entity and he'll hold serve. This puts things into Palin's court. She HAS to perform very well. Period.
It'll be fascinating to watch.
Are you saying that the person one heartbeat from the presidency should be any less qualified?
I view proven experience as less important for VP than POTUS.
That said, I have serious reservations regardin Palin for the very reasons you allude to. If only you clowns had similar concerns regarding Obama. But I digress.