Forgetting Sarah Palin (Harvard Crimson)

[struggle4progress]

Gov. Palin’s candidacy shouldn’t reflect on future female politicians
Published On Wednesday, November 12, 2008 10:34 PM
By CLAIRE M. GUEHENNO

... It seems clear that Palin tried to win the election by seducing the American public and playing up her feminine assets. Winking during the debate and blowing kisses at her rallies, Palin certainly did not shy away from her femininity ...

... In a moment better suited to “Nailin’ Palin,” the pornographic film she inspired, than to a presidential campaign, Palin reportedly greeted staffers at the Republican convention wearing only a towel. Whether or not this instance fits into a pattern of Palin using her sexuality as a means to an end, it certainly doesn’t demonstrate discretion or self-awareness.

I’m sure Hillary Clinton—like many other candidates male and female—enjoyed the opportunity to buy nice suits and get cleaned up for her public appearances. But Palin took this indulgence to a whole new level ...

... All we may hope is that Palin’s candidacy will help provide some perspective on the truly historic .. campaign of Hillary Clinton, rather than set female politicians back in the years to come.

http://www.thecrimson.com/article.aspx?ref=525288