The "lack of experience" meme is dead. At least according to Richard Viguerie, and whatever demographic group he represents.
Richard Viguerie is often described as the "father of modern conservative strategy". He has been active in supporting republican and conservative causes for almost 50 years.
Viguerie is a regular guest on Ed Schultz's radio show. He is a right-wing tool, but he is at least an honest one--he doesn't insult your intelligence by repeating inane talking points (he just insults your intelligence by believing right wing views). Up until last Friday, he had made it clear he was not excited about the McCain candidacy, even going so far as to say he was unsure if he would even vote in the 2008 election.
But, like Dom Ameche in Cocoon, Ricky V has gone positively VA-VA-VOOM!! over Sarah Palin. He said he and other conservatives have been recharged, and that the right now matches the Dems in their enthusiasm for their candidate. He is now secure that McCain has sold out seen the light and will campaign and base his administration on conservative "family values".
Viguerie was on Schultz's show today and Ed asked him about the "experience" question. He answered by saying he did not think that traditional Washington experience was the most important thing--she would have a strong team behind her--and that, if he had to make the choice--he would prefer someone with the "right values" and the right outlook over someone with traditional experience. I am sure Viguerie did not realize the implications of his statement, but he was absolutely clear about the meaning.
Which is fine with me. Given the record of the bush administration and the performance of the Clinton campaign, I thought the whole experience question was BS anyhow.
If we have an election based on values and judgement, Obama wins. It's as simple as that.