I think Palin and co. got just what they wanted out of the debate, and The Times seems to agree:
Mr. Biden made few mistakes; he appeared more measured and thoughtful on substance, and made forceful points that contrasted with Ms. Palin’s slogans. But she provided the more vivacious, visceral television performance: it was a 90-minute sprint to reclaim her identity as a feisty, folksy frontierswoman ready to storm Washington. And she did it like a reality show contestant — broadly, with stagey asides to the camera, including an assurance to some third-grade students, in what she called a “shout-out,” that they would get extra credit for tuning in.
So whatever sort of smart it is to make key strategic adjustments and say the right kind of nothing, she’s got that.
Yes, Joe Biden has it too.
I have a number of relatives who vote Republican for idiotic reasons (because they’re the “family values” party, chiefly. I mean, if thinking about fags makes you feel icky, just say so) and who have sworn off the McCain/Palin ticket this election because of the mockery that was the Palin nomination. But I’d bet you ten dollars that both are back on board now. Phew. Family values are safe.