Typically, I do not follow politics. I follow issues and actions of our elected officials, but do not know much about their backgrounds or their favorite colors.

However, I could not help but to become somewhat engaged when Republican Presidential candidate John McCain chose Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as his running mate.

This former beauty queen appears to be intelligent, informed, focused, and above all, organized.

Recent interviews have revealed that some middle-aged U.S. voters, both males and females, do not want a mother of young children in the White House because she should be “at home” with her children.

Hold the presses, Pete.

What year is this? 1952?

What about men who follow their careers and dreams? They leave their homes, wives, and children to pursue their callings. What’s the difference? Hair spray and lipstick?

My voter registration card indicates that I am a Democrat. However, I follow my heart and head when I vote, not party lines. I’m not particularly excited about either presidential candidate and not sure who I’m going to vote for come November. However, when I heard these comments, I became incensed.

Yes, it is a lot for a woman, or a man, to manage five children including a baby with special needs, a pregnant teen daughter, a household, and career. Staying organized must be high on her “to do” list.

If McCain had chosen a man with young children, these same people would not have given it a second thought because the “little woman” would be keeping the home fires burning.

A person would think by the year 2008, we females would be liberated. We have been allowed to vote, smoke, and burn our bras.

In recent years, females have been “allowed” to fight in wars beside men and are willing to give their lives for their country.

How is it that women are men’s equals when it’s convenient but subject to this criticism?

— Susan berg