Palin and McCain: The rocker and the crooner

John McCain's speech to the GOP Convention in St. Paul was a heartfelt call to the people.

If Palin rocked them (and she did); McCain crooned them.

It was not a grandiose speech; nor was it particularly rousing (except for the final 60 seconds).

But it showed the character of an extraordinary man.

A man who has gone through more trials and tribulations than 95 percent of those watching.

A man whose unquestionable love for his country has led him to be within sight of the final port of call of an astonishing life.

The grace with which he referred to his oponent, together with the spirit that comes from overcoming adversity, and the courage it will take to stand up to Washington, will I believe, bring new supporters to his campaign and galvanise his current support base.

With Superwoman from Alaska by his side, I think America had better hang on!

Palin Rocks 'em in St Paul

For 37 minutes on Wednesday, Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin became the most important - certainly the most looked at - woman in the world.

Her keynote address at the GOP conference in St Paul was arguably the most anticipated speech by a politician in the last ten years.

The speech had it all - it was warm, witty, shrewd, and incredibly confident.

It might have been a bit light on policy, but, to be fair, this probably wasn't the time to knock everyone sideways with ideas for domestic and international affairs.

It was Palin's job tonight - as a relatively unknown politician a week ago - to introduce herself to the world, tell her story and praise her boss.

I am sure she quelled the fears of many Republicans and swinging voters still jittery and bewildered by her meteoric ascension, who wondered whether she'd be able to handle being on the world stage.

I reckon she could handle it, alright!

Palin delivered in spades.

The delegates loved it.

So did I.