Giving credit where and when it's due

I've been critical of Michael van der Galien for his criticism of Gov. Palin, most of it unjustified, IMO. However, when he sends some rare kudos her way, I should give him props. His PoliGazette post referencing Politico's story about The Palin team's refusal to use SarahPAC funds to retire a portion of Hillary Clinton's campaign debt is one of those times.

The moderate blogger concludes:

"... it is interesting to see that Palin is willing to reach out to influential Democrats. This contradicts the image the media created of her being a partisan hack, an extremist who believes all those who disagree with her are enemies of the state and God."

Those of us who are familiar with her record have always known that Sarah Palin has a history of reaching out to the other side. Too many judge her solely on the "campaign pit bull" role she was assigned as John McCain's running mate. Her history as Alaska's chief executive clearly shows that she has governed as quite the pragmatist. Just ask her critics on the hard right.

- JP