In the lead-up to this week’s vice presidential debate, CBS aired
another interview Wednesday with Sarah Palin. The VP hopeful appeared
coherent, more confident and less startled by Katie Couric’s questions.

Palin’s better-than-expected delivery and ability to dodge tough
questions belied her shaky grasp of policy and affirmation of truly
radical views on issues like abortion. In light of the Republican
nominee’s gaffes over the last few weeks, it would be easy to look to
the drama of the performance and set the bar low, while neglecting
to focus keenly on substance. While Palin performed far better than she
had previously, the veneer of well-delivered talking points could not
cloak her ideology, or glaring lack of knowledge on issues as simple as
what newspapers she reads to keep informed.

–Marissa Colón-Margolies

Check out more great Nation videos on our YouTube channel.