Sure, American politics is a full-contact sport. But rarely has a candidate been subjected to such a barrage of exposure and vitriol as has Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, who had the difficult job last night of reintroducing herself to voters as the Republican Party’s vice presidential nominee. She handled it masterfully.

“I’m not a member of the permanent political establishment,” Palin said. “And I’ve learned quickly . . . that if you’re not a member in good standing of the Washington elite, then some in the media consider a candidate unqualified for that reason alone. But here’s a news flash for all those reporters and commentators: I’m not going to Washington to seek their good opinion. I’m going to Washington to serve the people of this great country.”