In 1948, during a speech by Harry S. Truman criticizing his Republican opponents during the 1948 Presidential election campaign, a supporter yelled out, “Give ‘em Hell, Harry!”  Truman replied, “I don’t give them Hell. I just tell the truth about them and they think it’s Hell.”  Last night in the state of Delaware, Sarah Palin yet again flexed her political muscles and helped conservative candidate Christine O’Donnell defeat liberal Republican Mike Castle in the GOP’s primary for the United States Senate.

As the 2010 mid-term elections rapidly approach, the influence of Palin and the Tea Party Movement on the Republican Party and its slate of candidates has been telling.  From the outcome of a number of tightly contested races between Palin and Tea Party backed candidates against high-profile incumbents and party regulars, it is clear who and what commands the hearts and minds of the GOP’s voter base.

Like the Tea Party Movement, Palin is a study in contrasts, a gun-toting, moose-hunting mom of five, including a special needs baby with Down Syndrome.  She is a former beauty queen and hockey mom turned public servant and political reformer.  Her family exhibits many of the problems and dysfunctions that plague many American families.  Yet, like Harry Truman, she is a plain-talker, straight-shooter, and breath of fresh Alaskan air on the American political scene.

Her plain talk, frequent gaffes, and seeming naiveté in matters of state and international affairs hurt the McCain-Palin ticket in its bid for control of the executive branch of government in 2008.  Yet, her candor, personality, and unwavering support for conservative principles, coupled with vicious personal attacks by her political opposition and many in the liberal media, endeared her to millions of Americans.

Whether one likes her or not, it is inarguable that Palin has emerged as a major force in the Republican Party and American politics.  And, as she accumulates political capital from her support of candidates like O’Donnell, one wonders if Palin intends to expend that capital in an attempt to achieve her party’s Presidential nomination and face off against Barack Obama in 2012 as the first major party female candidate for our nation’s highest office.

One thing is certain: should she decide to pursue her party’s nomination, she will present a unique and formidable challenge to any and all opposing her.  And, if she does, I suspect that, regardless of party affiliation, somewhere Harry Truman will be smiling.

1 Queen = 12 Presidents!!!

In an economic downturn, one wonders whether our Founding Fathers made the right choice in breaking away from England.  During the reign of England’s current Queen Elizabeth, we in the United States have had 12 U.S. Presidents!  Yes, that’s 16 elections, 12 inaugurations, and 11 pensions while our neighbors across the pond have had but 1 coronation.  Hmm!

Harry S. Truman with Queen Elizabeth

The haberdasher from Missouri looks a little uncomfortable in the presence of Royalty.

Dwight Eisenhower with Queen Elizabeth

Dwight compliments the Queen on her dazzling smile.

John F. Kennedy with Queen

JFK appears a little preoccupied.  Maybe, he was expecting a call from Marilyn Monroe.

Lyndon Baines Johnson without Queen but with Dog with Floppy Ears

Apparently, LBJ had no photo ops with the Queen; however, he did take a photo with a dog named “Queen” (I made that up).

Richard Nixon with Queen Elizabeth

Dick explains to Queen, “I’m not a crook.”

Gerald Ford with Queen Elizabeth

What this bust shot does not show is the fact that the Queen is smiling through the pain of Gerry – noted for his clumsiness - stepping on her toes.

Jimmy Carter with Queen Elizabeth

Check out the smiles (or should I say grimaces).  These two clearly do not like each other.

Ronald Reagan with Queen Elizabeth

The Queen has just told a dilly, and the Gipper is either having a hearty laugh or yawning.

George Bush with Queen Elizabeth

If you’re thinking that these two look like stiffs, you’re right!  This picture is actually of two mannequins.

Bill Clinton with Queen Elizabeth

Clinton’s “cat that ate the canary” grin is because he had just been introduced to the Queen’s chubby intern.

George W. Bush with Queen Elizabeth

“Dubyah” is regaling the Queen on the bliss of rounding up cattle at the ranch in Crawford.

Barack Obama with Queen Elizabeth

Now it’s the Queen’s turn to appear uncomfortable in the presence of our first African-American President (unless, of course, you count Bill Clinton).

Queen

Just thought I’d throw this picture in.

Thank you to Small Town Girl for the idea for this article.