John McCain picked Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, a conservative who shares his maverick streak, as his vice presidential running mate this morning in what some are calling a “startling” selection on the eve of the Republican National Convention. In doing so, he surprised the media and “insiders” by passing over “more prominent” contenders like Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty and former Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge.

McCain said that Palin is “exactly who I need. She’s exactly who this country needs to help us fight the same old Washington politics of me first and country second.”

Personally, I like his choice. In fact, I said so back in January before I think she was even a blip on McCain’s radar, and again in a comment reply in June (Embrace the Suck). Maybe McCain reads this blog…. Yeah, right!

Anyway, ever the maverick, McCain picked another maverick. He’s shown that he’ll take on either side of the aisle, which I find refreshing, and he’s chosen a running mate who’s done the same. In that respect, I think they would make a great team in Washington, one that would actually seek “change” and really mean it. Story