When a VP debate makes you cry
Many of us who watched the vice presidential debate (hosted by our very own Wash U.) last night, anticipated some cringe-worthy moments. Whether you were waiting for Biden to lose it or Palin fumble it, the potential for drama was sky high. But in the thick of all the political posturing, there was a surprising moment of real emotion. It was when Joe Biden talked about the loss of his first wife and daughter and whether his sons would survive the accident that nearly wiped out his family.
No matter how long ago, some hurts stay with you. How ironic that at a time when so many Americans were tuning in for bloodthirsty battle, we were reminded of our greatest blessings. It was humbling. Moreover, it was a man who choked up talking about his family. Just as Sarah Palin’s nomimation was a significant moment for working mothers, Joe Biden’s emotional mention of being a single parent - in a vice presidential debate, no less — is a significant moment for fathers.
Aisha covered education and breaking news for nearly ten years before joining the Lifestyle staff where she writes a "Dirty Laundry" parenting column. She is the home and family editor and wastes too much time on Facebook and political blogs. 
Palin’s icy coldness in response was unbelievable:
“She didn’t have a prepared reaction … so she was trying to figure out which talking point was the easiest pivot from “opponent shows deep emotion over family tragedy.”"
“She pulled the string, and out came an answer about McCain being a maverick. Classless, and completely out of place in what was a somber movement. She could’ve shown some empathy, maybe even talked about the difficulties of raising her own family. Instead, she resorted to talking points.”
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/10/2/233824/042/906/618457