SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — As the Republicans get underway in Minnesota, Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama’s chief political patron — fellow Illinois Democratic Sen. Richard Durbin – was back in Springfield, practicing the balancing act that Dems are employing in going after newly chosen Republican veep candidate, Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin.

Durbin was in town to endorse a local congressional candidate. But he was ready with what already has become a familiar set of talking points when reporters asked about Palin. Some samples, straight from the playbook:

– “I don’t know much about her.” (Said politely, like you’d talk about a complete stranger who showed up out of nowhere.)

– “The obvious question is, being a heartbeat away from the presidency, whether she could lead this nation if . . . something happens.” (Didn’t mention John McCain’s age; didn’t have to.)

–  “I’m puzzled” that she cited as military leadership experience her role “as commander-in-chief of the Alaska National Guard.” (He isn’t puzzled; he’s delivering a punchline, but it can’t look that way.)

– “The hottest ring in hell is reserved for politicians who attack their opponents’ families.” (He said this — and absolutely nothing else — when asked about Palin’s pregnant 17-year-old daughter, a topic Dems clearly believe could backfire on them if they even think about touching it.)