Opinion: Reacting to Palin, Kay Bailey Hutchison gets high marks for honesty

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Reflecting the experienced politician she is, Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas displayed no trace of disappointment or chagrin in a phone interview with CNN in reacting to John McCain’s choice for a running mate -- the position for which her name had been floated.

Rare for a politician, however, she was unusually candid in commenting on the selection of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin.

‘I don’t know too much about her, but perhaps that’s the good news,’ Hutchison said.

Elaborating on that latter point, she termed Palin ‘a surprise’ pick, ‘but a pleasant one.’ She predicted she would introduce ‘a breath of fresh air’ to the presidential campaign.

-- Don Frederick

U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, R-Texas, comments to the media, Friday, Aug. 29, 2008 at her home in Dallas on John McCain’s choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his vice presidential running mate. Hutchison said McCain’s choice is a ‘bold and exciting opportunity.’ She said that by choosing a woman, McCain has an opportunity to capture voters who are eager for a change. AP Photo/ Donna McWilliam