Palm Reader

Much Buzz Over Palin’s Cheat Sheet

Notes on her palm overshadow her Tea Party speech.

Sarah Palin’s anatomy has been much-discussed ever since she made her national debut as John McCain’s running mate—her pregnant belly, hair pouf, and exposed legs have all been analyzed for their implications for feminism, Republicanism, jogging, etc. But now a new body part is under scrutiny: her palm. Palin addressed the National Tea Party Convention in Nashville Sunday in what was supposed to be a rallying cry for the right. But her speech is now being overshadowed by the notes Palin wrote in the palm of her left hand: “Energy,” “Tax,” “Lift American Spirits,” “Budget Cuts” with the word “Budget” crossed out. Palin checked her crib notes when she was asked what she thought the top three priorities of the Republican Party should be if it wants to recapture a congressional majority.