The XX Factor: What women really think.

Palin May Be Pretty, but Her Poll Numbers Aren't

What I find interesting about the whole Palin sex-pot debate is that her supposed sex appeal hasn't translated into more votes--even in previously die-hard red states, such as Colorado, where dudes are plentiful, and ammo girls are to be admired. For all the hoopla surrounding her nomination, Palin's appeal is as inflated as Susannah's blow-up doll. In fact, she has turned out to be a significant drag on the McCain ticket. According to the recent NBC/Wall Street Journal Poll, her perceived lack of qualifications is the number one concern voters have about voting for McCain--even above their fears about the economy or that McCain will continue Bush's policies. Turns out flawless make-up, a $150,000 wardrobe and all those winks haven't actually resulted in a lasting boost for McCain. I don't think this is sexism; I think Palin is being judged on her merits. After all, Republicans as diverse as Kathleen Parker, Christopher Buckley and Colin Powell have argued that Palin is simply not ready to be President, which is the top job of Vice President.

By contrast, Gloria Steinem's looks complemented her substance. In her day, she likely needed the former to sell the latter. I certainly don't begrudge Steinem her beauty. A smart, sexy woman shouldn't be penalized for her looks. But in the case of Palin, we are supposed to accept her sex appeal in lieu of her qualifications. This pitch hasn't worked, which I think also helps explain everyone's sudden, belated appreciation of Hillary. Six months ago, Hillary was seen as a scold, even by many in her own party. Now, the pantsuits, the unbecoming hair, the lack of a beguiling voice and feminine wiles have never seemed more attractive. People are falling all over themselves to praise her--including Palin! (Who'd have thunk a Clinton would be embraced by the Republican party?) Hillary has set the bar very high for any woman who wants to follow in her footsteps. Indeed, Palin has been surrounded by middle-aged women at the top of their games--Katie Couric, Tina Fey and the newly arrived Rachel Maddow. The contrast has not been pretty.