Sarah Palin Speaks: Likely Big Ratings Draw for Republican Convention

Sarah Palin took to the podium Wednesday night in what was arguably the most anticipated speech of the Republican Convention (complete with countdown time watch on screen that was not entirely accurate we come to find out). Palin - Republican Presidential candidate John McCain's selected running mate - has been thrust into the limelight and has come under intense media scrutiny over the past several days.

The media has questioned Palin's experience as a two year Governor of Alaska - of the the least populace states in the US. Republicans have fired back that Palin has more "executive experience" than Democratic candidate, Barack Obama, even when she was mayor of a small town.

Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani called her "one of the most successful governors and the most popular".

Palin came on strong from the get go. After introducing her family, the Alaska Governor took on the press and offered this message:

"I'm not going to Washington to seek their (the media) good opinion, I am going to Washington to serve the people of this country."

Palin emphasized her "common man and woman" appeal and how she took on the government of Alaska after taking office.

At times, Palin took swipes at both Obama and his wife. She stated that even through hard times Palin has always "remained proud of her country," an obvious swipe at Michelle Obama's own remarks that it was the first time she has ever been proud of her country.  Palin frequently mocked Obama's perceived "celebrity".

"McCain is someone not looking for a fight but is not afraid of one either," she said of the GOP candidate.

John McCain remained a +160 underdog to win the Presidency at the time of Palin's speech.