McCain Picks First Woman Veep In 24yrs

McCain has picked a fresh new face, Alaskan governor, Sarah Palin, as his running-mate, in a direct challenge to Obama and his ticket with old-timer, Joe Biden. Palin, 44, a self-styled hockey mum, has been an Alaskan governor for less than two years and is already drawing praise from Republicans as an 'electrifying choice'. 

The news had been running on Associated Press wires since late afternoon. A formal announcement was made when McCain and Palin appeared on stage at a rally in Ohio.

Palin, three years younger than Obama, is an unexpected choice, but could attract Clinton supporters who feel let down and bitter after Obama snatched the nomination from her.

Regarded as a reformer, Palin is the first woman to appear on a presidential ticket since Walter Mondale picked Geraldine Ferraro as his running mate 24 years ago.

The US political website, Politico, quotes MSNBC's Larry Kudlow: "She's a strong, pro-life, supply side, drill-drill-drill ethics reformer ... and would electrify everyone if this choice pans out."

Another Rebublican is quoted as saying: "She's down to earth, a hunter and a fisherman, really connects with the people of Alaska. She's really the new face of the Party."