What Palin's speech needs to convey.

According to the CNN countdown clock we are less than an hour away from Gov. Sarah Palin's veep speech.

Ever since Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain selected the Alaskan governor as his running mate , there have been criticisms from both sides. Most of that criticism has come because of her lack of economic and foreign policy experience. But that's what advisers are for right?

Thus far, the Palin selection has amped up a lot of Republicans who have been upset with McCain coming out as the front runner on the Republican side.  

So what does Palin have to do tonight?

She has been criticized for not having enough experience in the realm of politics to be a "heartbeat" away from the presidency. 

Her political career started in 1996 when she was elected to Wasilla city council and then became mayor of the town in 1996. Palin became governor in 2006.

It is pretty evident that she does not have a lot of foreign policy experience. Then again not many governors do. 

Our past two presidents have been governors. Our next president will be a senator. I digress.

Palin needs to prove to the American people that she has what it takes to be second in command. And possibly the "big cheese"

Palin is a self-proclaimed "hockey mom" and that should work to her advantage.

Looking at excerpts from her speech, Palin sees not having an illustrious political career as a positive.

"I'm not a member of the permanent political establishment. And I've learned quickly, these past few days, that if you're not a member in good standing of the Washington elite, then some in the media consider a candidate unqualified for that reason alone."

And.....

"Before I became governor of the great state of Alaska, I was mayor of my hometown. And since our opponents in this presidential election seem to look down on that experience, let me explain to them what the job involves. I guess a small-town mayor is sort of like a 'community organizer,' except that you have actual responsibilities."

Defending her experience is first and foremost.

Next, I would expect her to tout her strong conservative viewpoints on social issues. Second amendment, abortion, etc. This will be huge with social value voters. 

I'm anxious to see if she mentions gay marriage.

Of course Palin will touch on energy and oil independence.

Interesting enough, Palin supports drilling in ANWAR. McCain does not.

Ill try to post a wrap up once the speech is over.