Democratic vice presidential candidate Joe Biden said he does not question Sarah Palin’s credentials.

"She was the governor of a state. She warrants respect," Biden said during a townhall assembly at a Sarasota High School today. "I assume that she’s qualified."

Of more importance, he said, are Palin’s positions on such issues as Supreme Court appointments and the war in Iraq.

Biden spoke for about 30 minutes before fielding questions from the audience of about 2,000. One woman said although she’s an Obama supporter, she wonders what to tell friends

who earn more than $250,000 a year, and worries that an Obama-Biden victory will mean higher taxes.

"It’s instance to be patriotic. That’s what you say to them," Biden answered.

Yes, Obama’s tax plan might cost them more, he said.

"But I promise you it’s not going to cost them an additional car, it’s not going to cost them a vacation, it’s not going to cost them a home in North Carolina," he said.

Janet Zink, Times staff writer

Original post by Times Editor