John Mellencamp: "Impressed" by Sarah Palin

In the past two years, there has been so much hatred directed toward Sarah Palin from the left (and some from the right as well) that it is a true surprise to find someone on the left who has respect for Governor Palin at all.  I particularly wouldn't have expected that person to be known liberal and rocker John "Don't Call Me Cougar" Mellencamp.

From the Washington Post via PalinTV:

The legendary rocker says that while he doesn't support her positions, he is impressed by the mark she's made on the country since the 2008 election.

Mellencamp says people get the wrong idea about her intellect "just because she says things and winks."

He says she "knows exactly what's she doing" and "she wouldn't be where she is today if she didn't."

Mellencamp gives Palin credit for handling the rough world of politics. He says "she's pushing the right buttons" and "you can't be stupid and do that."

Kudos to Mr. Mellencamp for distinguishing the person from the policy.  More of that is needed on both sides.