Palin galvanizes Democratic Party base

By Ed Stoddard - Analysis

DALLAS (Reuters) - Republican evangelicals are not the only political base vice presidential pick Sarah Palin is energizing.

Democratic foot soldiers have sprung into action in response to John McCain's running-mate's personal attacks on their candidate, Barack Obama, her opposition to abortion rights and her endorsement from religious conservatives.

"When Palin's radical and extremist views are combined with her inexperience and questionable record, it makes for an energizing brew more potent than Red Bull," said Colorado Democratic leader Pat Waak, referring to the caffeinated energy drink.

Palin's impact on the left was seen almost immediately after her rousing speech last month at the Republican National Convention, when Obama's campaign reported the next day that over $8 million had poured into it from over 130,000 donors.

More recently, Palin drew the ire of Democrats when she accused Obama of "palling around" with terrorists because he served on a community board in Chicago with former 1960s radical William Ayers.

"Her attacks will make liberals see red," added political scientist Cal Jillson of Southern Methodist University.

The Alaska governor, skewered on late-night comedy shows and an object of liberal wrath on the blogosphere, has also proven an able fund-raiser for other secular and liberal causes before the November 4 presidential election.

Songwriter Gretchen Peters is donating the royalties from her song "Independence Day" during this election cycle to Planned Parenthood -- and asks that donations be made in honour of Palin. Planned Parenthood provides women's health-care services, including abortion clinics, and is frequently a target of social conservatives.