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Do you RNC campaign donors mind having spent $150,000 for Sarah Palin's wardrobe and $4,716.49 for her hair and makeup?

I assume you don't. She suddenly needed to look perfect for numerous high-profile appearances. How could she possibly have paid for all that herself? Imagine how she'd have been ripped apart if she'd relied on what she already had in her closet by all those folks who want to say: It's like McCain just picked your mom for VP.

But is it legal?

Federal law would bar the McCain-Palin campaign from converting campaign funds to "personal use" - a definition that specifically includes clothing purchases.

But a Republican strategist said the expenditure by the party committee was legal.

If it's not legal, there is an uneven burden on men and women. A male candidate can wear whatever business suits and shirts and ties he's had in his wardrobe for years. It's hard to go wrong. But the woman will be scrutinized, and there are so many pitfalls. Especially when she is suddenly elevated to the national stage -- like Sarah Palin -- a woman need major fashion assistance.

ADDED: Here's the original report in Politico, and here you can see that the blogosphere is going wild over it. Of course, Palin opponents are going to use this material. Nothing wrong with that.

Full post as published by Althouse on October 22, 2008 (boomark / email).