Palin's Pretty Priority

Once upon a time, politics was drab, boring and unattractive.

Then came Sarah Palin.

Reports surfaced this week claiming Palin's make up artist as the highest paid staff member on the McCain/Palin campaign.

For a two week period in October, Emmy nominated make-up artist Amy Strozzi painted Mrs Palin's face for $22800.

Astoundingly, this is more than Randy Scheunemann earned in the same period.

He is John McCain's chief foreign policy adviser.

It all seems to be a matter of priorities: policies or pretty faces?

Originally billed as McCain's "hockey mom" off-sider, 44 year old Palin is losing favour with her early supporters.

In addition to the make up artist, Mrs Palin was given $150,000 to spend on upgrading her wardrobe.

Considering this is an average mortgage, the average "hockey mom" would hardly have such a fashion allowance.

When asked about these expenditures, a spokeswoman for the campaign referred to Palin's mostly Saks Fifth Avenue purchases as "strategic decisions".

Commenting further, another spokeswoman said "With all of the important issues facing the country right now, it’s remarkable that we’re spending time talking about pantsuits and blouses".

Savvy fashionistas, particularly those Mrs Palin is attempting to appeal to, know that $150,000 can buy a lot more than a couple of "pantsuits and blouses".

A quick look at the Saks website proves just that.

A Jean Paul Gaultier Mixed Wool Jacket holds a US$2150 price tag, with the matching wide leg trousers cashing in at US$860.

With an Armani Collezioni Assymetrical Ruffle Blouse thrown in for $545, Mrs Palin would be up for $3555: a mere 2.37% of her $150,000 budget.

Based on these high-end designer prices, she could buy 42 pantsuit and blouse combinations.

Mrs Palin needs to read Vivienne Westwood's advice.

Thankfully those in the know claim the "clothing will go to a charitable purpose after the campaign".

Anyone for a spot of Alaskan op-shopping?