Willow Palin

Willow Palin is the daughter of Sarah Palin, the former governor of Alaska and previous running mate to Republican presidential candidate John McCain. Willow Palin is the third oldest of Sarah and husband, Todd Palin's, five children.http://www.humsurfer.com/willow-palin-pictures

In November 2010, Willow faced criticism in the media for what some considered homophobic comments made against a Facebook user who stated his dislike for the television show Sarah Palin's Alaska.http://www.ontopmag.com/article.aspx?id=6916&MediaType=1&Category=26

Sarah Palin referred to David Letterman as being a "so-called comedian" whose "humor erodes a young girl's self esteem" on The Today Show on June 12, 2009. These comments were made after Letterman joked about Willow "getting knocked up by Alex Rodriguez" on his show on June 9th.http://watching-tv.ew.com/2009/06/letterman-palin-rape-joke-war.html Letterman denied that he was referring to Willow.http://www.usmagazine.com/news/david-letterman-apologizes-to-sarah-palin-sort-of-2009116

In reaction to a negative Facebook comment regarding her mother's television show Sarah Palin's Alaska, Willow reportedly called the commentor two different homophobic names. The subsequent apology was reported as only appearing half hearted. Joy Behar, an American talk show host, stated that Willow's comments were beneath contempt, and featured guests on her show who agreed with this viewpoint.http://www.ontopmag.com/article.aspx?id=6916&MediaType=1&Category=26

In spite of criticism against Willow's statements in the media, Republican gay rights group GoProud released a statement questioning the offensiveness of her comments. They compared her Facebook reply to everyday comments that are heard on the street, and stated that those who label Willow's comments as homophobic are simply trying to smear Sarah Palin and her family by any means necessary.http://www.opposingviews.com/i/gay-gop-group-defends-willow-palin-s-use-of-gay-slur

David Pakman from the David Pakman show discusses Willow Palin's recent comments on Facebook. Pakman compares and contrasts this story with other recent news stories and headlines featuring anti-gay comments and sentiments from other Americans. He wonders aloud what kind of mentality is required in order to openly speak racist or homophobic slurs.