Debates of all ilk

[Ruthie]

It is probably my age showing, but I would have had far more respect for Palin (of course, I would have to have some respect to have far more, I suppose) had she treated the older and more experienced Biden with a little respect.

My parents drilled it in my head that older people are referred to by their last name. I don't live strictly by that rule now but on the stage of a VP debate, in front of millions, her "Can I call you Joe?" just seemed out of place and too familiar to me. UGH!

I think alphabassettgrrl nailed the possible reasons for the question. Again, UGH!