‘Kindred Spirit’ Palin Wowed McCain Right From Start

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin was a strong contender to be John McCain's running mate all along, his campaign has revealed. Looking to diffuse speculation that Palin was a hasty, last-minute choice, aides told the Washington Post that she was high on McCain’s list since their first meeting in February. Advisers also divulged that Cindy McCain played a major role in the veepstakes.

Mitt Romeny, assumed by the media to be a strong contender, never met with McCain, according to aides. Though Romney has said he didn't expect to be picked, it’s rumored that his angry advisers feel like the former Massachusetts governor was “strung along.” McCain made the offer to Palin last Thursday at his Sedona retreat after nearly two days of talks, aides said. (More Sarah Palin stories.)