As the press delves more deeply into Sarah Palin’s life and past, it’s yielded such information as the pregnancy of her 17-year-old daughter, Bristol, a tidbit seemingly at odds with the wholesome “hockey mom” image Palin and her family seek to put forth.

Such facts have raised the “moral contradiction” alarm, leading fellow candidates, in this case both Barack Obama and John McCain, to repeat thoughtful and enlightened ‘don’t target the family members’ line we’ve heard many utter in reference to their children, Dick Cheney’s daughter, Jenna, Barbara or Chelsea, among other, similar political collateral damage.

I’m inclined to agree that it’s not the fault of politicians’ and film stars’ under-aged (or not under-aged, for that matter) children and families that their parents and/or spouses have by-proxy thrust them into the limelight. But I also believe that once a certain ambition boundary has been crossed and perhaps even collective family agreement has been made (doubtful, but who knows), it’s all fair game.

If you want that much power, fame and/or money, shouldn’t you be ready to take the scrutiny, and know you’re inflicting the same on your loved ones?