UPDATE: Major MSM confirmation, Fox News has confirmed it. I mean, you know McCain’s flak has them in his pocket, so that’s word enough for me. Interesting choice, I would argue not “mainstream Republican.” It’s going to be an interesting convention next week!

CNBC is calling it.

Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin Is McCain’s VP Pick: Source
By John Harwood
CNBC Political Correspondent

Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, a self-styled “hockey mom” who has only been governor for a little over a year, is GOP Presidential candidate John McCain’s choice for Vice President, CNBC has learned.

According to a Republican strategist, Palin is the nominee, though McCain’s campaign has not comfirmed this.

The vice presidential pick, which has been a closely guarded secret, is expected to be announced later Friday.

Hopefully this isn’t a red herring, I think it may be the real deal. Who else could it be if it’s not Romney, Ridge or Lieberman?

UPDATE: Christian News Wire, another hot source, is also confirming Palin

Where are you Drudge?

UPDATE: Could Palin be on hand for a purported GOP talent show?

Says Mark Halperin at Time’s The Page.

UPDATE: Now the Chicago Tribune has jumped on board the Palin boat. Where’s official McCain confirmation? And why does Palin’s flak like to lie about her schedule in Alaska? Why must Republicans lie?!

UPDATE: Bill Kristol says it’s Palin. I said it’s Palin, and I’m always right, why don’t the blogs cite me?

I’m just waiting for some MSM verification before I go mute. Definitely expect veep analysis on Sunday.