Let’s see how much traffic from Russia we can get

Rule 5 demands that we discuss Russia’s newest political phenomenon, Maria the Great.

Oh, no, not yet. She’s still just Maria Sergeyeva now.

In just a few short months Maria Sergeyeva has become a controversial political celebrity. But how did the 24-year-old Russian garner such widespread attention, and just how powerful might she become?

The U.K.’s Daily Mail writes that she is the “leading propagandist” of Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. Critics believe she is being used by Putin to drum up support from Russia’s youth. She’s certainly carving out a nice career for herself. Sergeyeva is widely believed to be on her way to a government ministry position. Her ultimate ambition, apparently, is to rule Russia.

Nice, the way they slip the word “apparently” in there. Wonder what the basis for that is.

Anyway:

…many folks are more intrigued by her looks than her remarks. Searches on her name are up 454% this week, and “maria sergeyeva pictures” are also on the march. Some have labeled her “Putin’s pinup,” but others believe that focusing on her looks discounts the impact she may have on the world stage.

From the very little I’ve read about her, it sounds like she’s a populist in the Vladimir Zhirinovsky sense. If the words “Russian” and “populist” in the same sentence give you a slight chill – and not the kind that runs up your leg – you’re not alone.

Still, though, if this is the best Russia can do:

Sarah Palin could take her. Heck, so could Meghan McCain.

Hey, you think Maria might weigh in on Meghan McCain?