BALTIMORE -- Female Republicans around Maryland are rallying behind Gov. Sarah Palin, Sen. John McCain's vice presidential pick.

WBAL TV 11 News reporter John Sherman spoke with two female Republicans in Maryland on Wednesday. He said while some conservatives who listen to AM radio have seen Palin as a rising star for a year or more, others, including former first lady Kendel Ehrlich, just started learning her story this week.

Watch: Female Republicans Pumped For Palin Forum: What Do You Think?

"I got really excited about it. I think it was because she's a woman, she's a mom, she's a governor. I'm sort of the prototype for Sarah Palin, and I think she continues to do very well under the pressure," Ehrlich said.

She said the election would be like none before it.

"My husband has always had this rule that most people don't vote for a vice president, and I think in this election cycle, it's different. One, we have Obama, who there's still sort of a question mark … who is this guy? So, I think Biden was relevant to him. And of course, because of John McCain's age, people feel [Palin] is a more relevant pick, as well," Ehrlich said.

"I couldn't believe it. It was so exciting," said Faith Louden of the Maryland Federation of Republican Women. She said she's been a fan of Palin for some time. "The excitement since she's come into the picture is amazing. I'm conservative, so when I have a conservative there, I'm really happy."

Palin is against abortion and is a member of the National Rifle Association.

"She's such a neat lady, and she has such a presence. When she speaks, she's enthusiast and at the same time she's serious," Louden said.

Both women agreed the news about Palin's family is not relevant.

"I think that most Americans do believe that that is a private matter and that it should be done and handled privately. Of course, everybody's going to have an opinion because of who she is and where she is right now, but I think she's handling the pressure beautifully," Ehrlich said.

"It's almost like they want to destroy her personally. I think we should go after … their records. I really think that's what we should stick to … It looks like they're trying to destroy her family," Louden said.

Palin will make her first major speech on the national stage Wednesday evening during the Republican National Convention.

"I think women will be looking at her delivery, and of course the message, which will be strongly a reform type of message," Ehrlich said.

Both women said they believe Palin has enough experience.

"When she came into that city, when she became mayor … the city grew under her, apparently very well. They did very well under her leadership," Louden said.

Ehrlich said there are lots of decisions to be made.