It's amazing how frightened Republican establishment types are of Sarah Palin. She couldn't possibly represent the party! No, we need to run someone really inspirational and exciting like John McCain or Bob Dole!
But, Leo, what if McCain and Dole aren't alive in 2012?
No, problem. No one will be able to tell the difference.
When Nixon told the press that they wouldn't have him to kick around anymore, he came back and was elected president. Go, Sarah!