I agree – but….....…..having lived here for 3 years I would never underestimate the great American public. They managed to elect that fuckwit Bush twice
But Bush wasn't coming from the right of the party. Incredible to think of it now but his big schtick was compassionate conservatism ie keep government small but don't be mean to the people As he put it "I call my philosophy and approach compassionate conservatism. It is compassionate to actively help our fellow citizens in need. It is conservative to insist on responsibility and results. And with this hopeful approach, we will make a real difference in people's lives." Actually, thinking about it, it doesn't sound that different from Call Me Dave's approach.
Bush's approach worked: it got him elected (and then it was quietly shelved) but I couldn't imagine Palin coming out with anything that sniffed of compassion.