“Darn right it was the predator lenders, who tried to talk Americans into thinking that it was smart to buy a $300,000 house if we could only afford a $100,000 house. There was deception there, and there was greed and there is corruption on Wall Street. And we need to stop that.”

http://elections.nytimes.com/2008/president/debates/transcripts/vice-presidential-debate.html

She undoubtedly has “populist” appeal, tapping into many ordinary Americans’ justified anger at the morally condescending patronizing attitude of liberals.

However, I have no confidence that if she were in power, she would be advocating for genuine capitalism and individual rights. If anything, she could be FAR more damaging in the long run to the cause of capitalism and limited government than a statist like Obama (who is already extremely damaging).

“Cut and Ron Palin…”

Her “aw schucks” comments are grating like fingernails on a chalkboard. Perhaps to some “liberal” elitists she represents the threat you describe. I don’t think she merits the attention she gets.

Any politician who runs for president or vice president if they get elected will have to desert their post since they can’t really do both jobs, right? Even campaigning for another position means you are not doing the job for which you were elected.

Actually, quitting before getting elected seems a bit more honest (and perhaps more courageous) to me. At least it is a recognition of the fact that one can’t do both jobs.

As far as the original question goes, usually when you see such an intense reaction far out of place compared to what it should be it means some sort of psychological defense mechanism is going on.

“If the Dems lose women as a voting bloc, it’s over: they’ll never win another election. Thus, Sarah Palin must be mocked, scorned, hated and marginalized.”

At this point you my be overanalyzing this a bit. This is an emotional response – a visceral hatred. I don’t think anyone sat down and said A, therefore B, therefore C therefore I should hate Palin.

“I should note that I’m not a fan of Sarah Palin.” Sure but you don’t hate her. You are able to analyze there things rationally which is something the liberals and conservatives can’t do.

let’s see why conservatives like myself don’t like her?
She’s a quitter.
She deserted her post and ran away.
She can’t take the heat of public office.
She’s thin skinned and can’t take criticism.
She can’t formulate a simple sentence.
She’s not very bright.
Oh, never mind – she’s perfect for the country.

I asked the question that sparked the GusVanHorn post. There were some good responses there but I think this is the best, most comprehensive answer yet. Thanks.