2012 Republican Rundown: The Final Matchup: Romney v. Palin

[GLPman]

As much as I can't imagine Palin getting the nomination, I think it's definitely possible, particularly because she appeals to the base of the party and Romney doesn't. At the same time, though, Romney appeals to more people, specifically moderates, which is why I voted for him in this poll, and I think that's what will probably push him ahead and allow him to get the nomination.

[GLPman]

Romney will be cursed with bad timing.  The economic crisis that would have made him an appealing nominee arrived after the 2008 primary and will probably lift before they choose their next one.  If instead social issues become the main concern of conservatives come primary time, I think she'll eat him alive.

This is a very valid point. The opposite could happen, too, however: the economy could not recover by much and, in turn, more voters would turn to Romney over Palin.