I think you've hit on the essence of the Palin Derangement Syndrome that we've seen breaking out the past month.
Some of it is due to the fact that the Libs can't stand the idea of a conservative woman (ditto for a conservative 'minority') being elected to higher office, thus she must be destroyed.
Some of it is due to the fact that they can't stand the idea of a Christian being put into a position of leadership (and for that matter - neither can satan, and his minions, who will egg on those in this world who he has blinded into fits of hysteria and rage).
But you are also right - the abortion issue touches a very sore button. We as a society have chosen to exult material wealth, sexual lusts, and convenience higher than human life. And those who have made such a tragic decision in the past - have either to face it, and come to repentance, or to try to ignore it. Someone like Mrs. Palin probably dredges up bitter memories for those that have chosen poorly, and not repented - and thus they become unhinged...
Nailed it!