The RNC is already having trouble raising money. Conservative activists hate the party leadership and the leadership disdains them right back. If you're a Democrat, "another McCain" is just what the doctor ordered to tear the opposition apart and prevent the re-emergence of a Conservative coalition.
I believe that 2012 is the last chance for the Republican Party. Nominate another wishy-washy, centrist Progressive-lite liberal, and their reason to exist will evaporate like dew on a hot day.
FIRST; we get rid of THEM!