This guy has a total tin ear when it comes to politics. He’s done less with more than any politician in recent memory.
That's because he's a very inexperienced politician, having spent a mere 4 years doing so, as governor of Massachusetts. No city council, state legislature or congressional stints. Gaffe-a-minutes performances like this is why it's generally a mistake to run political novices for high office. Starting from a City Council position in 1992, Palin spent 16 years in office before serving as McCain's running mate in 2008. This was why most of her missteps related to lack of substantive knowledge (re foreign policy and federal issues) rather than outright gaffes. Like every other experienced politician, she knows how to say things, although not necessary what to say. Romney has the opposite problem - lots of substantive knowledge, but no political reflexes in terms of avoiding gaffes. If Romney becomes the candidate and keeps on making rookie mistakes like this, I see Obama getting re-elected, and Palin running in 2016.