The real point is, Palin is endorsing a RINO as “payback” which of course reduces her “conservative” credibility. Yes, Sarah can do just that for her “free speech”. A principled person would use endorsing McPain, a RINO, as a wise choice in exercising their “free speech”. They'd save that “free speech” for someone who had the same principles. I label Palin what she is ... even if truth and the “label” offend you!
I think what you’re really saying is: someone with principles, followed by a parenthetical . . as long as they agree with MY principles. And on that, you are free to either endorse or reject her decission. It’s about choices, to with which SP has made her own. And quite possibly not for the reasons you believe. Rush is absolutly correct on this, IMO.