Your last phrase captures it; “She’s frittering that away, unfortunately”. For every good speech or interview she does within the last two years, Sarah (or Bristol) will say something to chip away at, erode or cancel out the gravitas of her political stature. Latest example is her appearing to become upset with Bill O’Reily for linking her to Trumps’ reality show approach to the Bully Pulpit.
Most folks don’t want their political leaders doing too much changing. You can only be so multifauceted, after which, one seems to be uncentered, unsettled at how they wish to be perceived.
If Sarah wishes to be a talk show host , a touring lecturer,or a reality show entertainer, she can be all that, and would do a splendid job, but if she has any political ambitions as in holding office, she may have to stay in character long enough for people to think they really know and understand her. She is only 50, so in the political world, Sarah has plenty of time. Meanwhile, she should not be surprised when folks see her first as a celebrity vs only a social/political figure.
The idea behind so many of these articles is to diminish her chances should she decide to run. And, quite frankly, I’m sick of the BS said on this forum about her too - since when did the commie-in-chief, give such an awe-inspiring speech - or have the fire in his belly - other than when he was playing the race card? So, to some on her - if she decides to run - fine - if not - that’s fine too. Just STFU, and let Sarah be Sarah and stop trying to tell her what to do and how to do it.!!!!!!