Yep, he was the designated loser already chosen in the fall of 2007....to ensure Hillary got her fair chance. After she was defeated, the GOP went to an extended designated loser situation. The 2008 GOP primary was probably the weakest selection group in fifty years.
I think Governor Palin should regret the fact that she accepted. If she had remained in politics she could have had the top spot and run for president without dragging the loser John McCain with her.