That's a good question to ask. I think it's good to defend conservatism in general, but not to put too many eggs in any one person's basket. I do like Mrs. Palin, but I just don't get tingles up my leg about anyone any more.
What I like to do when the libs bring up Palin is just say: how can she possibly be any worse than Bush or Obama, especially considering both went to the IVY league schools.
You have to take it slow and show that you will bash people of all sides before they will listen to you.
Slowly but surely, you can let it rip, but dont get defensive off the bat.
Look, i like Sarah a ton, but she has made some goofy mistakes that we should laugh at.
You have to be a little slick about it.
BTW - anyone who hates Palin is usually for reasons that also go into other areas that usually make me not want to be friends with that person in the first place.
Also - never discuss politics with moon bats on the left that are in your family. You will never convince them otherwise and it will get ugly.