This fits in with Juan's tepid, sort of defense of Sarah lately as some of his former campaign staffers have savaged her. He's given a few, tight jawed statements about how he was proud of her contributions, etc., but has not defended her against any specific charges, AFAIK.
Juan might have been thinking ahead about the help she could provide during his reelection campaign.
You nailed it.
It's what has bothered me about him since the election.
She saved him during the campaign.