Palin and Romney stay away from each other because they both know they are the big dogs in the fight. It is way to soon to engage or ally. In the end if either one is the nominee they will have the strong support of the other. They both have what the other needs to win. Romney represents everything that some Freepers and Tea Partyers hate, he has big traditional organizations in almost every state, heavy duty fundraising, good relationships wih all of the “old Gop power types”, he appeals to moderates and independents. Palin can get the nomination without that if she is the only conservative running or knocks out the little guys early, but to win the general she will need what Romney has, and the easiest way to get it is if he gives it to her rather than her trying to build it on her own. If Romney gets the nomination he has to have the fervent support from the hardcore grassroots conservatives that Palin has. Anti-Obama sentiment will go a long ways but true passion about your own candidate is Palin’ strength. They both want to be president but they are both pragmatists. The loser of the match will be in the winners camp in the summer of 2012 to the dismay of many Freepers.
Romney has already taken swipes at Palin, as have his attack dogs. She’s taking the high ground- likely to get away from the stench.