We haven't elected a General to the White House since 1956 and by 2012 I expect international relations and defense will be such a shambles that anyone with a military background will be a shoo-in. Obama's pathological narcissism won't allow him NOT to run, even if he leads the Demonrats into the wilderness for the next 20 years. So that's my guess -- Obama vs. a General to be named later.
Does the name “Norman Schwarzkopf” make sense in light of what you said?
I think substantial international threats would rather see Obama elected than face President Palin, so I think they’ll be relatively quiet through 2012. This will be an election about the economy—and political philosophy as it pertains thereof.
McChrystal!