You seem to be stuck on the assumption that Palin supporters see her as "the second coming" of Reagan, which they don't. If all you can see are the dissimilarities between Palin and Reagan, then I can see how you might get that impression.
Here's the thing. Palin and Reagan are two Americans who have a great deal in common, hence the inevitable comparisons. By the same token, they can't help but have a great many things about them which they don't share in common.
If you choose to only concentrate on only those things that separate them, then it will be harder for you to understand or appreciate the Reagan/Palin parallels you see being voiced.
Bottom line ~ they're both Americans who have/had a unique devotion to traditional American principles of government and to our Constitution. And yes, their patriotism is/was of the finest character.
I think you might be missing my point.
I am constantly seeing her heralded as having a lot in common with Reagan. I have asked someone to articulate what those things are. Aside from comparisons of Obama to Carter, I don’t see a lot.
My point is that conservatives are so hungry for someone different that they are missing the important point that Sarah does not have a lot more executive experience than Obama had when he was elected—and there is certainly no comparison between the life experiences that Reagan had at the time he was elected in ‘80—or even in ‘68 or ‘76 when runs were considered.
I cannot argue with her appeal to the conservative base. And, I also concede that if she is the nominee I would definitely vote for her over anyone on the Dem side.
But, to this point, no one has been able to articulate this oft-made comparison with Reagan, other than they are “great Americans.” It is not that I do not understand the parallels. Its simply have not seen any. Love of country and support for the military are fine. But capability to do the job is different than that.
If you think my arguments are weak, or not relevant, that is fine. Explain to me what I am missing. Every time I try to have this discussion I get flamed, called names, called a troll and worse.
I really do not see myself as a detractor, because I have NEVER suggested anyone was better. I hate Romney (I would stay home if he is nominated) and I don’t care for Newt or Huckabee. I don’t know enough about the others to have an opinion.
I am sincerely not looking for a fight, but a reasoned discussion. (My wife tells me that I am just pounding my head against the wall by coming on here and trying to discuss it.)