I do agree that getting in early is a waste of time and money money and that Palin exclusive dynamics (virtually 100% name and face recognition) and ability to raise money really quickly when needed has advantages for her in that she can afford to wait while others had to get in.
Here’s the deal, no matter who a voter supports now other than hardcore libertarian Paulbots or Establishment Romneybots types, if Sarah Palin is walking down the street, most will probably stop and greet her and see her use her skilled retail politics on them; if there is a rally going on, the local networks or national TV will most likely carry it and a lot of people, even blase on Palin or politics in general will stop to hear her.... She got that IT’ factor
Wish I didn't have that conflict(of comparisons) in the back of my mind..