Yeah, and Dewhurst is a McConnell/Lindsey Graham style Republican. Is that what you prefer?
I think Palin is a great influence within the GOP. What separates her from Reagan is that she doesn't have Reagan's charisma and political smarts. The press hated Reagan more than they hate Palin. They called Reagan a senile, retarded, washed-up B movie actor. He smiled, issued some disarming remarks and made them look bad. Both Democratic and Republican pols wanted to be seen kissing up to Reagan. Only Republicans in diehard GOP districts want to be seen anywhere near Palin. Reagan was the Teflon president, whereas Palin is the Velcro pol - everything the press slings in her direction sticks.