Of course I grasp the difference. So what? She can take control now, run later or do whatever she likes. Resigning from rnc head isn’t rocket science. I’d like her to just kick some soggy repub butt now, regardless of how.
Chairman of the RNC is not exactly a stepping stone to ANYTHING. It’s usually a post held by a long time office holder or very active partisan. It is usually assumed after the chairman has concluded his elective career. See Howard Dean at DNC. It’s a perfect position for Newt Gingrich or Fred Thompson, the two present frontrunners (if rumors are true).
The only person I can think of who did a stint as RNC Chmn and went on to higher office is GHWB, who also happened to serve at a high-profile time. But he did a helluva lot in between. See Envoy to China, CIA Director, VPOTUS.
The RNC Chairmanship would be a hugh step back for Gov. Palin. The only possible reason for her to take the position, which I doubt strongly she would want, would be if she decides not to run for national office for several election cycles, but wanted to help rebuild the Republican Party.