We lost because:
1. McCain ran a half-hearted campaign that gave no reason why people should vote for him, other than he is not Obama.
2. He more than likely believed his "maverick status" would attract the moderates and independents to his side to offset the loss of conservative votes (which did not).
3. McCain fumbled badly during the economic crisis.
4. McCain's "maverick status" did not prevent the perception that McCain meant another four years of Bush.
5. McCain simply shunted the conservatives. Then probably realized that he was in serious trouble and brought in Palin as a desperate measure.
6. The GOP still has no clue on how to counter the media spin.
7. In this age where image is everything, an old geezer ran against a younger, more dynamic candidate...nuff said.
The GOP better learn that you cannot win without the conservative base. They also have to learn how to better sell the idea that conservative principles are what is best for the US (especially to younger voters). Finally, they have to counter the negative media spin.
I voted for McCain because the thought of our soldiers taking orders from Obama made me sick, but your statement is correct.