Bit defensive are we?
Nobody really cares about any forced or artificial gender divisions.
First of all, it is too early for any of the candidates to be considered worthy. Let them go through the trials of the primary season, see how they stand up, and then lets see. This time four years ago, everyone was talking about Giuliani, remember? He fell by the wayside quickly.
If Palin wants to prove herself, the path is open to her...but it will be a hard slog, and she will be challenged.