Again, your opinion of them doesn't matter.
Sarah Palin is the only reason McCain didn't lose by double digits, and he was pro-life. Romney claims to be pro-life now but has a pro-choice governing record. Without a pro-life, pro-conservative values running mate, Romney can't win.
Cater to the base or suffer the destruction of the country.
I prefer to cater to them. I want to see Obama defeated. If you don't care, nominate another RINO. Two RINOs on the GOP ticket will ensure Obama's reelection. It makes no difference what you think of the recalcitrants who stayed home.
“Cater to the base or suffer the destruction of the country.”
Vote for everyone down-ticket (who cumulatively can do much more to affect your cause than the president can) or kiss your cause good-bye. Or stay home and pout.