Here's the difference: Sarah didn't have the GOP establishment or really any money to defend and attack.
Trump doesn't have the gop establishment, but he has tons of money and all it can buy.
Sarah wasn't used to the viciousness of the press. Trump has lived with it for decades and learned how to use it for his benefit.
Another difference... Trump is head Banana. Palin was forced to do as told...and looking back, it’s obvious she was held in contempt by her assigned handlers.