On the back of a violin or on the bottom of a piano is a board called a resonator. It purpose is partly structural, but mostly to amplify the sound generated by the strings on the instrument, which couldn't make much of a sound without it.
I think Sarah is like that. For much of us, we can't make our views heard in the world, so she amplifies and gives strength to ideas that swirl around much of the conservative base.
I think, since the experience of 0bama, conservatives are looking for a nice long resume. She lacks that, so I don't believe she will go far.
But I see her as the means by which my voice is made louder.