The Republicans only flirted with centrist policies because of the anti-Bush mood in the last election, and to try and wean voters away from the Dems.
After Obama's failed term, the Republicans will take a hard right back into familiar territory, partially to neutralize the Tea Party. That means Mitt "cleft-chin" Romney as their front man, possibly with Huckabee in tow.
Palin will lead the Tea Party crowd, and the Dems will put forth Obama (assuming Hillary can be contained).
It will be an interesting matchup...
Obama vs Pawlenty seems to be the match up for now, the only reason Mitt Romney cannot attack Obama on the Healtcare reform, since Obama's healthcare reform which is based of his reform in Massachusetts when he was Governor.
Obama is likely to win, because his ratings are decent and he keeping the big money amused and planning to amass Billion dollar campaign.
Sarah Palin will not contest, she is radio-active, and does not have support in Republican intellectual circles other than throwing RED MEAT to party faithful she hardly demonstrated any policy acumen. But still she is CROWD PLEASER and can attract attention.