Conservative commentator Patrick Buchanan, whom I am fond of citing when he is skewering the neo-cons, has penned an article that reflects conservative enthusiasm over the selection of Sarah Palin.

As the Democrats were being rudely stepped on, however, Palin ignited an explosion of enthusiasm among conservatives, Evangelicals, traditional Catholics, gun owners and Right to Lifers not seen in decades. …
For his boldness in choosing Palin, McCain deserves enormous credit. He has made an extraordinary gesture to conservatives and the party base, offering his old antagonists a partner’s share in his presidency. And his decision is likely to be rewarded with a massive and enthusiastic turnout for the McCain-Palin ticket. Rarely has this writer encountered such an outburst of enthusiasm on the right.

Buchanan also speculates that a VP Palin would likely stir revolts in the Republican caucuses designed to eliminate the power of senior Republicans who are big appropriators. A VP Palin would lead the Republican minority closer to true Republican ideals.

With Republicans having zero chance of capturing either House, and but a slim chance of avoiding losses in both, a Vice President Palin, with her reputation as a rebel and reformer, would surely inspire similar revolts in the Republican caucuses.

As Thomas Jefferson said, from time to time, a little rebellion in the political world is as necessary as storms in the physical.

Interesting stuff from Buchanan, as always, and indicative of the potential upside of this nomination for the McCain campaign. He has indeed wowed the base. Read the Buchanan column here.