Palin's strength is oil, which is a key energy component for the next decade or two. What I am referring to is investing and creating the environment to innovate in alternative energy sources.
Thomas freedman this Sunday on "this week with George Stefanabolis" stated that this is next front of innovation and American opportunity to maintain economical and technological leadership. This could be our next big export that not will only benefit us economically but the whole world from environmental stand point. Obama spoke clearly on his intentions to address this issue by investing directly in it. It is a win win proposition; create home grown jobs (green-jobs) while getting a head start on the next big thing.

As far as Iran, I agree with your assessment (there are certain actions that will yield war regardless of who is in the white house). However, I see Obama's approach of talking first as the less likely to result in an unwanted confrontation.