Palin was almost as bad as Trump. Really when you think about her popularity, Trump should be no surprise.
The main difference was that she had no power. She might also have not been so obviously “ist” on a bunch of stuff but I honestly can’t remember. I’m assuming she didn’t grab anyone by the pussy, at least, though I can’t confirm either.
Politically she had some experience and clout and she was morally (at least on a personal level) less repugnant, but her insanity and demagoguery were very much a precursor to Trump. She was also represented a lot of what would become the Tea Party. You may not remember, but her being the White House, even just as VP, was nearly as terrifying as the prospect of Trump.