Some of the early settlers in America were indeed pretty 'extreme' in their religion. The founders themselves were mostly educated and thoughtful, though as with most folks in those days, imbued with 'some' form of religious ideas.
   The very construction of the Constitution & the relevant amendments gave us religious freedom without religious obligation. Sadly, some now assume that because many took advantage of the 'freedom' and are in the majority, that religious obligation should now prevail. One finds that attitude a LOT in the Republican party, as they have actively courted folks who think that way to bolster their base.
   Thus, religious preferences have found their way into debates where they should not be, and candidates with extreme views have tried to embed religious views into political offices.....as does Palin, though she was obviously told not to dwell on it.