They moved heaven and earth to prevent any conservatives from getting US Senate nominations across the country. Their fear was that a republican wave would sweep conservatives into their precious Senate. They’d rather lose with moderates than win with conservatives. That way the gravy train continues down the track.
They relish their role of “the Washington Generals to the Harlem Globetrotters”, as stated by many, mConnell is happy as long as he can be the Generals team captain.