Yeah, but only running unopposed after a deal was made with the three incoming TEA party freshmen to head that off...
I like the dealmaking tho, for the most part I see the GOP forced to accept the new conservatives, just like with the earmark ban and allowing a TEA Party freshman to join the leadership
Reagan supported Gerald Ford in 1976, after a bloody primary against him.
What good would it have done Reagan to withhold support out of hurt feelings and “principle”?