"What deters them from stepping forward and seeking public office? "
Let me answer this one, because it's easy. Most TRUE conservatives are in business, as it is business that drives our freedom and prosperity. Becoming a politician is anathema to most conservatives. Most conservatives will become financially secure(for the sake of their families)
before even considering running for public office.
Ronald Reagan was financially secure when he first ran for governor of California. My own congressman, Elton Gallegly,R Thousand Oaks, Ca. was a self made millionaire before he ran for Congress(a Reagan clone in D.C.).
I think most conservatives look upon politics as a necessary evil....not unlike a car.
Thanks for reading, calrighty. The author appreciates it and thanks you.