[Eisenhower Republican]

But why would Kristol and friends would want that?

Because they don't mind losing. They're in the snark industry, not real industry. Easier to be snarky when your team's not up to bat. They're also well-insulated from the effects of bad governance, or even benefit from it.

[poconopundit]

You may be right.   And as we know, these guys like Will, Krauthammer, Kristol, and Rove have been around a long time, so maybe they figure it's time to retire and give it up.