How can you, as someone who claims to have “no delusions” about Trump’s history, not be even the slightest bit suspicious about Trump considering that just a few years ago he was praising Hillary and Pelosi(among other things)?
I'm glad you asked.
Trump has always enjoyed being part of the glitterati. Like those who wish to succeed in the Hollywood environment, or the power elite of Washington, a certain part has to be played. It's theater.
Where Trump differs from other "beautiful people" is that he is NOT strictly a "performance artist," like so many others in the circles he traveled. The core of Trump is the pragmatic businessman. That pragmatic businessman has undertaken the job of correcting the things he sees destroying the country he loves. As such, he has "come out of the closet" to rally support for taking authority away from those he has judged incompetent to guide the country he loves.
Is he up to the task?
I don't know.
I do know those running against him are not. Cruz, because of his inability to effectively neutralize media opposition (something I consider paramount in the modern political environment, particularly for a leader who is taking positions squarely in opposition to the dominant media's cultural agenda). Rubio, because of his willingness to capitulate to establishment procedure and protocol. Carson, because of his lack of personal charisma and leadership skills.
I don't think anyone else bears consideration at this point.
My political inclinations have always put me squarely in the Cruz camp. (I believe I was one of the first FReepers to advocate for a Trump/Cruz ticket.) But in modern times, the dynamic of the Presidency is not about policy, it's about power; who can acquire it, and who can use it most effectively to accomplish the goals I want to see met.
Trump fits my requirements by already demonstrating his refusal to play by "old boy network" rules that have prevented ANY substantive gains for conservative policies in my lifetime, and win while doing it. Furthermore, by dominating an aggressive, adversarial media with a skill that surpasses even that of Ronald Reagan.