If this were true then you wouldn't assert that RR coveted power, especially that of a POTUS. He was the polar opposite, in word, and especially, in action.
He had a clear vision of what America needed, and he wanted to become President to implement that vision.
So he actively pursued the Presidency of his own volition and against the wishes of the almost-entirely-Rockefellerized GOP of the mid-70s and triumphed.
He was ambitious and principled - not covetous and sneaky.
And he certainly enjoyed his Presidential authority - it enabled him to put policies that he believed were absolutely necessary for America's survival into action. He clearly relished standing up to Congress and fighting the good fight.
He never gave the impression that he was some unwilling mope dragooned into service - he was happy to be doing his job and he did it with zest.