How long ago were you a rat? If you have been rat-free for 5 years, I think you can consider yourself an ex-rat, and live a long life to boot. And if you've been an ex-rat for 5 years, consider yourself Cured, and a Conservative!
Back in 79' when I turned 18, my Mom who is an old time DemocRAT populist of the Huey Long strain, instructed me to register as a DemocRAT "because Republicans are only for rich people".
Jimmah Karter was just elected President, and I didn't know better.
Then, a gang of Islamic thugs held our diplomats hostage in Iran, the Sandinistas took over Nicaragua (sp?), and the Soviets invaded Afganistan.
Karter's response was, coddling to the Iranians and Sandinistas, and boycotting the Olympics. That really showed the Soviets we meant business.
Then one day, I read a headline from the local paper quoting GOP candidate for President Ronald Reagan referring to the Iranians, "I will not negotiate with Barbarians".
That sealed it for me, and I voted for the first time in a Presidential election, and became one of those people known as a "Reagan Democrat". By the time 84' rolled around, I had switched parties, and to this day, I proudly remain a Republican.