Usually, that's what happens when a candidate "doesn't listen" to his or her "professional handlers" (sent over by the party) about how to cleverly waffle on tough political issues.
Exactly right. Political consultants are the bain of conservatism. They are always going after the mushy middle, claiming thats where the votes are, and advising that conservatives soften their positions.
It never occurs to them that the majority of all voters may prefer someone who is not soft and mushy. Once in office these softies keep their handlers and the handlers run the country. Bad policy.