He should not even be considered controversial. Therein lies the problem.
FA,
I've met the guy....
He's not someone I would want to claim on my side at all..... there is nothing about him that even remotely resembled 'conservatism'. He was disgustingly crude and base in not only his language, but his behavior and dress. And the setting was public, with families present. While a party etc, his behavior was out of line.
Like others, I thought this was a joke. With him on our side, we don't need enemies!
Damn, just those pants in daylight would make us all a laughing stock!
Do you want to fight THAT battle or win the borders fight?
He is controversial and a hugh and series number of people in the country have a problem with him. He's therefore a poor spokesman.
This is the same problem with Gingrich for President BTW. He's damaged goods. In a PR fight perception beats the underlying truth of the issue.