This isn't rocket science, you know. If you want Conservative support, you get it with Conservative candidates. I fail to see why anyone is surprised at the Conservatives' reaction. It has been predictable for years. So your statement might better read:
One can only believe that ‘principled conservatives’ Republicans enjoy putting the socialist democrats in power.
“If you want Conservative support, you get it with Conservative candidates.”
There were a number of “conservative candidates” running? How did that work out? It’s time conservatives realize that being conservative isn’t enough, you’ve got to articulate policies and positions in a manner that generates broad appeal or you won’t win. And blaming the RNC doesn’t cut it.