Regarding your 323, you do realize that once the nomination is secured, there is no longer a Republican alternative behind whom you can throw your support, right? I wasn’t able to say, well, Hunter didn’t get the nomination in 2008, so I guess I’ll support Thompson. There was no Thompson or anyone else, except in the context of third party (who were without exception in 2008 all morons including Paul). My choice in 1976 was to support Ford against Carter, and then campaign for Reagan in 1980. Losing in 1976 didn’t stop Reagan in 1980.
So what you’re saying is you’re preferred candidate didn’t win the nom in ‘76 but instead of capitulating you stuck with it and your candidate DID win in 1980?