Being a conservative firebrand is just her persona, the role she plays. It makes her good money, and has for years. We have no way of knowing what she really thinks.
Remember when Republican strategist/consultant Mary Matalin married James Carville? Many people were shocked. I wasn't. They were both players in the political game. It was like a defense attorney marrying a prosecuting attorney -- when the day is over, they leave their positions and posturing in the courtroom.
I think your are right about Matalin and Carville and I do think Carville has mellowed just a BIT over the years.
Reminds me of Ralph E. Wolf and Sam Sheepdog.
The Matlan/Carville marriage has always bothered me.....ONE of them is a LIAR! Or maybe both of them are.