Spot on, although one of the things I think you sell short is the influence of the Bush Family Mafia. None of this could have been done without the presence of Rove’s people in the Romney apparatus, for instance, Ed Gillespie.
Best,
Chris
Yes, I didn't include Rove because he wasn't there in the actual rules committee meeting or actually taking the vote on the floor.
He, more than anyone else in the Romney group, would know how to compromise party rules. He is likely the one who thought to do this and gave instruction to Sununu and the lawyer.
You are also correct that the Bush family desperately wanted Romney as president and did all they could to bring that about. I heard them over and over praising Romney, starting months ago.
Thanks for your “thinking” post.