He never could have gotten 60% and >500 EV on the basis of conservatism.
What? Conservatives aren't patriots?
I hope that's not what you mean. But it is what you said.
No of course that’s not what I meant.
Reagan’s huge majorities included a lot of Democrats, pro tax and pro union, who loved his “put America first, make America strong” message.
A pure conservative cannot win those people.