And Mark Levin wasn't running for public office when he came around. He was a private citizen when he made his original comments. These never-Trumpers running for office or re-election are giving lip-service in order to gain a seat, or keep a seat. Sure, people can change their minds, but you have to ask yourself, what do they want in return for saying nice things about President Trump? I can't believe they're doing it out of the goodness of their heart. They have everything to gain by switching their opinions, because they see the writing on the wall.
Ah, but plenty of people who WERE running for office promptly flip-flopped on Trump (being vehemently against him until the bitter end in 2016, then immediately switching to being a staunch MAGA ally when THEY were running for office), and all was forgiven by Trump's base. Notable examples include John Cox in California and Steve Lonegan in NJ.
Why do they get a pass while J.D. Vance doesn't?
A much more credible argument is Vance being on the Egg McMuffin backwagon AFTER the primary. Only a small percentage of 2016 NeverTrumpers drank THAT kool-aid.