In other words, this could be a Rove rope-a-dope.
Hahaha! I remember back during his first term, when he was doing all those unconservative things, his hardcore supporters would tell me, "Don't worry! He's just doing that so he can have pull and legitimacy in his second term, when he can really make a difference!"
Is it too late to call bullshit?
No, call it if you wish. I just hadn't seen a possible explanation yet, and wanted to see some discussion on it.
Nope, perfect timing.