Reagan “saw the light” much further from the election. Aside from that, when Reagan “saw the light” it changed his behavior. He did not continue to do the same things while spouting new dogma. He also did not have to change his postion on almost his entire political philosophy.
Huh? Even way back there was a huge difference between liberal and conservative. Ronald had to change a great deal to change parties. Were you around when he campaigned?