Reagan did want a “big tent” party
From the 1992 convention after Buchanan spoke
“”enough of the negative small tent politics”, we want a large party, there is room for everybody in the GOP and our message as Republicans must be broad and resonate with many.”
You don’t need to sell me on it. *grin*
I think that in 50 years most American conservatives will be looking back on this time with a lot of chagrin about how they chased away the support and votes of LOTS of people that wanted to support them.