If asked to speak, all that he needs to say is: “How can I help?”
This goes for other elected officials. Demonstrate that one is indeed a public SERVANT. If they get the “optics” right, maybe their egos will follow.
“Well, it is really rather simple. He attends some Tea Party meetings/gatherings AND SITS IN THE AUDIENCE!”
Politicians who speak at Tea Party events are accused of trying to take over or take advantage so I’m not sure how they win on that one.
Performance over time will tell the tale on John.