I've figured out what this is all about. MONEY
Every time Trump is on a program, ratings skyrocket. NRO wanted their little piece of the pie.
Here's the future storyline as the Trump train continues to roll, and they jump onboard:
Our firm stance was essential, because it forced Trump to reevaluate his positions and embrace conservatism. Now we can support him unreservedly.
I bet you.
Oh hell no.
This is solely for the benefit of the DCocktail Circuit, which is the area right above where the Beltway encircles the neck, but not so tight as to preclude masticating kobe beef on petite brioche...
This ridiculous faux censure is so they can nod at George Will at Henriette Fartsniffer's parlor in Georgetown, sidle up to Bowtie and say, "We did all. we. could. to keep that terrible man out of the White House, 'tis a pity we did not succeed." and then ask the black bartender in the white jacket for another double Manhattan "heavy on the bitters"...
That is ALL this is about. Period. And it's about to end.