There are a LOT of Republicans in the House and Senate who I think actually prefer being second-tier power brokers rather than in-charge brokers. They are less stressed, allowed by Democrats to politely offer up their loyal-but-not-too-vocal objection bleats, and then sit back and feast on the scraps that Democrats deign to give them in budgets as their 'rewards.' they get invited to parties, not treated badly by MSM and get to partake in the vast amenities of being a Congressman without all the partisan hassle that goes with.
Re: 35 - I believe you are correct. It’s difficult to sit in the big chair.