Yes. Remember how the media staged that for him, ignoring any negative results, ignoring Gennifer Flowers and other reports of sexual problems, etc.
The media made BC, and they'll try to do the same for HC.
I dunno.... I'm inclined to go with your option #1.
Psychopathy is a bit less forgiving than coming in second (or was it third?) in NH. Or even adultery, for that matter....