Bill Kristol made the point that Reagan was both the leader of a movement and the leader of a major political party. He pointed out how rare that is historically. I don't agree with allot of what Kristol says, but his point is valid. The leader of a movement must be ideologically pure, intellectually strong, and passionate. A successful politician, must be a "politician."
In modern times, the usual state of affairs for conservatives is frustration. We should think and act strategically instead of throwing in the towel because there is no one to fill Reagan's shoes.
I agree with your comments, but I do want to make one think clear. Don’t confuse throwing in the towel with making a strategic decision to tell the party it’s liberal gig is up.
The party must change or be replaced.