It's a simple matter of individual freedom versus individual slavery to arrogant and coercive government busybodies.
The Constitution stands as a shield and protection for "the People's" lives, liberties, and property. Who stands with the Constitution's "chains" (see Jefferson) and limits on Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary powers and explains those limits to "the People" can win the election.
The claim by this President that "we can't wait" to abide by the Constitution's protections and provisions to impose our policies without going through its prescribed process should be ample warning for all but the most dense among us that tyranny is upon us. Independents, as well as all other voters, are smart enough to understand that--if it is explained to them.
I agree -that is what Reagan excelled at. WHY? Because he believed it and understood it -it is why he became a Republican. He did not give it lip service to win power -rather he was elected because people KNEW he was the real deal -the ideology he promoted was complete rather than a half assed RINO message seeking power. I suspect this 'principled holistic conservatism' was and is behind the powerful appeal of Sarah Palin.