She was the incumbent sitting Senator when reelected, a lifelong republican, elected as a republican (until losing the primary) and, as the Senate rinos assured the voters that she would retain full power and seniority, and that they would be forgiven for voting against her in the primary if they would keep her in office and not elect the tea party guy.
It isn’t like she took the seat as an independent from nowhere, she was already the republican senator holding the seat.
I’m well aware of the circumstances ....but....the voters knew what she was and sent her back anyway....just is what it is!!!