Something happened on the Road to Damascus?
Perhaps so.
There have been numerous reports that professionally Justice Kagan and Justice Thomas have grown very close, best colleagues practically. They have spent a lot of time together discussing the law. It is an improbable friendship and a fascinating one.
I believe Justice Kagan has grown professionally since she assumed her duties on the court, especially after her friendship with Justice Thomas blossomed. I doubt she is a conservative but she seems to have shed the mantle of ideologue.
Perhaps breaking ground by “growing in office” by shifting to more conservative and actual constitutional views.
Her and Scalia were really good friends.. Taught how to shoot.. Who knows, maybe she learned something.