Were I any kind of conspiracy theorist, the wavering from support of conservative principle could be explained by acknowledging that somebody, or several somebodies, high in the Current Regime now squatting in the White Hut, has access to some very damaging and incriminating information that would reflect negatively on the “enemies” kept on the list. And that this information came from resources connected with the surveillance programs now in place that have been condemned and castigated at many points throughout the world, but seem to still be in operation.
Or maybe I just watch too much of “Person of Interest”, “Scandal” and “Revenge”. These particular fictional dramas seem to have an underlying appeal for a lot of people who have become predisposed to investing a great deal of belief that the possibilities presented are very close to actuality.
Your post makes me think of John Roberts.