I understand what your point is, but if memory serves me, did not Will feel the same way about Reagan for a time ?
Early on in the 1980 campaign, Will regarded Reagan as too old, as did many conservatives. But Reagan’s campaign and his besting of George Bush in New Hampshire showed that Reagan’s energy and talents were intact despite his years. In addition, Reagan courted and drew in the support of Eastern Establishment types and of conservative and neocon intellectuals.