“Leopards don’t change their spots.”
Ronald Reagan, Liberal Democrat, 1911 - 1962
Actually the Democrat party changed greatly in the 60’s and he said the Democrat party left him. Not quite the same thing. But you knew that.
In addition, Reagan was the governor of California and developed a strong conservative track record before running for President. When he was elected, no one had to take him at his word that his epiphany was real. He walked the walk.
Your guy has never walked the walk. All talk - and you bit, hook line and sinker.