[SirFozzie]

I think the most interesting thing about the NYT article is that LePage went on to Endorse Trump this week.

And really, the GOP Establishment is reaping what they're sowing. If you'll forgive a more than slightly uncouth analogy, to a large portion of the base, the GOP establishment are like the biggest cockteases in the universe.

"We'll stop the Affordable Care Act" -- Nope.

"We'll make Obama a one term president" -- Didn't happen

"We'll shut down the government to force the ACA out" -- There are folks unhappy that the entire nation's not still burning as a result of the shutdown lasting until Obama caved.

"we'll defeat the ACA in the courts" Failed twice

"We won't countenance Gay Marriage" -- It's now considered a fundamental right

"We'll defund Planned Parenthood" -- Shutdown 2 Electric Boogaloo never happened.

So basically, the GOP Establishment riled up the base so many times for political gains in 2010 and 2014, without being able to follow through, that the right of right wing is blue balled beyond belief, and are willing to only support someone who says flat out what they've been thinking.. and Trump's willing to say anything to get ratings/attention.