Mike Pence apparently gave a speech about a week ago in which he urged GOP voters to embrace conservatism and reject populism. Populism, in his view, ultimately leads to lawless, irresponsible, unconstitutional government.
Yes, it is true that Trump’s former running mate is a less than ideal spokesman for these views. Yes, you may (and I do) find him pretty nauseating as a human being. Nevertheless, you have to give him credit for his willingness to take on Trump and the base in a clear, forceful way. It won’t get him the nomination, but it will win him some respect from the roughly 60 percent of the GOP that hasn’t completely lost its mind.