Bill Clinton and Barack Obama both say they have taught Constitutional Law.
Therefore as a practical matter, a great fellow like Sen. Cruz, with all his "Constitutional Conservative" creds, doen't really stand out. Plus his speaking style is to some, tedious.
Trump didn't run as an ideologue. He ran as a pragmatist. He ran on a list of subjects that Americans and conservatives have wanted for years.
--Stronger border security
--resist muslim immigration and infiltration
--Restore respect for America, abroad "Peace Through Strength"
--Protect American jobs
--Return to common sense
"True conservatives" joined other Americans in answering that appeal.