We had 2 straight elections where GOP nominees who were both highly unlikable OR whose authenticity could be challenged, 2008, 2012...a real breakdown and then, 2016 came and really, we had a number of outstanding candidates or at least, highly competent.
Rick in 2012, did say a lot of the right things and he was honest and sincere, it just wasn't the right circumstances for him losing by such a big margin in 2008.
Mitt's disappointing big time again, I guess, there is a bit of feud with Trump.