We can agree W didn't govern as a true conservative, especially in his 2nd term. But he ran as one the first go around, and I believe that got him elected. To his defense, his administration had to deal with things after 9-11 that really upended any agendas he might have had. His agenda now was keeping America safe. And that he did.

As to your second point: Barry has a huge war chest no doubt about it. Sadly that means a lot in elections. And very true, he has the main strret press paking his water all the way. But trust me, the same thing wss in place in 1980. The press hated Reagan with a passion. Every poll by these fools had Carter winning in a landslide. They really thought they could stop this take-over before it got started. But, we the people refused to listen to them and sent Carter packing back to Plains before the 8 o'clock train rolled out. Why? I say because Mr. Reagan was a proud conservative and not afraid to show it. The closest I have seen anyone like him is a her. Or hers. Bachman and Palin. Especially Palin. She has that ability to really connect with people, much like Reagan did.
Don't let the Chris Mathews of the world bother you. He only draws about 10 people a night to his show.
And, don't discount this. Back in 1980 there was no Rush. There was no Sean. There was no Glenn. There was no Internet. There was even no FOX. I'm not saying FOX is biased against liberals, but I do believe they show a more balanced news program tham anything that was around even back in 1980.