The way I see it, GOP is now trying to figure out how to save their party.

[TlalocW]

8. When it comes to candidates and presidents

Democrats fall in love, but republicans fall in line. But, true to their nature, they don't like the old guy to hang around after his time is up, and I think it's a combination of at least two things

1. Republican presidents feel like they don't owe anyone anything and so retire to seclusion so as not to be bothered by the little people. W. went off to paint; Obama has stayed somewhat in the public eye, not seeking it out intentionally but because he feels he has more good to do in the world. Clinton was the same. And Carter? Geeze, that man deserves a break if anyone does.
2. Republicans often leave under a cloud of scandal and/or screwing up the economy. The congress critters want them to leave and hide out while they distance themselves from him so they can make up bullshit about how the past republican president was a good guy, but he compromised too much on conservative principles and gave in too much... that's why taxes are high/unemployment is up/etc.

Number 2 is happening sooner than they would like, which might make them move up their throwing-the-previous-guy-under-the-bus timetable.

TlalocW