Your "payback" line is not entirely accurate, more like you trying to justify your own view of GOP pols using broad strokes.

Ted Cruz also was not blatantly and openly corrupt in how his office handled matters, so its really not an apples to apples comparison either. (not denying Cruz might have corrupt office being shady in a closed manner)

Anyhow, zzzzzzzzz

For who could be free when every other man's humour might domineer over him? - John Locke (2nd Treatise, sect 57)