Commentators that present Republican behavior in a manner that is relatable to Democrats are feeding their audience copium; positing it as maybe they'll change, or someone will break ranks, or it won't be as bad.

They or former officials may say contradictory things, wring their hands, send "signals", or hold off on some things for now, but they haven't stopped. It's the equivalent of "we regret getting caught" versus "we regret our actions": there is no "resigning in disgrace" point left.