For those of us journalists who have covered Capitol Hill, one of most shocking developments of this year’s campaign season was the emergence of Nice John Kasich. He’s running for president on a message of optimism, love, warmth, love, warmth, optimism and warmth.

Few people in Washington who have dealt with John Kasich know Nice John Kasich, or were even aware that he existed. We were far better acquainted, during his many years here as a Congressman, with Surly John Kasich, No-Patience John Kasich, and Condescending John Kasich.

Of course, you can’t change your personality based on focus groups. So sometimes, the real person does emerge.