I agree with a lot of what you're saying here, but would say he's become more likable.  I'm not sure if it's the beard that hides his pudgy face or the fact that he's become such a great Twitter troll, but his popularity has gone up.  The only reason I wouldn't support him as a future POTUS is we freakin need him in the Senate.  He's one of only a handful that I think is worth spit.