The amount of influence Boenher has on the Republican party is approaching 0. This statement of his is designed only to make him seem reasonable. The truth is, the Republican party under his leadership helped lay the groundwork for the bullshit we see today. This is his legacy that he's running from. If he's going to craft a kingdom of shit, he should have to wear its crown.
So, no... it isn't 'better late than never.'