Why the worry then? If their number is insignificant, the probability their position affects an election contest is close to naught.
I think the Republican party recognizes this too, and realizes it can get more votes by running to the left, taking votes that would otherwise go to the Democrats.
How's that working out for them? Did G.W. Bush run to the left?
Small yes I didn’t say not large enough to sway an election, which is the point this entire thread has been making.
Elections have consequences and we have been living the reality of 2008 and 2012 where the small minority chose to vote poorly or not vote at all.