I could write an essay to reply, but instead will refer you to "President Ronald Reagan" and his words about a shining city on the hill. If just ONE Republican candidate mirrored President Reagan in the next general election, we might have a chance to turn things around.
But no: the Doles, McCains, Rommneys have forgotten why Reagan beat Carter so badly. We were in a "malaise", as we are NOW. Reagan gave us genuine hope.
Yes, we had a large "gimme" class even then, but some voted for Reagan because they knew he would take us back to our greatness. Who doesn't love a great coach? Remember Reagan Democrats? Many are still there. It's just a matter of sincerity and oration (the style or manner in which such a speech is given.), which Obambi has lots of to fool the ill-informed. If we are to reclaim our Republic, we need such an orator. If not...
I agree with you that the GOP needs a Reagan but don't agree that we should turn into a banana republic if the GOP can't find one. Reagan won with the support of Reagan Democrats, as you mentioned. Republican since then just keep voting to export the jobs of the Reagan Democrats. Apparently a good Wall Street is more valuable than winning elections.