Because for years we fell for people like Bush and McConnell and McCim insisting that they were with us when they were really just with the ruling class but wearing a slightly different shade on their jersey.
In one of the 2000 GOP Presidential nominee debates, the participants were asked which philosopher had the greatest effect on their own thinking.
Steve Forbes (my candidate at the time) said John Locke, and explained how Locke's theory was the basis for our government. It was the best answer for any conservative.
Then the moderator asked George W, and he said said Jesus Christ. I was stupidly naïve enough to believe him. Not all who say unto Me "Lord, Lord" will enter the Kingdom of Heaven.