The general public itself is leaning more and more towards redistribution of wealth and the embracing of socialism. On the one hand there are those who want the GOP to "adjust to the times" i.e. Newt Gingrich, Bush, Ken Melhman etc due to the necessity of maintaining power. And then there are those who want to retain our liberties and freedoms regardless of electoral outcomes.
Of course there is a 3rd way - educating the public as to why socialism is wrong and harmful and the founding father's version is the right way to go. That however would necessiate LEADERSHIP and ditching the "compassionate" bs so thats that.