I am not surprised that Republicans are “leading the charge against alcohol consumption”.
I see it as a money thing.
As conservatives (using “conservatives” as a verbal stand-in for “Republicans” to make the point) we are more likely to believe in self-sufficiency and fiscal responsibility.
We are less likely to go into hock to drink if it is going to affect our financial well being. When it costs $10-12 to buy a drink with dinner...we are less likely to do so, and partially because we likely go out to dinner less.
I went to Fenway Park two years ago (Red Sox versus Mariners) and looked into having a hot dog and beer. Beer was about 12 or 15 USD so I just stuck with 7Up with my dog.
I don’t even buy $3 iced tea with a meal let alone alcohol. I don’t care how many refills there are. Water works fine, with lemon if you want to go wild.