Before the Reagan Democrats signed on, the GOP was meeting with the same kind of success it is likely to enjoy once the Rudyphiles get their way. Maybe you can even get Jim Jeffords back on the team!
Funny you mention Jim Jeffords as his inclusion in the GOP was due precisely because of those in the Republican establishment who saw holding power as more important than maintaining any semblence of conservative principles. The big govt social democrats are no different and have been more trouble than they've been worth. Cheers for their exit.