It is just a metaphor, but I don’t expect you to understand that. Cruz and his minions are splitting the party - in other words - the GOPE. You do realize that Cruz is doing thier bidding, don’t you? If not, then buy a clue.
I’ll answer your metaphor with a cliche: “it takes two to tango”.
You cannot split a party unless BOTH halves of the party feel there are irreconcilable differences. If only one side digs its heels in, the other will give way and the party will shift. If BOTH sides dig their heels in, only then can you get a split.