A republican government does not mean one loyal to the US, it means "representative" government, a government of the people. Hamilton once asked (18 Jun 1787), in reference to a single executive (aka monarch) being elected, 'Is this a republican system? It is strictly so, as long as they remain elective.' In Federalist No. 43, Madison wrote, 'The only restriction imposed on them [the states] is, that they shall not exchange republican for antirepublican Constitutions.' Madison summed it up in Federalist No. 39,
'we may define a republic to be, or at least may bestow that name on, a government which derives all its powers directly or indirectly from the great body of the people, and is administered by persons holding their offices during pleasure, for a limited period, or during good behavior.'
If a state could leave, that would no longer apply.
Hey, you're finally understanding.
But it can only be guaranteed by the --feds-- if the state stays in the Union.
Go set up your blue smoke and mirrors somewhere else.
Walt