I'm neither an evangelical protestant nor a Tea Party member. Ted Cruz is my first choice.
I am always confused about the nature of the conservatives, evangelicals and Reagan Democrats. I do know that when Zer0 was elected and reelected, millions of conservatives, evangelicals and Reagan Democrats who stayed home. 25% of general election voters are evangelicals. In political terms, 20% of self-identified Republicans stated that they considered themselves as Tea Party Conservatives. The Tea Party has eroded in support in recent years. Conservatives, however, poll at 38% of the electorate. This is a mix of factions that make a narrow base if they are not energized. We must include the Reagan Democrats, which are also part of the Republican base. These voters must not be ignored or they will stay home. If anyone stays home, the Republican base will make little impact on the vote.
If anyone has a better take on what is the Republican base, I want to see it. That will make a good contribution to the discussion.