Most Freepers are the same but they just do not know it. The term "Liberal" has been stood on its head. The classic Jeffersonian Liberal has the same beliefs as most Freepers.
Being a Republican means going after symbolic things like flag burning amendments. Going after gay marriage. Swarming the streets with cops possessing wide discretionary powers and a code book so large it can’t possibly fit into the back of a squad car.
It means a powerful Federal government and weak States. It means income tax and DOT, EPA, good responsible government.
I am not a Republican. Fortunately, the Republican party at times is home to people more aligned to my views than the Democrats. (I have never voted for a Democrat in my life).
But you are correct, most “conservatives” don’t know what that means. Define conservative and you will get into a huge argument. Law and Order conservatives. Fiscal Conservatives. Social Conservatives. Most of those types want to cram laws down your throat to get what they want. My favorite silliness being the flag burning Amendment.