I have seen the GOP try and blame social issues for the economic wipe out out that is happening in many communities like the rust belt. It's as if the Rick Santorums of the GOP don't want to focus on globalization and instead deflect the blame onto video games or porn or anything else than the offshoring of jobs to Mexico and China.
When I saw the transgender bathroom thing become an issue - while I hate the issue and think it is more gay rights nonsense - I recognize it as an attempt of the establishment to once again distract the base away from economic issues and focus on BS social issues. The shiny object to remove focus from globalization policies in the lime light today both on the left by Sanders and on the right by Trump.
Santorum would be a great pick for VP.