The Democrats seemed motivated not by general principles and beliefs but only the need to win, which left you protecting your market share by bribing groups you'd once been able to champion. You've become confused as to your purpose, your reason for being. Yes, Republicans have pressure groups too, and the party pays great attention to them. But the GOP's pressure groups are in line with the sympathies of the party as a whole. When the National Rifle Association agitates for its issues, it's agitating within a party that supports the right to keep and bear arms.