As your neighbour to the north you make it sound like the Republican party has fractured into two groups. Those that are conservative (the Buckley Republicans in your example), and those ignorant masses that respond to jingoist and politico-entertainment rather than well thought out political debate. (I'm shocked that anyone would label them self a dittohead, implying that they have no independent thought, rather in my mind's eye that is a hurtful label that I'd reserve only for my worst enemy).

From what I've observed in this election cycle I can't disagree with your assessment, though I am deeply saddened at this realization.