I live in one of the most conservative counties in California, perhaps in the nation. I constantly have to watch what I say, or else I'll lose the platforms I have found to speak from. We do have a few moderate Republicans in local and county government, and several have been edged out of their party, accused of being RINOs (Republicans In Name Only). Same thing is happening in the government of the State of California. Republicans who vote in favor of any taxes, or in favor of any Democratic-sponsored legislation, are ostracized and denied campaign support. The local parties are sponsoring conservative candidates to run against incumbents that have been labeled RINOs.
It's a nasty thing.

-Joe-