I think you're seeing a last ditch attempt to preserve the old America from the new.
I believe the WASP elements of the '50s are fighting to retain control and resist the influence of the minorities who are coming up on domination of the political process.
The Republicans will either find a way to embrace diversity, not only of skin color but of ideas and goals, learn to compromise, or will gradually disappear. They'll form Neo-Conservative Supremicist groups in the Georgia hills and bomb chopstick factories and sandal manufacturers.