The problem is their corrupt, incompetent, failed, supply-side/trickle down economic policy. As I recently wrote to the Diane Rehm Show (who knows if that "fair and balanced" pundit received it or read it):
"I think it's hilarious that republicans continue to characterize their dilemma as a demographic or messaging issue. Interpreted correctly, republicans are saying that, if they can just find the right combination of lies and subterfuge to convince minorities, the poor and middle class, to vote against their own best interests - if they could only find a way LOOK LIKE the party who cares about voters - then they will win elections.
"The real dilemma for republicans is that their values are irreconcilable with the interests of the poor and middle class. The genuine characterization of the dilemma that the republican party faces is two fold: (1) ever since Nixon's "Southern Strategy," bigotry is the glue that holds the republican party together, and (2) republicans continue to cling to the demonstrably failed and incompetent supply side/trickle down economic view in which republicans serve the interests of the rich and exploit the poor and middle class. The values of the Democratic party put the interests of public health, safety and welfare, consumer rights and labor rights above the interests of corporate profits and CEO bonuses and salaries. Republican values put the interest of corporate profits and CEO bonuses and salaries above all other interests."