No, the Democrats AND Republicans have made fools out of us. We're as bad an the pro wrestling fans who think the Iron Shiek really did hate Sgt. Slaughter. They are in business together, and they both benefit greatly from the others' presense. And they need the other to be a credible threat in order to maintain their own hold on power. I can't believe how many conservatives believe the average Senator or Congressman is anything more than a poser. It's an ignoble profession. There are very few rare exceptions. For the most part, we're the ones being had.
How is the GOP hoodwinked? They go out complaining that it's the big bad democrats fault, which means they'll get more votes (create a need, then fill it) so they can fight the evil democrats. But they don't really fight. They pretend to fight. Why would a long time serving Senator want more originalists on the court? Doesn't help him at all. Better to pretend to want it, and to blame the others for not getting it, so you can stay in power and have fun and get pork pork and more pork.
It's looks that way, although I am not quite as cynical as you. I think there is hope for the GOP, it just takes extraordinary leadership like a Ronald Reagan to get the slugs in line. I like Bush except he is too much of a compromiser on too many issues, and the GOP leadership in the House and Senate completely bite the big one. The GOP lacks any real vision and leadership. They just want to stay in power. It is sad, but I blame the leadership more than anything. It does not have to be this way.