I would say that is because the electorate THOUGHT that they were welcome in the GOP. Since then, we have had RINO / Conservative (McCain / Palin) and now we have RINO / Conservative (Romney / Ryan). Same Song, Same Dance, the only thing that is different is the date.
Since then, many conservatives have realized that the GOP does not want them in the party. Since the GOP no longer wants us, and says they dont need us ... time to part company.
That's perfectly cool. But you need to find a party you can grow, and for whatever reason, that party ain't growing.
Maybe they'll have a great season, but I seriously doubt it. This dogfight is strictly 2-party.
Now, 2016 versus Mittens? The right Constitution Party candidate could find themselves in a movement election.