R: Put Down the Elephant (GOP)

The Republican Party of the United States is one of the oldest political parties in existence, and it is undeniably the most powerful force for conservatism in the United States. Its voter base and its politicians, however, may be diverging from conservatism in dangerous ways. With the election of Donald Trump and the rise of new forces within the party, many conservatives argue that "true conservatism" must be sought outside of the party. Meanwhile, others argue that the Grand Old Party is the only viable platform for conservatives in the United States.

Is it time for the Republicans...to end? If not, what can conservatives do to repair the ills seen int he party? Could the Dems ever become conservative? What is the role of political parties in American society?