Richard Nixon was the first Republican culture warrior. Prior to him, the GOP consisted of PBPs, CLs, and a few CDs; the Reactionaries, for historical reasons, were Democrats, which gave the Democrats a huge advantage on a national level. Nixon’s dog whistles on issues of race and culture started a major shift in the system. After his resignation, however, Carter was elected, and things appeared to be returning to normal.
Reagan changed everything. He brought swagger and a direct appeal to white Christians to the GOP. The Reactionaries, and the remainder of the CDs, changed parties and voted for him. That’s where we are today.