Why is the Republican Party infested with anti-science theocratic Christian assholes?

A quote from Barry Goldwater, Republican candidate for president in 1964:

“Mark my word, if and when these preachers get control of the Republican party, and they're sure trying to do so, it's going to be a terrible problem. Frankly, these people frighten me. Politics and governing demand compromise. But these Christians believe they are acting in the name of God, so they can't and won't compromise. I know, I've tried to deal with them.”

-- Barry M. Goldwater