Why do people vote Republican?

[Rob M]

Now i am Canadian but have been watching the US Primaries for a number of months. Granted I do not have a scholary understanding of every nuance of both the Democratic and Republican party but i feel confident when i say that most Canadians would be regarded as Democrats. And if i may be so bold i'd imagine most of the world would embrace the Democratic party values.

With that said why would anyone vote Republican, at least enough to make the general election fairly tight race? Correct me if I'm wrong but the party seems deeply concerned over the prosperity of the wealthy and corporations whereas the little guy who drives the economy must fend for themselves. Granted, there are one or two republican party values i agree with (stricter welfare for one) but anti-prochoice, religion in schools (some heavy conservatives in the party), pro-gun (looser regulation), pro-nonrewable energy (oil), privatized healthcare, and pro-military/war is just plain wrong ... (cont)
... If i had to guess i'd say the majority who vote Republican don't embrace all the values of the party but are so deeply committed to a few issues (ie. pro-life) that they vote republican just because of that.

Am i wrong? What is it about the republican brand that keeps people voting for them? I heard that 70% of the national debt was created by 3 republican presidents; working poor & middle class actually prosper 6x more under a Democratic administration; world favorability of the US is higher during democratic rule. What am i missing? Why would the majority who vote (the combined block of those who make $100,000 or less) would vote republican when, at least financially, will actually hurt them in the long run.

Please, only serious answers.
UPDATE: I've heard of a book called: "Deer Hunting With Jesus" which i've been told tries to explain this strange voting habit of many.