Once upon a time, (1815–1824) there was only one party. The country was united behind the Democratic-Republicans. However, nepotism screwed it up, and the party split.
Republicans have held Democratic views and philosophies, and vice-versa. Abraham Lincoln was a Republican. His successor, Andrew Johnson, was a Democrat. They held the same ideals, and worked toward the same ends.
Every political candidate favors strong central government, whether their constituents do or not. Not to be glib, but it is an end to their means. Every political candidate favors a strong military, no matter what the rhetoric. Every political campaign is filled with grandiose promise, couched in soaring prose, yet post-election all is business as usual no matter what color your state is.
Read your history! And choose your congressmen wisely.