Sam Stein posted an interesting summation of independent and moderate reaction to the tea parties. In short, it's not speaking to them.
In a broader sense, after eight dark years of division and pain, Americans are craving heroes. Crazy loud noises, doomsday scenarios and silly words like "porkulus," on the other hand, just won't resonate outside of the fringe 25 percent who have a predilection for that crap in the first place. FOX News, for instance, is experiencing a surge in ratings -- but it's not about new faces, it's the same old faces. They're just louder and more pissed off right now, and it would be a mistake to judge the far-right's overall political success based upon the FNC ratings.
If the far-right knew what was good for them, they'd take a more moderate tone about the president while still pushing for their values. Self-contradictory outrage can't possibly compete in a nation seeking inspiration.