There are a few Republicans in California politics that are as hardcore far right as anywhere.
Yet Tom McClintock, one of the best among them, backed away from the Freedom Coalition in the US House, because they were to radical even for him.
I have never heard of the person they just endorsed to replace Boxer, which means he is a relative unknown and will go nowhere.
So it is basically the narrow but loud crowd. For sure that is Ted's group. But when he doesn't even fly in South Carolina you must seriously ask yourself what is wrong with him and his campaign.
Some suggestions: It is his preachy style and content (message and messenger), and his staff and supporters (campaign manager, Beck etc.).