Democrats have argued the retirements show the party has shifted further to the right and pushes out moderate-leaning members, also noting the retirement of state Sen. Dale Schultz, R-Richland Center.

Democratic Party of Wisconsin spokeswoman Melissa Baldauff said the convention showed Republicans are “out of touch” on issues such as educational standards, women’s rights and marriage equality.

“Not just during this convention, but over the past four years, they’ve made it really clear there’s no room for moderates in their party,” she said.

That isn’t the case, according to Ryan, who said the party welcomes a variety of viewpoints.

“The Republican Party is a big tent party,” Ryan said. “We have people from all different views ... where we agree is on limited government, economic freedom and free enterprise and faster economic growth.

“I would argue it’s the Democrats who are more exclusive on these issues and are less tolerant of divergent viewpoints.”

Whatever differences it may have, state Republicans this weekend sharpened its focus to re-elect Gov. Scott Walker and maintain its majorities in the state Assembly and Senate, Ryan said.