There are, however, many members of the tea party that are racist

Racism exists in nearly every party.

And historically, a rather large amount has come from the Democratic party. Admittedly, more southern democrats than northern democrats...most northern democrats have the reverse problem - too timid to pronounce when race ISN'T a factor and too quick to play the race card....which makes me wonder if you're living in the wrong state. :)