Do you think that there are really ideological difference between political parties that make people identify?

i believe that there is a difference betweeen the two partys. when i come across a democrat they seem to be more open minded and willing to listen to anothers point of view. when i come across the republican they always bring up abortion which i believe should be up to the mother because it is her body hat god gave her. i also find many republicans arnt very smart ie sarah palin, michele backman (sp?)