Yes, React does abstract away the DOM and provides a Virtual DOM that makes re-renders really fast. However when using libraries, such as Greensock, that need to manipulate the DOM directly, they do provide an API and lifecycle hooks that let you get back to business as usual for all intents and purposes.
That's not to say that there couldn't be a React specific issue; it's entirely possible. I just haven't been able to pinpoint anything yet. It seems to work fine in Chrome and Firefox, but I.E. is struggling.
Yes I can try to make a simpler CodePen demo tomorrow. I hope I'm able to reproduce it.
In the meantime if anyone's curious, take a look at my GitHub repo.
Thanks y'all.