I think that part of the drift towards blue states and the tacit support of violence in left organized protests stems from the widespread disillusion with our current "capitalist democracy" and the recognition of the huge disparity in wealth, with many, even in the middle class, feeling disenfranchised. This fuels a populism from both ends, with a quick decision to favor left oriented socialistic thinking vs the perceived opposite - an authoritarian strong man regime. It's a false dichotomy of course, but image and perception is very powerful and much easier than looking into nuance.
I think that part of the drift towards blue states and the tacit support of violence in left organized protests stems from the widespread disillusion with our current "capitalist democracy" and the recognition of the huge disparity in wealth, with many, even in the middle class, feeling disenfranchised. This fuels a populism from both ends, with a quick decision to favor left oriented socialistic thinking vs the perceived opposite - an authoritarian strong man regime. It's a false dichotomy of course, but image and perception is very powerful and much easier than looking into nuance.
Excellent podcast with BB.