General Discussion

You expressed that point of view well. You are seeing this as a matter of personal character. I see it as a social issue, not an individual issue. Seeing politics as being dictated by personal choices and character traits is the more common viewpoint. Is society actually merely the aggregate of personal choices and ideas, though? Or is it more like the other way around - i.e., does the structure of society, the dominant social, political and economic arrangements, which are part of a historical process, determine our choices and ideas? I say it is the latter. Religion reforms the individual. Politics reforms society.

As a practical matter, when you go after people on a personal level that is how they will respond: defensive, close-minded, resistant to change. They "take it personally." When you approach people on the social level they respond on that level, and that is politically much more powerful and effective. Example: the overwhelming response to the Sanders and AOC oligarchy theme.

One of the most successful, and damaging, accomplishments by the right wing propagandists is convincing their opposition, us, to see political and social issues as personal, individual issues. Persecution of GLBTQ then becomes about the personal - "lifestyle choices." Racism then becomes personal and subjective - "how dare you call me a racist? I don't have a racist bone in my body!" Mass media propaganda? "Change the channel!" is too often the answer right here. Police brutality? "Sue them!" Climate change? "Reduce your personal carbon footprint!" There are many, many more examples.

Politics of personal feelings and choices is a game the right wingers will always win. They can appeal to people's dark sides, to their prejudices and fears, and steer people away from social issues. That underlying context for political discussion gets reinforced by Democrats all time. It is crippling.