Whether it is the workplace, home or politics the craziest rules. People are afraid to rile the crazy person because they get loud and take over.
Media likely anticipates the reaction of the conservative crazies and tries to avoid their hysteria.

I've seen, and have been in many, situations where others and myself don't retort an opinionated conservative due to decorum. Getting into an ugly debate or shouting match is a stupid idea, especially when one must maintain a friendship or decent work environment. The loudmouth bully has no such constraints and is all too willing to let a disagreement escalate to the Nth degree. He'll take your silence as either restrained agreement, or passivity.

For years my own snarling conservative father thought I was just a much less outspoken version of himself. The rightward surge of the conservative/GOP movement has repulsed me enough, especially in the face of his increased spouting to a breaking point where I can't let his bullshit go unanswered. We still have common interests but we don't get along so good anymore because he just won't STFU about politics.

like they are being ridiculous - in a calm rational way.
What else can we do - it is like dealing with a child having a temper tantrum but they should have grown up by now.

keep pushing to the right no matter what, people will eventually follow. As seen; Democratic President who loves Reagan, drones, kill lists, imprisonment of whistle blowers, etc..

I dunno, maybe 47 a little young but I seem to remember Democrats who wouldn't stand for any of the above.

just my humble opinion.

-p