I think if both extremes stopped trying to impose their will on the other (and thus the masses), we'd be just fine. Both speak in blatantly obvious ideological inconsistencies. I think that is where you get the "middle", pickle, of which I would consider myself to be a part of. We recognize how illogical, emotional, irrational, hypocritical, and hysterical both ends of the spectrum sound at times. To your other point, I'd argue that both parties have very willingly accepted losses of liberties when it benefitted their objectives, especially in the last 20 years (PATRIOT Act, COVID, etc). I am of the belief that life requires us to concede some things for the benefit of others, that we might not necessarily want ourselves. Living with others who share different views doesn't have to be a constant battle.....much like a marriage doesn't have to be a constant debate over who is more right. That doesn't mean I intend to roll over on things that are truly important, but this attitude of "I'm 100% right and you are wrong and we are doing it my way and you can go get fucked if you don't like it" is tiring.....and of course once again, seems to know no political boundaries. Also there is a major leap between angrily posting a bunch of bullshit on Facebook about people you don't like, and actually taking aim at your neighbor and pulling the trigger because they are a [insert your choice political enemy]. That part is what I hope our civilized society is not, and never will, be ready for. If we aren't because of McDonalds or iPhones, that's fine by me.........though my belief is that the iPhone is what is pulling us closer to the brink.
I missed the ruckus that ran many of them off but I do miss their sea stories and perspective.