Feeling pessimistic, might delete later. You can blame ICE kidnapping people off the streets, a stupid gerrymandering strategy, endless idiotic wars, or even just Ken Paxton being hated. But I think the only reason Texas (and some other usually-red states and districts) flipped is because a lot of people were pissed off that it was costing $200 to fill their huge trucks and SUVs. Is $6 diesel the result of Republican policy? Of course. But if we invaded Iran and it didn’t cause a huge spike in gas prices I don’t think we would be where we are today (and to be clear, I’m very pleased with last night’s results, even if my fucking stupid Florida continues to underperform).
Quick edit to whoever admins this community: I just read the sidebar & rule 1. Mea culpa.
Yes, the terrible people probably have terrible motivations, but I’m taking the win. It takes time and effort to build empathy in people, maybe we can work on that after the crisis has passed, if it does. If it doesn’t, the suffering headed their way will develop their empathy for them, since the only way they understand is if it impacts them.