I think the path to solving problems doesn't start out by deliberately and intentionally trying to derail what otherwise has the potential to be a mutually respectful dialogue.

There's no guarantee a mutually respectful dialogue solves the problem, but it sure doesn't hurt to try that instead of starting out with dehumanizing the other party in a social conflict as the opening move.

It may hurt if the only way to solve problems is to take away power from bad actors. In a democracy, one can only do that by winning voters. In 2025, it turns out that voters respond positively to strongmen who do indeed begin their conversations by derailing, dehumanizing, and attacking their opponents.

So, if you want to win in the court of public opinion, maybe go for the throat in Round 1. Sadly, respectful dialogue is not en vogue.

You seem to be of the opinion that Trump won the election because of his mannerisms and character, as opposed to the fact that the only alternative was someone that not a single person voted for in a Dem primary election for the 2024 general election.

Aren't we supposed to be allowed to vote in a democracy?