Lilybell, talking to folk who have different views helps.

The disparity of income, wealth and (because of these) opportunity has created a climate of hopelessness and grievance in America. Same thing in the UK which brought on Brexit. America got Donald Trump.

Democrats share some of the blame for the polarization of the country though. Years back they withdrew from a local presence in districts where their chances of winning was slim. This was a huge mistake for them. It left a void in towns and rural places mainly in the middle of the country to be filled by Republicans. They didn't deliver anything special but then, any relationship is better than none at all.

Small town and rural folk acquire beliefs and affiliations from others at the church, sports or business club and not from the New York and LA Times.

Some Democrats have woken up to this failure and are trying to correct it. But that will take time and resources and talking to folk who disagree with them.

Many thanks. Well written article.