On Reasoning with a Reactionary

Reactionaries, by definition, revere a mythical past in which traditional values and authorities were uniformly respected, and the country was great as a result of it.  Reactionary thought is consequently romantic in nature.  It is not based on cold economic self-interest.

For that reason, it is frequently impossible to “reason” with a Reactionary, as we typically use that term.  In most cases, appealing to their economic interests, and complaining when they ignore them, is useless.  The Democrats may be able to pick off a few here and there, particularly by employing the old labor solidarity narrative with union members, but most of their votes are out of reach, and chasing them won’t be cost-effective.