re: The left going full retard will cause more defections to the GOP

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The stone cold honest truth is I'm afraid to not be accepted if I switched over. Being a Black Southerner with some conservative beliefs (as well as some more moderate beliefs) isn't too uncommon, but most haven't warmed back up to the Republican party yet. Switching could essentially put me on an island.

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I understand the need and desire for acceptance. I have many beliefs that collide with my family. I try not to let them change who I am, though. While I may not voice my personal beliefs to them for harmony's sake, I will still vote in what I perceive to be my best interest.

If these people are just friends and not family, are they really in your best interest? I don't want to presume to know your situation, but sometimes, cutting ties is for the best. If they shun you just for having a different opinion, do they still have a positive influence on your life?

The simplest I can put it is, "Would you want your kids to do something just for acceptance instead of going with their principle?"

Maybe your stance and ability to articulate it will influence others to accept your point of view, to accept what they know to be true despite what was ingrained in them.

I initially laughed at some of those that exposed me to my current world view, but now I understand what they were saying and thank them for opening my eyes.

Best of luck.