I don’t have a problem with Appalachia. I’ve moved all around the country and spent time living in almost every group imaginable. I agree that the people themselves are likely to be lovely once you get to know them. My issue is that I’m not fond of people who actively vote against their self interest. When you get ab hour or two outside metropolitan centers in Ohio, you’re deep into Trump country… by which I mean people who have numerous flags in their yards, stickers all over their trucks. Not to mention an unhealthy amount of confederate battle flags.

The Maga cult is a literal lifestyle choice in parts of Ohio, and if I were not a cis white male, I wouldn’t feel comfortable in these areas. The reason why is because these people who REALLY ARW warm and friendly when you first meet them, they are the same people who have alarming amounts of Trump paraphernalia. It’s a cult. Plain and simple. And no amount of “they’re hearts are in the right place” makes up for the fact that they not only vote for, but loudly share their deep love for a man who literally represents the absolute worst of America.

The people aren’t the problem. Their beliefs are.