CULT!

The ppl in deep red rural areas are raised, generationally, to think dems are the root of all evil. Truly, they HATE democrats. They think the left is the devil. It’s why I feel certain that a civil war is not impossible. The hate runs deep. Voting for a D is not even within the realm of possibility

I believe this is probably the closest to the truth … they think the Dems are “Demonrats” - evil personified.

Bigotry and religion. The Republican Party knows how to use their religion and their bigotry to control them. They always blame Democrats for all bad things and praise Republicans for good things, especially when Republicans screw them over.

Misdirection by politicians. They don't talk about why hospitals are closing, and won't answer questions about it. They pivot to cutting taxes and creating new jobs (by giving away the farm to national or global corporations). Also, ruby red rural voters don't know they are un-informed.

It's a great question. I wish I had a better answer than, apparently many Americans are not paying attention, are not concerned with politics or actually like the racist, sexist, anti-expertise, and criminal behavior on full display by DJT.