Comment: thanks Lao, for your thoughtful post.

The DP has gone through cycles of more and fewer negative posts. When I first came, there was already a small conspiricist group that was quite unpleasant. Then as the r3VOLution of 2008 got stronger, the DP because a united powerhouse of positive energy, with many wise libertarians posting actively.

Now as the DP is better known to the political public and as we achieve more influence, we are drawing those who truly fear and loathe liberty and are willing to use any method to dampen our spirits and activism. It comes with the territory of politics unfortunately.

I'm not sure there is an efficacious solution other than sticking to our principles and hanging in despite the detractors. Thankfully Michael is a wonderful guide and the Mods do a great job stamping on the very worst offenders as they emerge.