Archive

The Big Goodbye: Why Some Abandon the Right

Conventional wisdom holds that people tend to drift rightward as they age. But as Michael Tomasky suggests, ideological migration can involve a shift from right to left as well.

articles/2011/05/31/the-big-goodbye-why-some-abandon-the-right/tomasky-liberal-converts_184609_cbucov
There are facts usually hidden from view that would move at least some people to the left, writes Michael Tomasky. (Pablo Martinez Monsivais, File / AP Photo)

Not long ago, I wrote to an academic who studies the question of how people come to and change (if they do) their political beliefs.

We think “subscriber” would look good on you. Join now to unlock access.

Don't miss this subscriber exclusive article.