There is an unwritten rule in American politics that it's OK
for politicians to seek rural votes by insulting big cities and their
residents, but it would be unforgivable for urban politicians to
return the favor. "I have to go to New York City soon," tweeted J.D.
Vance during his senatorial campaign. "I have heard it's disgusting
and violent there." Can you imagine, say, Chuck Schumer saying
something similar about rural Ohio, even as a joke?