Why do Republicans keep trying to play fair with Democrats even though history says it never works?

Time and again, Republicans played fair. We negotiated, compromised, and took the high road, expecting goodwill or at least reciprocity. We met Democrats halfway, believing principle and decency are universal.

For years, Democrats just moved further left, screaming, lying, twisting the rules, and ranting to a willing press. Every reasonable offer was exploited, every gesture of magnanimity turned against us. Compromise became a trap—and when we split the difference, we lost.

Donald Trump’s election changed that dynamic for many on our side. His rise gave the right a sense of mandate to push back rather than continue offering good faith gestures that would be exploited. Instead of reflexively conceding ground, a significant portion of the Republican base now demands a firmer stance and refuses to fold at the first sign of resistance.

The lesson is simple: know your enemy. Understand their methods, anticipate their moves, and never assume fairness will be returned—otherwise, you’ll keep getting played.

Hollow, round, and devoid of substance… know your enemy before you take the shot.