Reply #2: Nice post, madfloridian. Labeling people who are interested in an issue or a candidate

[John Q. Citizen]

with a broad brush derogatory term is a despicable tactic. It generally occurs when the opponents of that issue or candidate become afraid they are about to lose control of an issue or an election.

Interested in a clean quality environment?
You are a "Treehugger!"

Prefer Obama over Clinton? You are part of a "cult."

Concerned that the 9/11 commision was a white wash?
You are a "Conspiracy theorist"

Don't like Nixon's criminal conspiracy? You are an "effete snob."

And the list goes on of different ways to attempt to marginalize those you fear or disagree with.