Why did Texas succeed in leapfrogging from resource extraction to broad-based economic development, while its similarly resource-rich neighbors (Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma) all conspicuously failed?
Given that it’s being used to protest in favor of illegal immigration, it is a direct challenge to American sovereignty tho, not merely a cultural symbol.
I think a problem with the administration is that they don't "know what time it is;" the Left was smashed by the judicial revolution, DeSantis' model for red state reform, and Trump's victory, and the current moment calls for careful conservative institutional consolidation.
"Performative peasantry" is such a great line to describe so much of American culture IMO.
Consulting, IBanking, BigLaw, etc may have their place, but IMO only as a sprint for acquiring "owned space," which has been undermined by mass migration + NIMBYism + taxes + deficits.