I've lurked here on and off for years, especially since the Gazette starting linking to Rabble. I generally come whenever there is some particularly hot topic that I want to read absolutely everything about then it passes and I retreat to my usual news sources.
I knew what to expect but it was still illuminating to experience it. The behavior that regulars seem comfortable exhibiting astonishes me but I suppose it shouldn't.
I would have been interested in discussing federal politics and feminist topics but it is not worth it. The place drips hostility forcing me into self-defense mode. A couple of posters tried to stick to the topic but the attacks were over-whelming.
I will still lurk on occasion and someday I may post again because I do value hearing the thoughts of some of the posters here. It's just that engaging them doesn't make up for dealing with all the trolling and general attacks on my character. The very people who should be held to a higher standard as experienced posters are the ones that are allowed to behave abusively to new posters.
It makes it very difficult to behave in a civilized manner. I know if I stay I will eventually start firing back and I will be banned for it. I'd rather leave under my own steam so that's what I am doing.