“I know the fear and I know the terror”

As a gay hairstylist in Manhattan, Brandon Straka never questioned where his political home was. “I felt like I didn't have a choice politically, but to only be a Democrat.” But when he started to voice dissent, he reached the limits of liberal tolerance. He decided to pack up and leave – with a bang. He founded the “#WalkAway” campaign urging Democrats to move across to the Republicans. Hundreds of thousands have joined Straka on his journey. Straka tells Die Weltwoche that among Republicans he has found “the most open, the most loving, most diverse” people in America.”.

"Once upon a time, I was a liberal," says Brandon Straka, black hair slicked back, eyes fixed on the camera, violins playing in crescendo in the background. "But liberalism has changed, and I will no longer be a part of an ideology or political party that represents everything that contradicts my values of unity, equal opportunity, personal empowerment, compassion, and love. So, I am walking away." 

“I know the fear and I know the terror”

Wi ...