timschochet
Footballguy
To answer your question: not really, no. And the reason is that most liberals were never as vocally pro-Sweden as conservatives have been vocally anti-Sweden. Socialists are, sure. But, despite the constant attempt of some to paint American politics as a struggle between conservatives and socialists, it isn’t. It remains a struggle between conservatives and liberals, and while some knowledgeable liberals might admire certain aspects of Swedish society, they’re typically indifferent.Do you also find it funny that people who have historically praised Sweden for its economic policies now turn around and criticize how its handing covid?
Whenever you're tempted to point your finger at the other tribe and laugh at them for "switching sides" on some issue, ask yourself if the exact same critique couldn't be applied to your tribe. If it seems like a silly criticism of your tribe, then it's probably a silly criticism of the other tribe too.
But your point does have a greater truth, which is that no matter how accurately one criticizes one side of the political spectrum, you can always find examples on the other side that matches it or even exceeds it, allowing for the refutation of “you shouldn’t criticize because BOTH SIDES”, etc. Yes it’s true but it’s also tiresome. Let’s accept in advance that hypocrisy abounds in our society and that every time I criticize those I disagree with politically an example of “my side” being equally bad can be thrown right back in my face. And now let’s move on.