Virtue signaling is just that - signaling. I had a buddy in college who constantly told me what a homophobe I was. Then, one of our friends came out. This guy would have nothing to do with him. I always thought “homophobia” was a stupid word, but he seemed legitimately terrified. Progressives love concepts, but hate individual examples, especially if those examples infringe on their sanctimonious comfort.

Oh shit. I used to live in The Dalles.