By Dan Geddes

WASHINGTON – A new poll of 1,000 American adults reveals that both liberals  and conservatives believe it is possible to “convert” other people to change their political orientation without the use of rational dialogue.

The recent Gallmausen poll found that more than 63% of Americans believe that they can convince other people to adopt their position through such rhetorical tactics as shouting at them, incessantly repeating themselves, and vicious name-calling.

One self-described conservative, Joe, 45, commented on the poll: “Yeah, it’s possible that some libtards are redeemable, if you dig deep enough. I mean, I know they’re mostly thick-headed idiots, but even dogs understand things if you repeat it enough times. So there must be hope for these liberal wingnuts, God willing.”

Joe continued: “And personally, I think that they secretly find it funny when we call them libtards. It’s like ‘liberal’ and ‘retard’ combined. Libtard. Hilarious! How can you argue with that?”

An self-professed liberal, Suzie, 34, also reacted to the poll: “Despite their general lack of education, I still hope that if conservatives could just comprehend my idealistic message of diversity, and my utter disdain for their ridiculous religious beliefs, then they would be converted to the progressive cause. They would finally see the light and drop their troglodytic homophobia and 18th century gun fetish.”

While many political pundits lament the appalling decline in American political discourse during the past thirty years, it is reassuring that so many Americans still believe political discussion is worthwhile.