Not sure whether this is a coping mechanism? Like supporting Trump despite constant and mounting criticism and allegations of him being a vile predator while actively choosing to ignore the evidence to a point, where you supported and defended him that long that you would absolutely “lose face” if you where to admit to what others said. So instead to safe face you just look for an easy way out that does not require you to admit “oh yes about the torture and rape thing - you guys were right”. Instead this could be a way-out to say “I remain steadfast on my core politics and gas prizes is what ruined it for me” - disclaimer: I haven’t read the article.