Confident, well-read liberals
That's why I and most confident well-read liberals neither fear nor hate Rush.
Which must say something about the confidence and literacy of the Democratic Party and those liberals who are actually holding political power in this country, since they have made Rush a primary target for years.
As for "tragedy and decline," I wouldn't hold my breath if I were you. He pulled out of deafness with flying colors, which is no mean feat for a radio personality.