Regressive Alkies

Another bit by way of Mr Drudge:
The Week:
http://bit.ly/1dgDFl5

"...The research reveals that states with more liberal representatives... tend to consume up to three times more alcohol per head than more politically conservative states..."

There's nothing about what is drunk (hard liq v wine, beer), or quality (Chateau LeFeet v Boone's Farm), just that quantitative measure.

So much for the drunken redneck flyover folks. Apparently, we're just not keeping up!

Then there's this speculation:

"The authors of this latest study offer two theories to explain this divergence in behavior. One possibility is that people of a more liberal persuasion tend to be more open to new experiences, such as the consumption of alcohol or drugs. Another possibility is that people living in more liberal states or countries may feel more confident in government health care and social welfare to pick up the pieces if drinking leads to health or social problems."

I can see the former easily enough. The latter, though reasonable considering the Statists' mentality, would require foresight and consideration, thought processes not greatly in evidence in the species. Perhaps it's more instinctual than thought through.