Also, the simple fact is that today's leftists have much more in common with Russia and Putin than Conservatives do.

Conservatives have a certain level of respect for Putin, due to his strong, often unpopular stances.

But as Putin said (which is true) today's leftists have a lot in common with Russia and Russian history.

Marxism is making a big comeback in America, and socialism is a mainstream and popular system.

Russia likes that too. Many in Russia which the USSR never fell, including Putin himself.

Dirty commies. But I respect Putin for his skills and way he carry himself on the world stage, pretty much humiliating anyone who try to "get him".