I have also noticed more than once that if you do engage them in debate they talk faster, louder, they stop looking you in the eye, and often their hands begin to shake. It's really freaky.
"Greying ponytails" (and pigtails) around here are usually elders from the Sioux Nation.....traditional and conservative type fellows, and much respected.
I've never lived in a liberal community, so it's a bit hard for me to relate. All I know is what I've read about the situation. I'm very glad for that fact.
Methinks you should move. I know.........easier said than done.
Keep up the good fight.