Living here in WV as a Republican, I can assure you that Byrd's continued lifeteime reelection has everything to do with being a Democrat in a heavily Democrat state, along with the fact that obtianing seniority in the Senate makes that Senator (and hence the state he "represents") that mich more influential.
Bigotry exists toward outsiders, period. There was never that much racial tension, as there has been societal tensions, in general. The miners against the owners, the rednecks against the "city slickers", etc.
I was born in Wilmington, NC, site of "the reverend" Ben Chavis, and the infamous Wilmington 10, a group which was found responsible for burning a church and a furniture business. We had KKK, ROWP (Rights of white People), and a host of others come into town for the trials. It was real theater.
But, NC and WV are behind thaty. Unfortunately, sonme of those in power still wish to appeal to that segment. When they are added to the list of"life-long Dimocrats, (and their daddy was, too), they are a powerful force. IMO, only timne and some deaths will make the difference.
On another note, I am no longer a registered Republican, since they seem to be merging in their role of maintaining a LARGE Gum't!!!
I still vote for Republicans, and I voted for our Prez, but I held my nose! I hope we see some real change. But, the cry to abolish all of those redundant "Departments", and eleiminate wasteful duplicate programs, seems to be muted these days... I wonder why? I guess power does breed corruption, and pandering...