The popular meaning of McCarthyism was established and entrenched by the left, and turning it upon them by hanging it around their own necks is very apropos. Very memorable, very “sticky.” FReepers who are objecting to this use of the language out of a desire to defend McCarthy are stuck in the last century. Yes, they’re “right” but hanging the left with their own “Red Scare” by calling them McCarthyites is very good politics in the present era. They’re being branded with something their own supporters absolutely hate, and it’s becoming difficult to refute.
You are so right. Sad to think that we have to copy them (and the devil himself, Alinsky) but it works. Name them, polarize them, mock them.