I don't know to what extent it explains the birth rate, but I can testify to the difference in public mood. I got around rural Red areas in 2020 and people in g

I don't know to what extent it explains the birth rate, but I can testify to the difference in public mood. I got around rural Red areas in 2020 and people in general seemed to be completely ignoring the pandemic. In fact, a lot of folks I dealt with were having a jolly time because their businesses were booming. In contrast, it would be the complete opposite when I hit a Blue pocket -- streets deserted, shops closed, people eyeing you warily in case you got too close.