Sure, but the issue with that logic is that you'll 100% at some point be used as a useful idiot if you always assume good intentions since bad faith actors prey

Sure, but the issue with that logic is that you'll 100% at some point be used as a useful idiot if you always assume good intentions since bad faith actors prey on it. A much better argument would be to say: We should strive to be fair, balanced and be aware of the potential possibility of bad faith instead of casting judgement in our interpretation of what people mean.