Yep. My own understanding of American politics became so much more clear once I realized that many people are lying about their reasons for supporting/opposing

Yep. My own understanding of American politics became so much more clear once I realized that many people are lying about their reasons for supporting/opposing certain issues. A lot of people take issue when someone points out lying as a likely explanation, because they think that assumes malice, but here's the thing: it's not about malice, it's about self-interest. Some folks will lie to benefit themselves. As you say, it's very simple.