Silence is the same as support for the administration because that's how they will perceive it and comment about it. They'll also try to cast dissent as treason

Silence is the same as support for the administration because that's how they will perceive it and comment about it. They'll also try to cast dissent as treason. Their lickspittles will just go along with it. Only when there is enough full-throated protest will it, maybe, slow them down or force them to reconsider.