Serious question: What exactly do they love America for? I just don’t get it. Seems like in every way that matters to the common people, the US is at best mediocre.
Could it be that they secretly subscribe to a different version of the same mythical exceptionalism as the president they despise?
People love their home sports teams, even when they're losing. They love their kids, even when they're getting mediocre grades in school. It's like that.
You're thinking of nationalism, which is when people think their country is the best one. Real patriotism is loving your country just because it's yours.
Could it be that they secretly subscribe to a different version of the same mythical exceptionalism as the president they despise?