I think what has changed is that previously people who were not educated, were aware they were not educated, and had at least some respect for professionals and educated people. Now, they are constantly told that they are the smart ones - and it is those libtard idiots with all woke education in college who don’t know what the hell is going on because Soros pays professors. Obviously that latter view makes them feel much better about themselves. The second factor is the Internet, and the ability of otherwise ostracized people to find like-minded fools to join in a community. Back in the day, a NAMBLA member would be essentially ostracized, and everyone would tell them why their thoughts were wrong. Now, he can go to the NAMBLA chat room, where people all over the country are saying, “you are exactly right , we should be able to date preteens!”
They are the same outcasts, and the same stupid people, but the way they view themselves is dramatically changed, and the support and validation they receive for holding previously non-favored views in the community has empowered them.
I can see why it is attractive. My ex brother-in-law is among the slowest people I know, never been able to pass any attempts at higher education, never reads anything, and absolutely absorbs every right wing podcast and radio show as if it were truth from God. He told my youngest son when he went to college, and here I’m quoting, “don’t let those idiot professors turn you into a liberal”.