Where have the moderates gone?

This is my take, as someone who has lived a very long life (both my enemies and my heirs would say "Yes - much too long!") - and who has observed the political landscape for more than four decades: 

We have come to the point that both major political parties have been hijacked by their radical elements, with the result that now there is virtually no possibility of finding any common ground, or achieving any sort of compromise. on most of the pressing issues that come before Congress.  Hatred and contempt for people of the other party are both encouraged and lauded, and reaching agreement - once, the hallmark of civilized discourse - is now regarded as betrayal to "the cause" (whatever that might be). 

People, know this:  We are being used by the political masters whose existence, fortunes and indeed, whose very way of life, depend upon our hatred of one another.  (Do you "hate" people of the other party?  If so, you have succumbed to the strategy.)

It was not always so.  There was a time when liberal and conservative could, even if with difficulty and by each surrendering something regarded as costly, achieve a common purpose and move this nation forward.