But not calling out clear dog whistles isn't a viable strategy either, nor is ignoring the clear economic and cultural alliances that can be formed at the state and federal level. The "selfish" case has been made: density helps property value and increases economic vitality, asymmetry issues over changes of taste, etc...

Those that are really against change are against it because they feel demographic threat. Most people are in favor of moderate change in zoning restrictions, those that are opposed should be called out to defend their positions