I wouldn't say I'm conservative or liberal but I share your view on this topic. I found this sub and your post via the random link. Mods are free to delete my post if I'm in the wrong by replying like this.

But I have been in an almost identical position. Everyone became terrified of saying the wrong thing and the camaraderie and good vibe was suppressed because hardly anyone was saying anything at all. Software dev is already mentally demanding and I found the added layer of second guessing myself and the uncomfortable environment was too much for me. Not that we were raucous beforehand or discussed controversial things, but it felt like some kind of progressive panopticon and it was mentally exhausting.

I eventually left because the mood had changed and it just wasn't enjoyable anymore.