"And no, his lack of sincerity was not my only point. I was also curious about what people like him imagine they're accomplishing, and said so."

Is this really so complicated? He's being an advocate for changing a policy he doesn't like. To you and me, it seems like a lot of work for what seems to be more of a symbolic goal. To him, clearly it's a worthwhile endeavor. If you want more answers than that, you'll have to ask him directly.

Anyone who succeeds at being an advocate is going to make someone else unhappy, however.