But the rural purge was about more than just getting rid of "hayseed" comedies skewing to older audiences; by programming shows that prioritized attracting viewers from specific demographics rather than those with broad, widespread appeal, the rural purge signaled a difference in how networks and advertisers viewed urban viewers (and content that appealed to them), versus those shows that reflected values and themes popular in middle America. It introduced the beginnings of a parallel distribution system that allowed shows like Lawrence Welk and Hee Haw to bypass the networks and reach their audiences via first-run syndication. It confirmed and exacerbated a divide that already existed between urban and rural America, one steeped in stereotypes, suspicion, mistrust, and condescension. And it was a major step in codifying that division through such terms as "red" and "blue" America, with television programs geared to support that confirmation bias. The end result: a television Balkanization of viewers that has become prevalent in virtually every aspect of American culture, politics, and entertainment.