Oh easy...

There's a straight-arrow-Norwegian-Lutheran cultural thing in western Washington that's unmistakable. Liberal, seemingly naive (but not); white-bread. Think "Prarie Home Companion" with lots more caffeine. Actually, pretty much a Pacific NW thing (west of the mountains.)

I think that's why Rick resonates so well with travelers of a certain age/socioeconomic demographic. It's the boy who you wanted your daughter to marry. Smokes weed? Cool, so did your dad and I...

Just my opinion.