If you've ever ventured into a conservative chat forum, you are aware they are often a hotbed of misinformation and conservative rhetoric.
What may not be apparent is not all that lurk within are conservative extremists. Granted, the most radical voices often dominate the conversations but personal experience has shown there are also members seeking answers just like the rest of us.
It is for the hearts and minds of these members we should engage the extremists on their own turf... By questioning their assertions and providing proof to back it up.
Challenging conservatives in chat rooms is akin to a political fist fight. It can be very in-your-face and verbally confrontational. Political topics are often wide ranging, sometimes absurd and usually topical. The Chat rooms I've visited will allow registered members to both respond to and initiate topics.
A Few Pointers for "Newbies"
First, try to NEVER lose your cool. Calm and rational responses, combined with at least a modicum of respect, seem to annoy them to no end.<g> Once you make your presence known, chances are you will be tagged with at least one derogatory "pet" name. (For some reason conservatives seem fond of giving ANYONE they don't like pet names. You tell when your new name going to stick by the crackling affirmation of the groupies.)
When engaging the opposition, it is essential your sources of information be as unbiased and/or as respected as possible. (Unless you can find corroborating information from conservative sources... This definitely puts a twist in their knickers.) Never underestimate the skill of your opponent(s) to question YOUR information. (Try to stay away from quoting Wikipedia. Conservatives seem to REALLY dislike Wiki.)
You can also expose the ofttimes radical political views of extremists by questioning their stance on fundamental issues. (A recent conversation I had with the head cheerleader of a conservative site revealed some pretty radical free market philosophies. Most were way out of the mainstream thinking and probably came as a surprise to his followers.)
Questioning the motive or funding behind chat forum political causes can also be enlightening. An anti-health care reform ad currently running on conservative websites reads "Obamacare = Abortion and Euthanasia". A link leads to a petition on a website called "Free Our Health Care Now (.com)". A little research revealed the ad is a product of the Mike Gallagher (Radio) Show and the Salem Radio Network. (I'm guessing the real purpose behind the website is to farm emails and addresses to be sold later. A similar "Drill Now, Drill Here, Pay Less" ad/petition was used by Newt Gingrich to further his Presidential campaign.)
Finally, engaging conservatives on their own turf is not for the thin skinned. The opposition will employ any and all methods to try to destroy your credibility or argument. If they can't challenge your source of information they often resort to personal attacks. (It diverts attention from the issue at hand.) They also understand the stakes are high.
Now, sally forth and remember... Have fun!
PS: You can often find a local conservative chat forum by doing a search engine inquiry.