I agree that the new moderation is different, but I don’t agree it’s about going after conservatives. The moderation seems to me to be more about reining in posters who have a habit of using certain disingenuous tactics.
That said, I will agree with everyone else that, if you’re doing newer moderation, it’s better to start with mod notes to let people know exactly what isn’t acceptable anymore. People shouldn’t get official reprimands (aka Warnings) for behavior that has previously been tolerate.
I would also suggest that the new mods get together and work out a statement about exactly what changes in moderation they plan to implement. That way it can be clear to all, and any potential downsides can be discussed.
One thing I really appreciate about @Jonathan_Chance’s moderation was when he decided to have us talk out what stuff should be moderated in GD. Rather than just implementing what he thought would make GD better, he got input from everyone.
I think that’s a good model for making changes in how the board is moderated.