A difference is being drawn between HN users who are interested in tech, and the everyone else. Most of humanity has little interest in Tech, and would rather spend their time on other things.
This also means they are less aware of ways to keep themselves safe, or less on top of whatever current threat is sweeping through the internet.
After multiple interactions on this site, I can say with some confidence that the average HN commenter does not have the same experience with technology that the average user does.
This divergence is resulting in different priorities and conversations.
Edit: I think that, given that us HNers often self-identify as tech priests, advocacy and education should follow naturally from that.
Honestly, I can totally see where the cynicism is coming from, however if you think about it, that's a pretty condescending view. This effort might be Sisyphean, but things are not as dire as you might think.
People are already seething at how much their lives are being enshitified by Big Co. Even if 10% of voters reach out to their representatives, it would be a tidal wave. Politicians are terrified of the popular will and this is not a hill they are willing to die on. Just see the success of the right to repair movement as an example.