I know of one person who is technically Jewish, but seems to think he is Buddhist. He is also schizophrenic (but is taking his meds). He is off, even with meds. The leftists I know often seem to gravitate toward Buddhism. Most are not dangerous, but some could be under certain circumstances. I think Buddhism became chic in the US due to people like Beatniks and Hippies - leftists rebelling against mom, America and apple pie.
LOL at the comments at WaPo... They are FREAKED out. It is disturbing how defensive (presumably) Americans are about a foreign religion. Probably the same lefties who mock Christians everyday when they can.
Here’s my theory: The guy knew he had problems with anger. So he joined Buddhism in a last ditch attempt to control his anger. It’s that simple.