In the US, when people talk about the liberal-conservative spectrum on college campuses (or cities or parts of the country), it isn’t really about party preferences or people debating the elections. It’s just one way to get a sense of world view, etc. Of course people will hopefully be welcoming everywhere, but when you ask about campus social life and vibe, that’s part of understanding it regardless of whether people talk politics.
Anyhow that’s clearly a secondary concern for you – first is the coursework. (Money also appears to be of secondary concern, so it’s great to have that freedom.) In addition to the course catalogs, I’d say to check the current online portals for both schools to see what’s being offered this fall and check around for a few years each way. Good luck with your decision, those are great choices to have!