Post-election tensions are causing rifts in families as some are reconsidering who will be at the Thanksgiving table this year. The divisive victory of President-elect Donald Trump has reignited debates about cutting ties with loved ones over opposing political beliefs. Some people are choosing to skip holiday gatherings with family members who voted for Trump, while others are lamenting being uninvited for supporting him. Politics, once a taboo topic at the dinner table, has become increasingly difficult to navigate with friends and family who have different views. The animosity has been building since Trump’s first win in 2016, with many avoiding political discussions altogether. Some, like stay-at-home mother Alexis Voss, have opted out of Thanksgiving gatherings due to moral disagreements with family members’ voting choices.
The polarization in the country has been exacerbated by Trump’s divisive nature and social media’s role in amplifying extreme voices within political parties. Public figures and individuals alike are taking stances on whether it’s acceptable to cut off family members over political differences. While some argue for setting boundaries, others like Elon Musk and Fox News host Jesse Watters argue for maintaining relationships despite differing beliefs. Despite the strong emotions surrounding this issue, negotiations expert Scott Walker is offering a hotline for families who need help diffusing political tensions during Thanksgiving. The key, he says, is to approach discussions with curiosity and understanding rather than assumption and to be willing to walk away if needed. In a polarized political climate, finding common ground and fostering understanding within families is crucial for maintaining relationships.
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