It’s that time of year again.
BY: JACOB POLITTE
Online Editor
It’s that time of year when election season is (mostly) over and some people in your family are really pissed off.
Many people in your family may be supporters of Donald Trump. They are very much not happy, or even optimistic now.
While many people are ecstatic at the results of the election (shout-out to Kamala Harris for breaking three glass ceilings at once), many aren’t. When you celebrate the holidays with your own family, you’re bound to have at least a few supporters of the opposing side around you. How do you avoid making a scene? Here are six ways, in no particular order:
Don’t Go
This is the easiest thing to do. Spending time with your family is important, but if you don’t want to hear your Uncle talk about Sean Hannity’s conspiracy board after one too many Bud Light’s… it’s perfectly fine to do something else with your time. I usually work every holiday, especially because I usually get overtime pay for doing so.
Set neutral ground rules
It might be a good idea, especially if you’re hosting a party, to be very clear with everyone up front: no political discussions are allowed. If you’re visiting a party, it might also be something to inform the hosts about.
Do not engage in discussion
Sometimes, however, political talk is unavoidable. Some people can’t help themselves. Engaging with those people, however, is not a requirement. Sometimes, it’s easier just letting them vent their feelings. If your cousin, who is a Republican only because his parents told him he had to be one, insists on telling you all about Ben Shapiro’s latest video, let him. Just do your best not to listen.
Attempt to change the subject
Another tactic to avoid political discussion is to simply attempt to move the conversation away from politics. Something like, “this year has been exhausting, let’s talk about something a little less polarizing. Like puppies. Everyone loves puppies.” Or something like, “Hey, I really like that show The Blacklist, I think you would too.” Not every conversation needs to be a political one.
Agree to disagree
In order to prevent an argument from getting heated, it might be for the best to be honest, but respectful. Saying something like, “I have a different opinion, but I understand where you’re coming from” can go a long way to diffuse an argument.
Know your crowd
Perhaps the most tactful way to handle this situation is to simply know who and who not to talk to. If Aunt Brittney insists on telling everyone how great Jeannie Pirro is (Aunt Brittney hopefully won’t say that sober), avoid talking to Aunt Brittney. Find someone at the event whose views are more in line with yours.
