Staff Reports
The Thanksgiving holidays are upon us when families gather to share laughter, stories, and, unfortunately for some, heated political discussions. While many Americans are preparing to enjoy turkey and pumpkin pie, a rift is growing, leaving some feeling extremely uncomfortable. With the recent tensions stemming from the elections, particularly following Donald Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, some individuals on the left are taking extreme measures. No longer just content with spirited debates, certain liberals are expressing their outrage by cutting ties with family and friends who dared to vote for Trump.
Take, for instance, the case of a former Democratic Senate candidate from Ohio, who recently posted about a Thanksgiving encounter with his aunt. During what should have been a warm conversation about holiday plans, she innocently revealed her Trump vote. Instead of celebrating the season of gratitude, this individual proclaimed that their home was officially closed to “traitors” and that there was no room in their life for those who “could care less about the United States.” Talk about a Thanksgiving fork in the road!
As the media fuel the divisive rhetoric, this hostility makes everyone wonder how families with differing political views will come together this festive season. The notion has been floated around that avoiding family members and friends who voted differently is entirely reasonable. After all, if they hold beliefs that challenge one’s own livelihood, why entertain the idea of sharing mashed potatoes together, right? This growing sentiment highlights a lack of understanding and risks rupturing relationships with those who may simply think differently.
The reality is that Americans live side by side with neighbors, coworkers, and even relatives who cast their votes for Trump. Yet, instead of fostering understanding and dialogue, some individuals are doubling down on creating factional walls. This raises the question: How do we move forward in a country where political opinions seem to polarize even the most basic family gatherings? Surely, there must be a way to resolve differences without sacrificing valuable relationships with loved ones, especially during holidays meant for unity and kindness.
Interestingly, this situation may not be as one-sided as it appears. Discussions among those in the media highlight how quickly the tables could turn if the circumstances were reversed. Imagine if conservatives treated their liberal family and friends with the same level of disdain! Would that not be labeled as intolerant or even bigoted? The age-old advice of avoiding discussions about politics and religion could not be more pertinent now. There seem to be many opportunities to say, “Happy Thanksgiving!” while steering clear of discussions that could lead to heartburn—both figuratively and literally.
In a time when many people appear eager for division, others suggest embracing dialogue, humor, and compassion instead. Perhaps this Thanksgiving, families could focus on what brings them together rather than what tears them apart. After all, political opinions come and go, but family is supposed to be forever. The world might be watching closely, but at the end of the day, the season is really about enjoying turkey and giving thanks to one another. At least one can take comfort in that regardless of differing beliefs, most of us agree that mashed potatoes and gravy are always a hit!
