MIXING POLITICS + DATING
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by Madison Thomas
ifference of opinion is bound to occur in any relationship. From disagreeing about whether The Office or Friends is a better T.V. show (it is obviously Friends), or on what is the best ride at Disneyland, but a difference of opinion in politics is not as simple of an issue.
reflective enough of them. In addition to this, basic human rights are not a political issue, but since there continues to be political debates surrounding them, the topic must be addressed. I simply would never date someone who does not support the basic human rights of ALL individuals. There is no way for me to justify being interested in someone who has no compassion or empathy for others. While I would not date someone on the complete opposite end of the political spectrum, I also do not need to be in a relationship where my partner feels exactly the same way I do towards every single issue. In fact, agreeing all of the time about every single topic would get rather boring. I have learned so much by having civil and respectful conversations about politics with others. Even if I do not agree with them, I still find it extremely interesting to try to understand why they believe what they believe.
At a very young age, I developed an interest in history and politics, and as I grew older that interest only became greater. In history classes, I was always the first to shoot up my hand and give my opinion on the topic being discussed. I was also known for being one to debate with my teachers. As someone who feels strongly about what I believe in, I have had to sit back and think about how I would feel about dating someEvery healthy relationship requires each one who did not necessarily believe in the same things I partner to listen to one another. I do not mean simply did or had views in complete opposition to mine. allow one another to speak, but actually, actively listen to and try to understand what the other person is say I know many people are advised to not talk about politics or religion too soon into dating someone, ing. This is no difference when it comes to discussing politics. or sometimes even at all. While I certainly don’t think I would lead with, “Hi, I’m Madison and I believe…” While it can be easy to want to jump into a when meeting someone on the first date, it is definite- conversation and explain why you’re right and why ly not a topic I would be able to avoid for very long. I they are wrong, it is important to show your partner understand that not everyone is interested in politics, respect and they should do the same for you. Several but in our current political climate, I think it is near years ago I read a quote from Alicia Tweddle that has impossible for it to never come up. stuck with me ever since, “I will respect your opinion as long as your opinion doesn’t disrespect anyone When dating someone, you typically want to else’s existence.” know all the parts about them; the good, the bad, and the ugly. With that comes learning about not only their Dating can be hard. Discussing politics can political beliefs but their values as well. be hard. Putting the two together may seem like an Sharing common values is essential to any long-lasting relationship and for many of us, our political beliefs are impossible task, but always remember that you should due to values that we hold. Since sharing common val- never feel that you have to hide a piece of yourself and what you believe in in order to find someone. The ues is so critical, I would not be able to date someone right person is out there and they will love and rewhose values do not align with mine. So in this case, while I wouldn’t be ending things with the other person spect you and everything you believe in! necessarily for their political beliefs, their values are
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