ORLANDO, Fla. — It’s a topic banned from dinner tables everywhere that’s harder than ever to avoid: politics.
With the election two weeks away, it’s at the top of everyone’s minds no matter which side of the political aisle you fall on. Your family has opinions, your co-workers have opinions and your friends have even more.
Here are some dos and don’ts when it comes to talking about the election:
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Do: Talk about voting.
Encouraging others to head to the polls can be done in a friendly fashion. Asking who people are voting for or telling people who they should vote for? Not so much. VoteCaptain.org offers these tips to keep the conversation on track:
- Ask about whether they vote, have voted in the past or are considering voting.
- If you’re near Election Day, ask what time of day they plan on voting and how they’re getting to the polls.
- If they have voted in the past but stopped, ask why.
Don’t: Lean into sarcasm.
According to an article called “8 Ways to Lose Friends by Talking Politics” published by PsychologyToday.com, sarcasm often isn’t constructive in political conversations. “A perpetual sneer vis-a-vis your opposing political party’s viewpoint wins no arguments and can lose you your loved ones,” the article states.
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Do: Focus on issues, not candidates.
According to VoteCaptain.org, talking about issues that are important to people can be more constructive than talking about specific candidates. “A lot of people need to see how their vote can have a direct impact on policy. Make that connection for them,” the organization said.
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Don’t: Shut down the other side.
If you are going to discuss politics with someone with opposing views, it’s important to let the other person speak. “The ability to tolerate and learn from differences is essential to healthy friendships, a loving marriage, and a free society,” according to Psychology Today.
