Have You Had To Cut Off Any Friends Or Family Members Due To Differences In Political Opinion?
Politics has become excruciatingly divisive, and it can be nearly impossible to talk with someone who refuses to understand your perspective. People can't help but have strong, passionate feelings since the rights of many are on the line this election cycle. It's increasingly difficult to have civil conversations or even decent relationships with those who can't or won't offer you respect. Sometimes, when the differences run too deep, the best thing you can do is walk away from a relationship.
Perhaps you decided you could no longer entertain a relationship with your cousin after they refused to apologize for a series of anti-gay Facebook posts that indirectly called out you and your partner. They knew exactly what they were doing but feigned ignorance as soon as you and your siblings were upset. They doubled down on their hateful stances and said, "If you feel attacked, maybe you're part of the problem." You blocked them on all platforms and have no desire to attend any family gatherings where they may appear.
Maybe you made the difficult decision to cut off a close friend after they became so obsessed with one particular political figure that they refused to talk about literally anything else. No matter what subject you discussed during your monthly check-in phone calls, they always tied it back to their political standing. When you'd divert the conversation or politely disagree, they'd become agitated and offended, and you found it exhausting. You finally told them you no longer saw any reason to continue the friendship, and they called you cowardly and close-minded. You miss the person they once were, but not those obnoxious phone calls.
Or, maybe you no longer have a relationship with your parents because your opinions are too different. They didn't accept who you wanted to marry, how you wanted to practice religion, how you wanted to donate money, and what social causes you chose to support. It made them furious, and every time you saw them, all they did was lecture and criticize you. You finally had enough and told them you were done with their games. You haven't spoken in eight months, and though it's hard, you're ultimately a lot happier.
Have you ever cut ties with a loved one because of politics? What was the final straw? Tell us your story in the comments or share anonymously using this form for a chance to be featured in a BuzzFeed Community post.