DEAR HARRIETTE: My partner and I have different political views, and with the election coming up, we’ve been clashing more often. I’m a strong supporter of Kamala Harris and her policies, while my partner has a different perspective. We’ve always respected each other’s opinions, but lately, our discussions have turned into heated arguments. I genuinely don’t want our relationship to be affected by politics, but I also feel that these important conversations shouldn’t be avoided. How should I approach this? Any advice would be great. -- Political Disagreements
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DEAR POLITICAL DISAGREEMENTS: This political season is heated for anyone who cares to participate in it -- and that is good. In America, we have the right to discuss and debate our views. That should also be true in your relationship. You may want to talk about how and when you two can discuss your differing views, establishing boundaries around such volatile topics. But it is important to know what each of you believes is important, what your values are and what you are willing to accept from your partner. Plenty of couples fall on different sides of the political fence and are able to have healthy bonds, but that is not always true. You should explore your beliefs and figure out if you are politically compatible -- along with the other areas where you mesh.