Q: My boyfriend and I have had our differences in the past, but there’s been one issue that we still are not able to talk about-the election.
We cannot agree on the candidates, and the fights have reached a more personal level. I love my boyfriend, and I don’t care that he is for someone else. Is there anything we can do to maintain our relationship AND our own political beliefs?
A: Arguing about politics has helped no one, and if you both continue to fight over the election, then you’re headed for trouble. Keep in mind that when you argue, it doesn’t change your political views or his.
This issue has caused you two to become separate people rather than a couple. One of you is known as the Democrat, while the other is known as the Republican. Both are known for their differences.
Instead of bashing each other’s opinions, why don’t you talk about why you are voting for your candidate? Be open to each other’s points. Instead of being stubborn, be mindful about what the other person has to say. Open your ears, and you just may learn something you didn’t know before. You don’t have to agree on everything, but you do have to respect each other’s position.
If listening to what the other has to say is too difficult for you, avoid the subject of politics altogether. Change the channel when the subject of voting, politics, Kerry or Bush comes up. Avoid watching MTV, because they interrupt your favorite TV shows every five minutes to encourage their Choose or Lose campaign.
When voting day hits Starkvegas, use this golden opportunity to express your political thoughts on the paper you vote on, rather than attacking your boyfriend.
The checkmark that you make besides your chosen candidate will tell it all. You should vote for whom you feel would run this country better, rather than whoever your significant thinks would. The voting process is strictly confidential, so your boyfriend will never see who you voted for.
It seems that the problem in your relationship may not just be politics, but the way you two handle it. While talking about your political views in the future with your boyfriend, find an issue that you both agree on and dwell on that. It is wonderful that you both feel so strongly about politics, and it’s something that you both have in common.
So until Nov. 2, stick it out, and you’ll be glad you did.