Do you associate with folks who don't share your political perspective?

This is about someone I've interacted with regularly, for 10 years or more, and care about as a friend. While I make a concerted effort NOT to discuss politics, this person puts a political spin on one thing after another and always tries to get digs in accusing me of believing "fake news". 🙄 At that point I just shut down and stop talking. I have mentioned previously that I don't want to discuss these issues because he always tries to make it personal. Well, it happened again this morning.

Maybe I'm being too sensitive, but I'm considering just not talking to him anymore, and that's difficult. He's always been good to me, but in recent years has been more snarky and accusatory. How would you address this?

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AmmieBell · 22-25, F

A lot of my friends don't share my political views. I think the key to associating with people who's views differ from yours is 1. You need to have enough in common to still have a conversation topic when you choose to not discuss your political views or 2. You both need to be respectful enough to be able to listen to and share your own views without trying to force them upon each other

Personally, I kind of like having friends with different views. Not because I want to debate with them, but because I find it interesting to understand different perspectives and to actually try and see what logic on the opposite side of the belief is.

That being said, I would never associate with someone who had completely different MORAL views. People often view morals and political views as the same thing, but I don't at all tbh.

DreamyCrush · F

@AmmieBell I do understand that we're not going to agree on everything, and that's fine.

I thought we had agreed that we wouldn't discuss politics because of his delivery and the way it comes off a personal attack, but he continues to breach the agreement.

AmmieBell · 22-25, F

@DreamyCrush I would just point that out then. "I came here because I wanted to see you, not to debate politics. I would like to move on, please, or I'll just need to head out." I would just stay firm with your boundary and follow through with leaving if it isn't respected.