Opposites attract, but this saying often refers to inconsequential items, like tastes in movies, food, and hobbies. Pairs can blend these differing elements and still form a happy union. When it comes to fundamental differences, however, marriages can get rocky. In a political climate like the divisive one the country is currently living in, political beliefs – long held or changing – can absolutely lead to divorce. But it doesn’t have to.
Agree to Disagree
When couples decide to marry, they discuss (hopefully) the big stuff – money, children, location, employment. Politics may be on that list too, but it sometimes falls to the bottom. It might feel easy enough to ignore whether your partner is a Republican, Democrat, or otherwise and vote your own way every few years without discussing it.
The current state of American politics is dire, at best. Opinions are strong and unyielding. People who before could overlook their partner’s foundational beliefs if they differed from their own find themselves unable to ignore what might seem like a ridiculous choice, and they’re unable to stop from speaking up to voice their own convictions.
Remember that you and your partner are on the same side – you’re not the ones running for office on opposing tickets. Something that perhaps drew you to each other was debating your differences. If your relationship is more important to you than politics, prioritize compromise, empathy, and perspective.
Seeing Past the Differences
If you believe your marriage was once in a good place but political beliefs have shredded it, there are still opportunities to overcome differences:
- Parcel out political news: If your partner loves watching a certain news channel and you do not, plan how and when you will both get your political information. Perhaps private news reading and video watching on your phone delivers the info you need.
- Set boundaries: Agree to avoid any political talk at family dinners, gatherings, or on dates. For the sake of your relationship, it’s acceptable to avoid contentious subjects, even if a maelstrom of politics surrounds you.
- Remember the good: Remind yourself why you married this person. Political beliefs may differ, but there are plenty of reasons you wanted to align your life with theirs in the first place. Focus on the core of your relationship, shared values, family, and love.
Determine What’s Next
The world changes on a dime, and political power can only last so long. If you want your marriage to stand the test of time, keep the bigger picture in mind – your love and connection, the family you have built, and the life you have created together. If you and your partner cannot have respectful, non-confrontational conversations, if there is more conflict than curiosity in your talks, it may be time to express yourself in a permanent way – by filing for Michigan divorce.
You have a vote in every aspect of your life, and if you are unhappy in your marriage because of political conflict or otherwise, contact Femminineo Attorneys in Mt. Clemens to schedule a consultation with our family law team. Talk to us about what you see as the next steps for your marriage and learn more about how the divorce process works.