Tips for Dating During the Election: If You Thought Dating During a Pandemic Was Hard, Try It in the 2020 Election Season! Relationships

While this might sound like the beginning of a bad joke – or even a horror story – dating and relationship coach Jennifer Wexler says that, yes, people with different political views can absolutely have successful dates, even in this tense political climate.

“Single people haven’t been able to date much this year due to the pandemic, and now, as some are getting more comfortable with social distance dating, they find themselves right smack in the middle of an extremely contentious political climate,” says Wexler, founder of Find Real Love After 40.

“I actually encourage my clients to talk politics on a first date,” says Wexler. “Dating is about getting to know someone and being authentic. Since the topic is going to be discussed at some point, so why wait? If the person is upset by your views it's better to know now rather than later.

Wexler shares some tips for talking politics on a date:

• Be respectful. Here’s the thing, if you and your date have different political views it can still work as long as he/she responds with curiosity and an open mind. It will not work if they react with aggression or put you down for being "wrong."

• Dig deeper. Dating is about finding someone who has similar values, so ask they where they developed their political views. Was it from their parents? Was it an experience they had, or a class they took? Find out. See if you can relate any of your beliefs to a similar starting point.

• Focus on values. There are ways to bridge the gap if you focus on your moral values, and not on politics.

• Be kind. At the end of the day, if they are not a good match for you or if politics is one of your "deal breakers," then always remember to walk away with kindness.

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