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Relationships often fall victim to political differences in today’s polarized climate. Social media echo chambers, the division of cable news channels and an ensuing sensitive nature of public discourse can quickly turn disagreements into insurmountable barriers. Within this noise we often forget the crucial fact that it’s possible and healthy to have friends who don’t share your political beliefs.

For many progressive students that I’ve spoken to since the election, maintaining friendships with conservative peers can feel almost impossible. With the rise of the “Make America Great Again” movement often tied to racist rhetoric, conspiracy theories and actions that challenge fundamental progressive principles, tensions between political ideologies have become more pronounced. Due to this, many left-leaning students assume the ability to create friendships across ideological lines is doomed. However, progressive students need to realize that despite the political chaos and conflict, maintaining relationships with conservative friends is not only possible but vital.

It’s critical to remember that just because you have conservative friends doesn’t mean you endorse or excuse harmful beliefs. Having a visceral reaction to MAGA ideologies that promote bigotry and undermine democracy is natural especially for people personally affected by the policies and dogma championed by members of the movement. Being friends with someone is not the same as tolerating hate speech, bigotry or harmful behavior. If a conservative friend consistently expresses views that are directly harmful to marginalized groups, it’s okay — and necessary — to call them out. However, it’s key to remember not all conservatives are MAGA supporters, and not all MAGA supporters are entirely defined by their chosen movement’s worst sentiments.

Some conservative students may support what they see as traditional values, fiscal policies or a smaller federal government, which means their political alignment might not extend to the MAGA movement’s most inflammatory ideas. Similarly, it’s essential to recognize that not every Republican voter fits neatly into the extremist box often associated with the movement. Many Americans support Donald Trump because they feel alienated from the political system as a whole. For these voters, Trump represents a protest candidate—a “Dirty Harry” who is a disruptor in a system they see as rigged against them. They may not fully endorse every policy or slogan, but they resonate with his populist message of challenging the status quo.

If progressive students maintain friendships with conservative peers, they can learn invaluable lessons about appealing to these voters. Understanding the core motivations of these students reveals the emotional core of their support for figures like Trump: one of a yearning for change, frustration with perceived elitism and a desire for leaders who speak directly to their struggles—views that most progressives already agree with. Engaging in meaningful conversations with these friends provides insights into the language, values and concerns that resonate with them.

Progressive students don’t need to compromise progressive principles, but learn how to effectively communicate with these students to draw them away from MAGA’s false anti-establishment tone. By listening and empathizing, progressive youth can better articulate their vision for change in ways that might reach those on the other side of the current political landscape.

That said, maintaining these friendships requires sticking to boundaries. Real friendship requires respect, and respect includes challenging beliefs that perpetuate harm. Setting these boundaries isn’t a betrayal of the friendship; it’s a way to protect your mental health and uphold your values while leaving room for dialogue. If a friend repeatedly crosses boundaries or refuses to engage in respectful dialogue, stepping away is okay. Letting go of a toxic friendship isn’t an admission of failure; it’s recognizing the limits of your emotional bandwidth.

Maintaining connection with those conservative friends who are open to conversation can serve as a powerful reminder of shared humanity. Even when ideological divides feel insurmountable, friendships can thrive in the spaces that politics don’t touch — shared hobbies, mutual support and simple moments of connection. Progressive students don’t need to agree with or tolerate everything their conservative friends believe in to keep up a meaningful relationship. Staying friends despite the chaotic nature of the divide the MAGA movement perpetuates can be a quiet but powerful act of resistance against polarization. It shows you can hold your progressive ideals firmly while refusing to let the world’s divisions sever your personal connections.

Friendship doesn’t require total agreement. It requires respect, empathy and the courage to navigate uncomfortable conversations, especially after one of the most polarizing presidential elections. Amid the MAGA movement’s toxicity, progressive students have an opportunity to show why understanding and connection are still possible and needed, even across the deepest divides. Those friendships might just be the seeds of change this divided world so desperately needs.

Dennis DiSantis is a junior majoring in political science. His column appears bi-weekly. He can be reached at dadisant@syr.edu.

Published on December 5, 2024 at 12:49 am