In only five days, millions of people across the United States will head to the polls to vote for the candidates of their choice. However, leading up to this pivotal day has not been easy—especially for families voting on opposite sides of the political spectrum.

As I prepared to write this post, I debated whether to discuss politics. I believe that voting is a deeply personal choice. However, in today’s climate, it seems that voting has become a statement of identity for many people. More than ever, I hear stories of people stating that if you don’t vote as they do, it’s not just a deal breaker in dating; it can be a strain on families, friendships, and even marriages.

So, what does this mean for Election 2024?

I have heard heartbreaking stories of families becoming estranged, divorces and breakups on the rise, and long-time friendships ending over political differences. However, for singles still searching for “the one,” there’s a glimmer of hope.

According to a CNN report, many dating apps have introduced new features to help users match with potential partners based on their political beliefs, especially in light of the 2024 election. For instance, sites like Tinder, Bumble, and OkCupid now offer pro-choice stickers for users who wish to showcase their stance. Meanwhile, the conservative dating platform, The Right Stuff, has chosen not to make similar updates.

One might assume that people in long-term committed relationships have already worked through these political differences. However, the 2024 election has sparked unprecedented levels of division, creating new strains on relationships—even among those who thought their values were aligned.

Throughout my voting years, I have always identified as an Independent. This allowed me the freedom to support the candidate I believed was best, regardless of party. I’ve always felt conservative about some things and liberal about others. But these terms— “conservative” and “liberal”—carry vastly different meanings today than they did even a few years ago.

This election has led people to cut ties with music they once loved, stop watching certain celebrities, and draw hard lines where, previously, there were none. I understand the emotional weight behind this—there’s more at stake this election season than just romantic relationships.

For those of you wondering how to handle relationship dynamics this election season—or if you’re newly dating someone with opposing political views—here are a few tips that may help:

• Share Your Views Calmly and Lovingly: Emotions can run high this season, but maintaining your cool is key. Expressing yourself calmly can help avoid unnecessary tension, even if the conversation turns difficult. If you’re hoping to encourage a partner to reconsider their stance, presenting your views respectfully could be the best way to bridge the divide.

• Avoid Judging: It’s easy to feel frustrated when others don’t share your beliefs, but judgment rarely changes minds. Yelling or talking down to someone won’t make your perspective more convincing. Instead, focus on finding common ground and fostering understanding.

• Listen with an Open Heart: Listening to someone who supports an opposing candidate can be challenging, especially if you feel it threatens certain values. However, sometimes listening with an open heart can be the final effort needed to foster mutual respect and understanding, even if you disagree.

In 2016, I lost a dear friend because I chose not to vote for either candidate that year. She tried every possible way to change my mind, but when I explained my reasons, she refused to listen. Our last conversation ended with her yelling and hanging up on me. We never spoke again, and I have regretted that day ever since. In subsequent elections, I made sure to vote, even when it felt difficult. This year, despite living abroad, I cast my vote again.

I often emphasize the importance of choosing a partner whose core values align with your own. I believe that shared values—not looks, wealth, or status—are the foundation of a healthy, loving relationship. These values hold even more significance as we navigate a polarized world. This election has shown that when people talk about “family values” or “voting their values,” those terms may mean vastly different things to each side.