Thanksgiving is a time for family, food and gratitude. Though sometimes, it can feel more like a battlefield than a holiday. Between differing opinions and generations clashing, the dinner table can quickly turn into a political debate you didn’t sign up for. If you’re dreading the annual tensions, don’t worry. Here are four simple tips to keep things calm and focus on the turkey.
Tuning out: Not every argument needs a participant. If the conversation takes a political turn, it’s okay to mentally check out. Focus on enjoying your meal, maybe even compliment the chef, or strike up a side conversation with someone sitting nearby. If all else fails, quietly scrolling through your phone can provide an escape. Sometimes, taking a step back is the easiest way to keep the peace.
“Something I’ll do is put in an earbud or two,” sophomore Michelle Santiago said. “Or just shake my head and smile.”
Don’t engage: If the conversation shifts to politics, the best course of action might be to simply not respond. Avoid jumping into debates or offering your own opinions, even if you feel strongly about the topic. Instead, acknowledge the comment with a neutral reaction like a nod or a brief smile. Staying out of the discussion not only helps prevent tension but also sets the tone for a more relaxed gathering.
Walking away: Sometimes the best way to diffuse tension is to physically remove yourself from the situation. If the conversation starts to heat up, it’s okay to politely step away. You could excuse yourself to grab seconds, help out in the kitchen or check on someone in another room. A quick break from the table can give everyone a moment to cool off and steer the focus back to the holiday.
“One time, my grandma and I got into an argument on Thanksgiving, so I left the room,” junior Andrew Rine said. “We didn’t talk about it again after that.” For Andrew, walking away prevented the disagreement from escalating and helped the rest of the day stay peaceful.
Changing the subject: When politics start to dominate the conversation, shifting the focus to a lighter topic can work wonders. Instead of letting things escalate, try introducing a neutral subject that everyone can engage with. Ask about upcoming plans, share a funny family memory, or bring up a recent movie or TV show that everyone’s talking about. Changing the subject can reset the mood and encourage a more relaxed, enjoyable conversation, keeping the atmosphere light and friendly.
No matter how well-intentioned, political discussions at Thanksgiving can quickly spiral out of control. By using these simple strategies, you can help ensure that the focus stays where it belongs: on family, food, and fun. With a little effort and a lot of patience, you can keep the holiday spirit intact and avoid any unnecessary stress at the dinner table. After all, Thanksgiving is about being together, not agreeing on every issue.
