What was once a minor disagreement at the dinner table is now leading couples to call it quits. In a time of political polarization in America, strong opposing political views are causing fractures that could lead to lasting damage.
A study by Wakefield Research found that 11% of Americans have ended a romantic relationship due to political disagreements. This trend is more pronounced among younger individuals, with 22% of millennials reporting such breakups.
Though growing divide between Republicans and Democrats are no surprise but politics are driving a wedge between couples. Many married couples are calling it quits due to political differences with their spouses.
Mixed Political Marriages.
Although the political climate remains divisive, many Americans aren’t afraid to reach across the aisle when selecting a partner. Researchers discovered that “mixed” political marriages are relatively common.
Political scientists evaluated over 18 million voter registration records to determine the rate of mixed political marriages. It turns out that 30 percent of married couples belong to different political parties than their partner.
Political Differences and Divorce
While partisanship is not preventing couples from getting married, it may be contributing to divorces. The Wakefield Research study revealed that 29 percent of Americans viewed the political climate as a cause of tension between their partner. Over 20% of respondents also knew a couple whose marriage or relationship suffered following the 2016 election.
Can You Get a Divorce Over Political Differences?
“In some states, you can,” says family law attorney Kim Nutter, a Partner at Brinkley Morgan law firm in Boca Raton.
Nutter says she’s dealt with couples over the impact of politics on divorces and breakups.
Whether you’re red or blue, there’s no denying that political differences can be a difficult obstacle to overcome in a marriage. The Wakefield Research study shows that it is increasingly difficult for couples to overcome opposing viewpoints in the modern political climate.
Nutter’s advice for couples facing this issue. “Address these political disagreements before they escalate into divorce, and how to approach the issue if divorce becomes inevitable.”
