A Vote of No Confidence in a Relationship

Some view party politics from a purely economic perspective, but I believe it is virtually impossible to separate fiscal policies from social ones and I am of the opinion that someone’s political views are a reflection of their individual morals. I want someone’s morals to match up with mine, be that in a romantic relationship or a friendship. Healthy debate should always be encouraged, but is there a line to be drawn? Are there certain issues that you cannot just agree to disagree on?

Your belief system is part of who you are, therefore is it necessary to be in a relationship with someone who is constantly challenging part of your identity?

The Brexit referendum is a clear example of this; the nation was divided into ‘Leave’ and ‘Remain’ and it was inevitable that some couples would be on opposing sides. This proved that politics can always trickle down into individual lives to create tension, even when we don’t consider ourselves ‘political people’.

Words by: Jade Heath

Whether we assume it or not, politics holds paramount importance in everyone’s lives. Politics decides the direction in which the essential things in life should be heading into. For those fortunate enough to live in a society where our fundamental rights are respected, we tend to associate with those with whom we share our values or believe represent our best interests.

It feels that nowadays, the turbulence in the political arena translates into tension in people’s relationships. So, we lean more towards those who think like us and distance ourselves from those whose point of view is different, sometimes presuming that our stances are inherently better and, therefore, unconsciously assuming that that makes us better than others. I try to pry away from that unconscious bias, understanding that people have much more to offer than their ideology.

Correspondingly, I expect any partners to look further into who I am and what I can contribute to their lives rather than focus on which party my vote goes for.

Words by: Eva Castanedo

In my opinion, politics should one hundred percent stay out of relationships, especially romantic ones. Voting is an extremely personal choice, and you most definitely shouldn’t judge your partner based on their political beliefs. There’s so much to explore in a relationship and I’m sure you don’t want to meddle with your partner’s political preferences at a date night.

Besides, politics and relationships don’t go hand in hand. There’s absolutely no need to discuss the pros and cons of union strikes, cost of living crisis or any other political matter over a nice stroll at Bute park. What you might be experiencing, your partner might not be and it may lead to unnecessary arguments if you try to impose your thoughts too much, because the effects of political matters on everybody are different. As long as you and your partner have healthy conversations once in a while about these subjects, I’m sure your relationship won’t be a battlefield. There’s already a lot to fight about when you’re dating (just kidding!)

But you know what they say; opposites attract, so don’t be too surprised if you end up with someone who believes in just the opposite political ideologies than you do. Remember, you should feel free to express your political beliefs (even when you’re in a relationship).

Words by: Chahat Gandhi

ain has most certainly lessened in the last century or so, and therefore the only concrete way to signal your values is through political standpoints. I would argue many places, including parts of America, still chase their perceived Christian values, but Britain’s commendable advancements in multiculturalism means there is a greater range of responses to ethical subjects in the mix. It is right to discuss your thoughts on big talking points, yet I also think it is acceptable to judge by them. In an increasingly polarised political landscape, you can essentially guess someone’s entire outlook on life based on a few responses. Weeding out early anybody who’s going to cause friction in your life decisions later can only be a good thing.

Words by: Billy Edwards

Politics is a core feature of our everyday lives: it affects every aspect ranging from jobs to healthcare, family life, and more. With the ever changing landscape of politics at the centre of how we understand the world, it can be challenging to consider a romantic relationship with someone who’s views don’t align with your own. Whilst it may seem to be a dealbreaker at first, I believe that the core values held by someone is more important than their political affiliation or voting history. If you and a potential partner share common values and are able to discuss your differences in a productive and respectful way, then there’s no reason it can’t work out. The way someone conducts themselves in their daily life is ultimately the most important thing, and disagreements on specifics can be overcome if you both want to make it work.

Words by: Freya Johns