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How Divided Is America? The Answer Is Complicated.

AP Photo/David Goldman

Consumer Affairs recently released the findings of a poll analyzing attitudes about politics among Americans.

The survey asked 1,000 respondents a series of questions, including whether they would consider relocating out of the country or to a different state for political reasons. Participants answered questions about how politics influences their attitudes toward and interactions with those with differing views.

Some of the results were unsurprising, given today’s political climate in America. But it also suggested that politics might not have as significant an impact as it seems – despite the division the nation is currently experiencing.

The poll found that one in four Americans would consider moving to a different country or state if their preferred presidential candidate loses the upcoming election. For some, this is not merely about disliking the policies of the opposing candidate but an apparent unwillingness to live in a country governed by them. In fact, seven percent indicated they had already moved to a different state for political reasons, while four percent had left the country.

For Democrats and Republicans, the idea of relocating could speak to a broader sense of political hopelessness or frustration where people feel their personal freedoms, values, or way of life are at stake, depending on the party that holds power. However, it is important to note that the majority of respondents (74 percent) indicated they “have never considered relocation for political reasons,” which suggests that most are not reacting to political shifts in the same fashion.

The survey found that about 46 percent of Republicans and Democrats prefer living in politically homogeneous communities where most people share their views. This could suggest that Americans are increasingly seeking out echo chambers rather than engaging with differing political perspectives.

Still, it is important to note that people tend to prefer being around those who are similar to them in general. It is a reality of human nature. People feel more comfortable around those with which they have the most in common – even in areas outside of politics.

Nevertheless, the influence of America’s political climate cannot be ignored.

The study found that about 28 percent of respondents from both sides of the aisle would feel at least “somewhat” bothered if a neighbor displayed a campaign sign for a candidate they did not support. About 39 percent of Democrats responded in this manner, along with 23 percent of Republicans.

This is quite a difference. It suggests Democrats are far less tolerant of opposing views than Republicans.

There could be a plethora of factors playing into this disparity. One such element could be that America’s major institutions, such as government, education, and even entertainment, have been dominated by those on the left for decades. This means conservative-leaning Americans have constantly been exposed to left-wing ideas even if they live in primarily Republican neighborhoods.

On the other hand, folks on the left who live mostly among like-minded people would not have the same level of exposure to other viewpoints. In fact, much of the messaging they receive about conservative thought would portray these views in a negative fashion, which makes it easier to influence them into thinking that those who disagree with them on issues such as the size of government, race, climate change, and other issues are more worthy of contempt rather than simply being people who have different perspectives.

Again, it is worth noting that 71 percent of all respondents indicated that seeing a campaign sign for a candidate they did not support would not affect them much at all. In fact, 43 percent indicated they would continue to interact with their neighbor normally.

However, about 44 percent of Democrats said they would decrease their interactions with the neighbor, along with 28 percent of Republicans.

Other differences can be seen in the issues Republican and Democratic voters prioritize. Republicans are more focused on economic policies, immigration, and national security. Democrats tend to prioritize healthcare, abortion, civil rights, and social justice. There appears to be a clear disconnect between the issues both camps find most important.

Some of the findings of the poll are disturbing. They seem to reflect deep divisions that could easily become worse in the absence of solutions. If the rift is allowed to fester, some of these numbers will climb precipitously, which could pose a danger to American society and result in heightened tensions. It could even lead to violence – especially if we continue retreating to our respective echo chambers.

Still, it is encouraging that America has not descended into that particular morass just yet. Most people still know how to get along despite their differences. Most of the division and animosity play out on the airwaves, interwebs, and the campaign trail. Media outlets are constantly pushing division while demonizing those who do not subscribe to their political viewpoints. Social media is even worse, with influencers fomenting outrage and using their platforms to generate clicks through the propagation of false narratives.

Though the numbers show clear divisions in how Democrats and Republicans view politics and their neighbors, the fact that most aren’t willing to uproot their lives over political outcomes is reassuring. The majority of people want to live in communities that reflect their values, but they also know how to coexist with differing viewpoints. It’s a reminder that, at the end of the day, what unites us—family, security, economic opportunity—may still be stronger than what divides us. Let’s hope we can keep it that way.

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