Let's Talk About It
Politics at the Table
By Yvette Tello · Nov 25, 2025
Read in the original edition on IssuuThanksgiving is just around the corner, and I recently came across an article about people planning to avoid certain family members this year because of political disagreements. Many are dreading conversations about ICE raids, the president, and the ongoing Democrat-versus-Republican divide. The advice offered was simple: avoid the political talk altogether.How about you? Will you be steering clear of certain relatives this year for the same reason? Let’s talk about it…
Hector Sanchez Jr.; “Typically, during the Thanksgiving family feast we do not discuss any political or religious issues. We discuss the more important and poignant issues, such as do we need to make a beer run, what’s for dessert and most importantly did any of your numbers hit. All kidding aside, we are more divided than ever on any issue. The good old days of the elders holding court are long gone and many traditions went out along the way as well.
Great topic and I truly enjoy reading everyone’s take on this. Happy Thanksgiving Amiga.”
Let's talk about it: what our community said
Printed replies from readers on our page-2 conversation.
“Stop normalizing calling toxic people family. The best family is the people you choose with the same values that you have.”
Edna Lugo
“If you are avoiding family or friends because of their political or religious views, you are probably the problem. Get over yourself. No one is completely righteous in this world. If you love someone you don't have to agree with them or their beliefs. But, you should treat them like you actually love them.”
Sean Richardson
“I’m lucky enough to be selected as a “Blue” Santa for the San Antonio Police Department at the Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Day event. Looking forward to greetings and pictures with some 30,000 residents of every race, persuasions and beliefs. I am honored. * Gregorio De La Paz: “I am going through that now and I've been going through it the whole year, kind of petty”
Robert Abe Abraham
“Well my family is conservative christian so its good discussion”
Juan Ramirez
“Well, since my mom's passing, we're not as close..I do have a sibling that's red..words were exchanged back when he won, but at the end of the day we're family. * Anastacia Lopez: “Family comes first, politics last * Anthony Soto: “We didn't start the fire… * Henrietta Hernandez: “Hmmmm.hmmmm. I just roll my eyes and say "pass the butter!”
Chris Castillo
“Yes . If you hate a family member because of a group of people who don't give a crap about you, you are a blind fool who got suckered by the political game. * Beto Medrano: “If you want to spend less money on Christmas gifts, bring up politics on Thanksgiving. Lol * Herb Rockman: “Three strikes puts you at the kids table!”
Timothy Lambert Donovan
“No, they are family. However, being an adult and walking away if the conversation arises!!! Kenneth Mumma; “Nawh, ... great minds think alike. Rooster Lopez; “I live for The Kingdom of God. I don't bother with discussing politics. What is God doing in your life? Sadly, most people will avoid talking to me all together, ... lol. Win win”
Myra Bustoz Bettisworth
“Everyone has an opinion and that’s ok. We don’t all agree on the same things in life but I love my family no matter what.”
Anna Martinez Rodriguez
“I just avoid them no matter their view..lol”
Margaret Hernandez
“Most my relatives are progressive so we're good”
Oscar Garza
“I will only bring up those topics if I feel that it is time to leave.”
Rob Gonzales
“Call me old fashioned, but family or not, I don't hang out with pedophile defenders.”
Andrew Cardenas
“I spend it here at home enjoying my passion of painting or building something. It all depends on what I am feeling and if I get invited. It's all good too. That reminds me I have to go to the corner HEB for my La Prensa News paper “”
Jesse Ramos