Holiday Conversations Shift Away from Politics: Americans Prioritize Family Time

By Charlie McCarthy    |   Wednesday, 24 December 2025 02:22 PM EST

When it comes to topics people expect to discuss at holiday gatherings this season, politics is pretty far down the list, according to a new survey.

A recent CBS News poll indicates that despite nonstop headlines and election aftermath, many Americans would rather keep holiday conversations focused on family rather than political conflicts. The survey revealed the season evokes more positive emotions than negative ones, with respondents expressing feelings of happiness and gratitude. While gifts and decorations play a role, Americans overwhelmingly identify spending time with loved ones as their favorite holiday activity.

So what will people discuss when everyone gathers? For most, it won’t be Washington drama. CBS reports that more Americans anticipate sharing family stories and catching up on personal updates than diving into current events or political debates. Majorities also indicate conversations will likely cover health, news, entertainment, and sports—though politics is less likely to dominate these discussions.

Notably, this sentiment cuts across party lines. Democrats, Republicans, and independents all report being more inclined toward family and everyday topics rather than politics, though roughly half of each group still expect political questions to arise occasionally.

A separate Talker Research survey found Americans are preparing a “conversation survival” strategy ahead of holiday gatherings. Half of respondents have mapped out plans to navigate awkward discussions, with nearly half preferring to sit at the kids’ table rather than risk tense exchanges—particularly among Millennials. The surveys highlight that politics (42%), finances (28%), and comments about appearance or weight (26%) are among the most avoided topics. This reflects a desire for no lectures, no interrogations, and no heated partisan fights.

The most dreaded questions include “Who did you vote for?” and “Can I borrow money?”—proving holiday stress extends beyond food. Instead, people are seeking safer common ground. Talker Research identifies food and wine as the top conversation topics, followed by social lives, travel plans, hobbies, and health.

Some families even embrace lighthearted debates about whether it’s acceptable to chill red wine or add ice—rather than engaging with cultural flashpoints. From a conservative perspective, Americans are signaling a desire for respite from the constant politicization of everyday life. For years, corporate media and progressive activists have pushed political conflict into every corner of society, including the dinner table. These surveys suggest many families are choosing connection over confrontation.