Without question, American politics are more polarized than ever. The coming 2024 election is already contentious, with wide divides between the candidates amplified by uncertainties related to the economy, the climate, individual rights, international relations, and a host of other social concerns. Daily exposure to such content can take a toll on even the most steadfast employees. For others, the constant onslaught of negative messaging is debilitating, leaving them emotionally overwhelmed, stressed out, and, in some cases, depressed and physically ill.
At home, employees may be able to turn off social media when it gets overwhelming or step away from conversations that may feel uncomfortable. That may not always be the case at work, where televisions may be tuned to 24-hour news channels and colleagues with differing views may share their perspectives throughout the day. When coworkers do not hold the same political ideology, fractures may arise during election season, even among otherwise highly aligned teams.
