Navigating the Polarizing Elections by Staying Informed - An Editorial Written by Riezl Baker

Election season is upon us, and with it comes the usual storm of debates, opinions, and emotions. As much as I try to avoid politics in social settings, at a recent dinner with girlfriends, the conversation inevitably veered in that direction. What started out as a light discussion flared up in a heated exchange between my two friends. One of them, visibly upset, was asked what made her so sure that her views were correct, other than what she had seen on the news. I realized how deeply polarizing politics can be, especially when beliefs are being questioned. It reminded me of how important it is not just to have opinions, but to be well-informed in order to engage in meaningful discussions. Politics, by its nature, can be divisive, as people hold firm to their beliefs about the future of the country. It’s understandable that feelings run high — elections determine policies and leaders who impact our everyday lives.

In today’s world, there is no shortage of information. News outlets, social media platforms, and influencers flood us with opinions disguised as facts. Unfortunately, many fall prey to propaganda, absorbing and regurgitating information without taking the time to evaluate its credibility. When this happens, conversations become more about slogans and less about substance. It’s easy to get carried away in the echo of biased news, but it’s critical to pause, reflect, and dig deeper. Not every headline or news segment presents the complete truth. Biases, both subtle and blatant, color the way stories are told. Some news outlets cater to a particular audience, tailoring information to align with preconceived beliefs rather than offering a fair and nuanced perspective. This makes it more important than ever to seek out diverse sources and verify facts independently. Blindly trusting a single news outlet or repeating talking points can leave you uninformed — and make you sound foolish in discussions that require nuance and depth.

Before latching onto a belief or argument, take time to understand the issue from multiple angles. Be curious before being contentious. It’s not about having the loudest opinion. When we are uninformed, it’s easy to get swept up in the emotional aspect of politics. This can not only alienate others but also erode meaningful dialogue. When we engage with the issues thoughtfully, we elevate the conversation and make room for progress.

Democracy thrives not on the volume of our opinions but on the quality of our understanding. Let your voice be one that promotes thoughtful discussion rather than contributing to the noise. Resist the urge of being swayed by rhetoric and inflammatory headlines. When we take the time to inform ourselves, we become better equipped to navigate the complexities of politics without alienating those around us. In the end, meaningful discourse — even in the most polarizing times — is about seeking truth and fostering understanding, not simply winning an argument. 

"Let your voice be one that promotes thoughtful discussion rather than contributing to the noise."   -- Riezl