Published on June 30, 2024, 12:34 am

In an age where the quest for trusted news and real news has never been more critical, polarization can still cause hitches in even the strongest personal relationships. Sometimes political discord can even lead to separation, especially after extremely contentious election years like 2016. The division that followed Donald Trump’s victory had heart-wrenching consequences—some marriages fell apart over a difference in political opinion— specifically regarding the depth of Trump animosity.

But for those on both sides who managed to maintain their valued relationships despite steep disagreements, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to do so without compromising respectful considerations. Noticing friends blindly following a political party despite numerous let-downs and false promises can be very disheartening. Such faith seems unwavering when encountering these friends’ social media feeds or hearing them parrot familiar talking points.

One could almost equate it to blind allegiance toward an untrustworthy cult. However, the blatant acceptance of disinformation disseminated by Democratic representatives is not only frustrating but also disappointing.

For instance, many Democrats proclaim Joe Biden as an effective leader and President. However, his recent performance at a significant event raised serious questions about his capacity to sufficiently steer the country—an observation which if acknowledged by leftist cohorts may necessitate a temporary distancing until they regain their senses.

The laptop scandal involving Biden’s son was another stark example. In this bewildering incident, the left willingly accepted claims of Russian misinformation made by dubious intelligence experts—dismissing concrete evidence indicating severe irregularities at best and illicit activities at worst.

President Trump has also been unfairly accused of calling neo-Nazis “very fine people.” This narrative results from gross misrepresentation of Trump’s remarks on worthy individuals being present on both sides of contentious issues such as monument destruction—a flashpoint during his tenure.

Furthermore, there have been wild exaggerations concerning Trump’s executive approach towards problem-solving—with valid practical suggestions being ridiculed out of context or misunderstood.

Yet especially troubling is the persistent belief among some Democrats that Trump, despite rigorous federal investigations, is a Russian asset. This belief lingers even when no evidence corroborating such claims was found.

How should one respond to friends who unquestioningly accept such factually-challenged spectacles? Self-reflection and admission of being manipulated seem to be unlikely—their loyalty, fervor, and identity tied up too tightly in partisan affiliation.

Yet, from a Christian worldview—anational perspective based on biblical teachings—misplaced loyalty, belief in untruths or half-truths can take its toll morally and spiritually. In the interests of real news and truth—as Christians are commanded to “test everything” (1 Thessalonians 5:21)—it may be necessary to reassess party loyalty if it becomes evident that it has been compromised by falsehoods or deceitful people.

We should always strive for authenticity in our news sources and be brave enough to question accepted narratives—also recognize when someone’s credibility suffers due to their blind commitment to seemingly misleading ideologies.
The truth will eventually surface—it always does. But the cost of wilful ignorance can be high—for relationships, personal integrity, and ultimately, our societal fabric.