Washington D.C., is known for its historical memorials, diverse culture, and great Potomac views. At the same time, the political division Americans are feeling throughout the country are magnified here. This has lead to a hostile social environment for some young conservatives.
In the age of dating apps like Tinder, many millennials in D.C. base their dating preferences on political leanings. Fox News reported that if you work for the current administration, you are often “raked over hot coals by prospective dates online or simply denied when someone finds out they work—or even voted—for President Trump.”
A Pew Research survey found that 86% of people felt conflicts across the aisle are “strong or very strong” and that “Democrats are more likely than Republicans to perceive the presence of strong conflict.” These findings could explain the resentment millennials in the Trump administration feel when exploring the dating scene in D.C.
This political heat is ruining a town that was once called the “best place to live for millennials.” WalletHub based their analysis on five key factors: affordability, education and health, quality of life, economic health, and engagement. With such a perfect environment, it is the open hostility coming the left that makes this city less enjoyable.
I think it is unfortunate that some young people aren’t allowed to be excited about their jobs because of political party drama. When starting a friendly conversation, young conservatives have reported being verbally attacked with no real provocation, other than sharing what they do for a living.
My biggest tip: In this city everyone works endless hours at their jobs and spends plenty of time talking politics during the day—try talking about other passions you have instead of trying to debate politics and ruin the mood! Get to know people first before judging them based on political differences.