n recent years, it has become increasingly difficult to ignore the deep divisions that have taken root in the United States. Once known for its unity despite diversity, America now feels more polarized than ever. Politics, which should ideally serve as a vehicle for constructive discourse and problem-solving, has devolved into a space where people see each other as adversaries rather than fellow citizens. It’s disheartening, to say the least, especially when we witness public figures and celebrities using their platforms to further fan the flames of division.
Recently, I was watching an episode of a food show on Netflix—something that should be an easy escape from the stresses of daily life. Instead of the lighthearted, culinary focus I was expecting, the two guest stars used their time to lament how little common ground Americans share today. The conversation quickly turned to the political landscape, with one of the guests expressing disdain for how polarized the country has become, especially between Democrats and Republicans. It struck me as a missed opportunity for unity.
In fact, it’s become almost routine to see celebrities or talk show hosts refer to politicians as criminals, often without providing any meaningful context or encouraging understanding. Take Bill Maher, for instance, who has often referred to Donald Trump as a criminal on his show. While everyone is entitled to their opinion, there is a line between calling out actions and outright vilifying individuals, which only adds fuel to an already burning fire. Similarly, talk show host Stephen Colbert often takes jabs at Republican leaders, and while humor is his trade, it sometimes comes across as further cementing the divide.
This kind of rhetoric is far from helpful. In fact, it’s damaging. Political disagreements are nothing new, but the tone with which those disagreements are handled is increasingly toxic. When celebrities and other influential figures speak out in such a divisive manner, they contribute to a culture of intolerance—one where it’s not enough to disagree with someone; they must also be shamed or canceled.
But where do we go from here? How do we find common ground again in a country that feels so fractured?
The answer lies in tolerance, understanding, and empathy. Tolerance doesn’t mean you agree with everyone, nor does it mean abandoning your own beliefs. It simply means allowing space for different perspectives without resorting to anger, vitriol, or disdain. Too often, we rush to label people who think differently as the “enemy,” when, in reality, they are our neighbors, friends, and colleagues. The truth is, America was built on the idea that differing opinions can coexist peacefully. We have to remember that.
The upcoming elections, as always, will bring their share of disagreements. The Democratic Party and the GOP have starkly different visions for the country, and that’s okay. What’s not okay is the way these differences are being portrayed—as if the fate of the nation hinges on vilifying the other side rather than building a dialogue around solutions.
It’s easy to get swept up in the divisiveness, especially when it’s coming from voices we admire. But we need to resist that urge. We need to call on public figures to set a better example, to use their platforms to promote understanding rather than division. And most importantly, we need to practice tolerance in our own lives. Engage with people you disagree with, listen to their perspective, and try to understand where they’re coming from. You may not change your mind, and that’s perfectly fine, but you’ll at least be contributing to the healing process rather than exacerbating the wound.
In a time where it feels like the country is being pulled apart at the seams, let’s choose unity over division, tolerance over hate, and conversation over condemnation. After all, at the end of the day, we all share this country—and we’re stronger together than we are divided.
