Fox Features Advice from Pamela Eyring on Keeping Politics Out of Holiday Gatherings with Friends & Family This Season

In a new story on how to keep politics off the table, Fox News reporter Taylor Penley reached out to Pamela Eyring as an expert in the field and president of The Protocol School of Washington®. In the story, Taylor highlights Pamela’s tips - from seating arrangements, and  engaging activities to preventative measures - being key to creating a positive holiday experience at the end of a polarizing year for friends and family who gather for the holidays amidst their possible differences of opinion. 

As Taylor notes in the piece: 

Visions of cozy gatherings, shared meals, fun, family and laughter that might fill our minds when we think of surrounding ourselves with loved ones for holiday get-togethers can quickly give way to reality when the time arrives – navigating disagreements, clashing personalities, and, all too often, political debates that turn the dinner table into a war zone. 

And, this year, the "political minefield" might feel more treacherous than ever. Some experts have even controversially suggested cutting ties with family members who voted differently this election year, a "cultist" suggestion to some. 

Others are more determined to mend the wounds of division and make the holiday experience about bringing people together.  

But if you're hosting, what can you do to bring down the temperature, ease friction, and keep the focus on why we gather in the first place at the holidays? It’s important to be proactive to build connection versus fueling division. If it seems like a daunting task, as etiquette expert Pamela Eyring suggests, it doesn’t have to be if you set the tone ahead of time. Pamela shares in the article: 

"If you're concerned about this as the host, I would recommend you, as you invite them, say, 'We're going to celebrate the holiday, or we're going to steer away from politics, It's going to happen whether you like it or not or she likes it or not,' and we're going to have a good time and try to set the stage before they arrive," she told Fox News Digital.

"That's what our focus is," she continued. "Or avoid and steer clear from politics or any other sensitive topics. Let's just have a good time and say it in a positive tone and let them know that I'm going to tell the whole family."

For more of Pamela’s recommendations, read the full article on Fox News. And, visit the PSOW blog for the complete “Holiday Etiquette Survival Guide” in 2025!