Dear Prudie,
George W. Bush has won re-election, and I think he's a scumbag. His decision to go into an unjustified war that resulted in over 1,300 soldier deaths (at the time of this writing) and somewhere between 10,000 and 100,000 civilian deaths is unconscionable. I've already decided that I do not want to date or be friends with anyone who voted for Bush in 2004. This isn't a problem. The problem is what to do with two very close friends (a couple) that were Bush supporters. I still care about them and would have no problem helping them out if they were in a jam, but I no longer wish to spend any time with them. My question is: What is the right way to drop them? My current plan involves phasing them out. I no longer call them. When they call, I'm friendly, but I decline all invitations. I figure they will get the hint. Is this the best strategy, or should I just tell them the truth?

—Trying To Stay Away From Bush Supporters

This was posted in the Prudence advice column. I personally think this person is over the top and I see no need to end a friendship over political views. What would cause you to end a friendship? Would you drop a friend for their political beliefs? Why or why not.

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I completely agree with you butta. This gurl does seem a little over the top. If she is really that big of an anti-Bush supporter maybe she should be political about it herself and try to edjucate her freinds on reason that they shouldn't be Bush supporters instead of trying to drop her friends. And although I voted for Kerry myself, i would be hurt if someone decided not to be my friend because of a political decision i made. One of the great things about being able to vote is that ..its something you YOU yourself get to do based on ideas and claims that you agree with - people should be be judged on political decisions they make ..because its all about personal choices. No reason to lose two close friends if you ask me :-)

Butta Politics and religion are very Taboo topics, for obvious
reasons. I would suggest you just assume the role of 'Formless
ness. By approaching these friends (we'll call them that for
now) with your concerns doesn't really make much sense at this
time. They have already stated their peace. Instead of taking a
form for them to grasp, just keep yourself adaptable and on
the move. Even though you are not a Bush fan you cannot
isolate yourself from people that are. You always need to know
what the other half is thinking. Accept the fact that nothing
is certain and no law is fixed. The best way to look out for your
interest is to remain fluid and as formless as water. Never bet
on stability or lasting order. Everything changes.

The Dear Prudie posting is something I saw on Slate this morning and thought it was interesting since it seemed as if the author has some extremely strong feelings towards Bush supporters (I am not the author).

As far as I am concerned, my friends are absolutely entitled to their opinions, but those opinions will not cause me to end a friendship. My friends are an extension of my family. I think it would be unrealistic for anyone to believe that the world should operate under a one brain, one opinion....but that is just my 2 cents worth.

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