Türkiye Minus Politics: How to Avoid Controversy at Thanksgiving

Tips for Carving a Turkey for Thanksgiving

Paul Kelly grew up on a turkey farm and continues the family legacy of raising top-notch poultry. He is also the world’s fastest turkey carver! Kelly joins FOX’s LiveNOW to share tips on how to select and cook the best turkey for your family’s Thanksgiving feast.

As Thanksgiving approaches, many Americans are preparing to gather with family and friends to share a meal and give thanks.

However, this can also be a time for political debate to arise, especially in the lead-up to a hotly contested presidential election.

But Elizabeth Dorrance Hall, an assistant professor of communications at Michigan State University, said this year’s holiday could likely proceed “as usual.”

“Polarizing topics can come up at the dinner table any year/any time,” Hall told FOX Television Stations. “In fact, people may be more inclined to avoid talking about politics this year if they know some family members are upset about the results. It really depends on the family’s communication dynamics (whether they avoid conflict or like to engage in conflict). )”

Luckily, experts say there are ways to keep the peace and ensure the biggest disagreement is over who gets the turkey or the dark meat.

Set the tone early

If you’re the host, experts say you can gently remind guests that Thanksgiving is about gratitude, not grudges. Consider suggesting a light-hearted topic—like everyone sharing something they’re grateful for—to set a positive tone.

Set your goals

Hall said it might be a good idea to set goals for the holiday.

“Do you want to feel connected to your family? Engage in conflicts? Or a good meal?” Hall continued, adding, “Keeping your goals in mind will help you choose what to say, when and to whom.”

How Inflation Could Affect Your Thanksgiving Dinner

The cost of filling a cart this year is about 42% higher than in 2019, according to Datasembly, which tracks prices at hundreds of stores. This year, retailers like Walmart and Kroger are offering deep discounts on turkey to attract shoppers, and as of mid-November, the average price per cart of Thanksgiving staples was down 2.67% from last year. Financial strategist Bill Dendy joined LiveNOW from FOX to discuss the situation.

Use humor

If someone starts to tread into controversial territory, experts say you can turn the discussion around with humor or a neutral question.

Comedian and author Humorous habit Paul Osincup encourages people to use humor to get through the election season safely. When the Thanksgiving dinner table conversation gets tense, you can use humor to redirect attention to a safer, shared goal.

CONNECTED: Best places to go for Thanksgiving 2024, according to study

Additionally, Hall said it’s helpful to think ahead of time about conversation topics that the whole family will enjoy.

“What funny old stories could you tell or ask a family member to tell? What family events are you looking forward to in 2025? Keep a few of these conversation starters in your back pocket and pull them out when you need a light-hearted conversation, she added.

Focus on asking questions

Experts also say it might be helpful to approach Turkey Day with a “curious mindset.”

“Approach dinner conversations as a time to get to know your family members better and establish a sense of connection. Listen to understand, not to judge or give your next thought,” Hall explained.

Know when to walk away

If tension increases, you can always take a break.

Experts say a walk around the block or a quiet moment in the kitchen may be all you need to reboot.

With these tips in mind, we hope the only thing simmering is the gravy.