Politics shouldn't cost you friendships, but somehow it does. Here's what both parties forgot — and why an independent voice is the only way to break the spell.
Politics shouldn't cost friendships, but it often does. Both parties forget this — an independent voice might break the cycle.
It’s surprising how normal the tone of political conversations has become. I have friends who are liberal and conservative; they’re all nice. But when politics come up, conversations turn tense or silent, straining relationships and making politics toxic.
My politics don’t define me. My faith, family, friends, and actions do. I observe, consider, and form votes, not to prove others wrong but to find what’s best. Disagreeing is okay; condemning isn’t.
I was a disaffected Republican, seen as a RINO before running as an independent. To be a true Republican today, you must agree with everything Trump says, support strict immigration policies, oppose abortion without exceptions, and back public funding for private schools. I used to think Republicans opposed deficit spending, but they don’t.
I don’t align with Democrats either. Supporting healthcare and subsidies for all, regardless of immigration status, is their stance. They support healthcare for everyone, even if it encourages risky behavior, and favor parole for criminals, endless appeals, and accepting all refugees. They want higher taxes and spending, which weakens our dollar.
Both parties seem corrupt and ineffective, using lawfare and billionaire funds to sway elections. The government relies on executive orders, causing upheaval. Social Security faces a 2032 crisis, but there's little concern. Since 1996, Congress hasn’t passed a balanced budget or 12 appropriations bills. Campaigns are like schoolyard fights, with no common facts—just hostility, making everyone enemies.
We are all on Team America, but we must lower the political heat and be civil. Change begins by voting for individuals, not parties, and seeking the middle ground away from extremists.
I ran for U.S. Senate against Lindsey Graham to find common ground and address issues as they come. My experience includes improving efficiency, cutting costs, better serving over 1,000 employees, and delivering cost controls through leadership. I believe the government can improve, and more members of Congress could get more done.
Whether it’s me or others brave enough to run, I hope South Carolina gets new blood in Congress. Term limits matter: two in the Senate, four in the House are enough. Over 80% of Americans agree. Use your vote wisely, for the people, not just the party.
By Don Louis · Published 2026-05-06