As Thanksgiving approaches, a subtle shift in sentiment is emerging across the nation. While most Americans report feeling the same level of gratitude as last year, a noteworthy fraction – nearly a third – express a heightened sense of thankfulness in the current climate.
Despite the often-divisive nature of politics, a remarkable willingness to connect with those holding different views prevails. The vast majority, three-quarters of voters, are comfortable spending the holiday season with friends and family who don’t share their political beliefs, mirroring the openness observed last year.
This willingness to bridge divides isn’t uniform. Republicans demonstrate a particularly strong inclination to avoid political segregation, with 86% stating they won’t actively avoid relatives with opposing viewpoints. This contrasts with 71% of independents and 68% of Democrats.
However, certain demographics are more inclined to sidestep potentially contentious conversations. Hispanic voters (31%), Democrats (30%), and younger voters under 35 (30%) are the most likely to consider avoiding the partisan dinner table this year.
The feeling of increased gratitude appears concentrated within specific groups. White evangelical Christians (46%), younger voters (45%), Republicans (45%), and those planning to vote for a particular candidate in the upcoming election (44%) all report a stronger sense of thankfulness compared to last year, as do 43% of Hispanic voters.
Economic pressures are undeniably shaping holiday plans. A significant majority acknowledge rising costs for essential goods like groceries and housing. This reality is driving a widespread intention to scale back on seasonal gift-giving, with 44% planning to spend less compared to just 11% anticipating increased spending.
The inclination to tighten purse strings is most pronounced among liberal voters (57%), Democrats (54%), and women under 45 (53%). These groups are significantly more likely to adjust their spending downwards in response to economic realities.
Looking beyond personal budgets, Americans largely anticipate similar restraint from others. Nearly half (47%) believe their friends and neighbors will also spend less on gifts this year, while a smaller percentage (16%) expects increased spending, and 35% foresee no change.
This national snapshot, compiled through interviews with over a thousand registered voters, reveals a complex interplay of gratitude, political tolerance, and economic caution as the nation prepares to gather for Thanksgiving.
