How Fox’s ‘The Five’ host deals with politics at Thanksgiving dinner: ‘Calm down’

Following Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election, many Americans are facing the possibility that the conversation around the Thanksgiving table will turn to politics. While we’re devastated by Vice President Kamala Harris’ loss and elated by President Trump’s triumphant return, the country is so divided that at many holiday gatherings, red and blue come together over the same meal. Dew.

“If you want to stop talking about politics, set boundaries,” says Dana Perino, co-host of The Five and anchor of America’s Newsroom, explaining how her hardcore MAGA uncle is handling the loss of Harris. When I asked him if he was taking it, he immediately suggested we change the subject. . “Great question, but I don’t talk politics on my days off. Tell me about the time you went to Quebec City last summer. Maybe I should go too?”

Perino’s The Five co-host Jesse Watters answered candidly. “Calm down. You let other people around the table get emotional, that’s their problem.” Primetime host Jesse Watters, whose mother supports Harris, said she frequently talks about political divisions within his family. “You can’t control others, but you can control yourself.”

“Nothing ruins my pumpkin pie like a disagreement over politics at Thanksgiving dinner,” said Judge Jeanine Pirro, co-host of The Five. “We’re here to enjoy each other’s company and the new additions to our family. If someone disagrees or starts fighting about politics, they just won’t be able to enjoy my pumpkin pie.” Instead, I saved the pumpkin pie. Sometimes it’s necessary.”

Co-host Jessica Tarloff, The Five’s resident liberal with extensive experience sitting around the table with people discussing politics, said this is her first Thanksgiving with her pro-Trump family. He said he believes “it would be great if we could do it.” It’s all just “agreeing to disagree,” but when a presidential election is around the corner and the holidays can actually mean being stuck in one house for four days, it’s a good idea to have plenty of time. You must be able to defend your beliefs. Please everyone come next year. ”

Tarlov said, “The most important thing, and what I think is most effective, is to always assume that everyone is coming from a good place. Even if the results are different, they are unique. I went through the process of weighing my own life experiences just like you. Always lead by saying, “I know what you mean” or “I get that” before giving my opinion. Please.”

“It calms everyone down, and with the added benefit of being truthful, you’ll be in a better place,” Tarlov said. “Remember that the majority of us want the same thing, we just have different approaches to getting there. Connect to those shared goals. What do you do to give a little?” What little can they do? The two-party system doesn’t work for anyone. It’s a cliché, but politics isn’t worth losing loved ones. I don’t know how it will affect you, so please talk to me in a calm manner.”

Perino agreed and suggested listening more than trying to argue with relatives or try to convince them of your position. “If someone wants to say something to you or ask you what you think will happen in politics, use my unique answer: ‘Let’s see!’ and the opposite will also come true. I don’t even consent to it,” Perino said. “You’re showing curiosity, but the answers are out of your hands. And notice that you’re listening to the voices of those you love and those who love you. Listen. This is an underappreciated gift, but one that is greatly appreciated.”

One thing all of The Five’s co-hosts can agree on is that their show dominates in the ratings, leading all of cable news with an average of 4.4 million viewers in November. is. The show reached a key demographic of adults 25-54, with 510,000 viewers.

The Five has held the record for highest ratings in cable news for 12 consecutive quarters and remains the first and only program to air outside of prime time to earn the most-watched title.