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Living in a “swing state” I find I’m stuck, all too often, in election conversation defending the candidate with the huge national lead. I want to act civilized, but I want to get away graciously.

How do I dislodge myself from such a dead-end argument without losing a family friend or the friendship of a colleague?

–Lonely In Ohio

Recognize your differences in opinions and your friend’s limitations while engaged in election conversation.

• Don’t waste your time putting down the opposition.
• Most importantly, agree to disagree and add that you respect his or her opinions even though you don’t agree with them.

At this late date, you’re not going to change peoples’ hearts and minds, unless the person is still undecided.

If you can’t escape the debate, focus on the issues and don’t assassinate the candidate’s character.

If the friendship matters to you, don’t risk it to win your point.

• Take the high road and politely excuse yourself. Changing the subject to one other than politics also works.

~Didi