Nearly 7 in 10 Workers Are Uncomfortable Discussing Politics at Work

 Monster report reveals how political conversations impact workplace culture, comfort, and retention

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico, Oct. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- According to Monster's Politics in the Workplace Report, political talk remains a major source of tension on the job. Nearly 7 in 10 workers (68%) say they're uncomfortable discussing politics at work, underscoring how polarization outside the office is affecting relationships and culture inside it.

The nationwide survey of more than 900 U.S. workers found that while many employees respect differing political views, political expression at work can strain professional relationships and even influence job decisions.

"Political discussions can quickly move from conversation to confrontation," said Vicki Salemi, Monster's Career Expert. "When workers feel pressured to share or defend their beliefs, it erodes psychological safety. Employers need to establish clear boundaries that foster respect, neutrality, and inclusion."

Key Findings

• 68% of workers are uncomfortable discussing politics at work.
• 51% would consider leaving their job if their company publicly expressed political beliefs they disagreed with.
• 67% have discussed politics with coworkers, and 45% have felt pressured to share their beliefs.
• Pressure most often occurs during:
• Informal coworker conversations (40%)
• Group meetings (15%)
• Client or vendor interactions (13%)
• Manager or supervisor discussions (11%)
• A third of workers (33%) admit that they have judged colleagues based on their political views.
• 60% believe politics should be avoided entirely at work.
• 59% think discussing politics could negatively impact their career.
• 14% would rather get a cavity filled than talk politics at work.

Discussing Politics at Work: Maintaining Respect and Professionalism

Political discussions in the workplace can be sensitive and require careful handling to maintain a respectful and inclusive environment. The following guidelines can help employees and employers navigate these conversations constructively.

For Employees

• Respect colleagues' boundaries and avoid initiating unwanted political discussions.
• Refrain from making assumptions about others' beliefs or values.
• Use open-ended questions to encourage understanding rather than debate.
• Maintain a calm and professional tone; avoid confrontational or emotionally charged language.
• Seek areas of agreement or shared values where possible.
• Recognize when to disengage and allow conversations to end respectfully.

For Employers

• Establish clear communication policies that promote professionalism and mutual respect.
• Provide manager training to identify and prevent political bias or discrimination.
• Emphasize inclusion, collaboration, and shared organizational goals instead of ideological alignment.
• Foster a workplace culture that values civility and focuses on common objectives.

Methodology: This poll was conducted by Monster in July 2025 among more than 900 U.S. workers across industries and experience levels. Respondents were asked about their comfort level with political discussions, experiences of pressure to disclose beliefs, and the perceived impact of politics on their workplace relationships and career growth.

For more information, please view the full report at https://www.monster.com/career-advice/job-search/news-and-insights/politics-in-the-workplace-poll-2024 or contact Kate Keane at [email protected]. 

About Monster
Monster  is a leading job search and online recruiting platform that helps people not just find jobs, but discover where they belong. For more than 30 years, Monster has been a trusted worldwide leader in connecting people and possibilities, empowering individuals to pursue opportunities while helping employers hire faster and with greater confidence. Recognized on G2 as a category leader and featured by CNN, USA Today, CNBC, Inc., and Forbes, Monster continues to open new doors for people and businesses everywhere. Follow Monster on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram, and Pinterest. Learn more at https://www.monster.com/.

SOURCE Monster