RN's Report: Rising Politics in the Workplace Tension

As seen in 1

Table of contents

Key Findings
Political Conversations Are Becoming More Frequent and Intense
Political Divisions Are Fueling Workplace Conflict
Concerns Over Political Bias in Promotions and Workplace Policies

A new Resume Now survey highlights the growing impact of politics in the workplace. Ninety-one percent of employees report they have witnessed or experienced political clashes at work, and 51% actively avoid coworkers with differing views.

The report reveals how post-election tensions influence team dynamics, professional relationships, and career opportunities. Based on responses from more than 1,000 U.S. workers surveyed in January 2025, the report explores how political polarization reshapes the modern workplace.

So, what are the key challenges employees face in this politically charged environment, and how are companies responding to maintain a productive and inclusive workplace?

Key Findings

Workplace conflict is rising: 91% have observed or experienced political clashes at work, and 81% say the workplace has become more tense.
Political discussions are becoming more frequent and heated: 72% say they've increased, and 75% say they've become more intense.
Political divisions are affecting workplace relationships: 51% actively avoid collaborating with coworkers with opposing views.
Many employees want restrictions on political discussions: 92% support policies to limit political talk at work.

Political Conversations Are Becoming More Frequent and Intense

Political discussions are no longer just a side topic — they've become a core part of workplace culture.

72% say political discussions have increased at work since Trump was elected.
79% of employees discuss politics at least weekly, with 32% talking politics daily.
92% would support their companies implementing policies to reduce political discussions at work.

What this means: As political conversations in the workplace become more common, employees should be mindful of company policies, workplace culture, professional values, and their own comfort levels when engaging in these discussions.

Political Divisions Are Fueling Workplace Conflict

Political debates are creating more workplace friction.

75% say political discussions at work have become more heated since Trump's election.
91% report observing or experiencing workplace conflict due to political differences.
51% frequently avoid collaboration with colleagues because of differing political views.
83% anticipate an increase in workplace political tensions under Trump compared to under Biden.

What this means: Workplace tension can strain relationships and impact teamwork. Employees should focus on professionalism, avoid heated debates, and set boundaries when necessary.

Concerns Over Political Bias in Promotions and Workplace Policies

Many employees worry about how political bias influences their careers.

93% believe their company's leadership has a political bias that affects workplace policies and decisions.
90% believe political bias impacts promotions, raises, or workplace opportunities.

What this means: Employees concerned about bias should document their achievements, seek mentorship, and stay informed on workplace policies to advocate for fair opportunities.

Ready for a new opportunity? Our AI Resume Builder can help you land a new role by creating or updating your resume to meet the standards of the competitive job market.

Methodology:

The findings provided were gathered through a survey conducted with 1,037 American workers on January 28, 2025. Participants were queried about workplace political tensions, employer expectations, and anticipated changes under Trump's presidency. Participants responded to various question types, including yes/no questions, open-ended questions, scale-based questions gauging agreement levels, and questions that permitted the selection of multiple options from a list of answers.

For press inquiries, contact Joseph Santaella at joseph.santaella@bold.com.

Was this information helpful? Let us know!

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Keith is a Career Expert and content contributor for Resume Now. He is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with over a decade of experience in the career development field. Keith also holds a Master's of Education from Cabrini University.