If you have MAGA relatives, chances are you’ve experienced the frustration of never quite being able to align politically, especially during family gatherings. The divide can feel insurmountable, and while some try to meet halfway, others, like Jessica, decide to take a more playful approach—using humor to navigate the tension.
Jessica, in a viral TikTok, showcases her comedic flair by turning the political divide into an opportunity for catharsis, delivering one-liners that poke fun at the contradictions in her relatives’ beliefs. For example, she delivers the gem, “Jesus had two dads and he turned out fine,” which, unsurprisingly, leads to a shocked reaction from her family but is met with laughter from her TikTok audience. Her approach is clearly more about entertainment and stress relief than trying to change anyone’s mind.
Despite her family’s less-than-enthusiastic reception, Jessica’s humor resonates with many viewers who can relate to the discomfort of sitting at a dinner table with fervent Trump supporters. It’s not just about mocking; it’s about dealing with the cognitive dissonance of family politics in a light-hearted way. However, her edgy humor hasn’t come without consequences, as one of her TikTok accounts was banned, possibly by those who shared the same political leanings as her relatives.
Still, Jessica’s wit hasn’t been stifled. She continues to share her comedic observations, showing no fear or hesitation in challenging her relatives’ beliefs in a way that’s both mischievous and cathartic for those on the outside looking in. Yet, in another TikTok, Jessica reveals a more serious side, explaining that her decision to go home for the holidays helped her uncover her sister’s domestic violence situation, ultimately enabling her to support her sibling’s escape from the abusive environment.
Her approach to humor, while edgy, comes from a place of empathy and care. In mocking attitudes like homophobia and xenophobia, Jessica draws attention to the prejudices that often go unnoticed by those who hold them. As psychologist Jonathan Haidt notes, people often bind themselves to political groups that reinforce their moral narratives, which can blind them to alternative perspectives. Jessica’s videos serve as a reminder that while you might decide to distance yourself from family for peace of mind, there’s no shame in choosing to engage with them, especially if you feel the need to balance love and discomfort in a way that aligns with your values.
Jessica’s approach may not be for everyone, but for those willing to face their MAGA relatives, it offers a mischievous yet heartening way to approach the holidays.