A survey by sexual wellness brand Lovehoney suggests political alignment is now a significant factor in British dating.
The research, based on responses from more than 2,000 people, asked: “Would you ever date someone with a different political view to you?” Just 25% said yes, while 19% said they definitely or probably would not. A further 13% said they were undecided.
Men more open than women
The findings reveal a clear gender divide.
Among men, 31% said “Yes, definitely” and 44% said “Yes, probably”, meaning 75% expressed some level of openness to dating across political lines. Among women, 62% showed any level of openness, while only 19% said “Yes, definitely”.
Annabelle Knight, Lovehoney’s resident sex and relationships expert, said: “For many, aligned political views are non-negotiable in dating, and that’s totally okay. Normalising conversations around politics in the early stages of a relationship is healthy, especially when it’s a dealbreaker. In the long-term, it’s important that your partner aligns with your personal values and morals.”
She added: “The results point to the wider context that women may have less choice to turn a blind eye to political stance; the social and economic impact politics has on women makes it impossible to ignore. For many women, compatibility relies on deep-rooted moral and emotional alignment, based on empathy, respect, and shared values.”
Only 2% of men said they would definitely not date someone with different political views.
Younger people more divided
Generational differences are pronounced.
Among older respondents, 33% of those aged 55–64 said “Yes, definitely”, along with 28% of those aged over 65. In contrast, only 14% of 18–24-year-olds said the same.
Gen Z women were the least open, with just 13% saying “Yes, definitely” and 26% saying “No, definitely not”.
Among millennials, 27% of those aged 25–34 said “Yes, definitely”, compared with 23% of those aged 35–44 and 21% of those aged 45–54.
Knight said older generations may prioritise humour and shared experiences, while Gen Z tends to see political beliefs as closely tied to identity and values.
Regional differences
Openness to dating across political lines varies across the UK.
The East of England recorded the highest share of respondents saying “Yes, definitely” at 33%, followed by Wales at 32% and Yorkshire and the Humber at 28%. Lower levels were recorded in the East Midlands at 20% and London at 22%. London also had the highest proportion of respondents saying “No, definitely not” at 7%.
Impact on LGBTQIA+ dating
Political views appear especially significant for LGBTQIA+ respondents.
Among heterosexual respondents, 26% said “Yes, definitely” and 3% said “No, definitely not”. Among gay and lesbian respondents, 28% said “Yes, definitely”, but this group also recorded the highest share saying “No, definitely not” at 7%. Bisexual respondents were the least likely to say “Yes, definitely” at 17%, while 5% said “No, definitely not”.
Knight said: “For those in the LGBTQIA+ community, politics isn’t abstract. It’s tied to real lived experiences, safety, and feeling seen and heard. When someone’s stance could compromise not only their values but their social safety, it’s personal.”
A growing dating factor
The findings indicate politics has moved beyond a private matter and is now a key consideration in relationships, alongside traditional concerns such as communication and compatibility.