Sex and Politics: Do We Sleep More with Those Who Share Our Political Views?

On June 9th, Belgians head to the polls for the federal legislative elections. Amid the electoral frenzy, one might wonder: do we tend to sleep with people who share our political ideals?

In 2022, France’s Ifop explored this question. While Belgian political sentiments may differ, the connection between sex and politics here also sparks curiosity. Do right-wing or left-wing individuals have more in common in the bedroom? Can opposites really attract? Is it possible to build a relationship with someone on the opposite end of the political spectrum?

Sex, Attraction, and Voting Preferences

First and foremost, the impact of politics on love life varies depending on whether it involves a long-term relationship or a more casual, one-time encounter. In the César-winning film “The Names of Love,” Bahia, played by Sara Forestier, is an extreme-left activist who sleeps only with men she labels as “fascists” to change their political views. But in real life, how do political ideas influence sexual attraction?

Henry, 26, says that political opinions are important to him but have never affected his relationships or attraction to partners. Similarly, Ruby, 27, notes, “I can be attracted to a man of any political persuasion, and if I’m interested enough, I could even overlook it. But I couldn’t sleep with someone who’s racist, for example. Not long ago, I was considering something more serious with a guy until I realized he was transphobic, so we ended it immediately.” Juliette, 34, recalls with laughter a past fling: “I was sleeping with a guy who insulted feminists! It didn’t last long, obviously.”