It seems where most divisions begin in the discussions of politics is when people begin to declare their party affiliations.  Suddenly, it isn't about what is best for the country, but what's best for the individual party.  I've sat here and watched perfectly sane and reasonable, intelligent people, at all different levels of  education,  become absolutely crazed spouting party lines. This is also not unique to the US but a problem worldwide.

As a child growing up, especially in a presidential election year, I watched my family become divided over party issues, not political issues.  My maternal grandfather was a staunch Democrat, with a combustible temper, especially after a few beers, who would become so angry over his staunch support of his party he would walk out, literally screaming Democratic slogans.  My paternal grandfather, was a quiet, gentle man,who to my memory, never once declared any allegiance to either party, would than go and calm my other grandfather down.  These behaviors would (depending on the level of alcohol consumed) spread throughout the family gatherings rapidly or like wildfire.  I think, at  around 8, I became an independent, deciding to not adhere or allow any political party to influence my decisions.

I vote for who I believe is the best candidate, not the political machine each represents.