Election Day is fast approaching, and it seems everyone has an opinion, but talking politics isn’t really encouraged in the workplace. Wondering where to let off some steam without inciting a screaming match? Here are some NYC bars that lean red or blue, although if there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s making sure no cocktail is left behind. By the way, if you haven’t registered to vote by now, get on it—the New York deadline is Oct. 10.
Red State Bars:
Bowery Wine Company 13 E. 1st St. (Bowery & First Ave.)
East Village 212.614.0800
A showdown of sorts is going on at this new Bowery wine bar, where East Village liberals are turning blue in the face over celebrity patron Bruce Willis’ GOP connections. The New York Young Republican Club held a meeting there this past summer, saying they were bringing their “briefcases and BlackBerrys” to spite activists who called the bar a source of yuppie gentrification. You know what they say, don’t hate the player, hate the game.
Lolita 266 Broome St. (@ Allen St.)
Lower East Side 212.966.7223
The gritty L.E.S. seems an unlikely locale for right-wingers to come unbuttoned, but a number of young Republicans get together here for monthly debates. Tonight (Oct. 7) the topic is "Should We Loosen Term Limits?" starting at 8pm. Let’s hope they loosen their ties and don’t limit the imbibing.
21 Club
21 W. 52nd St. (5th & 6th Aves.)
Midtown 212.582.7200
Recently reopened with a new bar, this former speakeasy in a landmark townhouse has attracted conservative types for decades—perhaps it has something to do with the clinging-to-the-past décor. So it’s no surprise this is where John McCain held a $28,500-a-head fundraiser over the summer hosted by billionaire Henry Kravis. The no jeans or sneakers dress code still stands here, so no matter how deep your pockets, dudes should be sure to wear jackets and ties.
Blue State Bars:
The Irish Rogue 356 W. 44th St. (8th & 9th Aves.)
Hell's Kitchen 212.445.0131
The Irish aren’t shy about letting their political opinions be known, so all of your lefty whining will just blend into the din here. Join in the discussion at 7pm tonight when the Manhattan Young Democrats host a debate party here with the ACT NOW activist group.
Rudy’s Bar & Grill 627 9th Ave. (44th & 45th Sts.)
Hell's Kitchen 212.974.9169
For five years, this Hell’s Kitchen bar has hosted Drinking Liberally, a social network of left-leaning thinkers and activists, at 7:30pm every Thursday. We’re guessing the Bush Administration has given them much to discuss. With $3 house brews, free hotdogs, and taped vinyl banquettes, you can see why a grassroots group would find this dive inspiring.
Stonewall 53 Christopher St. (@ 7th Ave. South)
West Village 212.488.2705
With all of its S & M shops and rainbow flags, this neighborhood is about as liberated as it gets—meaning staunch red state types are not part of the scenery. This historic bar where riots in 1969 became a launching point for the gay civil rights movement continues to attract an outspoken crowd. Whether you are gay or straight, if you are open-minded, your opinions will be welcomed here.
13 E. 1st St. (Bowery & First Ave.) 
266 Broome St. (@ Allen St.) 
356 W. 44th St. (8th & 9th Aves.) 
627 9th Ave. (44th & 45th Sts.) 
53 Christopher St. (@ 7th Ave. South) 
