Election years always elevate political divisions and potential flashpoints. Recent election cycles have been seen bias play a major role, including racism, sexism, antisemitism, and xenophobia. Some of this is driven by the “usual suspects,” like organized hate groups, but much is the result emotional responses to a rapidly changing social landscape that frames a wide range of factors, from pronouns to new technologies, as disrupting the known social order. This presentation focuses on three aspects of the historical moment we are in; 1) social changes that push people towards bias and extremist positions, 2) the threat presented by extremists who have exploited these changes, and 3) techniques available to de-escalate bias-motivated conflicts, including the utilization of credible messengers. Dr. Blazak has worked in the area for over 30 years and will be utilizing his current work with the federally funded Cure-PNW project. (NORTHWEST PUBLIC EMPLOYEES DIVERSITY CONFERENCE)