I am a second year PhD student and am currently working as a discussion leader. Part of my responsibility is to attend the large lecture sections. The lead instructor for the course makes it clear which way she leans politically. While I do not personally disagree with her perspectives, I can tell it makes some students angry or uncomfortable. I do not feel that the lecture hall is the right forum for the lead instructor to communicate her views, political or otherwise. And being an election year, the subject of politics is already highly charged.
I am not sure what to do. I think that her comments will be brought up in the discussion sections, but am not sure how or if to respond. It is my belief that the classroom can challenge deeply held beliefs in implicit ways, but should be an overtly value neutral setting.
Has anyone been in a similar situation? If so, how have you handled it?
Thanks for any thoughts!