The Sundance Film Festival, often perceived as left-leaning, recently showcased a documentary, "Bucks County, USA," exploring the political divide in a key swing county during the 2022 elections. This five-part series follows two teenage girls with opposing political views, examining their ability to maintain a friendship amidst the polarization. The film's selection for Sundance surprised some, with venture capitalist and conservative activist Paul Martino, whose family is featured in the documentary, suggesting that former President Trump's electoral success has fostered greater openness to political discourse, even in the film industry.

Martino, whose involvement stemmed from his work with the Back to School PA PAC advocating for open schools during the pandemic, noted the significance of the film's inclusion at Sundance. He observed a shift towards acknowledging and understanding diverse viewpoints, attributing this change to Trump's victories. Martino believes that the scale of Trump's wins prompted a reevaluation of political engagement, encouraging people to move beyond resistance and engage in dialogue with those holding different perspectives.

During the premiere, Martino faced criticism from audience members who questioned his political stance. He responded by sharing his journey into activism, explaining how personal attacks from public sector unions following his successful advocacy for Covid-related school policies fueled his continued involvement. Martino's response resonated with some attendees, highlighting the film's theme of finding common ground despite differing opinions.

Martino emphasized the filmmakers' commitment to portraying events accurately, regardless of political affiliation. He expressed satisfaction that the documentary presents a rational depiction of conservative viewpoints, particularly concerning Covid policies. His willingness to participate, at a time when other conservatives reportedly declined, underscores the film's effort to capture a balanced perspective on the political divide.