Definition of Hot Button Issue

What is a "hot button issue"? What is the definition of the term "hot button issue"?

A "hot button issue" is an issue that elicits strong emotions from people. "Hot button issues" are extremely divisive.

An example of a "hot button issue" - abortion. People are very emotional about the topic of abortion and whether or not it should be legal. "Pro-life" and "pro-choice" people both believe strongly that they are on the right side of the issue, and both sides are extremely emotional about the topic.

Other examples of hot button issues - gay marriage, gun control and immigration. All three are "hot button issues" that bring out a torrent of different emotions in people, and all three issues are highly divisive.

Many politicians will heavily mention "hot button issues" during their campaigns in an attempt to connect emotionally with voters.

--

Davemanuel.com Articles That Mention Hot Button Issue:

National Debt Clock on the Floor of the US House of Representatives?