“We no longer discuss politics”: Serge Savard avoids the subject with his American friends in South Carolina

To prevent discussions from “devolving into chicanery,” the former captain and general manager of the Canadiens, Serge Savard, avoids talking about politics on the greens or over a beer at 19^e hole of a chic Golf club in South Carolina.

“I hear about politics, but I don’t get involved in the discussions, because otherwise it turns into an argument. I have very close friends with whom I don’t want to talk about it since it’s impossible to have intelligent discussions,” breathes the man who has divided his time between Quebec and South Carolina for nearly 40 years.

After his career in the NHL and when he started as general manager of the Canadiens in 1983, the ex-hockey player chose the Hilton Head region for its climate, its golf courses and its ease of access. First a haunt for family vacations, he made it his little corner of paradise in retirement.

This state has voted Republican with a strong majority since 1980.

Red from Carter

“Trump may be accused of fraud and sexual assault, but there is nothing that can be done. Talking about it doesn’t even get us to the first goal,” says Mr. Savard sadly, knowing that there is no stake in the vote in his state.

“In my entourage at the golf club, 90 to 95% of people are Republican,” adds the man with nine Stanley Cups. The richer you are, the more Republican you are.”

As for him, the former CH captain would choose Kamala Harris if he could vote. But around the little white ball, he didn’t say a word.

“If you want to keep your friends, you don’t talk about politics,” says the 78-year-old man, keen on American politics. It’s sad, but it’s reality. Because the vote is very polarized,” concludes the man nicknamed the Senator.

Expatriate, during election period

• Serge Savard
• 78 ans
• Hilton Head, Caroline du Sud
• Former captain and general manager of the Canadiens