Reality star ends engagement over political differences

Daily Report March 09,2025

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A Netflix “Love Is Blind” contestant’s decision to leave her fiancé at the altar has sparked controversy after she cited their differing political views as the reason for her departure.

Sara Carlton, a 29-year-old oncology nurse, stunned viewers and wedding guests alike when she called off her marriage to Ben Mezzenga, 28, moments before they were set to exchange vows. Carlton explained that she had always envisioned a partner who shared her worldview.

Despite the dramatic rejection, Mezzenga maintained his composure, while cameras captured the shocked expressions of assembled guests. Carlton attempted to soften the blow, expressing her continued affection for Mezzenga while standing firm in her decision.

The incident quickly gained traction on social media, with many public figures weighing in on Carlton’s choice. Fox News personalities were particularly vocal, with Laura Ingraham suggesting on X that Mezzenga would be better suited with a conservative partner, while colleague Tomi Lahren opined that Mezzenga had “dodged a bullet.”

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Love is Blind's Sara Carton turns down her fiancé Ben Mezzenga at the altar because of his opinion on the BLM movement, s*xual identity, and the vaccine.

This man just avoided a life of misery.

Congrats.pic.twitter.com/uT3cWRuocN

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) March 8, 2025

Even as the relationship crumbled before him, Mezzenga made one final attempt to salvage their connection, expressing his desire to continue growing together. Carlton’s noncommittal response of “We’ll see” drew uncomfortable laughter from the assembled guests.

Later, while departing the venue with her family members, Carlton elaborated on the ideological differences that led to her decision. She expressed disappointment in Mezzenga’s lack of engagement with social justice issues, particularly noting his neutral stance on Black Lives Matter – a movement that originated in their hometown of Minneapolis following George Floyd’s death.

Carlton’s concerns extended beyond racial justice issues. She cited discomfort with the traditional views expressed by Mezzenga’s church regarding gender identity, and his apparent lack of strong opinions on various social matters. In her final interview, she listed additional points of contention, including their divergent views on equality, religion, and COVID-19 vaccination.