[goodcanadian]

Refusing to play politics is also a political strategy. It won't work in every situation. Sometimes, being blunt will work out very badly, but sometimes your candor will be respected and your opinion will be sought out because of it. Refusing to play the game can put you in a position above the fray.

You won't be promoted to management, but if that is not your goal, it may not matter.

[crimsonalucard]

This is true. I've been in this type of situation before but I always attributed to luck rather then a political strategy.

I'm thinking a combination of bluntness and deception is the best middle ground.