At a Glance
- Gen Z includes individuals born after 1996.
- 41 million Gen Z members will be eligible to vote in the upcoming election.
- Gen Z’s racial diversity contributes to Trump’s gains among black and Hispanic voters under 25.
- The gender gap within Gen Z is larger than any other generational gap in polling history.
Rising Support Among Gen Z
Generation Z, which includes individuals born after 1996, is increasingly gravitating towards Donald Trump. This shift has the potential to significantly influence future elections. In the upcoming election, 41 million Gen Z members will be eligible to vote, with eight million being newly eligible voters.
A growing number of Generation Z males are endorsing Trump, expressing concerns over the economy and a desire for traditional values. Recent surveys highlight that this demographic feels economic hardships and worries about their future. Their preferences are increasingly shifting toward Trump’s policies and promises.
A Cultural Shift in US Politics
Polling data reveals a significant gender gap within Generation Z voters, aged 18-29. This gap, the largest of any generational group, indicates a pronounced divide in political preferences. While half of Gen Z voters favor Kamala Harris, about one-third are inclined towards Trump. Importantly, this demographic’s racial diversity also contributes to Trump’s appeal among young black and Hispanic voters.
Trump’s commentary on social media plays a role in engaging younger voters. For instance, he emphasized on Truth Social the impact of Joe Biden’s actions on platforms popular with this demographic. This engagement is not just limited to political talk; it taps into the everyday concerns of young Americans.
Impact of Economic Factors
The pandemic and economic concerns have deeply influenced Generation Z’s outlook. A Pew Research Center survey in March 2020 found that 50% of the oldest Gen Z members reported job loss or pay cuts due to the pandemic. These economic hardships make Trump’s economic promises appealing to this demographic.
Conservative influencers and right-wing masculinity figures on social media also resonate strongly with young men, contributing to their political shift towards Trump. This cultural connection aligns with Trump’s messaging and bolsters his support base within the youngest voting generation.
Sources:
On the Cusp of Adulthood and Facing an Uncertain Future: What We Know About Gen Z So Far
Poll: Half of Gen Z voters support Harris, one-third back Trump
Gen Z male voters vouch for Donald Trump, to vote for him in the November U.S. presidential polls
Donald Trump’s popularity soars among Gen Z
Some young people see Trump as an answer to their economic woes
Gen Z has the opportunity to decide 2024, but Biden and Trump make us want to sit out.
The 75,000,000 great American Patriots who voted for me, AMERICA FIRST, and MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN, will have a GIANT VOICE long into the future. They will not be disrespected or treated unfairly in any way, shape or form!!!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2021
