Why No One’s Winning Young Voters (Ep. 5)
8Digest
This episode delves into the complexities of young voter sentiment in the 2024 election, focusing on their anxieties and aspirations. The discussion reveals a generation grappling with economic instability, feeling let down by institutions, and questioning the value of traditional pathways to success. While young voters share concerns about the economy, cost of living, and their rights, they express a deep skepticism towards both parties and their ability to deliver on promises. The episode highlights the growing influence of social media and alternative news sources on young voters' worldviews, making it challenging for campaigns to reach them effectively. The conversation also explores the evolving nature of issues like abortion rights and free speech, which are becoming increasingly important to young voters across the political spectrum. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of young voters' concerns and the importance of engaging them in meaningful ways to ensure their participation in the democratic process.
Outlines
Introduction
This Chapter introduces the episode's focus on young voters in the 2024 election and the challenges of engaging them in the political process. It highlights the concerns and motivations of this demographic, particularly their disillusionment with the political system and their desire for change on issues like housing affordability, abortion rights, and gun violence.
Young Voters and the 2024 Election
This Chapter delves into the complexities of young voter sentiment in the 2024 election, focusing on their anxieties and aspirations. The discussion reveals a generation grappling with economic instability, feeling let down by institutions, and questioning the value of traditional pathways to success. While young voters share concerns about the economy, cost of living, and their rights, they express a deep skepticism towards both parties and their ability to deliver on promises.
The Future of American Politics
This Chapter reflects on the insights gained from the conversation with John De la Volpe and Kristen Saltis Anderson, highlighting the unique perspectives they bring to the understanding of young voters. It emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of young voters' concerns and the importance of engaging them in meaningful ways to ensure their participation in the democratic process.
Keywords
Gen Z
Gen Z refers to the generation born between the mid-1990s and the early 2010s. They are the generation that has come of age in the digital age and are known for their tech-savviness, social consciousness, and diverse perspectives. Gen Z is often characterized by their focus on social justice, environmentalism, and mental health. They are also known for their entrepreneurial spirit and their desire for authenticity and transparency.
Young Voters
Young voters are individuals between the ages of 18 and 29 who are eligible to vote in elections. They are a significant demographic group that can influence the outcome of elections, particularly in close races. Young voters are often seen as a swing vote, as their political views and voting patterns can shift depending on the issues and candidates involved. Understanding the concerns, motivations, and voting habits of young voters is crucial for political campaigns and policymakers.
Housing Affordability
Housing affordability refers to the ability of individuals and families to afford adequate housing in a given location. It is a major concern for young voters, as they face rising housing costs and limited income opportunities. Housing affordability is influenced by factors such as income levels, housing prices, interest rates, and government policies. Solutions to address housing affordability include increasing affordable housing options, regulating rent increases, and providing financial assistance to homebuyers.
Abortion Rights
Abortion rights refer to the legal right of individuals to terminate a pregnancy. It is a highly controversial issue in the United States, with strong opinions on both sides. The debate over abortion rights centers on the moral and legal status of the fetus, the rights of women, and the role of government in regulating reproductive healthcare. The Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022 has led to a resurgence of activism and legal challenges surrounding abortion rights.
Gun Violence
Gun violence refers to the use of firearms to inflict harm or death. It is a major public health issue in the United States, with a high rate of gun-related homicides and suicides. Gun violence is often linked to factors such as mental health, poverty, and access to firearms. Solutions to address gun violence include stricter gun control laws, mental health services, and community-based programs.
Donald Trump
Donald Trump is an American politician, businessman, and media personality who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021. He is a controversial figure known for his populist rhetoric, his business dealings, and his personal life. Trump's presidency was marked by political polarization, economic instability, and international tensions. He is currently running for president again in 2024.
Joe Biden
Joe Biden is an American politician who served as the 46th president of the United States from 2021 to present. He is a member of the Democratic Party and has a long history of public service, including as a U.S. senator from Delaware and as vice president under Barack Obama. Biden's presidency has been marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, economic challenges, and international conflicts.
Social Media
Social media refers to online platforms that allow users to create and share content, connect with others, and participate in online communities. Social media has become a ubiquitous part of modern life, influencing communication, culture, and politics. It has also raised concerns about privacy, misinformation, and the spread of hate speech.
TikTok
TikTok is a social media platform that allows users to create and share short-form videos. It is known for its viral content, its dance challenges, and its ability to connect users from around the world. TikTok has become a popular platform for young people, influencing trends, music, and culture.
Political Polarization
Political polarization refers to the increasing divide between opposing political ideologies and parties. It is characterized by a lack of compromise, a growing distrust of opposing viewpoints, and a tendency to view political opponents as enemies. Political polarization can lead to gridlock in government, a decline in civic engagement, and an increase in social unrest.
Q&A
What are some of the key concerns of young voters in the 2024 election?
Young voters are primarily concerned about economic issues, particularly housing affordability and the cost of living. They also express strong feelings about protecting their rights and freedoms, including abortion access, gun control, and free speech on college campuses. Additionally, they are critical of US involvement in foreign conflicts and the use of taxpayer money for wars.
How do young voters feel about the two major political parties?
Young voters express a deep skepticism towards both parties and their ability to deliver on promises. They feel let down by institutions and are disillusioned with the political system as a whole. This skepticism is fueled by their experiences with economic instability, the erosion of their rights, and the perceived lack of representation in government.
What are some of the challenges in reaching and persuading young voters?
Reaching young voters is challenging due to their reliance on social media and alternative news sources, which often present a different perspective on political issues. Campaigns need to adapt their strategies to engage with young voters in these spaces and communicate effectively through platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Additionally, the traditional methods of voter contact may not be as effective in reaching this demographic, requiring a more creative and targeted approach.
How do young voters view the candidates in the 2024 election?
Young voters are generally not enthusiastic about either Joe Biden or Donald Trump. They see both candidates as flawed and are more likely to vote based on the lesser of two evils. While some young voters were initially drawn to Trump's anti-establishment rhetoric, they have become more disillusioned with his policies and actions. Biden, on the other hand, faces skepticism from young voters who question his ability to deliver on his promises and address their concerns.
What are some of the key takeaways from the episode about the future of American politics?
The episode suggests that the future of American politics may be headed in a direction that is unrecognizable to the establishment of either party. Young voters are less likely to trust institutions and are more likely to be driven by their own experiences and values. This presents a challenge for both parties, who need to adapt their messaging and strategies to engage with this generation and address their concerns.
Show Notes
Jon is joined by youth polling experts John Della Volpe and Kristen Soltis Anderson to talk about apathy among young voters this election cycle. Why are they so disengaged? Are some truly defecting to Trump? And what message, if any, can get them out for the polls? Jon, John, and Kristen dive into the focus group tape to unpack Gen Z’s opinions of our octogenarian presidential candidates, their top economic issues, and the war in Gaza. And Anderson Clayton, the 26-year-old Chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, joins to talk about Gen Z’s faith in their own ability to improve democracy.
Take action with Vote Save America: Visit votesaveamerica.com/2024
Order Democracy or Else: How to Save America in 10 Easy Steps at crooked.com/books or wherever books are sold.
Table of contents
United States
what an incredibly condescending episode.
K
Well, if young voters are too stupid to protect democracy then I don't give a flying fig. I vote with the future of young women as my guiding principle but if they can't grasp the peril of their situation so be it. I'm comfortable, reproductive rights are not something I personally don't have to worry about, and I'm tired of the whinging.