CalMatter had a fascinating article this past week that looked at the 2024 election and revealed a surprising trend: a growing number of young voters, particularly young men, leaned toward the Republican Party. Even in deep-blue California, Donald Trump increased his vote share in 45 of the state’s 58 counties compared to 2020. This shift challenges the long-held assumption that younger generations are solidly Democratic and raises questions about what’s driving this political realignment.
It should come as no surprise that one of the main drivers is the economy. In all the focus groups and polling we observed during this past election, young voters expressed their struggles—both mentally and financially—with higher costs, student loan debt, and inflation. They felt they would never be able to afford a home. The American Dream seemed more like an illusion than a reality.
For years, Democrats have portrayed themselves as the party of progress for young people, yet frustration has increased as financial burdens remain. Some believe that Democratic policies haven’t provided meaningful relief, prompting them to explore alternatives.
The Republican message of economic growth, deregulation, and lower taxes resonates with those prioritizing immediate financial stability over long-term progressive ideals.
But it is one thing to have these voters come out in a few higher percentage points for Republicans, and it is far more difficult to keep them in your base of support. That will require real work, not just a bad economy.
To solidify these gains, Republicans must move beyond Trump’s appeal and offer tangible solutions. Engaging young voters through the digital platforms where they consume news and political content is essential. Trump’s campaign recognized this, leveraging popular online spaces and influencers to shape the narrative. Furthermore, amplifying young voices within the party could help maintain this momentum, making conservatism feel more relevant to a new generation.
The 2024 election demonstrated that young voters are ready to reevaluate their political loyalties when their economic circumstances require it. If Republicans want to prevent this shift from being a temporary blip, they need to show they have solutions that work—and they must meet young voters where they are.
