Young men are shifting toward the Republican Party in a way not seen in years, creating a new divide among voters under 30. This adds an unexpected twist to the 2024 presidential election.
For decades, voters under 30 have been a key part of the Democratic base. However, the voters currently in the age group group are now showing signs of division, especially among young men who are increasingly supporting Republicans and former President Donald Trump. This is a reversal of their support for President Joe Biden and Democrats in 2020.
Combined Wall Street Journal polls from February and July of 2024 show that most men under 30 now support Trump. If this trend continues on Election Day, it will be the first time in more than 20 years that Republicans have won over this demographic.
In contrast, young women under 30 continue to strongly support Democrats for Congress and the White House. They are also becoming more liberal compared to the past. According to the polls, young women are more concerned about climate change, strongly support legal abortion and favor forgiving student loans.
On the issue of allowing children to choose their gender identity without parental approval, young men are strongly opposed, while most young women are in favor. Additionally, far more men than women support building a wall along the border with Mexico.
These social and political issues are driving young men and women further apart come election time. With a new Democratic candidate emerging, the question now is whether Vice President Kamala Harris — the likely Democratic nominee — will be able to win back some of the young men who are abandoning the party or if Trump and the GOP will secure a new stronghold over this demographic.
