Checkpoint: Gen Z Politics Are Disrupting The Dichotomy
LeoPatrizi
Background
Amidst the tense battleground of modern-day American politics, a new generation prepares to disrupt the status quo and finally establish a government "[...] of the people, by the people, for the people." Generation Z, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s and raised on promises of the American Dream, is not content with inheriting a political system riddled with partisan gridlock and social inequalities. These young people, the oldest of whom are approaching their 30s, have come of age in a world of technological revolutions, a plethora of unsuccessful wars in the Middle East, and a mounting urgency for social change. Their digital fluency and unwavering commitment to social responsibility fuel said political activism. Numbering over 40 million eligible voters, Gen Z is no longer a negligible demographic on political parties' radars–––they are, instead, a force that has the power to reshape the electorate. While their influence extends beyond sheer numbers, they now hold the position as the generation with the highest participation rate in their first midterm election at 28.4 percent. Relatively untethered by traditional party loyalties and skeptical of major United States institutions, this generation seeks solutions that resonate with their progressive values, environmental concerns, and requests for racial and LGBTQ+ equality. Wielding the power of social media and encouraging online communities, Gen Z moves beyond geographic boundaries to create a political movement that can prioritize collective action over partisan bickering. For them, politics is not just about electing officials but about developing a safer and more inclusive political future.
Percentage Of Voters In First Midterm Election
Digital Discourse And Social Justice
Generation Z's distinctive digital fluency has become part of the foundation of their political revolution, fundamentally altering how young people express themselves, organize movements, and influence bipartisan politics. As 98 percent own a smartphone, and 54 percent dedicate 4 hours or more to social media daily, Gen Z has a near-universal online presence–––Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok are social hubs and powerful platforms for political discourse. For example, hashtag trends and viral campaigns dominate their online activism as meticulously crafted strategies to inspire conversation and foster political action. Around 50 percent of Gen Z individuals cite social media as their most frequently visited source for political and social news (23 percent for streaming services and 13 percent for online-only news sites), demonstrating the unquestionable impact of these outlets in shaping their political consciousness. These tech-heavy routines are both a tool for self-expression and a catalyst for social justice advocacy.
Frequency of using selected news sources among Generation Z in the United States as of August 2022
Movements like #BlackLivesMatter, #StopAsianHate, and Fridays for Future, led by spirited Gen Z activists, are evidence of their staunch dedication to racial equality and environmental sustainability. As of 2021, 67 percent of Gen Z said that "climate should be [a] top priority to ensure [a] sustainable planet for future generations," and more than half (55 percent) say that they research a company's environmental impact and policies before accepting a job from them. There is also inherent intersectionality and inclusivity embedded in their efforts, significantly improving broader discourse. Gen Z is concerned about long-standing systemic inequalities and demands a more informed and empathetic electorate. By nature, Gen Z's connection with technology and social media is their dynamic way of exchanging ideas and mobilizing their peers on a previously unimaginable scale. With the force of online outlets, these young adults can dismantle traditional political perimeters and craft a virtual space where social justice matters have room to become significant prerogatives and established norms face relentless challenges. It isn't easy to manipulate an entire demographic into drinking the conventional, bipartisan cool-aid when they can see the world changing in real time.
Unique Characteristics And Political Perspectives
Interestingly, Generation Z's political perspectives stem from their unique characteristics, particularly their unparalleled diversity and uncompromising social conscience, as the most racially and ethnically varied generation in U.S. history, with 48 percent identifying as non-white, and are on track to becoming the most well-educated age group yet. Eighty percent of Gen Z students say they feel more creative when surrounded by manifold thoughts and ideas, and their experiences and opinions transcend the previous racial and cultural borders that molded past political landscapes. Their diversity promotes a more profound understanding of social issues, with 62 percent believing that more diversity is good for the nation as of 2019. Gen Z champions inclusivity and representation, not requiring a seat at the table but rather the complete dismantling of the table itself, given that it does not accommodate all voices. Their fight pushes for equitable access to opportunities, destroying the systemic barriers that have disenfranchised marginalized communities for centuries. Furthermore, the younger generation's social responsibility invests in making a new and better world–––since the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly 50 percent of Gen Z have begun supporting a cause they care about. The generation's top social problems include healthcare, mental health, higher education, economic security, civic engagement, racial equity, and the environment. This point is not surprising, as their lived experiences have shown them the harrowing realities of social and economic disparities.
Gen Z (ages 18-27)
Challenging Traditional Norms
As Generation Z becomes a larger and larger share of the voting bloc, specific movements and campaigns led by this spirited cohort showcase their tactical disassembling of conventions. The March for Our Lives (MFOL) movement, prompted by the horrific Parkland shooting, proves their pledge to gun control advocacy. With 800 sister marches held worldwide and sustained activism at universities, MFOL is a reminder of Gen Z's transformative power when demanding policy change. Similarly, the Sunrise Movement is at the forefront of climate action, raising awareness and strategically leveraging digital platforms to muster supporters and schedule large-scale protests. These efforts and similar challenges to the status quo can force a critical reevaluation of traditional party stances on gun control and global warming. The hunger for nuanced policies that address the complexities of these issues paves the way for a more multifaceted political conversation that defies the limitations of binary partisan talking points. Critiquing the Democratic and Republican parties' orthodox opinions has ignited a firestorm of interest in alternative options. The disillusionment with the established political order, emanating from a sense that neither major party adequately represents their values, has made Gen Z explore alternatives. When asked which 2024 presidential candidate they would trust to handle a myriad of issues, President Joe Biden or Donald Trump, around a third of college students selected "neither" as their answer. Grassroots movements, away from the constraints of traditional party affiliations, are also gaining momentum, highlighting a potential shift towards a more decentralized and inclusive political landscape where power isn't concentrated in the hands of a few.
Optimism About Quality Of Life
Summary
Generation Z has transformed from passive observers to active participants, amplifying its impact on a national scale while seeking a political system that reflects its values. As this generation challenges the two-party system, it calls for change and a more responsive political apparatus that prioritizes the needs of all citizens and reflects the dynamism of a constantly evolving society. In the future, the possible long-term effects of Generation Z's activity on American politics are nothing short of revolutionary.
