Let's start with the simple fact that, as Figure 1 illustrates, the Millennial generation is the largest generation in America today and the most politically active. Gen Z is the next generation, born between 1997 and 2012, and they are beginning to make their presence felt. Elections are the first step in the process of gaining political power, and it is no surprise that Gen Z is beginning to emerge as a force in the political landscape.
Gen Z's political power is evident in the rising number of young voters. In the 2020 election, the number of people aged 18-29 who voted increased by 11.4% over the 2016 election. This is a sign that Gen Z is taking their civic responsibility seriously, and the data is beginning to reflect this trend.
New data from the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE) is providing more insight into Gen Z's political power. The data shows that Gen Z is more likely to vote than their elders, and that they are more likely to register to vote than any other age group. In addition, the data shows that Gen Z is more likely to have an opinion on the issues that are important to them, and that they are more likely to engage in political action.
Gen Z is also more likely to be informed about the issues that are important to them. According to the CIRCLE data, Gen Z is more likely to consume news from multiple sources, including both mainstream and alternative media. They are also more likely to use social media to stay informed about the news, and to engage in political conversations.
Gen Z is also more likely to be interested in a variety of political topics. According to the CIRCLE data, Gen Z is more likely than older generations to be interested in gun laws, national security, international issues, and congressional activities. This indicates that Gen Z is not just interested in "identity politics," but is also interested in the broader political issues that affect their lives.
Gen Z is also more likely to have a positive view of the political process. According to the CIRCLE data, Gen Z is more likely than other generations to have a positive view of the role of government, and to have a positive view of the political process. This indicates that Gen Z is not just cynical about politics, but is actually engaging in it and believing in it.
Gen Z is also more likely to be involved in political action. According to the CIRCLE data, Gen Z is more likely to engage in civic activities such as attending protests, donating money to political causes, and volunteering for political campaigns. This indicates that Gen Z is not just interested in making their voice heard, but is actually taking steps to make a difference in the political process.
Gen Z is also more likely to support progressive causes. According to the CIRCLE data, Gen Z is more likely to support progressive policies such as raising the minimum wage, increasing access to healthcare, and expanding access to education. This indicates that Gen Z is not just interested in liberal policies, but is actually willing to take action to support them.
Gen Z is also more likely to be frustrated with the status quo. According to the CIRCLE data, Gen Z is more likely than other generations to be frustrated with the current political system, and to feel that their voices are not being heard. This indicates that Gen Z is not just dissatisfied with the current state of politics, but is actually taking steps to change it.
Gen Z is also more likely to support candidates who are in line with their values. According to the CIRCLE data, Gen Z is more likely than other generations to support candidates who share their values, and who are willing to stand up for what they believe in. This indicates that Gen Z is not just interested in electing candidates who agree with them, but is actually willing to put their support behind candidates who will fight for their values.
Gen Z is also more likely to be engaged in the political process. According to the CIRCLE data, Gen Z is more likely than other generations to be registered to vote, to discuss political issues with their peers, and to be involved in political campaigns. This indicates that Gen Z is not just passive observers of the political process, but is actually taking an active role in it.
Gen Z is also more likely to be frustrated with "wait your turn" politics. According to the CIRCLE data, Gen Z is more likely than other generations to be frustrated with the current political system and its tendency to favor incumbents over new candidates. This indicates that Gen Z is not just apathetic about politics, but is actually taking steps to push for change.
Gen Z is also more likely to be vocal about their issues. According to the CIRCLE data, Gen Z is more likely than other generations to talk about the issues that matter to them, such as mental health, sexual harassment, and financial security. This indicates that Gen Z is not just interested in talking about identity politics, but is actually engaging in meaningful conversations about the issues that matter to them.
As Gen Z continues to rise to political prominence, it is important to remember that they are not just a monolithic group with a single agenda. Rather, they are a diverse group of individuals who have diverse opinions and views on the issues that matter to them. Gen Z is taking an active role in the political process, and they are making sure their voices are heard.
