It's Been a Minute How 'Socialism' got sexy
Nov 3, 2025
Lex McMenamin, Head of Teen Vogue's politics section, dives into how young people view socialism today. He explores the impact of COVID and financial pressures on youth perspectives on economic issues. Lex discusses how polls show rising financial insecurity and distrust in corporate politics influence youth alignment with socialist ideas. He highlights campus protests and political radicalization as key factors shaping this movement. Lex also examines the tension between progressive values and the Democratic establishment, particularly in local elections.
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Redefining Socialism Among Youth
- Younger Americans now often define socialism as policies like universal health care and free college rather than state ownership.
- Gallup found 66% of Democrats viewed socialism positively in September, driven especially by young people.
Trump, 2016, And Postprimary Disillusion
- The 2016 Trump victory and a disputed Democratic primary pushed many young activists away from the party.
- That disaffection helped swell groups like the DSA after 2017 as people sought alternatives to mainstream Democrats.
Economic Stress Drives Political Shift
- Young people report high economic anxiety from student loans, rent, and healthcare costs.
- Teen Vogue polling found most under-35s feel corporations hold too much power and the American dream is dead.