In this discussion, Claire Cain Miller, a New York Times reporter specializing in gender and voting, dives into the striking gender divide among young voters. She reveals how young men are increasingly backing Donald Trump while young women gravitate toward Kamala Harris. The conversation explores the influence of educational disparities and societal expectations on these shifting political identities. Miller also delves into the impact of movements like Me Too and the evolving perceptions of masculinity in today’s climate.
Young women are increasingly aligning with Democratic values due to heightened awareness of gender inequalities and recent cultural movements.
Young men are shifting towards conservative candidates like Trump as they grapple with economic uncertainties and evolving societal expectations.
Deep dives
Dramatic Gender Divide in Young Voter Preferences
A significant shift in political preferences has emerged among young voters, with young men increasingly favoring Donald Trump and young women gravitating towards Kamala Harris. Polls indicate that over half of young men are planning to vote for Trump, contrasting sharply with more than two-thirds of young women supporting Harris. This growing divide is stark among voters aged 18 to 29, marking a departure from past trends where both genders exhibited similar voting patterns. The changes reflect not only an electoral shift but also a broader social and cultural transformation influencing the political landscape.
Young Women's Political Awakening
Young women are experiencing a notable political awakening, driven largely by recent historical events and cultural shifts. Key moments such as the 2016 presidential election, the emergence of the Me Too movement, and the overturning of Roe v. Wade have catalyzed their political engagement. Many young women reported a growing awareness of ongoing gender inequalities, which has prompted them to align more closely with Democratic principles. Their increased activism reflects a more profound connection to social justice and equality issues, which they perceive as threatened by conservative policies.
Changing Dynamics Among Young Men
As young men lean more towards conservative candidates, they find themselves grappling with shifting societal expectations and economic pressures. These young men often voice concerns about job prospects and economic stability, exacerbated by the decline of traditional manufacturing roles that previously supported middle-class families. Many expressed feelings of inadequacy and frustration stemming from their inability to meet traditional benchmarks of masculinity that emphasize being a provider. This struggle may lead them to support candidates like Trump, who promise to restore these foundational economic opportunities.
Cultural and Economic Implications of the Divide
The divergence in political preferences between young men and women signifies a cultural shift that may have long-lasting implications. As both groups increasingly lead different lives—shaped by distinct media consumption, educational experiences, and socialization—their relationships and community dynamics are also evolving. Men are more open to expressing their economic concerns, reflecting a desire for traditional roles, while women are embracing a more empowered identity that prioritizes individual agency. This divergence raises questions about future societal structures, political engagements, and the way young people view their roles within families and communities.
A stark new gender divide has formed among the country’s youngest voters. Young men have drifted toward Donald Trump, while young women are surging toward Kamala Harris.
As a result, men and women under 30, once similar in their politics, are now farther apart than any other generation of voters.
Claire Cain Miller, a reporter who covers gender for The New York Times, discusses a divide that is defining this election.
Guest: Claire Cain Miller, a reporter for The New York Times covering gender, families and education.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
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