

The Truth About Young Men's Shift Towards Trump
30 snips Jun 19, 2025
John Della Volpe, the Director of Polling at Harvard Kennedy School's Institute of Politics, discusses the surprising shift of young men toward Trump, emphasizing their feelings of distrust in government. He highlights how economic anxieties and social isolation, exacerbated by the pandemic, contribute to this trend. Della Volpe shares findings from his research project, which reveals that personal values and media influences play a significant role in their political alignment. He stresses the need for more authentic dialogue to reconnect this demographic with progressive ideals.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Institutional Betrayal Among Young Men
- Young men experience institutional betrayal and feel neglected, not supported, by society and government institutions.
- This breeds grievance and openness to alternative political messages and messengers outside traditional systems.
Economic Stress and Masculine Identity
- Economic challenges cut to young men's identity tied to traditional masculinity and their role as providers.
- This adds unique pressure and anxiety compared to young women's economic concerns.
Shame Shapes Young Men's Lives
- Young men feel trapped between traditional masculinity and modern expectations to be vulnerable.
- Shame from this conflict fosters depression and destructive behaviors, aggravated by lack of peer support.