In this insightful discussion, Rep. Maxwell Frost, the first Gen Z member of Congress, and Haley Lickstein, a prominent advocate for young civic engagement, dive into the critical role of Generation Z in shaping the future. They explore the motivations behind youth voting, addressing pressing issues like gun violence and climate change. The duo shares their experiences in activism, emphasizing grassroots efforts and the power of social media. Listeners are encouraged to get involved and reclaim their power in democracy, making their voices heard at the polls.
Gen Z's political engagement is crucial, as their voting power can significantly shape future elections and policies.
Historical skepticism among young voters stems from past political disillusionments, emphasizing the need for genuine outreach and connection from candidates.
Increasing diversity in political representation ensures a broader understanding of constituents' needs, enhancing the effectiveness of governance.
Deep dives
Harnessing the Youth Vote
Young voters are pivotal in determining the outcome of elections, particularly as enthusiasm around the Democratic nominee grows. Historical skepticism exists among these voters regarding whether their participation translates into substantial political change, especially considering issues like gun violence and climate change, which profoundly affect their lives. For instance, Generation Z, comprising about 41 million potential voters aged 14 to 27, has a heightened awareness of political matters and has shown increased voter turnout, necessitating tailored outreach strategies from political leaders. Engaging with these voters involves understanding their specific concerns and affirming that their voices do matter in shaping the future.
The Legacy of Young Activism
Past generations like the Baby Boomers and Generation X, faced similar political disillusionments due to events such as voter suppression and military drafts, which fueled their political activism. These historical moments significantly shaped young activists' foundations, leading to crucial reforms like the ratification of the 26th Amendment, granting voting rights at 18. Today's youth, influenced by a mix of activism around issues such as gun control and civil rights, require political candidates to genuinely address their priorities in order to motivate participation. By aligning candidates’ platforms with the values and interests of young voters, politicians can reinvigorate enthusiasm and promote collective action.
Building Trust in Political Institutions
Low trust in political institutions among young Americans is imperative to address, as this skepticism can inhibit participation in the democratic process. Factors contributing to this distrust include the perceived inefficacy of elected officials to deliver on promises and systemic issues such as gerrymandering and corruption. Notably, as highlighted by recent surveys, only a fraction of young people possess faith in organizations like the Supreme Court and Congress, leading to disengagement. Solutions to restore trust involve transparency, accountability, and active dialogue between officials and constituents, reinforcing the idea that each citizen's involvement is crucial to a functioning democracy.
Representation Matters
Diversity in political representation is essential in a robust democracy, as it ensures that a multitude of voices and experiences contribute to decision-making processes. Current dialogues emphasize the significance of not only electing more women to office but also increasing representation from various racial and ethnic backgrounds, particularly from communities that have historically been marginalized. Representative Maxwell Frost emphasizes that legislating effectively requires an understanding rooted in the lived experiences of constituents. This representation allows for the crafting of policies that resonate with and adequately meet the needs of diverse citizen groups.
Empowering Future Leaders
Encouraging young individuals to participate actively in politics involves not just motivating them to vote but also inviting them into political spaces as leaders and decision-makers. Civic engagement can manifest in numerous ways, from grassroots organizing to digital advocacy, underscoring the importance of relatable and approachable leadership. The podcast highlights examples of young leaders who have managed to channel their activism into political positions, like Congress member Maxwell Frost, whose journey reflects the potential impact of youthful vigor in governance. The emphasis on mentorship and support for aspiring leaders is crucial to sustain momentum and foster a more inclusive political landscape.
This election is in the hands of Gen Z, a cohort of young Americans that’s diverse, creative, and—often—skeptical. At the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Stacey is joined by Rep. Maxwell Frost, the first member of Gen Z to be elected to Congress, and influencer Haley Lickstein, a leading voice on civic engagement among young people, to talk about how they’re working to get their peers involved.
We want to hear your questions. Send us an email at assemblyrequired@crooked.com or leave us a voicemail at 213-293-9509. You and your question might be featured on the show.
For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
