In just over two months, Donald Trump will take office as the 47th President of the United States, making a comeback that many thought was improbable. While most predictions pointed to it being a tight race, Trump defied expectations by not only securing a clear path to the White House, but also winning the popular vote. Among the key factors driving his victory? A surprising turnout from Gen Z men, a group previously seen as leaning progressive.
Just a seismic shift right of nearly 30 points by young men since 2020--and a less pronounced but still significant shift right for young women, too.
— Dustin Volz (@dnvolz) November 6, 2024
After 2016 a dominant narrative was that a liberal youth vote was ascendent. That's no longer the case.https://t.co/DdG6KeR4OG pic.twitter.com/MesaCrRbGZ
So, how did this happen, and who saw it coming?
Targeted Media Strategy
Trump's success with young men was no coincidence. He strategically appeared on platforms like "The Joe Rogan Experience", "Theo Von's podcast", and Adin Ross's livestreams, connecting with younger, male-dominated audiences beyond traditional mainstream media. His interview on Rogan's show alone drew over 46 million views on YouTube, amplifying his message directly to an audience that more traditional outlets often overlook.
Economic Appeal
As record inflation, high rents, and rising tuition strain young people, Trump's economic promises resonated. According to NBC exit polls, 78 percent of Gen Z voters who prioritized the economy as their top issue chose Trump. His focus on tax relief for tips and overtime struck a chord with many young voters navigating unseen financial challenges.
Masculinity And Cultural Resonance
Trump's portrayal as an "alpha" figure also appealed to young men questioning today's modern masculinity. With rally slogans like "Make America Masculine Again" and endorsements from figures like Tucker Carlson, Trump became a symbol of strength for those disillusioned by changing gender norms. A Fairleigh Dickinson University poll showed that 41 percent of likely voters viewed Trump as "completely masculine," a perception that bolstered his appeal among this demographic.
The Role Of Media Bubbles
Social media algorithms further reinforced Trump's reach. With 39 percent of young adults (under 30) now relying on TikTok for news, these algorithms created an environment where Trump's message resonated deeply with Gen Z men, often at the expense of traditional news sources.
Trump's victory among Gen Z men revealed a shift in how candidates reached younger voters in this election cycle. By focusing on relatable media, economic concerns and cultural resonance, Trump's campaign created a movement that traditional outreach couldn't achieve -- potentially setting a new standard for future elections.
[Images: Polina Zimmerman, Franklin Santillan A and Anh Nguyen]
