Our October survey reveals how younger voters view the American Dream, political leadership, and key issues.
The Big Picture
At the Independent Center, we recently conducted an extensive survey of 1,200 likely voters under the age of 45 to gauge their attitudes toward the American Dream, the upcoming elections, and pressing national issues. The results provide key insights into this younger demographic’s aspirations, concerns, and political inclinations.
Zooming In
Unwavering Belief in the American Dream
One of the most striking findings of our survey is the strong belief in the American Dream among younger voters. When asked if the American Dream is important to them (AD6), an overwhelming 82% responded affirmatively, while only 18% disagreed.
This sentiment is reinforced by 74% who believe the American Dream remains relevant today (AD7). However, when asked about their own prospects of achieving it (AD9), only 54% felt confident, while 46% expressed doubt.
Desire for Bipartisan Leadership
Younger voters favor centrist leadership. When asked which type of elected official they believe is best equipped to strengthen the American Dream (AD10), 44% favored candidates who work with both parties.
This preference for bipartisanship is further evident in responses to (PS3), where 58% preferred centrist candidates, while 27% favored progressive “bold change” candidates, and only 16% supported conservative “back to basics” candidates.
Generational Differences in Achieving the American Dream
Younger voters perceive older generations as having an easier path to traditional American Dream markers:
- Homeownership: 84% believe it was easier for older generations (AD15).
- Family Formation: 79% think it was easier for Boomers (AD16).
- Economic Mobility: 78% say earning more money than their parents was easier for previous generations (AD18).
- Starting a Business: 71% believe it was easier for older generations (AD19).
However, younger voters see their generation as more inclusive:
- Valuing Different Political Perspectives: 62% believe their generation is better at this (AD23).
- Valuing Racial Diversity: 66% think their generation does this better (AD24).
- Valuing Religious Differences: 63% feel their generation is more accepting (AD25).
Impact of Student Loan Forgiveness on Voting Behavior
Student loan forgiveness is a decisive issue for younger voters. When asked if student loan forgiveness is fair (GM1), 61% said yes.
Among respondents with student loans (GM2), 58% benefited from loan forgiveness. Furthermore, 49% said the Biden administration’s loan forgiveness program makes them more likely to vote Democrat (GM3), while 32% said it makes them less likely, and 19% indicated no impact.
Data Snapshot
- 82% of younger voters say the American Dream is important to them.
- 58% prefer centrist political candidates over ideological ones.
- 84% believe homeownership was easier for older generations.
- 61% believe student loan forgiveness is fair.
- 49% say student loan forgiveness makes them more likely to vote Democrat.
Independent Lens
Our comprehensive survey offers a nuanced view of younger voters' aspirations, concerns, and political leanings. While they still believe in the American Dream, economic and social realities have made achieving it more difficult. Their strong preference for bipartisan leadership underscores a growing frustration with political polarization.
Understanding and addressing these perspectives is crucial for policymakers and candidates hoping to engage younger voters. Their desire for economic stability, political compromise, and inclusivity will shape the political landscape for years to come.
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