Youth views

CIRCLE (Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement) at Tufts University has a 25-year history of probing patterns of youth and civic engagement. “We conduct extensive research on youth participation,” said Leela Strong, CIRCLE’s director, “and we leverage that research to improve opportunities for all young people to acquire and use the skills and knowledge they need to meaningfully participate in civic life.”

According to CIRCLE, just 47 percent of 18-29 year olds voted in 2024, the lowest turnout of any age demographic. Why? CIRCLE’s research offers clues, while its “Youth Political Homes Toolkit” offers a resource for planning and action. . Among the questions are:

Do you feel like you understand what’s happening in the country?

Does this organization help you with that? Why or why not?

What kinds of conversations about politics and the news would you be interested in having with people in this organization?

Can you talk about politics with people in the organization with different views from you? Why or why not?

CIRCLE’s research on young voters in 2024, 2025, and 2026 is especially fascinating. First off, although millions of young people are not in college, CIRCLE notes, the opinions of four-year college students capture more than their share of attention. To correct this bias, Leela explained, CIRCLE over-samples low-income black and brown youth to make sure those who have been marginalized are well-represented.

CIRCLE has identified 3 broad archetypes of Gen Z attitudes toward democracy.

Passive Appreciation: The majority of youth (63%) values the basic principles and practices of democracy, but are relatively disengaged from civic action and even passive in the face of current threats to democracy.

Dismissive Detachment: Nearly a third of young people express less support for core democratic principles. This group is “checked out” of a democracy that they feel has neither served them well nor met their needs.

Hostile Dissatisfaction: A small number (7%) of young people believe in the principles of our government, but are extremely dissatisfied with our democracy as it exists today and are even willing to consider political violence to achieve change. “This is the first time we’re seeing such dissatisfaction since the Vietnam War,” Leela stated.

.....CIRCLE’s survey shows that the economy is a salient issue. Among youth’s economic concerns, Leela said, are achieving stability and economic well-being. Issues like education, abortion, health care and housing all have an affordability angle. While this survey was conducted in 2024 and the numbers on immigration or voting rights may have changed, it still provides a starting point for conversation. “You learn about how to make change,” one young person told Leela “but it’s hard to do that if you’re hungry.”