Young Men Are Turning Away from Republicans. That Doesn’t Mean They’ll Embrace Democrats

After struggling to win over young men in 2024, Democrats sense an opportunity to make inroads with a demographic that’s become increasingly disillusioned with the party in power.

Two years ago, the GOP was able to capitalize on an environment in which young men felt either ignored or actively disliked by the Democratic Party. But with the cost of living going up — thanks in part to an unpopular war in the Middle East — the cultural factors that motivated young men to turn out for Republicans in 2024 may be outweighed by economic factors this time around.

About the Author

Charles Hilu

Charles Hilu is a national affairs reporter at National Review. A graduate of the University of Michigan, he previously worked at the Washington Free Beacon and The Dispatch before joining National Review in 2026.

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After struggling to win over young men in 2024, Democrats sense an opportunity to make inroads with a demographic that’s become increasingly disillusioned with the party in power.

Two years ago, the GOP was able to capitalize on an environment in which young men felt either ignored or actively disliked by the Democratic Party. But with the cost of living going up — thanks in part to an unpopular war in the Middle East — the cultural factors that motivated young men to turn out for Republicans in 2024 may be outweighed by economic factors this time around.

About the Author

Charles Hilu

Charles Hilu is a national affairs reporter at National Review. A graduate of the University of Michigan, he previously worked at the Washington Free Beacon and The Dispatch before joining National Review in 2026.