Young Voters Support Harris in 2024

CHICAGO — Vice President Kamala Harris’s rise to the forefront of the Democratic ticket is generating enthusiasm among Generation Z voters. Following President Biden's withdrawal from the race, Harris's campaign has actively engaged younger voters, leveraging the viral online trend known as “brat summer.” This movement, characterized by its distinctive lime green and black aesthetic, has been embraced by her campaign, which has adapted its social media presence to resonate with this youthful demographic. Harris's team has also tapped into popular internet memes, particularly a viral clip from a 2023 speech where she quoted her mother’s remarks about young people. Political analysts note that while past attempts by politicians to connect with younger voters have often felt disingenuous, Harris’s approach appears more authentic. Sam Weinberg, executive director of the Gen Z think tank Path to Progress, expressed that the transition from Biden to Harris has invigorated young voters, who now feel they are supporting a genuinely progressive agenda. Weinberg highlighted that Harris’s stance on issues like Gaza aligns more closely with the values of younger voters compared to Biden. Her campaign has responded to criticisms, including those from former President Donald Trump regarding her environmental policies. As the campaign progresses, young voters are eager to see a commitment to key issues such as abortion rights, climate change, and gun violence prevention, which they believe are crucial for their support.