The White House has made a significant move in its efforts to engage with young voters by officially joining TikTok. This step is seen as a long-overdue effort to reach Gen Z, a demographic that is increasingly trending conservative. However, the article argues that joining TikTok alone is not enough to secure the support of this generation.
President Trump’s successful political comeback in 2024 was marked by his effective engagement with young voters through various platforms. His approach included hosting long-form podcasts and launching a TikTok account that quickly became one of the fastest-growing on the platform. These efforts contributed to significant gains in support among Gen Z voters, with a reported 10-point increase in support compared to 2020.
Despite these successes, the article emphasizes that the work is far from over. The GOP holds a razor-thin margin in the House, and the results of the recent elections show clear divides among young voters. The article warns that if the GOP does not maintain its efforts in modernizing youth outreach, others will take advantage of this opportunity. This includes figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Zohran Mamdani, who are gaining influence among young voters by being present online and on campus.
The article suggests that the White House and GOP must take further steps to ensure that Gen Z remains aligned with conservative values. One of the key recommendations is the launch of a monthly White House podcast, similar to FDR’s fireside chats, to provide a direct and unfiltered line of communication with young voters. The article also emphasizes the importance of campus visits and a consistent digital presence on platforms like TikTok to meet young voters where they are.
The success of Trump’s youth outreach strategies is highlighted as evidence that Gen Z is not a lost cause for the GOP. However, the article warns that without sustained and consistent efforts, the GOP risks losing Gen Z to progressive figures. The piece calls for a comprehensive strategy that includes a monthly White House podcast, a presidential campus tour, and a continued energetic presence on TikTok to ensure that the White House remains relevant and accessible to young voters. This strategy is seen as essential to prevent Gen Z from drifting towards more progressive figures and to secure their long-term support for the conservative movement.