CNN anchor Jake Tapper has predicted that Generation Z is becoming more conservative, attributing the trend to a reaction against progressive values imposed in schools and the perceived failures of movements like Black Lives Matter and #MeToo. During an episode of ‘The Reason Interview’ podcast, Tapper told Reason editor-at-large Nick Gillespie that the younger generation appears inclined to reject the progressive views they were taught in school. He suggested that the shift in political alignment for young voters was partly due to his own children’s ‘skepticism’ toward liberal political ideas, emphasizing the influence of personal and educational experiences.
Tapper noted that while Trump did not win young voters as he claimed, he did outperform previous Republican candidates, indicating a growing interest in conservative politics. Additionally, Tapper highlighted the impact of events such as the removal of BLM-related art in DC and the outcomes of movements like #MeToo, which he believes have led to disillusionment with progressive movements, further contributing to the conservative shift among Gen Z.
Recent polling data from the Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE) indicates a notable trend: young voters were more likely to identify as conservative in 2024 than in 2020. Specifically, youths aged 18–29 were the only age group in the last election whose moderate voters preferred Trump to Harris, highlighting a significant shift in the political preferences of this demographic. Tapper acknowledged Trump’s support among young voters, noting that his performance exceeded that of previous Republican candidates, suggesting a broader appeal within the younger generation.
The journalist’s assertion is part of a larger discussion about the changing political landscape, where young people increasingly question the effectiveness of progressive initiatives. Tapper’s comments reflect a broader narrative that the perceived shortcomings of movements such as BLM and #MeToo have led to a re-evaluation of the political ideologies that influenced younger generations. This re-evaluation is not only about the policies but also about the methods and outcomes of these movements, which Tapper argues have not met their initial objectives, thereby contributing to the growing skepticism and alignment with conservative values among Gen Z.
As these political shifts continue, the implications for future elections and the direction of American politics may become more pronounced. Tapper’s insights, combined with the available polling data, suggest that the generational divide in political ideologies is widening, with significant consequences for the political strategies of both major parties. The evolving dynamics of political alignment among Gen Z are likely to shape the next phase of political discourse and electoral outcomes in the United States.