Professor Brendan Nyhan of Dartmouth University has raised concerns about the disengagement of young people in anti-Trump protests. In a recent column for the New York Times, he warned that the lack of youth participation in demonstrations signals a need for innovative opposition strategies. Nyhan argued that Trump’s subversion of the rule of law and constitutional constraints pose a significant threat, necessitating broader engagement.
Nyhan highlighted that while the No Kings movement drew an estimated five million people to the streets, the participation rate among young people remains low. According to YouGov data, only 8% of those aged 18-29 participated, compared to 13% of older Americans. He attributed this lack of involvement to a combination of factors, including the perceived ineffectiveness of previous mass protests and the Democratic Party’s failure to inspire younger voters.
The professor also criticized the Democratic Party for being dominated by an older generation of elites, who prioritize social events over political activism. This, he argued, has created a disconnect with younger voters, further contributing to their disengagement. Nyhan emphasized that the current climate under Trump presents a unique challenge, requiring a more dynamic approach to mobilize the public.
His concerns are part of a broader discussion on the role of young people in political movements and the effectiveness of traditional protest methods. Nyhan’s analysis underscores the need for new strategies to ensure that the younger generation is adequately involved in shaping political outcomes.