Amid political gridlock and rising societal challenges, young Americans are increasingly disillusioned with the U.S. democratic system.
In a 2021 poll conducted by Harvard University, only 7% of Americans aged 18 to 29 viewed the United States as a “healthy democracy.” Over half believed that democracy was “in trouble” or “failing.” Two years later, sentiments remain grim. The Civic Outlook of Young Adults in America report reveals that 52% have little to no trust in government institutions, and 57% are dissatisfied with the political system.
Yascha Mounk, a political theorist at Harvard University, notes, “For most Americans, a lot of the reason why they supported liberal democracy has always been that it delivered for them… For young people, that’s no longer true.”
Pressing Issues Unaddressed
One of the most pressing concerns for youth is the increasing number of school shootings. According to CNN, by March 6, 2023—the 66th day of the year—there had already been 16 school shootings, surpassing previous years. Studies indicate that incidents in the last five years significantly outnumber those in the prior two decades.
Despite the alarming trend, many feel that the government response has been insufficient. Matt Frei, Europe Editor and Presenter at Channel 4, remarked, “Despite incremental moves… it is so much easier to go into a gun shop or to go into a gun fair or go online and buy essentially the kind of weapon that you might use on the battlefield.”
Climate change is another critical issue. Young activists like Faith Soliven of Maui High School express deep concern: “We are going to be the ones carrying the weight of this world on our shoulders… cleaning up everyone else’s mess.” Esau Sinnok from the University of Alaska added, “Climate change isn’t just a political issue for me. It is my home.”
A Washington Post-University of Maryland poll found that 59% of voters aged 18-29 disapprove of the current administration’s handling of climate policy. Critics point to unmet promises and policy reversals that undermine trust.
Political Gridlock and Lost Confidence
The perceived inability of the government to address critical issues contributes to growing cynicism. U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett likened Washington to “an open sewer,” stating, “Everybody just wants to stay in power… It has nothing to do with doing what’s right.”
The 118th Congress is one of the least productive in history, passing only 34 bills in its first year—the lowest since the Great Depression. Internal conflicts, such as the unprecedented ousting of Speaker Kevin McCarthy and prolonged leadership vacuums, exacerbate the dysfunction. Representative Ken Buck lamented, “It is the worst year of the nine years and three months I’ve been in Congress.”
Youth are acutely aware of these issues. Pew Research Center data shows that young adults are less likely to see significant differences between major parties or feel represented by them. Nearly half wish for more political options. Manu Meel, CEO of BridgeUSA, stated, “It looks like American democracy is losing… people don’t view the United States… as the pinnacle that it used to be.”
A Future in Question
The Eurasia Group’s 2024 Top Risks Report lists “The United States vs. itself” as the number one risk, highlighting the deepening dysfunction of America’s political system. As young Americans lose faith in democracy’s ability to address their concerns, the question remains: How will this disillusionment shape the future of the nation?
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
