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Generation Z, the generation of Americans born between the mid-1990s and early 2010, is the most diverse, most well-educated, and most technologically adept generation in history. Generation Z is also turning out to be remarkably politically active, having an overwhelming sense of social duty and a strong desire for change. However, they face numerous challenges in today's electoral system, including partisan gridlock, polarization, and corruption. As a result, Generation Z requires independent candidates who can provide fresh insights, leadership, and solutions that match their political views, beliefs and interests.
Politics and Generation Z
Politics and Generation Z is a critical topic that needs to be addressed. The United States is witnessing a severe political divide, where the two major political parties are becoming increasingly ideologically polarized and hostile to one another. According to the Pew Research Center, the partisan divide on critical topics such as immigration, healthcare, and the environment has grown dramatically over the last two decades. As a result, the government has become dysfunctional, unable to solve the nation's and the world's pressing issues. It is essential to understand and address this issue to ensure a better future for Generation Z and the generations to come.
This status quo does not sit well with young voters. Younger voters are more likely than older generations to perceive the country's expanding racial and ethnic diversity as beneficial, and to support progressive causes like LGBTQ+ rights and marijuana legalization. They are also more likely to support the government playing a more active role in addressing social and economic challenges. Generation Z’s political views show that they are conscious of issues like pandemics, student debt, climate change, social justice, and terrorism, as well as the importance of international collaboration and multilateralism.
However, Gen Z voters encounter numerous challenges while engaging in the electoral process. They often become disillusioned by many politicians' and political parties' corruption, dishonesty, and incompetence. They are dissatisfied with the electoral process’ lack of leadership, independent politics, and responsiveness to their demands and needs. Youth activism is also disempowered by the domination of special interests and big money, which limits their political involvement, options, and impact.
Why Generation Z Is Different
In many aspects, Gen Z young voters differ from past generations, making them more inclined to vote for independent political candidates.
Here are a few of the main characteristics and issues that distinguish Gen Z voters:
Diversity
Generation Z is the most diverse generation in American history. As of 2020, the Pew Research Center reported the following breakdown of Generation Z by race and ethnicity:
52% Non-Hispanic White
25% Hispanic
14% Black
6% Asian
5% Other
The members of Generation Z are also more likely to have a minimum of one foreign-born parent, to speak another language besides English, and to identify as LGBTQ+. As a result, they are often more tolerant, open-minded, and accepting of diverse cultures and identities. This group of voters, which is currently mainly made up of youth, could cause a huge political change within the electoral process.
Education
Gen Z voters are also the most well-educated generation yet, with 57% of individuals between the ages of 18 and 21 enrolling in a two- or four-year college. They are also more likely than Millennials and other previous generations to complete high school and pursue higher learning.
Generation Z is also full of “digital natives,” people who have grown up with digital technology including smartphones, the internet, and social media. Digital natives can quickly acquire, analyze, and share information online.
Civic Involvement
Gen Z voters are often very politically active. Recent Gen Z voter turnout trends show that they are more likely to demonstrate political engagement and get involved in activities such as voting, volunteering, solving campaign issues, and protesting in support of grassroots causes. Generation Z’s high level of civic engagement indicates a readiness for change, as well as strong potential for young voters to make a real impact.
The Potential of Independent Candidates
Independent candidates are people who seek elected office without the endorsement or affiliation of any political party. They engage in independent politics and are, therefore, not constrained by any party’s ideology, platform, or agenda. They have the freedom to express themselves authentically, present their own policy agendas, and establish their own coalitions. These non-partisan candidates are exclusively responsible to their constituents.
Independent candidates can appeal to Gen Z and address their concerns in ways that the two establishment parties often cannot.
Here are some benefits and advantages of independent candidates for Generation Z:
Real Representation: Independents have the freedom to reflect the voices and perspectives of individuals who are often excluded, stereotyped, or disregarded by the two-party system.
Fresh Ideas: Independent candidates can provide fresh ideas and solutions that challenge the status quo. These outside perspectives can be crucial in addressing problems related to foreign policy, education, social justice, health care, student debt, climate change, and so on.
Transparent Leadership: Independent candidates can provide Gen Z voters with more transparent and genuine leadership. Independents can be more accountable to their constituents because they aren't restricted by party leaders, donors, or lobbyists.
Bipartisan Collaboration: Independents are often more constructive, cooperative, and collaborative in their governance than Democrats or Republicans. This is because they can operate independently from the two major parties’ system of polarization, gridlock, and partisan warfare.
How Generation Z Can Support Independent Candidates
Gen Z has the power to shape the country's political future. They can help establish a more honest and equitable democracy that empowers voters. They can help to break the current two-party system's monopoly and stagnation, resulting in a more diversified political climate.
Here are a few of the most powerful ways young voters can get involved and support the independent movement:
Register to Vote: Make sure you're registered to vote and validate your registration status ahead of election day. Then keep the momentum building by encouraging your family and friends to also register and vote in elections.
Volunteer: Offer your time and expertise to support independent political candidates. Phone banking, canvassing, and text banking are just a few of the ways you can make an impact. Click here to learn about how you can plug into a network of independent volunteers.
Run for Office: Consider running for office if you are interested and qualified. While most federal offices have minimum age requirements, many local offices do not have age requirements, meaning members of Generation Z can get involved and make an impact.
Generation Z has the opportunity to create a better political future for themselves and others by supporting independent political candidates. The time has come to take action and make your voice heard!
