Since 2001, the political gap between young women and men in the US has grown substantially. In 2001, women were only 3% more likely to identify as liberal compared to men. However, this margin has surged to 15% today, according to a recent Gallup survey. The election of Donald Trump, whose presidency was marked by controversial comments and allegations of sexual misconduct, alongside significant events such as the #MeToo movement and the overturning of Roe v. Wade, has influenced this shift.
The changing political landscape, including Trump’s presidency and the erosion of abortion rights, has been pivotal in driving young women towards liberalism. The New York Times-Sienna College poll for the 2024 presidential election shows that women are significantly more likely to support Democratic nominee Kamala Harris compared to men, reflecting this shift in political attitudes. This trend is also evident in the heightened engagement of young women in politics, driven by a strong sense of urgency and empowerment.
The rise in liberalism among young women aligns with their experiences growing up during the evolution of feminist waves and increased political activism. Political scientist Melissa Deckman notes that this generation has been raised with a strong emphasis on self-esteem and civic participation. The Trump era, marked by explicit sexism, and the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade have intensified these feelings, fostering greater political activism among young women.
In response to these developments, many young women have become more politically engaged, viewing their activism as essential to safeguarding their rights and influencing change.
