Young men like 18-year-old construction worker David Tasker in Pennsylvania are prioritizing having enough money for gas, dining out, and spending on their girlfriends, while living at home with their parents. Tasker, along with other young men, have been shifting towards the right politically due to their economic concerns, especially those without a college degree. Experts suggest that traditional expectations around masculinity and being a provider are tied to economic success, which has been challenging with the economic outlook for younger men being worse than previous generations.
The economic anxieties among young men are both current and generational, with women making gains in terms of education and employment opportunities. The economic situation for younger men without a college degree is challenging, leading to delayed major life events such as marriage and having children.
The Biden administration has enacted policies to benefit working-class men, such as infrastructure investments and incentives for electric vehicle manufacturing. However, young men feel that they are not being seen or welcomed by the left, as they perceive a lack of representation and attention to their issues.
In a focus group, young men expressed concerns about the economy, inflation, and high gas prices. Many lean towards former President Donald Trump, citing his business acumen as a favorable trait compared to Vice President Kamala Harris. Despite these sentiments, the turnout among young men in elections is typically low, with a lack of enthusiasm for both parties. Experts predict that while Trump may do better among young men compared to young women, winning an overwhelming majority is unlikely.
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