The Youth Shifts that Defined the 2026 Midterm Elections
Several key demographic groups, like young men and non-college youth, backed Democrats in 2026 after supporting Trump in 2024.
Latest Research
Filter by Date
College Students Prioritized the Economy and Voted Democratic in the 2026 Midterms
Like youth overall, two-thirds of young people enrolled in an educational institution voted for a Democratic candidate.
2026 Youth Voter Turnout Second-Highest for a Midterm Election in the Last 30 Years
High youth participation and major vote choice for Democratic candidates shaped the 2026 midterm elections.
In Shift From 2024, Young Men, White Youth, and Non-College Youth Vote Democratic in 2026
Young women, youth of color, and LGBT youth still gave Democrats the strongest support.
Young Voters Prioritized the Economy, Sought Drastic Political Change
The economy and jobs was the top issue for young voters, many of whom disapprove of Trump and want political upheaval.
Historic +35 Youth Vote Choice for Democrats in the 2026 Midterm Election
66% of youth voted for a Democratic U.S. House candidate; 31% for a Republican candidate.
State by State: Youth Vote Key to Blue Wave in the 2026 Midterms
Young people's overwhelming support for Democratic candidates led to major victories in Texas, Ohio, Georgia, and elsewhere.
The Six Sources of Youth Civic Engagement Influence in Low Media Ecosystem Communities
Highlighting the adaptive systems, trusted networks, & local institutions that help youth access information, develop civic motivation, & participate in public life.
One Week Away: Registrations Surge Among Newly Eligible Voters
There are more young people registered to vote this cycle than at this time before the 2022 midterms.