Books The Politics of Gen Z: How the Youngest Voters Will Shape Our Democracy Book by Melissa Deckman

"The Politics of Gen Z: How the Youngest Voters Will Shape Our Democracy" by Melissa Deckman explores the rising political engagement of Generation Z—those born between 1997 and 2012—and their potential to transform American politics. The book highlights how Gen Z has come of age amid significant social and political upheavals, including the election of Donald Trump, the murder of George Floyd, the Dobbs Supreme Court decision, mass shootings, and climate change threats.

Deckman emphasizes that Gen Z, especially women and LGBTQ individuals, are leading progressive activism at unprecedented levels, creating a historic "reverse gender gap" where young women participate more actively than their male peers. The book draws on extensive original data, nearly 100 interviews with Gen Z activists, and national surveys to reveal how this generation is mobilizing around issues like reproductive rights, gun violence prevention, climate action, and political office.

The narrative delves into the cultural and political factors driving this activism, such as the impact of role models like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the Me Too movement, and social media’s role in organizing and empowerment. Deckman presents Gen Z as a politically engaged, diverse, and socially conscious cohort poised to push U.S. politics leftward and reshape democracy in the coming years.

1 BOOK