One cannot paint with a broad brush in characterizing a generation of over 80 million – especially since these young adults have often shown conflicting views on many political issues. But, with many carrying large student loan debt and experiencing high levels of underemployment, financial concerns are in the forefront for most of them. And with record numbers living back home as Boomerang Kids, concerns about achieving the traditional markers of adulthood are likely to affect their ballot choices. Yet Millennials as a group tend to view their future with optimism and enthusiasm, often acting altruistically and notably volunteering to help in many causes.
Before the elections ramped into gear, one-half of young adults indicated that they were Independents, not identifying with any party. But as the season unfolds, more and more of them are coming to terms with their inner contradictions and taking sides. Traditionally, young voters are less likely to come out to the polls but, certainly, this is no typical election year. So let’s keep our eyes on the Millennials as we try to make sense of their favorites – and our own – in this unusual primary season.