These findings reveal a compelling “independent path”: younger voters’ optimism in democracy often clashes with their frustration at the dysfunction of the two-party system.
The Big Picture
According to a 2022 Tufts study, young Americans (ages 18–29) today are more optimistic about democracy and our elected institutions than older generations. In 2022, 35% of youth felt democracy was “very” or “somewhat” secure—higher than older age groups—and 82% expressed confidence in elections, with trust even higher among young men (84%) and Latino youth (88%). Meanwhile, nearly 40% of these young voters identify as independent or something other than Democrat or Republican, compared to only about 30% of older cohorts.
Zooming In
- Strong belief in legitimacy: 71% of young voters affirmed the legitimacy of President Biden’s 2020 win—at least twice the share of older voters who felt the same.
- Partisan detachment: About 38% of youth identify as independent or with neither major party, driven by widespread disillusionment with partisan dysfunction
- Perception of extremism: Young voters were the demographic most likely to view the Republican Party as “too extreme” (63%), and the least likely to say that about Democrats (37%).
Key Facts
Independent Lens
These findings reveal a compelling “independent path”: younger voters’ optimism in democracy often clashes with their frustration at the dysfunction of the two-party system. The major parties’ rigidity, polarization, and perceived excesses are pushing youth toward independence. The takeaway for the Independent Center: if political engagement can be amplified outside the binary landscape, it could unlock the vast potential of a generation that believes in democracy—but distrusts its current systems. Operating as an independent alternative isn’t just aspirational—it’s essential.
Final Word
Young Americans aren’t primed for pessimism—they’re hopeful about the power of democracy. What shakes their trust is not the system itself, but the fractured performance of the Republican and Democratic parties. Freed from those confines, youth are ready to build a more inclusive, responsive democratic future. If we harness that momentum beyond partisan limits, our nation's potential is truly tremendous.
