The Rise of Conservative Gen Z: A Generation Reclaiming America's Founding Values
- Rich Washburn
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
In a surprising twist that’s rattling the narratives of legacy media and progressive institutions, Generation Z — America’s youngest voting block — is beginning to chart a bold, rightward course. Far from the indoctrinated image of a radically liberal youth, a new wave of young conservatives is emerging, proudly embracing the very principles the 917 Society seeks to instill: personal responsibility, limited government, patriotism, and fidelity to the U.S. Constitution.
Recent data from the Harvard Youth Poll, as highlighted by Axios, shows that 26% of men aged 18 to 24 now identify as conservative, outpacing their slightly older Millennial counterparts. This is no statistical fluke — it’s part of a broader cultural awakening. Young women are also showing signs of this shift, with a growing number questioning the ideologies of the Left and seeking moral clarity in conservative values.
What’s Behind the Shift?
1. Cultural Alienation. For years, young men — especially young white men — have been vilified in academia, media, and pop culture. The dominant progressive narrative has often blamed them for systemic issues, while simultaneously stripping them of purpose, identity, and national pride. But Gen Z isn’t buying it anymore. They’re rejecting the guilt-laden ideology of the Left in favor of truth, accountability, and country.
2. Post-Pandemic Disillusionment. The youngest Americans endured school closures, government overreach, and economic turmoil during COVID-19. While progressive leaders claimed to "follow the science," they trampled civil liberties and failed to deliver real solutions. Gen Z watched, and many realized that big government wasn’t their friend — it was part of the problem.
3. The Appeal of Authenticity. Donald Trump’s unapologetic patriotism and populist message have resonated with these young voters — not just because of policy, but because of personality. Gen Z grew up in an age of curated inauthenticity, so when they see someone who refuses to play by the Left’s rules, it stands out. Many view Trump not as a villain, but as a kind of cultural “anti-hero” — flawed, yes, but real.
4. Searching for Moral Anchors. Amid a culture saturated with moral relativism and identity confusion, young people are increasingly looking for timeless truths. And where do they find them? In the Bible, in the Declaration of Independence, in the Constitution. These are not dusty relics of a bygone era — they are living documents that offer meaning, structure, and hope.
A Generation Rediscovering the Constitution
Here at the 917 Society, we’ve long believed that educating our youth about the U.S. Constitution is the key to preserving liberty. Our work to distribute free pocket Constitutions to 8th graders nationwide isn’t just a symbolic gesture — it’s a strategic investment in America’s future.
When young Americans read the Constitution, they begin to understand the genius of checks and balances, the importance of limited government, and the rights endowed not by man, but by our Creator. These truths are self-evident, and Gen Z is beginning to recognize them once again.
Conservatism Is Cool Again
Let’s be honest: the Left made “being woke” a trend, but Gen Z is proving that patriotism is the real counterculture. In fact, wearing an American flag shirt, quoting the Founding Fathers, and defending free speech on campus is the new rebellion. It’s no longer edgy to be a socialist — it’s edgy to be conservative.
The 917 Society stands ready to meet this moment. We are equipping the next generation with the historical and moral tools they need to defend liberty — and we are not alone. Across America, we see rising youth-led movements like Turning Point USA, Young America’s Foundation, and other grassroots efforts lighting fires of freedom in hearts and minds.
Yes, many Gen Z voters still hold some left-leaning policy views, especially on issues like healthcare or climate change. But the winds are shifting. They are not doctrinaire progressives — they are disillusioned citizens searching for something real. And more and more, they’re finding that in conservatism.
Let’s not squander this opportunity. It’s time to invest boldly in civic education, constitutional literacy, and moral clarity. The future of America depends on it — and Gen Z may be just the generation to lead us back to the light.
#GenZConservatives, #917Society, #CivicEducation, #PatriotismMatters, #YouthMovement, #ConstitutionFirst, #AmericaFirst, #FaithAndFreedom, #ConservativeRising, #BiblicalValues
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