The 2024 Election: America’s Young Men at a Crossroads — Why They’re Rallying Behind Trump and What’s at Stake

By: Robert Duran IV

Across America — in small, industrial towns, rural communities, and urban neighborhoods alike — young men like Alex, 23, face a hostile world that seems designed to work against them. Alex grew up in a single-parent household, working every odd job available to keep his family afloat. For generations, men like him were told that there was a clear path to stability: hard work, a good job, and the satisfaction of building a life and future for themselves. But in today’s America, those paths have been ripped away. Factories have closed, economic opportunities have evaporated, and even the traditional family structure — once the backbone of American society — has weakened, leaving young men without the anchors and guidance that once sustained them.

As the 2024 election approaches, young men are coming out in record numbers in support of former President Donald Trump. His message of resilience, independence, and a return to traditional values speaks to men who’ve been left behind. Vice President Kamala Harris, in contrast, has built strong support among women with a platform focused on social equity and inclusivity. But for men across the country, this election is about much more than party politics. It’s about reclaiming purpose and a future in a society that has taken from them, over and over again.

The Crisis Facing America’s Young Men

The quiet crisis facing America’s young men did not “just happen.” It is the result of years of choices by leaders, institutions, and cultural voices that have systematically dismantled the foundations on which men once built fulfilling lives.

The statistics tell a story of a generation that has been pushed to the brink. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide rates among men aged 15 to 24 have surged by nearly 30% over the past two decades (CDC ). The American Psychological Association notes that young men are facing record levels of anxiety and depression, the product of economic instability, social isolation, and a culture that’s stripped them of traditional values and purpose (APA ). Each of these statistics represents a young man burdened by forces beyond his control in a world that has left him isolated, under-supported, and unable to thrive.

A System Built Against Them

The educational system has compounded the struggles facing young men. Men now account for just about 40% of college students, and that number continues to decline. Boys are more likely to drop out of high school and, even if they stay, face a system that increasingly feels designed to benefit everyone but them. In many ways, young men are forgotten in classrooms, treated as statistics rather than students.

The academic gap has major consequences for young men’s economic futures. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that young men who do make it to college face limited resources for persistence and success, and many ultimately do not graduate (NCES, 2022). As more women earn college degrees, young men are slipping further behind, with fewer job opportunities and lower earning potential. According to the Brookings Institution, young men from single-parent households are especially vulnerable, 50% more likely to struggle academically and behaviorally, and face fewer pathways to a stable career (Brookings, January 2023).

A Landscape of Vanishing Opportunity

If the educational system fails them, the workforce is no sanctuary either. Men face higher rates of unemployment and underemployment than their female counterparts, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS , 2023). Industries that have historically supported men’s livelihoods — manufacturing, construction, and energy — are shrinking or being fundamentally altered by environmental policies, automation, and outsourcing. The kinds of stable, high-paying jobs that once anchored American communities are disappearing, and nothing of equal value has replaced them.

According to a 2023 report from the American Enterprise Institute, many young men are now forced to rely on gig and short-term work, which offers none of the security and benefits of the full-time employment their fathers and grandfathers once enjoyed (AEI ). This shift has not only eroded men’s economic security but also their sense of purpose and self-worth. America’s institutions, designed to support and uplift, have turned their backs on young men, leaving them to navigate an increasingly unpredictable and hostile economy with no safety net.

A Foundation Torn Down

Family values have long served as a foundation for stability and purpose, providing men with the direction and resilience they need to thrive. Yet modern policies and cultural forces have systematically weakened traditional family structures, leaving young men with fewer resources to draw from and fewer examples to follow.

• Impact on Men: The erosion of traditional family values has stripped men of a critical source of purpose and identity. In a world where men are increasingly isolated, family has historically provided a grounding influence and a commitment to something greater than themselves. A study published in the American Journal of Sociology reveals that men from stable family environments experience significantly lower rates of depression, addiction, and suicide. Men in committed, family-centered roles report higher life satisfaction and mental wellness. Married men, in particular, are 20% less likely to experience severe depression than their unmarried counterparts (AJS, 2019).
• Impact on Children and Society: The positive effects of family stability are even clearer in the lives of children and communities. A Princeton University study shows that children raised in two-parent households are 40% more likely to complete college and 25% less likely to experience poverty as adults (Princeton, 2019). Communities with higher rates of family stability experience lower crime, stronger social ties, and increased economic resilience, according to Brookings economists (Brookings , 2021).

Yet rather than reinforcing these values, America’s cultural and political institutions have moved away from the traditional family. The result? Young men today grow up in a society where the family-centered values that once guided men toward stable, fulfilling lives are being systematically undermined.

Young Men’s Search for Identity

As young men face mounting challenges with fewer traditional supports, many are searching for communities where they feel accepted and understood. With the disappearance of pathways that once defined manhood, young men today are drawn to spaces where they can reclaim a sense of belonging and purpose.

• A Desire for Brotherhood and Authenticity: In a world that seems increasingly indifferent to men’s experiences, young men are gravitating toward communities that offer understanding and solidarity. Men seek spaces where they can reconnect with values like resilience, independence, and authenticity — values that have long defined manhood. In the absence of traditional roles, many men are finding meaning in communities that celebrate brotherhood and mutual support, even if these spaces may be unconventional or outside the mainstream.

The pursuit of belonging in these communities reflects a need for connection in a society that often ignores men’s challenges. It’s a search for stability and meaning in a culture that has abandoned the values that once grounded men and offered them a sense of direction.

Trump’s Vision of Strength, Opportunity, and Independence

For many men, Trump’s platform isn’t just a political agenda. It represents a vision of stability and resilience that promises to rebuild the structures that have been systematically dismantled for young men. Trump’s policies emphasize economic opportunity, vocational training, and family stability, creating a vision of America where young men have a clear path forward.

• Economic Opportunity and Domestic Industry: Under Trump’s administration, America became a net energy exporter for the first time in over 50 years, achieving energy independence in 2019 (U.S. Energy Information Administration, September 2019). This shift revitalized the energy, manufacturing, and construction sectors — industries that have long provided men with stable, rewarding jobs. Trump’s approach to domestic production offers a clear alternative to the economic policies that have hollowed out American communities, restoring hope for men who want the dignity of hard work.
• Vocational Training and Practical Skills: Trump’s emphasis on vocational education offers men the chance to build careers based on skill and trade, without the necessity of a costly college degree. Vocational program enrollment increased under Trump’s policies, providing a viable path to economic stability for men who pursue these fields (NCES, 2023). Programs like these align with labor market needs and give men the skills to succeed in high-demand industries, reinforcing the idea that fulfilling, well-paying jobs are within reach.
• Family Stability and Mental Health Support: Trump’s policies recognize the importance of family stability and mental health support, addressing the core issues at the heart of young men’s challenges. By reinforcing family-centered initiatives and supporting mental health services, Trump’s platform provides a vision of stability that empowers men to fulfill their potential and build lives rooted in purpose and connection.

Harris and the Democratic Agenda: An "Anti-Man" Approach?

While former President Trump has gained support among men for his emphasis on vocational training, family stability, and economic opportunity, Vice President Kamala Harris and the Democratic platform present a starkly different vision for America. For many men, Harris and the current Democratic agenda represent a continuation of policies that seem to prioritize inclusivity and equity at the expense of opportunities for men. The perception that the Democratic platform is "anti-man" stems from specific policies and cultural shifts that have systematically marginalized the needs of young men, dismantling structures that once offered them stability and purpose.

• Shifting Resources and Focus: The education system has increasingly emphasized gender equity initiatives that have, in practice, marginalized young men. Title IX, initially intended to prevent gender-based discrimination in education, has been expanded under Democratic leadership to include a range of policies that focus almost exclusively on women's advancement in education. Data shows that women now make up approximately 60% of college students, leaving men as a minority on college campuses (National Center for Education Statistics, 2022). Yet, despite this disparity, Democratic-led policies continue to direct funding and resources primarily toward female-focused initiatives. For example, federal funding has been significantly increased for programs that promote gender equity in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), which are fields where men are already struggling with enrollment and retention issues. Instead of investing in initiatives that address the declining educational attainment of men, the focus remains on increasing female participation, exacerbating the educational gap. Studies indicate that men are also more likely to drop out of high school and less likely to pursue higher education, yet these concerns have largely been ignored by current Democratic policy priorities (Brookings Institution , January 2023).

• Reducing Opportunities for Male-Dominated Industries: The Democratic Party has championed policies that aim to transition America to a green economy, focusing on environmental protection and climate change mitigation. While these goals are laudable, the Democratic approach often disregards the economic impact on men employed in traditional energy sectors like oil, gas, and coal, where jobs are overwhelmingly held by men. According to the American Petroleum Institute, a rapid shift away from fossil fuels — as promoted by Harris and other Democratic leaders through initiatives like the Green New Deal — could eliminate up to 1 million jobs in traditional energy sectors by 2030, disproportionately affecting men in states heavily reliant on these industries (API , 2023). Moreover, Democratic policies frequently prioritize funding for job retraining programs that cater to tech and service industries, areas that tend to favor female employment. While there are programs aimed at retraining fossil fuel workers, the scope and funding for these initiatives are limited, leaving many men in traditional blue-collar jobs without adequate support as they face the prospect of losing their livelihoods. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that men in fields like manufacturing and construction face higher rates of unemployment and underemployment than their female counterparts, yet policies have not been adapted to support these men as industries shift (BLS , 2023).
• Undermining Traditional Family Structures: One of the most critical components of men’s well-being and stability is family structure. Research consistently shows that men fare better mentally, emotionally, and financially in stable, family-centered environments. However, Democratic policies under Harris and other party leaders have increasingly supported family structures that move away from traditional models. The emphasis on progressive family policies, including those that support single-parent and nontraditional family structures, has unintentionally marginalized the importance of fathers and two-parent households. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, children raised in two-parent households are less likely to face behavioral problems, are more likely to succeed academically, and generally experience better mental health outcomes (HHS , 2020). A stable, two-parent family structure, with active father involvement, has been shown to improve young men’s academic and social outcomes, reducing their likelihood of facing poverty or dropping out of school. Yet Democratic family policies tend to downplay the importance of fathers, instead promoting flexible definitions of family that often result in weakened support for traditional family structures. The Brookings Institution reports that young men from single-parent homes — a demographic that has increased significantly over the past several decades — are statistically more likely to struggle academically and economically, ultimately limiting their ability to secure stable careers and achieve financial independence (Brookings, January 2023).

• An Unintended Consequence for Men: Democratic criminal justice policies, particularly those aligned with Harris’s progressive stance, have also led to consequences for young men, especially those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. While Harris and the Democratic Party advocate for reduced policing and criminal justice reform, studies have shown that young men, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds, benefit from stable and safe communities. For example, a study by the Manhattan Institute revealed that cities implementing similar reforms, such as Seattle and San Francisco, experienced a 10% increase in violent crime, disproportionately impacting lower-income neighborhoods where young men are at greater risk (Manhattan Institute, 2022). Moreover, recent bail reform policies in Democratic-led states have, in many cases, made it more difficult to deter repeat offenders, leading to increased crime rates. Men are overwhelmingly the victims of violent crime, especially in urban areas, yet the Democratic agenda has largely prioritized reducing incarceration rates and policing budgets over community safety. This approach neglects the importance of creating environments where young men can live, work, and thrive without fear.
• Ignoring Men’s Unique Challenges: Despite a growing mental health crisis among young men, Democratic policies have continued to focus disproportionately on mental health resources targeted at women, particularly for issues such as postpartum depression, trauma support, and domestic violence resources. While these are important, they represent only part of the picture. Men’s mental health challenges, including high rates of suicide, anxiety, and depression, often go unaddressed due to lack of targeted support. The CDC reports that suicide rates among young men are significantly higher than those among women, yet federal funding for mental health initiatives remains skewed toward women-specific issues (CDC ). A comprehensive approach to mental health would recognize the unique challenges men face, particularly the stigma surrounding men seeking help for mental health issues, which requires distinct resources and outreach. Instead, Democratic policies largely overlook these needs, perpetuating the crisis by failing to provide men with the necessary resources to manage their mental health.

Reclaiming America’s Promise for Young Men

Imagine an America where men like Alex can access reliable career paths, connect with communities that support them, and find meaning in traditional values that uplift rather than dismiss them. Trump’s supporters envision a future that empowers men by expanding vocational training, reinforcing family structures, and investing in mental health resources specifically designed to address men’s challenges.

This future includes vocational programs that give men the skills to succeed in vital industries, mental health resources that speak to their unique experiences, and family-centered policies that support stability and mentorship. By prioritizing these areas, America can rebuild the foundation that once provided strength and purpose to young men, equipping them with the tools, opportunities, and sense of direction that previous generations relied on.

This vision of a revitalized America for men is not just about economic gains; it’s about rebuilding the social and cultural fabric that has frayed over decades. Restoring vocational training and stable job opportunities gives men a path to independence and pride in their work. Supporting mental health resources tailored to the unique pressures men face allows them to navigate challenges with resilience. Reaffirming family stability as a cornerstone of society offers young men a model of commitment, discipline, and purpose — values they can carry forward as they build their own lives.

Strengthening Society by Supporting America’s Men

The 2024 election isn’t simply a contest between two candidates; it represents a choice about the values that will shape our country’s future. Supporting young men goes beyond politics. It is about ensuring a stable, resilient society where every individual can find meaning, belonging, and a future worth building. By empowering men with the respect, resources, and support they deserve, America can create a stronger foundation for future generations.

Our nation’s future relies on reclaiming the principles that once guided young men — resilience, responsibility, and a commitment to the common good. We need a vision for young men that restores their ability to build lives they can be proud of and recognizes the essential role they play in creating strong families, communities, and a thriving society.

As Election Day approaches, America stands at a crossroads. Will we continue down a path that leaves our young men isolated, unsupported, and disconnected from society? Or will we commit to policies that recognize their worth, restore the values that uplift them, and create pathways for them to succeed?

This is about more than a single election. It’s about America’s future and the legacy we leave behind. Supporting policies that give young men the opportunities for growth and stability isn’t merely an option — it’s a necessity. An America that values and uplifts every young man creates a legacy of strength, purpose, and pride for generations to come.

In a time when so many feel unheard, the message is clear: the future belongs to those willing to rebuild the foundations, embrace our traditional values, and offer young men a place and purpose in a society that thrives when every citizen has a chance to contribute. It’s time to restore the dignity, respect, and opportunities that America’s young men deserve.