In recent years, populism has permeated political discourse and found a home in various political parties around the world, with political and electoral consequences. However, the Republican Party should tread cautiously when embracing populism, given evidence that populism on the right isn’t popular among young voters.

Populism, defined as a political approach that seeks to appeal to the interests and concerns of ordinary people, often by making simplistic or unrealistic promises, has gained traction among disillusioned citizens who feel disconnected from traditional political establishments. While not all populist politicians are anti-democratic, they seek to put the desires of the many ahead of individual liberties and institutional processes, which could cut against the counter-majoritarian protections that our Constitution upholds.

Populist politicians tend to oversimplify complex issues and offer simplistic solutions that appeal to people’s frustrations and fears. They stoke division and exploit people’s anger, rather than engaging in substantive policy discussions. It’s all about grabbing power. This approach may generate short-term gains and galvanize a specific base, but it ultimately fails to address the underlying problems facing our society.

According to the Pew Research Center, the populist right embraces anti-immigration views and believes that legal immigration must be decreased. Moreover, it is heavily critical of large corporations’ impact on society, and supports higher taxes on the wealthy and on large corporations. Its adherents also favor protectionist trade policies such as imposing tariffs on imports to protect American corporations in the domestic market. These policies jeopardize the social fabric and economic vitality of the nation.

Immigration is vital for economic growth given the growing need for skilled workers in STEM fields and high tech. Moreover, the government’s excessive overreach over businesses could disrupt the investment market and hinder economic growth. Protectionist trade policies drive up the prices for consumers because the government picks winners and losers. Ultimately, these policies can undermine a country’s competitiveness on the global stage.

In recent years, the rise of populism within the Republican Party has become increasingly apparent. The party has witnessed the emergence of politicians such as former President Donald Trump who adopt populist rhetoric and appeal to the frustrations and grievances of a significant portion of the electorate. This trend is evidenced by the widespread support garnered by figures who championed anti-establishment narratives, challenged traditional party elites, and advocated for policies that resonated with a segment of the population dissatisfied with the status quo. Or it has given a voice to a con man like George Santos, the notorious member of the House of Representatives who is facing 13 counts for financial crimes. He is innocent until proven guilty. However, his indictment demonstrates how populism can enable politicians who prioritize personal gain over the interests of the people they represent.

The surge in populism within the Republican Party reflects a broader societal sentiment characterized by concerns about income inequality, globalization and cultural shifts. As a result, the party has grappled with an internal struggle between its traditional conservative principles and the populist wave that seeks to redefine the party’s identity and policy priorities. The growing prominence of populism within the Republican Party presents both opportunities and challenges as the party navigates its future direction and attempts to maintain a broad-based coalition.

However, this shift in the party is not appealing to young voters. Populism tends to prioritize the immediate desires of the masses over long-term principles. The Republican Party has traditionally stood for limited government, fiscal responsibility and free-market economics. These principles have proven to be the bedrock of economic prosperity and individual liberty.

While political preferences can vary across different election cycles, data and surveys indicate a decrease in support for the Republican Party among young voters. Young voters recognize the importance of economic stability and personal freedom to the future of our nation and have supported conservative candidates who advocate for those principles. In the 1980s, during the presidency of Ronald Reagan, the country witnessed a surge in support for the GOP among young voters. Reagan’s conservative policies and emphasis on individual liberty, lower taxes and a solid national defense resonated with many young Americans. His optimism and communication ability contributed to his popularity among young voters and the GOP maintained an advantage in the Senate of 12 seats.

Now, populism’s tendency to advocate for protectionist trade policies, increased government intervention and nativist ideologies alienates the party’s young constituents. The Republican Party has already been paying the cost of losing the younger Americans’ votes with its populist turn. In 2022, Gen Z voters had a historically high turnout, and the Republican Party barely gained the majority in the House and could not flip any Senate seats as a result. According to Brookings Institute research on polling, Millennials and Gen Z will be the largest voting demographic by 2028. If the Republican Party wants to stand a chance in the future, it has to attract young voters.

It is important to note that these periods of popularity may not have been universal among all young voters, as political preferences can vary within generational cohorts. Young voters, like any demographic, have diverse political beliefs and can be influenced by various factors such as economic conditions, social issues and candidate appeal. However, embracing populism risks diluting conservative principles, as it often promotes protectionist policies and an expanded role of the state. Young voters understand that a vibrant economy and individual liberties are best safeguarded through the preservation of these conservative principles, not by succumbing to the allure of populism.

Tahmineh Dehbozorgi is a columnist for the Southern California News Group and a student at The George Washington Law School. Follow her on Twitter: @DeTahmineh.