WASHINGTON, D.C. — A recent survey by U.S. News & World Report and Generation Lab indicates that several Democratic leaders are garnering more support than President Joe Biden among young adults in potential matchups against former President Donald Trump.
The survey, focusing on the attitudes of young voters aged 18-34 in critical battleground states, underscores a shifting landscape within the Democratic Party as it gears up for the 2024 presidential election.
According to the findings, in a hypothetical head-to-head contest with Trump, Biden leads with 59% support among young adults, compared to Trump’s 41%. However, Vice President Kamala Harris, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and California Governor Gavin Newsom all outperform Biden in similar matchups, each securing 63% support against Trump’s 37%.
Even former First Lady Michelle Obama, despite not indicating any intent to run, holds a substantial lead over Trump at 72% to 28%.
The survey also reveals nuances in young voters’ perceptions of the current administration. Only 17% of respondents favored Biden when asked about their voting preferences among a slate of candidates, compared to 22% for Trump and 4% for Harris.
Concerns over economic conditions and perceptions of personal well-being also emerged prominently in the survey. While 31% of young adults feel they are better off now compared to four years ago, 37% disagree, with economic concerns cited by 70% of those who feel worse off.
The survey’s insights suggest challenges for Biden in maintaining support among young voters, with significant portions undecided on key issues and election participation intentions.
“Our survey underscores a pivotal moment as Democrats assess their prospects against Donald Trump,” said Dafna Linzer, U.S. News’ editorial director and executive vice president. “Understanding the sentiments of young voters will be crucial as the election approaches.”
Jira Smith, Generation Lab’s director of research, emphasized the survey’s role in gauging the pulse of the younger electorate: “These findings are essential for gauging where the election might turn, given the narrow margins expected in November.”
Conducted online from June 28 to July 5, 2024, the survey polled 2,040 adults aged 18-34 across Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, with a margin of error of +/- 2.2 percentage points.