Millennials Vote for Bernie

As I have shared in the past, that while Millennials are not always politically engaged they will make their voice heard when the issue concerns them.   Presidential elections are just such an issue.  For that reason we need to take their opinion on the presidential candidates seriously.  So, how do you feel about a president who admits to socialist leanings?  That’s right.  Bernie Sanders is the leading candidate among young voters.  I had read one survey done by the Millennials website, Ypulse, and I thought that make sense because they are a voice for the young generation.  Now United Press International (UPI) has published the results of a similar survey that confirms the results.  Bernie Sanders garnered 54% compared to second place Hillary Clinton (26%).  That is pretty decisive.

The realization that we might actually elect an individual who views themselves more as a socialist than and champion of capitalism sent me back to my government textbook.  Socialism can be defined as any of various economic and political theories advocating collective or governmental ownership and administration of the means of production and distribution of goods.  Capitalism is just the opposite, with corporate or private ownership.  The fact that our nation was built on the free-enterprise, capitalist philosophy leaves me troubled when I hear the word “Socialist.”

So what is behind this strong shift to the political left?  Let’s examine the way that Millennials think:

They are the generation that has endorsed the legality of drugs, same-sex marriage and have created a competitive world through social media.

They want jobs, affordable education and security for their future.

The typical millennial is well aware that most politicians are full of hollow words, broken promises and they all have a certain flair for public relations.

In the final analysis; Millennials want more for themselves.  I recently heard one of my peers refer to them as the “Me-lennials.”  They want political leaders who share their value system and are responsive to their needs.  Bernie Sanders is the closest to that.  In fact, you could make a case that he is the only candidate who speaks to those under the age of thirty. 

Fortunately we are still a full year away from the presidential election.  I would like to think that the next twelve months are an opportunity to make a difference.  If you are uncomfortable with a political trend, now is the time to make your voice heard.  It does not happen through rallies that proclaim a more conservative agenda.  It happens through relationship with those whose opinions differ from ours.  If we have two camps that are on opposite sides of the fence shouting at each other, nothing will change.  In the end the loudest voice will win.  When we venture into the enemy camp and engage them in conversation (note I did not say debate), we have an opportunity to influence.  Get to know the millennials in your network and listen to them.  In the process, they might actually listen and respect you and your opinion.