Harris Targets Arizona to Energize Gen Z Voters Ahead of Election

In a bid to energize young voters ahead of the November elections, Vice President Kamala Harris is launching an extensive campaign targeting Generation Z across 150 college campuses in key battleground states. Arizona is taking center stage for this initiative, with events scheduled at the University of Arizona in Tucson and Arizona State University in Tempe, featuring U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost, the nation’s first Gen Z Congress member.

Frost emphasized the importance of engaging young voters, stating, “The only way we will win is by organizing everywhere. It’s up to us to turn the energy we’re seeing into action to win in November.” With issues like healthcare decisions, climate change, and gun violence pressing on younger demographics, the campaign is poised to resonate with a group that has increasingly become a political force since 2018.

Following a historic turnout in recent elections, Arizona has seen a surge in young voter participation. In 2018, over 25% of voters under 30 cast their ballots, a significant increase from prior years. The momentum continued in 2020, with 51% turnout among this demographic, solidifying their status as critical voters. The trend persisted into 2022, where 25% of younger Arizona voters participated, underscoring a shift towards increased political engagement.

The evolving political landscape shows a marked preference for Democratic candidates among younger voters. In 1998, young voters were split evenly between parties; however, by 2022, they favored Democrats 63%-35%. In a state characterized by tight races, like Katie Hobbs’ narrow gubernatorial victory by just 17,000 votes, every vote has considerable weight.

Moreover, a recent poll from ASU’s Center for an Independent and Sustainable Democracy revealed that two-thirds of Gen Z Arizonans plan to vote this November. This group is less tied to political parties, with many indicating that issues like abortion rights could sway their participation. Jackie Salit, co-director of the center, noted that independent voters are particularly motivated by ballot measures addressing these concerns.

Meanwhile, Harris’ nomination has rejuvenated enthusiasm within the Democratic Party, a stark contrast to the challenges faced by President Biden’s campaign to engage younger supporters. A coalition of 17 youth organizing groups has rallied behind Harris, reinforcing the campaign’s grassroots approach. Polling shows Harris leading Trump by a significant margin among 18- to 29-year-olds, crucial for the upcoming election.

To further mobilize young voters, Frost has been appointed as a primary spokesperson and will be joined by various local leaders at campus events. The “Back-to-School” campaign will incorporate on-campus advertisements, social media outreach, and an extensive barnstorming tour aimed at registering new voters before approaching deadlines.