Democrats pull out all the stops to rally young voters in Chicago
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While young people have historically voted for the Democrats, mobilising them this time around is crucial for the party, as the election promises to be very close.
PHOTO: BLOOMBERG
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CHICAGO – Electronic music, friendship bracelets and condoms: The Democrats have pulled out all the stops to attract young Americans to their convention in Chicago, an electorate that will be crucial to their chance of winning the November election.
The light-hearted funfair called “DemPalooza” is being held on the fringes of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, something of a nod to the popular Lollapalooza music festival held every summer in Illinois’ largest city.
On the menu: workshops and conferences, as well as manicures and bracelet-making.
“It’s just a lot of fun,” exclaimed 17-year-old Cadence Warner, threading the last beads of her blue accessory with the inscription “vote” and “Kamala”, in reference to the Democrat presidential candidate.
Far from being a side event, the workshops present an opportunity to talk politics, said Ms Jessica Siles, 24, a member of the Voters of Tomorrow organisation.
“Initially it seems kind of silly, but it’s relevant (and) it’s a great conversation starter,” she said, pointing to beaded bracelets popularised by fans of pop star Taylor Swift, but also to condoms.
On them is written “F*** Project 2025”, a reference to a conservative programme designed by people aligned to former president Donald Trump
While young people have historically voted for the Democrats, mobilising them this time around is crucial for the party, as the election promises to be very close.
Only 53 per cent of young people aged 18 to 29 said they were certain to vote in November, according to a survey published in April by the Harvard Kennedy School Institute of Politics.
This election is “going to be won by your demographic for the most part”, acknowledged Mr Tim Walz, Ms Kamala Harris’ running mate, during a surprise appearance on Aug 20 at an event organised for young people.
“It would be you to elect the first woman president of the United States,” proclaimed the former teacher, to thunderous applause from the audience.
The atmosphere in the hall was ecstatic.
After 81-year-old Joe Biden withdrew from the race,
“It’s just the energy that really motivates young people to vote,” he added.
“Before Kamala was our nominee, it was two old guys, and we can’t relate to that,” said 19-year-old Samantha Wigginton, with laughter.
Ms Jasmine Wynn, 19, agreed: “I think Kamala as a candidate is more reflective of young America” pointing to the fact that Ms Harris’ diverse background resonates with many Americans.
“So I think she’s just genuinely a more exciting candidate to vote for than Biden was”.
‘Pop culture’
The Democrats are determined to get the message across to young people.
For the first time in the party’s history, more than 200 influencers are accredited to participate in the event – massive presence designed to flood social networks.
“It’s been the most pro-youth convention,” hailed Ms Siles from the Voters of Tomorrow organisation.
“They use a lot of, like, pop culture, language and slang and everything like that. It feels like they’re relating to you and not having to put you up on their level,” said Ms Wigginton, who drove more than six hours with her father from neighbouring Kentucky.
For all that, the young Democrats warn that rhinestones and glitter will not be enough to win the hearts of the connected generation.
“The No. 1 issue, it’s actually the economy,” Ms Siles said.
To win, Ms Harris, who has pledged to “fight” for the middle class, will have to convince them that she is best placed to deal with the exploding cost of living and offer them a better future. AFP
