Why This 18-Year-Old Is Voting for Trump: Perspectives from Gen Z

In this eye-opening episode of the MindShift Power Podcast, host Fatima Bey sits down with Xavier Meza, an 18-year-old first-time voter from Chicago, to understand why he supports Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election. Their conversation offers valuable insights into how young conservatives think and what drives their political choices.

The Voice of Young Conservatives

Xavier represents a significant portion of Gen Z voters who identify with conservative values. As a self-described "America First kind of guy," he articulates his support for Trump based on three main concerns:

1. Foreign affairs - Xavier worries about escalating global tensions and believes Trump's approach to international relations would prevent World War III

2. The economy - He recalls lower gas prices during Trump's previous term and believes Trump's energy policies would benefit Americans

3. Border security - While supporting legal immigration, Xavier emphasizes the importance of secure borders and proper vetting

A Journey of Political Discovery

What makes Xavier's perspective particularly interesting is that he wasn't raised in a politically conservative household. In fact, he shares that his political awakening began in his junior year of high school when he started expanding his knowledge through podcasts, classroom discussions, and personal research.

"I used to be democratic because that was my whole family, and that was everything I ever heard," Xavier explains. His political transformation came when he decided to explore both sides of the political spectrum rather than accepting a one-sided narrative.

The Importance of Patriotism

Xavier expresses concern about declining patriotism among his peers, noting that many young Americans don't feel proud of their country. He contrasts this with the enthusiasm he's witnessed from immigrants who've obtained their green cards, who "seemed more American-loving than most of the people who were born here."

Looking to the Future

When asked about the future of politics and his generation's role in it, Xavier acknowledges the fluid nature of political allegiances. He observes that while his generation is trending slightly more conservative than previous ones, much depends on how events unfold in the coming years.

A Message for Voters of All Ages

Xavier's advice is refreshingly balanced: "Make sure that the information that you receive is two-sided... looking at both sides instead of only looking at one." This approach, he argues, allows individuals to think independently rather than simply adopting others' perspectives.

The Value of Different Perspectives

Regardless of your political leanings, this conversation offers valuable insights into the thinking of young conservative voters. As Fatima wisely notes, "Whether we like what he has to say or not, whether we agree or not or totally agree, we need to hear what our youth are thinking because they're our future."

In a time of intense political polarization, taking the time to listen to perspectives that differ from our own may be the most patriotic thing we can do.

MindShifting Moment

It's time for a powerful MindShift: Consider the sources of your information. As emphasized in this episode, getting information exclusively from people who think like you leads to bias and susceptibility to manipulation. Challenge yourself to explore diverse perspectives, even those you disagree with. Ask yourself: "What are my news sources? What information resources do I trust and why?" Regardless of your political views, questioning your information intake is the first step toward genuine understanding and independent thinking. Remember, there's power in shifting your thinking.