Red wave coming? Disillusioned youth ready to elect new wave of socialist candidates by 2028

According to a September 2025 Rasmussen/Heartland Institute poll:

  • 53% of voters aged 18–39 say they would like to see a democratic socialist win the 2028 presidential election.
  • 76% of under-40 voters agree that major industries like health care, energy, and big tech should be nationalized to promote equity.
  • Even among self-identified conservatives, support for nationalization reaches 79%, suggesting a shift toward economic populism.

This marks a significant departure from traditional party lines, with younger voters increasingly favoring left-wing economic policies regardless of their cultural or partisan identity.

https://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/partner_surveys/most_under_40_voters_favor_socialism