Democratic party loses college student followers

Frustration with political leaders has led many college students to lose confidence in the Democratic Party, leaving that demographic up for grabs in this year’s midterm elections.

A study by the Pew Research Center, a non-partisan group that researches attitudes toward politics and public policy, found that affiliation with the Democratic Party among college students has weakened since its high point in the 2008 elections.

Data shows that 36 percent of those between the ages of 18 and 29 identify themselves as Democrats compared to the 24 percent who identify themselves as Republicans. In 2008 the margin was much larger.

Twice as many in that age group also now identify themselves as “leaning Republican,” according to the study.

“This leaves us in a position of wondering what is going on,” said Scott Keeter, director of survey research for the center.

Young voters will also play a smaller role in the elections this year than they played in 2008, he said.

Keeter said the shift in political affiliation can be attributed to the economic climate.

He said the younger demographic has had to deal with a poor job market and lifestyle changes. More young adults have had to move back home or continue living with their parents, he said.

“Democrats in general are discouraged and don’t appear to be very engaged,” Keeter said.

The College Republican National Committee said they want to take advantage of the decreased enthusiasm for the Democratic party.

Rob Lockwood, communications director for the committee, said he thinks the national trend could translate into votes.

“The young vote will go at least 51 percent for Republicans,” he said.

The committee is planning several initiatives to mobilize and inform young voters.

Another initiative is “Operation Red November,” which recruits and trains new republican members.

But UNC’s Young Democrats President Lee Storrow said despite the national trend, he has not seen membership in the club decrease.

“Young people are still excited and energized, but there is some frustration with Washington on the whole,” Storrow said.

For now, Storrow said he is focused on registering voters and campaigning for Elaine Marshall, the Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate.

Anthony Dent, chairman of UNC College Republicans, said that the chapter has seen an increase in members this fall.

“It represents a huge difference in enthusiasm between the two parties,” Dent said.

Contact the State & National Editor at stntdesk@unc.edu.