Gen Z's Economic Divide: Harris vs. Trump in the 2024 Election

Gen Z Perspective: The 2024 Election | Part 1 - Economy

The economy is a critical issue for every voter, but for Gen Z, it's particularly pressing. Many are just entering the workforce or still battling student debt, and they’re keenly aware that the policies implemented now will shape their financial futures. To get a deeper understanding of how this generation is thinking, I hosted a discussion with 10 Gen Z voters—five backing Kamala Harris and five supporting Donald Trump. What followed was a spirited debate that reflected the deep divisions, but also the shared concerns of America’s youngest voters.

The Economy: A Conversation Across the Divide

Jordan (Harris Supporter, 22, from New York City): “Honestly, Kamala Harris gets it. We’re drowning in student debt, and the cost of living is through the roof. She’s been vocal about making college more affordable and addressing housing shortages. I don’t want to graduate and then be stuck in a cycle of debt for the next 20 years. Harris is fighting for us.”

Jordan’s point struck a chord with the other Harris supporters. The burden of student debt and the skyrocketing costs of living in urban areas were common themes. But Emily, a Trump supporter from Texas, wasn’t convinced.

Emily (Trump Supporter, 23, from Dallas): “I hear you, Jordan, but Trump’s approach is more realistic. Cutting taxes and deregulating businesses will create more jobs and opportunities for us. Harris might have good intentions, but I think her policies would lead to higher taxes and fewer opportunities. We need a strong economy to thrive, and Trump knows how to make that happen.”

Emily’s counterpoint opened up the floor to a broader discussion about the role of government in the economy. Should the government intervene to level the playing field, or should it step back and let the market drive growth?

Maya (Harris Supporter, 20, from San Francisco): “But those tax cuts primarily benefit the wealthy, not people like us who are just starting out. Harris is focused on making the economy work for everyone, not just the top 1%. It’s about building an economy that’s inclusive and fair.”

Maya’s perspective sparked a heated response from Jason, a Trump supporter who grew up in a small town heavily dependent on manufacturing jobs.

Jason (Trump Supporter, 24, from Youngstown, Ohio): “I get that, but Trump’s policies help everyone by boosting the economy as a whole. When businesses do well, they create jobs. I grew up in a town that relied on manufacturing, and Trump brought those jobs back. That’s what we need—policies that actually bring jobs to communities.”

Sophia (Harris Supporter, 22, from Seattle): “Jobs are important, yes, but we also need to ensure those jobs pay a living wage. Harris supports raising the minimum wage, which would help so many people get out of poverty. We need to focus on policies that lift everyone up, not just a few.”

Sophia’s point about wages added another layer to the conversation. While job creation is crucial, there’s a growing concern about the quality and sustainability of those jobs. The discussion then turned to the implications of raising the minimum wage.

Matt (Trump Supporter, 21, from Phoenix): “Raising the minimum wage sounds good in theory, but it could hurt small businesses. If they can’t afford to pay higher wages, they’ll cut jobs. Trump’s plan is to lower taxes for small businesses so they can grow and hire more people. That’s how you strengthen the economy.”

Matt’s argument about the potential downsides of raising the minimum wage was met with both skepticism and support. The debate reflected a broader generational divide: younger voters are grappling with the immediate need for fair wages versus the long-term impact on job availability.

Jasmine (Harris Supporter, 24, from Washington, D.C.): “But what good is a job if it doesn’t pay enough to live on? Harris is focused on building an economy where everyone can succeed, not just scrape by. It’s about more than just job creation; it’s about creating good jobs that offer stability and growth.”

Jasmine’s comment shifted the conversation toward the concept of economic security. For many Harris supporters, it’s not just about having a job; it’s about having a job that provides financial stability and opportunities for advancement.

Alex (Trump Supporter, 22, from Jacksonville, Florida): “We need to be realistic, though. Trump’s policies create a strong economy where businesses thrive, and that benefits everyone. We can’t just keep adding regulations and expecting businesses to absorb the costs. Trump understands what it takes to keep the economy booming.”

Alex’s pragmatism highlighted a key argument for Trump supporters: economic policies should focus on creating an environment where businesses can thrive, which, in turn, will lead to job creation and economic growth. This led to further discussion on the balance between regulation and growth.

Aaliyah (Harris Supporter, 21, from Chicago): “I don’t know, Alex. I think Harris’s approach is more forward-thinking. She’s looking at long-term sustainability, not just short-term gains. We need an economy that can sustain us in the future, not just one that looks good on paper today.”

Aaliyah’s point underscored a significant divide: Harris supporters are more focused on long-term solutions that prioritize sustainability and equity, while Trump supporters emphasize immediate economic growth and the benefits of deregulation.

Ryan (Trump Supporter, 23, from Charlotte, North Carolina): “I hear you, Aaliyah, but sometimes you need to focus on what works now. Trump’s policies are proven—he’s done it before, and he can do it again. We need to keep the economy strong, and that’s what he’s about.”

Ryan’s final remark brought the discussion full circle. For Trump supporters, the appeal lies in his track record and the belief that he can replicate past successes. For Harris supporters, the focus is on evolving economic policies to meet the challenges of the future.

The Divide on Economic Futures

The conversation among these young voters was both intense and enlightening, revealing the profound divide within Gen Z when it comes to economic policy. For Harris supporters, the economy isn't just a matter of numbers; it's about justice, equity, and sustainability. They believe that Kamala Harris represents a future where systemic inequalities are addressed head-on, and where economic policies are designed to uplift all Americans, not just the wealthy few. They see Harris’s plans to raise the minimum wage, expand access to affordable housing, and provide student debt relief as essential steps toward building an economy that works for everyone. These voters are concerned about the long-term viability of the current economic system and believe that without significant reform, the future will continue to favor those already at the top. To them, Harris’s focus on inclusivity and fairness is not just idealistic—it’s necessary for the survival of the American dream.

On the other side, Trump supporters value immediate, tangible economic growth and argue that a thriving economy is the best way to ensure everyone benefits. They appreciate Trump’s focus on deregulation, lower taxes, and his commitment to creating a business-friendly environment where companies can grow and prosper. For them, these policies are not just about helping businesses—they’re about creating jobs, boosting incomes, and ensuring that America remains competitive on the global stage. They see Trump as a proven leader with a track record of delivering results, someone who understands the complexities of the economy and knows how to drive growth. These voters are less concerned with systemic reform and more focused on maintaining a strong, resilient economy that offers security and opportunity. For Trump supporters, the key to a prosperous future lies in a robust economy where businesses are empowered to thrive, ultimately benefiting everyone.

A Generation Torn Between Visions

As this discussion revealed, Gen Z is deeply divided on how best to build an economy that serves their needs and aspirations. For some, Kamala Harris embodies the principles of equity, fairness, and long-term sustainability. These voters see her as the candidate who will bring about the necessary changes to ensure that the economy is inclusive and just. They are motivated by a vision of an America where everyone has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or starting point. Harris’s focus on addressing social inequalities, providing relief from student debt, and ensuring that all jobs pay a living wage resonates deeply with those who are concerned about the future of the middle class and the working poor.

Conversely, other members of Gen Z look to Donald Trump as the leader who can provide the economic stability and growth they believe is crucial for their future. They argue that Trump’s business-centric approach is what the country needs to remain competitive and prosperous. For these voters, the promise of more jobs, lower taxes, and a reduced regulatory burden is a compelling vision of a future where they can find stability and success. They are drawn to Trump’s emphasis on immediate, practical solutions that they believe will directly impact their lives and career prospects in the near term. This divide within Gen Z reflects broader national tensions, as this generation—like the country at large—grapples with the competing priorities of growth and equity, short-term gains and long-term stability. Ultimately, the 2024 election presents Gen Z with a critical choice about the kind of economy they want to inherit and build.

One thing is clear: Gen Z isn’t just passively watching this election unfold—they’re actively engaging with the issues that will shape their futures. Whether through Harris’s progressive policies or Trump’s business-centric approach, these young voters are ready to make their voices heard.

Stay tuned for more Gen Z perspectives on the key issues driving the 2024 election at Woke Waves Magazine.

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