Gen Z Harris or Trump Values

The NBC News Decision Desk Poll: Generation Z highlights striking contrasts in the personal definitions of success between Men who voted for Trump and Women who voted for Harris. These differences reflect not only gender divides but also underlying cultural and political priorities that shape their worldviews. Analyzing the data reveals a rich tapestry of values that underscore how each group perceives fulfillment and achievement in 2025.For Men who voted for Trump, traditional markers of success dominate. Having children tops the list at 34%, suggesting a strong emphasis on family legacy and stability. Financial independence follows closely at 33%, indicating a focus on self-reliance and economic security, values often aligned with conservative ideals. A fulfilling job or career, at 30%, and being married, at 29%, further reinforce a vision of success rooted in personal achievement and partnership. Owning a home (26%) and having money to do what they want (28%) reflect a desire for material security and autonomy. Spiritual grounding (24%) and making family or community proud (23%) add layers of social and moral responsibility. Notably, less emphasis is placed on emotional stability (9%) or early retirement (9%), suggesting a preference for active, duty-driven lives over personal comfort.

In contrast, Women who voted for Harris prioritize professional and emotional fulfillment. A fulfilling job or career leads at 51%, far outpacing other goals, highlighting a strong drive for self-actualization and career satisfaction, possibly influenced by progressive values of empowerment. Having money to do what they want (46%) and emotional stability (39%) rank high, indicating a blend of financial freedom and mental well-being as key to success. Using talents to help others (37%) reflects a community-oriented mindset, aligning with social justice themes often associated with Harris’s platform. Financial independence (21%) and having no debt (21%) are important but less dominant, suggesting a balanced approach to economics. Owning a home (20%) and making family or community proud (19%) are valued but secondary, while being grounded spiritually (11%) and able to retire early (6%) trail. Notably, having children (6%) and being married (6%) are the least prioritized, challenging traditional expectations.

These contrasts reveal deeper ideological divides. Men’s focus on family and material security aligns with a conservative narrative of individual responsibility and traditional roles, while Women’s emphasis on career, emotional health, and community service mirrors progressive ideals of equity and self-expression. The low priority on marriage and children among Women may reflect shifting societal norms, such as delayed family planning or prioritizing personal growth, whereas Men’s higher valuation of these could indicate a clinging to conventional masculinity.

The data also suggests practical implications. For instance, policies appealing to Men might emphasize family support and homeownership incentives, while Women might respond to initiatives promoting workplace equality and mental health resources. This polarization offers a snapshot of Generation Z’s evolving identity, shaped by gender and politics, and underscores the need for nuanced approaches to address their diverse aspirations in 2025. Understanding these contrasts can foster empathy and dialogue across divides, illuminating the complex interplay of personal and political values.