Right-wing populism has been on the rise in Europe, and despite some exceptions, it does not seem to be backing out. The group of people that seems to be most convinced by radical right-wing ideas is the youth – people aged 18 to 29.
In the US, however, an unexpected change in this regard was initiated by Zohran Mamdani, currently mayor-elect of NYC. In the recent mayoral election 78% of people aged 18-29 voted for Mamdani, a democratic socialist.
Mamdani – Radical or Realist?
A key element of the Republican anti-Mamdani narrative was the claim that he is a communist, a label that might lead the average observer to perceive the NYC youth as holding rather radical views. However, are the people actually radical, or are the solutions proposed by Mamdani necessary for positive change in America?
One of the mayor-elect’s ideas that seems to enrage typical American „freedom advocates” is free childcare for kids up to 5 years old. Despite also identifying as a liberal, I wonder if they ever stopped to think how „freeing” it truly is to be the sole caregiver for one’s child, forced to give up one’s job to provide full-time care. In Warsaw, Poland, childcare is free up to 3 years old, then 5 hours of daily free childcare up to 6 years old (all of Poland). I doubt anyone would call the mayor of Warsaw a socialist.
Radicalization of the Youth
It is often said that young people are currently prone to anti-establishment ideas, no matter where they are placed on the political compass, which could technically explain Mamdani’s victory. In my view, though, that of a 22-year-old politically engaged woman, we are constantly blamed for not being experienced enough or being unable to understand politics, just because we having a hard time accepting the status quo. Young people are drawn to politicians who are able to provide specific solutions and a plan on how to incorporate them. We are tired of having to vote for one of two parties whose main arguments revolve around the flaws of the other.
What Makes Youth-Appealing Campaign?
First and foremost, Zohran Mamdani came forward with specific solutions that were crucial for New Yorkers. However, anyone who takes part in politics or watches it closely knows how important a strategic campaign is. I see that European politicians are taking democracy for granted. They seem to think that just being a democratic, educated, well-mannered candidate will get them elected.
Mamdani, though, went out of his way to talk to NYC citizens, to listen to their problems. He built not only a well-coordinated team but also a sense of community. The way he conceived his message on social media proved him to be a relatable and hard-working person. The above is exactly what young voters want to see – energy, ideas, and effort instead of being overlooked and treated as box-ticking machines.
What Can European Liberals Learn?
The key to better campaigns and winning over young voters is humility. Our generation has a unique ability to spot insincerity from a mile away. As European liberals, we must not only reevaluate our message but, most importantly, how we deliver it.
References
[1] Sanders, Linley, et al. “Poll: How Key Demographic Groups Voted in 2025 | AP News.” AP News, 5 Nov. 2025, apnews.com/article/poll-election-2025-demographics-voters-latino-black-b59518a2c8d2f37f857fe1ac32995b9a.
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