Publius Pax: Free advice for Democrats: Celebrate Independence Day
The 2024 election results have undeniably sparked a significant period of “soul searching” within the Democratic Party, particularly concerning their struggle to connect with young men. The data revealed a stark and widening gender gap among younger voters, with young men moving noticeably away from the Democratic ticket compared to past elections. This trend has ignited an urgent internal discussion about how to reverse what many see as a dangerous long-term erosion of support.
Perhaps the most significant trend observed was a clear rightward movement among young voters compared to 2020. While the youth vote still leaned Democratic overall, the margin significantly narrowed. This shift was particularly pronounced among young men. A substantial majority of young men (56%) cast their ballots for Donald Trump in 2024. This dramatic increase from 2020 indicates a growing rejection of progressive ideologies that many young men find alienating or detrimental to their values and aspirations.
While overall turnout for youth remained relatively static at around 47%, the demographic breakdown revealed interesting nuances. Even among groups traditionally aligned with the left, such as Black and Asian American youth, there was a noticeable decrease in Democratic support. This indicates that a one-size-fits-all progressive message is failing to capture the diverse concerns and priorities of young people from all backgrounds.
While Democrats pay consultants $20 million to “code talk” to young men, let me offer some free advice: Celebrate Independence Day this July 4th.
For a post-9/11 generation that grew up only reading about the terrorist attacks and the initial surge of patriotism, much of what they know about our country is coded in DEI language and misplaced lessons of shame. From schools. From media. From society. Double this for young men operating the era of the anti-patriarchy which belittles boys and men for simply existing.
The fact is — and today’s youth understand — America is cool. Waving a flag and chanting “U.S.A.” is fun. Being proud of your people and your history is, somehow, countercultural and edgy.
Forget the endless debates about what patriotism should be, or what causes it must align with. In 2025, being patriotic means affection for the United States of America which, in and of itself, is a bold political stand. It’s not about what the country can do for you, or about conditional loyalty based on policy outcomes. It’s about recognizing the inherent greatness of this nation, a greatness forged by generations of sacrifice, ingenuity, and a foundational commitment to liberty.
It’s about unapologetic pride. It’s the feeling of swelling in your chest when you hear the national anthem, or seeing the Stars and Stripes ripple in the breeze. It’s understanding that our nation, despite its imperfections, is a beacon of freedom and opportunity unlike any other in history. That pride, unvarnished and sincere, is undeniably cool.
It’s about honoring our heritage and traditions. True patriotism in 2025 respects the wisdom of our founders, cherishes the values that have guided us, and understands that the best way to move forward is to build upon the strong foundations of our past. It’s about instilling in our children an appreciation for American history, for the sacrifices made to secure our freedoms, and for the enduring principles enshrined in our Constitution. Respecting and preserving what makes us unique? That’s cool.
It’s about unity above division. In an age that often seeks to divide us by identity or ideology, patriotism is the powerful antidote. It reminds us that regardless of our differences, we are all Americans. It’s the unifying force that binds us together, recognizing our common destiny and shared responsibility to maintain this great republic. Putting country first, above all else? Extremely cool.
It’s about a quiet, steadfast commitment to the American ideal. It’s not always about grand gestures or public declarations. It’s in the daily acts of good citizenship: respecting the rule of law, contributing to your community, raising your family with American values, and defending the principles that make us free. This consistent, unwavering dedication? Inherently cool.
In 2025, the coolest thing you can be is genuinely, unequivocally patriotic. And our kids get it. It’s why they’ve gravitated to the unapologetically America First language of Donald Trump and this administration.
Communicating politics and advancing a political agenda is easier when one side advocates a fundamental love for this nation that transcends fleeting trends or political whims and the other holds land acknowledgements and belittles our accomplishments as a people.
If Democrats what a shot at rebuilding the bridges they’ve burned with younger voters since 2020, they’ll need to understand that patriotism isn’t just relevant – it’s the very essence of what makes us unified, strong, and undeniably cool.
Publius Pax is a tenth-generation Bucks Countian, political consultant and author.
