“We cannot elect Democratic majorities without young people, but too often, their concerns are sidelined when it comes to policy and leadership decisions. The next DNC leadership must recognize that our generation is not just a voting bloc—it’s the future of this party.”
Washington, DC —As the Democratic National Committee (DNC) prepares to elect its future leadership, youth advocates are demanding a firm commitment to young voters and the issues that will shape their future. Future Coalition invited candidates for DNC Chair and Vice Chair to respond to the major concerns young voters are prioritizing, including youth representation in party leadership, investments in youth engagement, representation and the fight for core Democratic values such as climate action, racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, economic justice and student debt relief.
While not all candidates responded, those who did offered insight into how they view the role of young people in the Democratic Party and how they would prioritize their voices. Future Coalition recognizes and appreciates the engagement of candidates for Chair Marianne Williamson, Jason Paul and candidates for Vice Chair, Shasti Conrad, David Hogg, and Kaylyn Free.
Key themes from their responses included:
- Ensuring Youth Representation in Party Leadership – Acknowledging the importance of young leaders having real decision-making power within the DNC.
- Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion – Recognizing that a truly representative party must reflect and empower all communities.
- Investing in Youth Mobilization – Pledging resources to expand youth engagement infrastructure and voter outreach.
- Making Climate a Central Issue – Emphasizing that climate action must be a top priority for the party.
- Staying Firm on Core Democratic Values – Pushing back against efforts to abandon progressive policies in favor of political expediency.
“What we hope to see from the next DNC leadership is a deeper commitment to young voices and real investments in the policies that impact our future. We need young people inside leadership rooms because they are the ones living the consequences of the major crises our country is facing—from the climate disaster to crushing student debt and economic insecurity, to the social injustices that characterize our civil society,” said Corryn G. Freeman, Executive Director of Future Coalition.
“We cannot elect Democratic majorities without young people, but too often, their concerns are sidelined when it comes to policy and leadership decisions. The next DNC leadership must recognize that engaging gen z and millennials are critical to the survival of the Democratic party. We appreciate the candidates who took the time to engage and will continue advocating for leadership that is inclusive, bold, and unwavering in its commitment to our values.”
A Call for Continued Engagement
Future Coalition invited all candidates for DNC Chair and Vice Chair to submit short video responses to three key questions centered on youth representation, diversity and inclusion, and the party’s role in fighting back against right-wing extremism. This effort was designed to elevate young people’s voices and ensure their priorities remain central to the Democratic Party’s platform.
While this initiative was not an endorsement process, it highlights which candidates are willing to engage with youth leaders and take their concerns seriously. As the DNC prepares to elect its new leadership, Future Coalition urges DNC members to support candidates who prioritize youth engagement, champion progressive policies, and commit to building a party that truly represents the future.
For more information or to schedule an interview with Corryn G. Freeman, please contact media@futurecoalition.org
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Future Coalition is a national political nonprofit organization that provides resources to empower young changemakers. Through collaboration and innovation, we help build a future rooted in justice, equity, and opportunity for all.