Dear John,

With Ken Martin stepping in as the newly elected chair of the DNC, the party has a critical opportunity – and responsibility – to invest in mobilizing young voters. Without a serious commitment to youth engagement, Democrats risk losing enthusiasm among one of their most diverse, progressive, and energetic bases of support.

For too long, the Democratic Party has taken young voters for granted, assuming their support without dedicating the resources to build it. But now the consequences of neglecting young voters are becoming more stark. Donald Trump’s nihilistic smash-everything rebelliousness is attracting more young voters – especially young men – toward far right-wing extremism.

If the DNC fails to act, the rise of a pro-Trump youth movement will gain momentum. Democrats must counter this shift with a real investment in youth organizing to fire up the progressive movement with the energy of change.

Young voters have been at the beating heart of Democratic victories for decades, driving activism and turnout at every level. Yet, the party has consistently underfunded youth outreach and engagement. This must change. If Democrats want to win in 2026, 2028, and beyond, young voters cannot be an afterthought! They must be a priority.

Congratulate Ken Martin on his new leadership role, and urge him to make young voters a priority by signing on now!

Now is the time for the DNC, under Ken Martin’s leadership, to make firm commitments, including:

• A major increase in funding for youth organizing to ensure sustained outreach and mobilization.

• Expanding campus engagement and voter registration to reach new, first-time voters and keep them involved.

• Developing long-term youth engagement strategies so that young people stay active even in non-election years.

This generation is ready to lead, but they need the resources and support to do so effectively. Keeping young voters engaged is not just the right thing to do – it’s a winning strategy. When young people are mobilized, Democrats win.

Tell new DNC Chair Ken Martin to prioritize young voters and make the investments necessary to secure the future of the Democratic movement now!

Thank you for ensuring that the passion and activism of young voters remain at the core of Democratic victories.

Robert Reich
Inequality Media Civic Action