Many younger Black men are apathetic about Trump’s policies, survey finds

Politico

by By Brakkton Booker

February 26, 2026

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Younger Black men are increasingly showing indifference toward President Donald Trump’s policies, according to a recent survey conducted by Democratic-aligned organizations. The poll found that 42% of Black men under 50 believe Trump’s policies have not significantly impacted their lives, compared to just 24% of Black men over 50 who feel the same way. This apathy among younger Black men poses a challenge for Democrats as they aim to rebuild and maintain a multiracial coalition ahead of the midterms. Despite widespread criticism of Trump’s administration and declining approval ratings among Black voters, younger Black men remain less likely to view his policies as harmful or relevant to their communities. The survey also revealed that while 63% of Black voters believe Democrats in Congress are responsible for fighting against government actions that negatively affect their communities, only 36% feel these lawmakers are actively addressing their concerns. This disconnect highlights a growing sense of disengagement among younger Black men, who view the political landscape as less aligned with their priorities. Terrance Woodbury, founding partner of polling firm HIT Strategies, warns that this group has become increasingly pivotal as swing voters, and Democrats cannot afford to overlook their needs or assume they have already reassembled their coalition. Trump’s declining approval ratings among Black voters, which dropped to just 8% in a recent YouGov poll, reflect broader concerns about his administration’s impact on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Critics argue that Trump’s policies have eroded opportunities for marginalized communities, particularly men of color, who are now being courted by Democrats as critical swing voters. However, GOP strategist Harrison Fields suggests that Democrats have failed to connect with younger Black men by focusing too narrowly on opposing Trump rather than addressing their specific concerns. The survey, which included focus groups and a national poll of 1,000 Black registered voters, underscores the importance of tailoring policies that resonate with younger Black men. Their apathy reflects a broader challenge for Democrats: rebuilding trust and engagement within a community that has historically supported the party but is now feeling increasingly disenchanted. With midterm elections on the horizon, Democrats must prioritize addressing the unique needs of this demographic to avoid

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Originally published on Politico on 2/26/2026