How an 18-year old's advice helped Trump win over young voters
Trumpʼs victory shocked many but his success with young male voters came through an unexpected digital strategy. His teenage son Barronʼs guidance on podcast appearances changed the game for reaching new audiences
In early november 2024‚ as Donald Trump delivered his win speech in West Palm Beach his success with young voters became clear - thanks to his 18-year old sonʼs smart advice
His towering son Barron Trump (standing 6ft 7in) helped shape a new campaign approach that targeted the “bro vote“ demographic: young men aged 18-34 who dont usually go to polls. The teenʼs knowledge of online culture proved key to his fathers unexpected triumph
Through Barronʼs suggestion Trump started doing podcast interviews with popular hosts like Adin Ross (who has over 7-million followers) instead of traditional media. During these long-form chats Trump showed a different side - more laid-back and willing to discuss everything from sports to aliens
- Adin Ross interview at Mar-a-Lago
- Logan Paul podcast appearance
- Joe Rogan three-hour discussion
- Nelk Boys campaign trail video
- Bussin with the Boys show
UFC president Dana White - a long-time Trump ally played a big part in connecting these worlds. The fighting entertainment culture matched well with podcast audiences interests‚ and Trump seemed right at home discussing UFC matches and football stats
The strategy paid off big-time: while younger voters usually support Democrats Harris only won the 18-29 group by 11 points (way down from previous elections). Meanwhile Trumps podcast appearances got huge view counts - including 45-million views on the Rogan show
The informal setting let Trump show a different personality: still boastful but more relaxed and sometimes even funny. While his opponents relied on celebrity endorsements Trumpʼs podcast tour (guided by his sons advice) helped him connect with a crucial voting bloc in a totally new way
