Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is inspirational. Zelensky stands alongside his Ukrainian soldiers and helps defend his country’s capital, Kyiv, against a Russian invasion for another week.
I am 23 years old, just one of the millions captivated by the war between Russia and Ukraine. In my lifetime, I have seen four presidents: George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden. But since becoming eligible to vote in 2016, I have yet to see a political leader that I think would fight alongside the public should circumstances call for it.
Not so Zelensky.
The former comedian has rejected offers by Biden to evacuate him safely. Instead, Zelensky has boosted morale among Ukrainians and appealed to the Russian people to end this war. As a young person, this type of leadership is something that I’ve only read about in history books and fantasy novels growing up. Unfortunately, I have yet to see similar capabilities reflected in our leadership at home. This sentiment is shared by many others in my generation. We are losing faith in our leaders and disconnecting from politics altogether.
As of January 2022, two-thirds under 40 feel frustrated and/or pessimistic about the future of our country. According to research by the Alliance for Youth Organizing and Civiqs polling, this sentiment is strongest with those 25 years old and younger, no matter their political affiliation. It included 91% of young Democrats and 93% of young Republicans.
This concerning attitude among young people may grow in the coming years as politics continues to become more tribal and our leaders exploit division for votes.
Alongside the decrease in political engagement, we’ve seen a decrease in patriotic pride among young people as well. During the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Ukrainians’ love of their country has been a cornerstone of their stiff resistance. But when polled by Ipsos in June 2021, only 52% of millennials and 58% of Gen Zers said they were proud to be American, a huge gap between Gen X and baby boomers who agreed 71% and 84%.
We need a leader who shows allegiance to the people, not the pursuit of their vote, a leader who gives us something to believe in. Zelensky’s bravery, integrity, and appeal to humanity against a far larger and more powerful army have captured our hearts and minds.
In his 2019 inaugural address, Zelensky said, “I do not want my picture in your offices, for the president is not an icon, an idol, or a portrait.” Americans should strive to elect more people like him.
Jessica Carpenter is director of marketing and communication for BridgeUSA, a youth-led nonprofit organization focused on creating political discussions across the aisle.
