As there often is among people in their 20s, a gap is growing within Generation Z regarding experience and preference. Their political divergence is a growing factor that holds implications for the future of marriage.  

Most indicators suggest that the long-standing decline of marriage will continue — cultural trends certainly point in that direction. The growing rates of sexlessness among young men and women further dampen the prospects for marriage. It’s a bleak outlook, but there may be a glimmer of hope for change. A segment of Gen Z could be poised to buck the trend. According to a recent Yale Youth Poll, Americans aged 18 to 21 now lean Republican by 12 points, while those aged 22 to 29 lean Democratic by 6. As this younger, more conservative group matures, their values may steer them toward marriage and family life.