A recent Cato and YouGov survey shows that 62% of American adults under 30 hold a favorable view of socialism, with 34% showing favorable sentiments toward communism. These figures mark a sharp rise from previous polls and sound a serious alarm for defenders of individual freedom and limited government.
The survey of 2,000 adults conducted in March 2025 asked respondents whether they viewed socialism and communism favorably or not. Among those aged 18–29, 62% said “favorable,” while only 38% said “unfavorable.” Views of communism were also notable: 34% of young adults were favorable, compared to just 14% of the total population.
This marks a steep climb from past polls. A 2019 Gallup survey found only 52% of 18–34-year-olds had a favorable view of socialism. The shift is sharper among younger cohorts, a trend confirmed in multiple studies. A 2020 YouGov survey showed 49% of Gen Z held a favorable view of socialism.
The survey also points to partisan splits. Among Democrats, 67% favored socialism while just 50% favored capitalism. In contrast, 59% of all respondents favored capitalism. The omission of a clear definition of socialism in the survey means respondents are likely conflating it with popular social programs rather than historical socialism.
This generational tilt toward bigger government coincides with deep concerns about their future. According to NPR, young Americans worry about inflation, housing costs, and economic stagnation—factors driving them toward options that promise security. Many believe socialism offers solutions to healthcare, education, and wealth inequality, without fully grasping the historical record of economic collapse and repression tied to socialism and communism .
