A recent SurveyMonkey/NBC News poll highlights a notable distinction in how different segments of Gen Z define success. For young men who supported Donald Trump in the 2024 election, “having children” emerged as their most valued indicator of success. This contrasts sharply with other groups, especially female voters.
While male Trump supporters ranked family as the most crucial element of a successful life, their female counterparts did not place the same emphasis on raising children. Instead, female Trump voters prioritized other goals—such as financial independence and meaningful careers—marking a clear divergence even within conservative circles.
The divide becomes even more apparent when compared to female supporters of Kamala Harris, who ranked items like a fulfilling job, financial stability, and emotional well-being above both marriage and parenthood. The disparity underscores how gender and political alignment shape life priorities for Gen Z voters.
Across all groups surveyed—including both Trump and Harris supporters—”fame and influence” consistently ranked lowest in measures of success. This common thread suggests that, despite political differences, young adults widely reject the notion that achieving popularity is a worthwhile life achievement.
These findings reflect a deeper cultural dynamic within younger conservatives—particularly male Trump voters—who appear to place family and childrearing at the center of their personal success narrative. In a time when many young adults prioritize career and financial stability, this poll reveals enduring support for traditional family values among a key demographic.