Young Republicans Are Rising: Time to Expand Their Power in L.A.
The rise of young Republicans is shaking up college campuses nationwide. Once hesitant and quiet, today’s students are increasingly joining conservative groups, sparking a growing movement to ensure conservative values are heard and represented in every corner of the country. This surge in interest is being driven by various factors, including the enrollment of Barron Trump, son of President Donald Trump, at New York University’s Stern School of Business. His presence alone ignited curiosity among students and motivated them to take action. As Kaya Walker, president of NYU’s College Republican Club, shared, “Interest was piqued initially by the fact that Barron Trump had matriculated as a student at our business school, but the election motivated a lot of people to act.”
As this nationwide movement gains momentum, I witnessed firsthand the challenges young conservatives face, particularly at Loyola Marymount University (LMU), where fear of speaking out can silence even the most passionate voices. When I spoke at the College Republicans and Young America’s Foundation (YAF) meetings, only six members attended. One member even refused to be photographed with us, worried that their political beliefs could jeopardize future career opportunities. This fear is not unique to LMU – it’s happening on campuses across the country. Imagine being a student who believes in conservative principles but feels silenced, isolated, and afraid to express those views due to fear of personal and professional retaliation. How would you feel if your voice was suppressed because of your beliefs?
Despite these challenges, young conservatives are pushing back. We’re seeing a surge in membership across organizations like College Republicans and Turning Point USA, a clear sign that the younger generation is rejecting political correctness and championing individual liberty, economic freedom, and American traditions. From Harvard to the University of Southern California, young conservatives are making their voices heard in debates, student government elections, and on social media.
However, being a conservative voice on a liberal campus carries significant risks. In Los Angeles, students face social ostracism, exclusion from networking opportunities, and, as I saw at LMU, fear of career retaliation. This is not just an individual issue – it’s a collective one. To support young conservatives, we must address gaps in their opportunities. With only six College Republican chapters in the county, expanding these efforts is vital to creating the infrastructure that will help young conservatives connect, grow, and amplify their voices. By providing them with organized platforms and networking opportunities, we can ensure their influence is felt across the region.
This is not just about preserving conservative values – it’s about securing a future rooted in the principles of freedom, responsibility, and opportunity. The political tides in California are on the verge of shifting, and it’s essential that we equip young conservatives with the knowledge and resources they need to lead us into a new era. The Republican Party of Los Angeles County (LAGOP) needs to focus on cultivating the next generation of conservative leaders, especially on college campuses. This includes enlisting the help of the Los Angeles County Young Republicans to expand College Republican, YAF, and TPUSA chapters, support campus events, and invest in outreach through both social media and on-the-ground organizing.
Forty Percent of Young Women Voted for Trump, Proving Rights and Values Transcend Abortion
Trump Delivers Triumphant Rally-Style Speech at AmFest, Says Dems ‘Don’t Know What the Hell Happened’
Supporting young conservatives goes beyond providing platforms for their voices; it’s about offering leadership development through initiatives like the Leadership Institute, connecting them with experienced mentors, and backing their projects with financial resources. These efforts ensure their voices remain strong and impactful, despite the challenges they face. In Los Angeles County, where rising costs, crime, and a demand for stronger leadership create a critical need for change, empowering young Republicans is key. We have a responsibility to foster an environment where they can freely express their views, connect with like-minded peers, and gain the experience needed to lead and win elections. This is how we equip the next generation to drive meaningful change.
The success of this new generation of conservatives is not just crucial to the future of our movement – it’s essential to the strength of the Republican Party. We must empower them with the resources, confidence, and mentorship to rise above fear, speak their truth, and lead with unwavering conviction. To build a stronger conservative movement, we need your support. Join or back local College Republican, YAF, or TPUSA chapters – or start one in your community. These groups are vital for expanding our reach, and your involvement will leave a lasting impact. Additionally, financial contributions are critical, such as funding scholarships, events, and outreach initiatives that equip young conservatives.
Moreover, if you have political or leadership experience, mentor students and young professionals to shape the next generation of leaders. Attend local events to network, exchange ideas, and use your social media presence to amplify their voices, share their campaigns, and broaden their impact.
The future of the Republican Party depends on the strength of its next generation. By taking action now, we can ensure that young conservatives have the mentorship, resources, and platforms they need to lead us into the future.
Steve Williams is a business owner and a committed member of the Republican Party of Los Angeles County. Passionate about serving his community, he ran against Maxine Waters for California’s 43rd Congressional District in 2024 and plans to challenge her again in 2026. Follow him on X: @steve4congress1.