Story perspectives

Pew-Knight Study: Young Adults Predominantly “Spectators,” Lower Trump Support

7/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Pew-Knight Initiative study classified U.S. adults into four engagement groups: Mobilizers, Connectors, Spectators, and Outsiders.
Adults under 30 are more likely to be Spectators (46%) and to like or save news posts (59%) than adults 65+ (19% Spectators, 32% online likes).
In the 2024 election, Mobilizers reported voting for U.S. President Donald Trump (34%) and Kamala Harris (51%) versus Spectators, who reported voting for Trump (21%) and Harris (25%).

History

Historical Context

In September 1960, the first televised presidential debate aired on CBS, drawing about 66 million viewers—roughly two-thirds of the electorate. Eisenhower’s advisers urged Vice President Richard Nixon to decline, but he accepted; his hospital-weakened appearance contrasted with Senator John F. Kennedy’s telegenic blue suit. Gallup polls after the debate showed Kennedy gaining a modest lead, marking television’s debut as a decisive campaign force.

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Story summary

The Pew-Knight Initiative study classified U.S. adults into four engagement groups: Mobilizers, Connectors, Spectators, and Outsiders.
Adults under 30 are more likely to be Spectators (46%) and to like or save news posts (59%) than adults 65+ (19% Spectators, 32% online likes).
In the 2024 election, Mobilizers reported voting for U.S. President Donald Trump (34%) and Kamala Harris (51%) versus Spectators, who reported voting for Trump (21%) and Harris (25%).

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