The California Democratic Party is getting a wake-up call from its youngest members, and honey, it’s not pretty.

At the recent state convention in Anaheim, young Democrats made it crystal clear: the party needs a serious glow-up if it wants to keep winning hearts, minds, and most importantly, votes.

The Age Problem

Let’s talk elephant in the room - or donkey, in this case. Young progressives are tired of seeing politicians who remember rotary phones running the show. 18-year-old Lauren Hassett put it bluntly: “When you have 70-year-olds and 80-year-olds running for office, how is that supposed to inspire us?”

Cost of Living is Killing the Vibe

Affordability isn’t just a buzzword - it’s a lifeline for millennials and Gen Z. From skyrocketing healthcare costs to impossible housing markets, these young Democrats want real solutions, not complex policy speeches. As 18-year-old Carter Beardsley said, “Politics is personal, and people want to vote for someone who’s going to make their lives easier”.

Progressive or Bust

Despite what some might think, these young activists aren’t backing down on social issues. They’re demanding strong stances on LGBTQ rights, stopping weapon supplies to Israel, and protecting transgender youth. The message is clear: compromise isn’t an option when basic human rights are on the line.

The Democratic Party is at a crossroads, and its future depends on listening to its most passionate members. Are they ready to evolve, or will they become a political relic?