“The future of this nation depends on the Christian training of our youth.”  These words attributed to George Washington ring true today as we see the battle for the hearts and minds of youth intensify in our culture.

A recent Rasmussen Report reported that 51% of young voters (ages 18–39) were in favor of a democratic socialist winning the next election, and 76% believed the government should have more control over large industries like energy, health care, and big tech in order to provide more equity to the people.

At the same time, the AmericaFest hosted last month by Turning Point USA drew over 10,000 young people, and reported a record number of Turning Point clubs and growth in the last year.

But how can there be an increase in young voters favoring socialism and also an increase in young people turning to conservative programs like Turning Point USA?

While these reports seem conflicting, I believe they reflect a generation that is searching for hope and truth.

Reports show that the same issue seems to be driving both the support for socialism and also the increased interest in conservatism: opportunity and affordability. Attendees at AmericaFest pointed to affordability as the main issue driving them to Republican and conservative ideas. At the same time, NYC Mayor Mamdani, a self-avowed democratic socialist, promised equity and provision during his campaign – a promise which offered hope to young people trying to make ends meet in the city.

The difference between these two viewpoints, of course, lies in their solutions. Socialism offers the false hope that the government will provide equity and opportunity, when in reality, history shows it only leads to greater dependence on the government and less freedom. Conservatism emphasizes limited government and individual liberty which creates opportunities for individuals and societies to thrive.  Conservatism values faith, and, at its core, is based on biblical truths such as “all men are created equal” and “endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights.” Socialism values only a faith in government to grant rights and equality, and often suppresses religious beliefs seen as a threat to state power.

Educating young people in the principles of true freedom is vital. As they search for hope, we have a window of opportunity to share truths that offer it: the principles of freedom that foster human flourishing, the history of our nation, and the ultimate truth about the real source of freedom and peace found in the God of the Bible.

We must actively engage in efforts to reach young people during this critical window. One such effort is the Youth Legislative Training Conference (YLTC), hosted by the American Association of Christian Schools (AACS). The YLTC is a summer program for AACS high school students, designed specifically to educate and train young people in the constitutional principles of freedom, biblical leadership, and the dangers of the leftist agenda. For one week, students participate in a mock senate, attend a Congressional briefing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., meet with conservative Members of Congress, tour historical sites, and hear from top conservative leaders.

I have had the opportunity to be a part of the YLTC for several years, and each year, this conference brings me hope as I see young people who are eager to serve the Lord and their country.  We often hear testimonies from YLTC students who found hope and direction through the YLTC (check out some of these here and here!)

The conference is funded by donations so that students are not hindered by finances in their efforts to attend. If you would be interested in supporting this cause, please click here or contact the AACS Washington Office for more information.

Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders, and the teaching and training they receive now will have a profound effect on the future of our nation.  Those who promote socialism understand this as well and are relentless in their efforts to influence young people with false hope.

The battle for the hearts and minds of our youth is indeed intense, but it is well worth the effort. Engaging in efforts to educate youth with the truth offers them hope and direction, and also represents a vital investment in the future of our great country.