Young Conservatives Prioritize Affordability and Immigration at AmericaFest

More than 31,000 attendees gathered at Turning Point USA’s (TPUSA) AmericaFest in Phoenix over the weekend, marking a significant increase from last year’s event. This surge in participation follows the assassination of TPUSA founder Charlie Kirk in September, which has galvanized many young conservatives to engage more actively in political discourse.

The central tension at the event revolved around how young conservatives view their future in light of pressing issues like housing affordability and immigration. Many attendees expressed a sense of urgency about these topics, reflecting broader concerns within the conservative movement.

Lydia Leinbach, a master’s student at Montana State University, noted that Kirk’s death reignited her political passion. “As conservatives, we have to be involved. We can’t just back out and say, ‘Ok, it is what it is,’” she said. This sentiment was echoed by others who shared their priorities during the event, focusing on affordability, immigration, and pro-life values.

Key Issues: Affordability and Immigration

Polling data released by TPUSA indicated that nearly 64 percent of attendees believe the Republican Party should prioritize winning the upcoming midterm elections. Among the most pressing concerns identified were radical Islam, socialism, and the economy, with many attendees specifically highlighting the affordability crisis and immigration as top issues.

Leinbach identified fighting illegal immigration and reducing housing costs as her primary political concerns. Grant May, affiliated with the Standing for Freedom Center at Liberty University, echoed this view, stating that young voters feel the American Dream is increasingly unattainable. “The cost of housing is something the right has not traditionally been good on,” he said, emphasizing the need for effective solutions.

Karlee VanAntwerp, a Michigan State University student, expressed concern that high living costs are causing younger generations to lose hope about their futures. “We’re in office now, so we can’t just blame the liberals,” she remarked, acknowledging the need for accountability within the party.

Immigration: A Unifying Concern

Immigration emerged as a critical issue for many young conservatives at AmericaFest. May stated that immigration will continue to be a winning issue for conservatives, as it has been for former President Trump. Leinbach expressed her support for Trump’s deportation policies, saying, “If you come here legally, that’s awesome, welcome. But illegal immigrants have to go back.”

However, there are ongoing critiques within the conservative movement regarding the H-1B visa program. Michael Alfonso, a Gen Z congressional candidate from Wisconsin, argued that both illegal and legal immigration can negatively impact American workers. “Mass immigration, including programs like H-1B, hurts American workers and undercuts wages,” he said, reflecting a sentiment shared by other attendees.

Jack Harvey, a student leader for TPUSA at East Tennessee State University, emphasized the importance of prioritizing American workers in discussions about immigration policy. “If you’re not willing to put American workers first … how can you be the next president of the United States?” he asked.

Pro-Life Values and Unity

In addition to economic concerns, many young conservatives at AmericaFest expressed strong pro-life values. George Merritt, a college student, stated, “You fight for what’s right, no matter if it’s going to help you or … hurt you.” Liberty Harris of South Carolina argued that the fight against abortion is fundamental to preserving freedoms in the country.

As the conservative movement grapples with internal divisions, attendees discussed the need for unity, especially in light of Kirk’s assassination. May highlighted the importance of coming together against perceived threats from the left, stating, “Our problem is not ourselves. Our problem is actually the left and their violence and their tolerance of violent rhetoric.”

Kirk’s legacy continues to influence young conservatives, with many attendees expressing a desire to embody his commitment to faith and activism. “I want to make a difference. I want to serve this country like Charlie Kirk served our movement and our people,” said Nickolas Peter Correia Sousa Perisse, a freshman at the University of South Florida.

TPUSA has seen rapid growth since Kirk’s death, with over 140,000 requests to get involved and more than 4,500 college and high school chapters established, reflecting a renewed enthusiasm among young conservatives to engage in political activism.