To Save the American Dream, Support the American Revolution

 Thaddeus G. McCotter discusses the growing disillusionment among young Americans, particularly those in the Millennial and Gen Z generations. He argues that young people are turning to radical ideologies because their legitimate concerns are being ignored by political leaders.

1. Practical Crises Facing Young Americans:

• Young people are facing significant challenges, including high costs of living, tuition, and housing, along with economic anxieties that hinder marriage and parenthood.

• They feel trapped within a vanishing American Dream, potentially facing a lower standard of living than previous generations.

2. Dismissal from Political Leaders:

• When young people voice their concerns and seek solutions, they are often ignored or met with empty reassurances by politicians.

• This dismissal can lead frustrated youths to embrace extremist ideologies from both the political left and right, such as socialism and militant nationalism.

3. Rise of Radical Ideologies:

• The resurgence of discredited socialist ideas and the rise of extremist nationalism indicate a troubling trend among disillusioned youth.

• Both movements often share antisemitic views and conspiracy beliefs, further alienating them from mainstream society.

4. Need for Effective Solutions:

• The solution to radicalization lies in understanding and addressing the practical problems within the framework of America's constitutional system.

• McCotter emphasizes the importance of engaging with youth to restore their faith in democratic processes and institutions.

5. Historical Context:

• Similar social unrest and ideological shifts were witnessed during the Great Depression, when many were attracted to fascism and communism because of their promises to resolve economic issues.

• However, historical outcomes show that these ideologies ultimately failed, proving the importance of freedom and individual rights.

6. Engaging the Younger Generation:

• Rather than lamenting the youth's shift towards dangerous ideologies, it is essential to provide them with constructive engagement and practical solutions to their problems.

• Many potential reformers face institutional inertia as vested interests maintain harmful policies that exacerbate youth struggles.

7. Acknowledging Historical Irony:

• McCotter points out the irony in young right-wing radicals, who realize they mirror the very ideologies they oppose, and emphasizes the need for a change in approach.

To preserve the American Dream, McCotter calls for an affirmation of liberty, equality, and self-governance. He argues that by addressing the practical issues young people face and offering concrete solutions, society can draw them away from radical ideologies and foster a renewed commitment to American values. The need of the hour is for all to engage actively in shaping a better future, avoiding historical mistakes and supporting the continued evolution of American democracy.

https://amgreatness.com/2025/12/06/to-save-the-american-dream-support-the-american-revolution/