US Congress sees historic increase in Gen Z and millennial representation
The number of Generation Z members in the U.S. Congress will triple following the midterm elections.
Data from Future Caucus indicates that 97 members of Generation Z and the millennial generation are set to join the upcoming U.S. Congress. This intake includes 90 members of the House of Representatives, five senators, and two delegates, with 15 races still pending results.
The incoming legislature marks a shift in age demographics, with the number of Gen Z members tripling compared to the previous session. Newly elected officials span both major parties; 27-year-old Republican Michael Alfonso of Wisconsin and 29-year-old Democrat Melat Kiros of Colorado are among those who centered their campaigns on economic concerns such as the cost of living and housing affordability.
Millennials also secured five seats in the Senate, including newcomers such as Abdul El-Sayed of Michigan and Annie Andrews of South Carolina. Out of the 272 Gen Z and millennial candidates who ran, approximately 38% have been successful in their respective races.