New Jersey High School Launches Socialist Club Amid Rising Interest in Socialism
A high school in a prosperous New Jersey suburb has launched a new club dedicated to socialist principles, signaling a growing trend among young people towards leftist ideologies. The Highland Park High School Socialist Club held its inaugural meeting recently, sparking discussions on the evolving political landscape among students.
Why It Matters
The establishment of this club comes at a time when interest in socialism is reportedly on the rise among younger generations in the U.S. A recent survey indicated a significant number of young adults are viewing socialism more favorably, reflecting broader political shifts that may impact future elections and policy discussions.
Key Developments
- The Highland Park High School Socialist Club met for the first time at lunchtime.
- The club is promoted by a flyer featuring an image of Karl Marx, encouraging students to explore solutions to social issues without exploiting the working class.
- Promotional slogans in the flyer include calls to learn about socialism and media literacy skills.
- Highland Park is known for its affluent demographic, with a median household income surpassing $100,000.
Full Report
Club Formation and Promotion
The Highland Park High School Socialist Club’s first meeting took place last Thursday, following the release of promotional material aimed at attracting young socialists. The flyer includes an image of Karl Marx with the statement "WE WANT YOU," drawing inspiration from the iconic "Uncle Sam" military recruitment poster. The flyer encourages students to engage with social issues and learn about socialism.
Superintendent’s Response
In response to inquiries regarding the club’s establishment, Highland Park School District Superintendent Kristina Susca stated that all high school clubs must comply with the Equal Access Act, which mandates that schools allow clubs with various political orientations. This highlights the district’s commitment to providing a platform for diverse viewpoints.
Survey Insights
A survey conducted by the Cato Institute in March 2025 revealed that 62% of individuals aged 18 to 29 have a positive view of socialism. Although minors were not included in the survey, the data suggests a notable shift in attitudes among young adults, with 14% expressing favorable views towards full communism. These trends could signal future political alignments and priorities within the Democratic Party.
Context & Previous Events
The growing acceptance of socialist ideas among young Americans coincides with recent electoral successes for socialist candidates. Notably, Zohran Mamdani, an avowed socialist, was elected as New York City’s newest mayor, with significant support from voters under the age of 30. The alignment of youth interests with socialist principles may indicate a transformative phase in American political discourse, particularly leading into upcoming elections.
