Former Democratic presidential candidate Jason Palmer — who gained prominence by winning the caucus in American Samoa over Joe Biden on Super Tuesday earlier this year — is now at the Democratic National Convention, aiming to secure more Gen Z votes.
“Climate change and gun violence reduction are crucial issues for them, but their own economic well-being is even more important. Gen Z voters are concerned about job opportunities, career advancement, and the ability to afford a home,” Palmer told Scripps News. “They believe in the American dream, but they question its accessibility to them. These are the issues that resonate with them.”
RELATED STORY | Michelle Obama electrifies DNC in speech that jabs Trump
In the March caucus, Palmer received 51 votes while President Biden received 40 out of 91 ballots cast in American Samoa.
“I learned about my victory when my phone started buzzing with messages from friends and campaign staff,” Palmer said in an interview at the time.
RELATED STORY | Meet Jason Palmer, who beat Biden in American Samoa’s Dem caucus
The 52-year-old admitted to never setting foot in the territory before the caucus. He campaigned through Zoom town halls remotely.
Palmer expressed at the Chicago DNC this week that young individuals desire to see the impact of their votes.
RELATED STORY | ‘From VP Harris to the Walz’: Rapper Lil Jon joins DNC delegates for roll call
Palmer noted a significant contrast between the Republican campaign, led by Donald Trump with JD Vance as the running mate, and the Harris-Walz campaign. He believes that the Democratic campaign is taking a more optimistic approach to persuade voters to choose them.
Palmer highlighted the numerous events held with Gen Z delegates and expressed that while the campaign has incorporated memes, the younger generation remains invested in policy and tangible outcomes.