Audrey McNeal, a Gen Z former Democrat and two-time DNC delegate, has made headlines with her recent announcement: she’s now a Republican and will be voting for the Trump-Vance ticket. Audrey, who served as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in both 2020 and 2024, explained her decision on social media.
“In 2020, I was elected at 18 to become one of the youngest delegates to the Democratic National Convention on behalf of my district. And in 2024, I was elected again to return to the DNC as a delegate,” McNeal shared. “But this year, I’m casting my ballot for Donald Trump.”
After attending the 2024 DNC, Audrey felt the Democratic Party was no longer the party of free speech and civil liberties. She stated: “I wanted answers on free speech issues, the border, and the economy… it was no longer the party of free speech and civil liberties that it used to be.” Quoting Patrick Henry, she referenced the importance of transparency in leadership, expressing her disillusionment with the Democratic Party’s decision to install Kamala Harris as the nominee, which she felt ignored millions of voters and party delegates.
Audrey’s story mirrors a broader shift seen in some Gen Z voters, particularly young men who feel disenfranchised by current narratives and are turning to conservative ideals. Audrey, however, emphasizes her decision as one based on values like constitutional rights and economic security, echoing sentiments similar to those of Tulsi Gabbard. Audrey stated she’s “officially joining the Republican Party as a Constitutional conservative.”
Audrey’s defection signals a possible trend as the GOP attracts younger voters disillusioned with the Democratic establishment. As she said herself, “I’m happy to join the Republican Party, and I welcome others who value free speech, a secure border, and a return to Constitutional principles.”