If you heard anything at all about the 2024 U.S. presidential election, you likely encountered the term "gender gap."

More than half of female voters (53%) voted for Kamala Harris; more than half of male voters (also 55%) voted for Donald Trump. Among young voters, the gender gap was even more pronounced: 61% of women aged 18-29 voted for Harris, compared to 49% of males.

Societal and political gender gaps are widening in other countries as well. Mark Sutton, director of The Boys Initiative & author of How Democrats Can Win Back Men, joins us to explore the factors underlying the gender gap and ways we can help boys and men thrive alongside girls and women.

Takeaways:

• The gender gap in voting reflects deeper cultural divides.
• Men's issues are often overlooked in political discourse.
• Human well-being should be a shared goal across genders.
• Health disparities show men dying younger than women.
• Political parties need to address the needs of all voters.
• Support for women's health should not exclude men's health.
• There is a growing discontent with both major political parties.
• Unity among moderate voters can lead to positive change.
• The future of gender representation is evolving positively. Support for women in leadership is crucial.
• Local involvement in politics can make a difference.
• Cultural backlash can lead to divisive movements.
• Understanding different perspectives is essential.
• The male vote plays a significant role in elections.
• Engaging in conversations about gender is necessary.
• Listening to others can foster better understanding.
• Systemic issues affect boys and young men.
• Advocacy for children's needs is a nonpartisan issue.

Links we mentioned (or should have) in this episode:

Men & the 2024 Election -- Mark's Substack

How Democrats Can Win Back Men: Why Understanding Male Voters & Their Issues is Vital for Democratic Victory -- Mark's book

The Boys Initiative

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