About Melissa

Dr. Melissa Deckman is the CEO of PRRI (Public Religion Research Institute), a non-profit, non-partisan research organization dedicated to conducting independent research at the intersection of religion, culture and public policy.

Formerly the Louis L. Goldstein Professor of Public Affairs at Washington College, she is a political scientist who studies the impact of gender, religion and age on public opinion and political behavior. You can find her latest book here: The Politics of Gen Z: How the Youngest Voters Will Shape Our Democracy.

The Politics of Gen Z: How the Youngest Voters Will Shape Our Democracy

This book tells the story of Gen Z’s growing political participation—and why it is poised to drive U.S. politics leftward. Bringing together original data and compelling narrative—including nearly one hundred interviews with Gen Z activists and several national surveys—political scientist Melissa Deckman explores the world of youth-led progressive organizing, highlighting the crucial importance of gender and sexuality. She reveals why women and LGBTQ Zoomers are participating in politics at higher levels than their straight male peers, creating a historic “reverse gender gap.” Deckman takes readers inside Gen Z’s fight for a more inclusive and just future, sharing stories of their efforts to defend reproductive rights, prevent gun violence, stem climate change, and win political office. A deep dive into the politics of Gen Z, this book sheds new light on how young voters view politics and why their commitment to progressive values may transform the country in the years ahead.

Commentary

"Are Gen Z Women and Men Diverging Politically?" | Baptist News Global | Oct 28, 2026

"Democratic Enthusiasm, the 19th Amendment, and the End of the Multiracial MAGA Narrative" | Religion Dispatches | Oct 23, 2026

"Resistance to Christian Nationalism Could Help Decide the Midterms" (with Ruth Braunstein) | Newsweek | Sep 24, 2026

"The Complicated Truth Behind Gen Z's 'Religious Resurgence'" | The Hill | Jul 15, 2025

"The Trump Voters with Buyer's Remorse: Black, Hispanic and Young Americans" | U.S. News & World Report | May 15, 2025

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