While campuses have always been somewhat liberal, there was, once upon a time, a silent majority of traditional families kids that attended those schools too - and many would vote Republican if they were registered. I am not so sure there are that many now. It is almost frightening how profoundly unpopular the conservative message is now on college and university campuses. Again, young people and educators have always been somewhat liberal, but nowadays the younger generations seem to feel they have nothing in common with conservatives. These younger people are vastly more libertine in outlook than even the "do what ever feels good" hippies of the 60's. Worse, they are now in a habit of voting Democrat and voting habits are hard to break.
My guess is Republicans are afraid to register on most campuses because they figure most of the kids will end up voting Democrat.
Agree.
My children grew up conservative, and managed to stay conservative --except for one, who went liberal after his freshman year at college. (Though I suspect that by now, after several years in the workforce, he might be leaning rightward.)
But I'm thinking that in 4 years, Obama may well become profoundly UNpopular with the 20-somethings.
Some reasons why:
(1) ObamaCare's more burdensome regulations will start to kick in. Many young adults will suddenly find themselves FORCED to buy health insurance, or pay a fine. I think they will be UNpleasantly surprised.
(2) The employment market is likely to remain profoundly depressed under Obama.
(3) Some things that are hip don't wear well over time. Like MySpace used to be The Big Thing. Then Facebook became more popular. At some point Facebook will be replaced by The Next Big Thing.