Episode Title: It's a Numbers Game: The Numbers Behind The Young Vote & Donald Trump with CJ Pearson
Host: Ryan Grudusky
Release Date: July 28, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of It's a Numbers Game, host Ryan Grudusky delves deep into the shifting political landscape, particularly focusing on the dynamics of the young voter demographic and their relationship with Donald Trump. The episode features an insightful interview with CJ Pearson, a 22-year-old co-chair of the GOP Youth Advisory Council, who offers a firsthand perspective on mobilizing young Republican voters.

Political Gossip: Pam Bondi and Anna Paulina Luna ([03:09] – [16:02])

Ryan opens the discussion with intriguing gossip surrounding Pam Bondi and Representative Anna Paulina Luna. He uncovers tensions between Bondi and Luna, suggesting that Bondi's recent PR misstep—bringing binders to a White House meeting—was an attempt to overshadow Luna's push on the Epstein files.

Notable Quote:
"Pam Bondi allegedly openly hates Representative Anna Paulina Luna from Florida... Pam Bondi thought she was going to steal her thunder by bringing out these binders."
— Ryan Grudusky [05:45]

Grudkusky speculates that Bondi's actions may be motivated by her ambitions for a potential 2028 presidential run, highlighting the strategic maneuvers within Republican circles to secure a prominent female candidate.

Notable Quote:
"Republican women are trying to figure out the way to own the female lane... someone is preparing to run to own this female lane and that will be very interesting to keep an eye on."
— Ryan Grudusky [14:30]

Main Topic: The Young Vote and Political Identity ([16:02] – [16:02])

Transitioning to the core of the episode, Ryan discusses a pivotal Pew Research poll revealing that 46% of Americans identify as Republicans compared to 45% Democrats—a significant shift from the 12-point Democratic lead in 2008. He emphasizes the remarkable three-point gain for Republicans over five years, particularly noting the surge in support among men under 30.

Notable Quote:
"Among 18 to 29 year olds, Republicans have seen their support... increased by six points while Democrats have seen their support fall by six points."
— Ryan Grudusky [10:15]

Ryan also highlights the stark gender divide within the young voter demographic, pointing out that while young men increasingly support Republicans, young women continue to lean Democratic.

Notable Quote:
"Men between 18 to 29 support Republicans by 18 points while women between 18 and 29 support Democrats by 21 points."
— Ryan Grudusky [11:00]

Interview with CJ Pearson: Mobilizing Young Republican Voters ([16:02] – [33:50])

Introduction of Guest:
Ryan introduces CJ Pearson, a 22-year-old co-chair of the GOP Youth Advisory Council and one of Time magazine's top 100 creators. CJ's active role in organizing young Trump supporters provides valuable insight into the strategies driving Republican momentum among youth.

Authenticity and Social Media Strategy:
CJ attributes Trump's record-breaking support among young voters to his authenticity and strategic use of social media platforms like TikTok. He emphasizes that Trump's unapologetic persona resonates with young men who feel marginalized by progressive narratives.

Notable Quote:
"President Trump won the bro vote by being a bro, unapologetically. And I think the results speak for that."
— CJ Pearson [16:36]

Mobilization Techniques:
CJ discusses the importance of meeting young voters where they are, utilizing podcasts, influencers, and unconventional media channels to reach a broader audience. He credits the podcast strategy implemented by advisors like Alex Bruschowitz for tapping into low-propensity voters.

Notable Quote:
"The president going on platforms like Barstool Radio was incredibly effective in reaching voters who wouldn't otherwise tune in."
— CJ Pearson [17:37]

Challenges and Future Outlook:
The conversation touches on the potential decline in Trump's popularity among young voters, as evidenced by recent polls showing a 28-point negative approval rating. CJ remains optimistic, arguing that the foundational support remains strong and that Republicans must frame the urgency of upcoming elections to maintain and expand their majority.

Notable Quote:
"The only poll I really care about is the one that happens on election day... I think the president's approval rating when it comes to his handling of immigration is pretty damn high."
— CJ Pearson [20:07]

Ask Me Anything: Audience Questions ([33:50] – [41:49])

Ryan transitions to the Ask Me Anything segment, addressing listener-submitted questions about Oregon's political climate and the evolving perceptions of mass deportation.

Question 1: Oregon's Political Shift
Jonathan Payne inquires about Oregon's potential to swing Republican, noting its recent solidification as a blue state outside Portland.

Response Summary:
Ryan explains Oregon's historical shifts, emphasizing gerrymandering and demographic changes that have favored Democrats. He concludes that a significant political realignment in Oregon is unlikely in the near future.

Question 2: Changing Polls on Mass Deportation
Wesley Russ asks why polling on mass deportation has fluctuated over time.

Response Summary:
Ryan outlines how political branding affects public opinion, citing Trump's association with the border wall and mass deportation as factors that shifted Republican public support. He highlights that earlier bipartisan support waned as immigration became a polarizing partisan issue.

Notable Quote:
"When Trump became synonymous with a border wall, guess what? Democrats hated the idea of a border wall even though they supported a $46 billion border wall just three years prior."
— Ryan Grudusky [38:25]

Conclusion

Wrapping up the episode, Ryan emphasizes the importance of understanding the numerical trends shaping American politics, especially among the youth. He encourages listeners to engage actively in political discourse and stay informed about the strategies driving voter behavior.

Closing Remarks from CJ Pearson:
"Be bold, stand on business, and use the tools that you have to platform your voice and amplify the passions that you care about."
— CJ Pearson [32:47]

Key Takeaways

• Shift in Political Identity: Republicans have closed the gap with Democrats, particularly among young men, reversing decades-long trends.

• Youth Engagement: Strategic use of social media and authentic messaging has been pivotal in mobilizing young Republican voters.

• Gender Divide: While young men increasingly support Republicans, young women remain a stronghold for Democrats.

• Future Implications: The sustainability of Republican gains among youth depends on maintaining engagement and addressing emerging political issues effectively.

Follow CJ Pearson:
Stay updated with CJ's activities and insights by following him on all major social media platforms under the username @CJ Pearson.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the episode, capturing the essential discussions, key points, and memorable quotes to offer listeners a detailed understanding without needing to listen to the full podcast.