Dylan Douglas on Amplifying Gen Z Voices and Redefining Political Dialogue with Young American

Photography: Udo Spreitzenbarth
Styling and grooming: Ty-Ron Mayes (Paper Faces)
Location: Loft 29, New York City

Special thanks to Freddie Toye and Wendell Figueroa Ruiz

Behind the thoughtful commentary and hard-hitting interviews of Young American with Dylan Douglas lies a deep conviction: that America’s potential is limitless when its young voices are empowered. In this FAULT Magazine exclusive, Dylan opens up about the inspirations behind his pivot to the spotlight, the hurdles he faces in keeping the dialogue balanced, and the values that keep him grounded.

What inspired you to move from behind-the-scenes political work to fronting a show?
The stakes are so high—that’s what inspired me. I felt we were turning our backs on so much of what makes America special. The rhetoric I was seeing, some of the policies being floated—I couldn’t believe this was who we are as a nation. That was very scary, but it also inspired me to do everything I can to stay true to and fight for the ideals I was raised to uphold. That took many forms, including uplifting the next generation of American political leaders by working on political campaigns. I see my role as host of Young American very much in the same way. Even though I am the host, it’s the guests who are most important—my role, just like in the campaigns I worked on, is to help elevate and amplify their stories, platforms, and messages.

Left: Linen tuxedo jacket: Roberto Cavalli
Tuxedo shirt: Eton
Tie: Zars London
Vintage kilt: Jean Paul Gaultier
Patent leather shoes: Hugo Boss
Cashmere wool socks: Todd Snyder
Garters: Fine and Dandy

Right: Linen tuxedo jacket: Roberto Cavalli
Tuxedo shirt: Eton
Tie: Zars London
Vintage kilt: Jean Paul Gaultier
Patent leather shoes: Hugo Boss
Cashmere wool socks: Todd Snyder
Garters: Fine and Dandy

What challenges have you faced in shaping Young American with Dylan Douglas?
A challenge I’ve faced is that the show itself focuses on young Americans—Gen Z—across the country and how we relate to and participate in our political process. Our generation is very broad and diverse, with over 40 million eligible voters. Incorporating so much diversity, lived experiences, perspectives, and political persuasions, while staying true to what I believe in, has been a challenge—but a very rewarding one.

Your show addresses deeply polarizing issues. How do you approach these subjects to foster a balanced, productive conversation, even with guests who may have differing views?
I listen. From the start of my show each week, I try to dive into topics that I myself don’t know much about. I use the show—selfishly, in a way—as an excuse to learn. I’ve been able to learn so much from my generation. With most people I meet, I may not agree entirely, but there’s always common ground. Finding that takes listening and having an open mind.

Left: Rubber car coat: Stutterheim
Leather pants: All Saints
Combat boots: Bates Paratrooper
Cross strap: Leatherman NYC
Spiked gloves: Patricia Field and Ty-Ron Mayes

Right: Rubber car coat: Stutterheim
Leather pants: All Saints
Combat boots: Bates Paratrooper
Cross strap: Leatherman NYC
Spiked gloves: Patricia Field and Ty-Ron Mayes

How have the results of the 2024 U.S. election changed how you view the effectiveness of your platform?
I think my platform, and many others like it, are more important now than ever. I make no secret of my disdain for President Trump. Regardless of policy—though I disagree with much of his platform—on the basis of character, I find Trump to be a fundamentally flawed human being. He gives my country a bad name. I, and countless others, hope that through our activism and work, we can act as a roadblock to the most egregious of Trump’s overreaches. At the same time, I hope to provide reassurance to those who still have faith in our country that the America I grew up knowing is not gone but waiting.

Left: Rubber car coat: Stutterheim
Leather pants: All Saints
Combat boots: Bates Paratrooper
Cross strap: Leatherman NYC
Spiked gloves: Patricia Field & Ty-Ron Mayes

Right: Rubber car coat: Stutterheim
Leather pants: All Saints
Combat boots: Bates Paratrooper
Cross strap: Leatherman NYC
Spiked gloves: Patricia Field & Ty-Ron Mayes

Climate change, reproductive rights, and gun control are key focuses on your show. The next four years will undoubtedly leave you with much to discuss. For many, burying their heads in the sand sounds like the best way to navigate what would otherwise be an emotionally draining time. Why should they stay engaged with media like yours?
Firstly, I would say—particularly in light of our recent election—it’s okay to take a break. Politics, activism, studying, and fighting to fix the many problems facing our world—it’s good work, but it can be exhausting and overwhelming. I think a lot of Americans right now need a little time to heal. Many will be living in a more uncertain world come January 20th, and as a coping mechanism, they may want to bury their heads in the sand for a moment. I respect that. We have a long fight ahead—a fight we must be ready for. We can’t afford burnout. Only when you feel ready should you reengage, so that when you do, you are more energized, focused, and inspired than ever.

In a highly polarized political environment, how do you maintain your authenticity while navigating the expectations that come with your family background and your own progressive stances?
Often, people already have perceptions of who I am before they even meet me. In a world where I’m often being defined by everything under the sun but who I am as a person, I’ve always been driven to be myself and to stay true to my beliefs and principles.

What is your FAULT?
This is a hard one—I have many. For one, I am very disorganized. I always seem to get stuff done, but it always happens in a strange and roundabout way. I take no notes, I hardly use a calendar or planner, but somehow, the job gets done. As I get older and want to do more and more, I know I must find a better way of focusing my energies. Also, I can’t speak another language, which is something I’d love to improve on.