A recent Generation Lab poll has found that young voters are largely disapproving of a recent ad campaign by American Eagle, with many perceiving eugenics undertones. The survey of 1,289 undergraduate and graduate students nationwide reveals significant generational and partisan differences in opinion.
Among respondents, 42% of Democrats said the ad made them less likely to buy jeans from American Eagle, compared to 16% of Republicans and 28% of Independents. Young women were also more likely to express dislike for the ad, with 39% saying they’re less likely to purchase AE jeans.
However, it’s worth noting that these criticisms are not universally held, with only 10% of all respondents agreeing that the campaign promotes eugenics. This minority opinion is shared by 8% of young women and men.
The poll highlights a stark contrast between the perceptions of young Democrats and Republicans, as well as differences in opinions among young men and women. Overall, the survey suggests that American Eagle’s ad campaign has backfired with many young voters, particularly those on the left.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/08/13/american-eagle-sydney-sweeney-men-women-democrats-republicans