OPINION:
For Generation Z, financial security isn’t an abstract policy debate — it’s the defining challenge of our generation. We grew up watching economic uncertainty become the norm, and we’ve learned early that success isn’t just about income, but about assets.
That’s why President Trump’s proposal for Trump Accounts — savings accounts established at birth for every newborn — resonates so deeply with young Americans looking to start a family.
That reality was front and center when President Trump outlined his vision before a room full of young families, members of Congress, and business leaders. “Mr. Wonderful” Kevin O’Leary and rapper Nicki Minaj were also in attendance to show their support. The message was clear: if America wants the next generation to succeed, we must start earlier and think longer-term about how opportunity is built.
Trump Accounts are about a simple, but powerful idea: Every American child should start life with a solid foundation. Creating net worth at birth changes the trajectory of a person’s life. Instead of waiting until adulthood to begin saving, investing, and planning, these accounts allow wealth-building — and encourage financial literacy — to begin on day one.
This approach makes sense in light of what younger generations have already seen. Many of us learned the hard way, watching our parents weather the 2008 housing collapse and borrow heavily for education; falling behind early can have consequences that last a lifetime. Trump Accounts apply that same lesson at a national level, giving every child the benefit of time, compound growth, and a real shot at opportunity before the window starts to close.
The benefits for young families are substantial. Raising children is expensive, and parents often want to plan for their child’s future but lack the tools to do so consistently.
This tax-advantaged savings account provides structure and certainty. Families can contribute over time, relatives can add birthday or holiday gifts that grow in value, businesses can invest in their employees by contributing, and parents can watch a child’s financial foundation strengthen year after year.
By the time a child reaches adulthood, the account can be used for meaningful, life-shaping investments, such as higher education, workforce training, buying a home, or starting a business. These are not handouts — they are launchpads, and reinforce the idea that success is built gradually through saving, discipline, and smart decision-making.
This policy also reflects a value Generation Z cares deeply about: Ownership. We want to build things, not just consume. We want a stake in our country’s future. Trump Accounts expand ownership in the most literal sense by ensuring every American begins life with assets in their name. That sense of ownership fosters responsibility, optimism, and long-term thinking—qualities our country needs more of.
Importantly, Trump Accounts are pro-family. They trust parents to decide what’s best for their children. They don’t dictate outcomes or lifestyles; they simply provide the tools needed to succeed. For a generation skeptical of government intervention, that distinction matters.
Strong families create strong communities. Financially prepared young adults create a resilient economy. And with employers already buying in through matching contributions — including my own employer, The Heritage Foundation, with a $2,500 match — America is signaling confidence in its future.
The fight for the soul of our nation begins with whether the next generation is set up to succeed. Trump Accounts answer that question with clarity and conviction: every child deserves a head start, every family deserves a path to stability, and America is strongest when opportunity begins at birth.
• Jake Matthews is a communications manager for energy, technology, and economics at The Heritage Foundation.
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