Who knew? Politico says that the College Republican National Committee released a rather scathing report on where the Republican Party fails when it comes to capturing the youth vote:

“Policies that lower taxes and regulations on small businesses are quite popular. Yet our focus on taxation and business issues has left many young voters thinking they will only reap the benefits of Republican policies if they become wealthy or rise to the top of a big business,” the report says. “We’ve become the party that will pat you on your back when you make it but won’t offer you a hand to help you get there.”

Younger voters — especially those in the Hispanic focus groups the CRNC conducted — are deeply familiar with the challenges posed by a less-than-robust economy, the report said, citing struggles with student loans and people who are delaying marriage because of financial issues. But the study said the party must explain how its policies translate into chances for economic advancement and should seek to do so in a more “caring” tone.

“If we don’t believe that Republicans are the ‘fend for yourself’ party, then it’s time for us to explain why — and to show our work,” the report said. “This will go a long way overall, but particularly with Latino voters, who tend to think the GOP couldn’t care less about them.”

When I went to the political conventions, this report's points were clearly illustrated. The number of young white preps I saw at the RNC could barely fill out a rowing team. They were trotted out for the cameras, along with the few minorities in attendance, but they didn't seem to have any real power in the proceedings. Young people were everywhere at the DNC. They were given real responsibilities, and they had a voice in and around the convention. Unless there's a sea change—probably inspired by a messianic young presidential candidate—this Republican youth problem isn't going to get better anytime soon.