In the summer of 2020, Xaviaer DuRousseau was set to participate in the Netflix reality show “The Circle,” which features contestants isolated in separate apartments competing for a cash prize while occasionally adopting fake digital personas. At the time, Mr. DuRousseau, then 23, was an advocate for progressive causes, including Black Lives Matter and ethnic studies requirements at his university.
Producers of the show wanted him, a Black man, to impersonate a white woman and discuss racial injustice before revealing his true identity. In preparation, Mr. DuRousseau immersed himself in right-wing politics, watching videos from conservative figures like PragerU and Candace Owens, which led him to question his previous beliefs.
Days before filming was scheduled to begin, Mr. DuRousseau withdrew from the show, stating that he no longer aligned with the liberal politics he was expected to represent.
Now 28, Mr. DuRousseau has fully embraced conservative ideology and works for PragerU, creating videos under the brand “Respectfully, Xaviaer.” His content has gained significant traction, earning him recognition in major publications and a lifestyle that includes high-profile events and a substantial online following.
Mr. DuRousseau is part of a growing group of conservative influencers appealing to Generation Z voters who feel disillusioned with traditional political narratives. Recent data indicates a notable shift among young male voters, with 56 percent supporting Trump in the 2024 election, reflecting a 15-point increase from 2020.
This new demographic of voters does not strictly adhere to one political party but draws from various perspectives, with some, like Mr. DuRousseau, appreciating both Bernie Sanders for his authenticity and Trump for his anti-establishment stance.
On a recent morning in Los Angeles, Mr. DuRousseau showcased his influencer persona while filming a video aimed at liberal critics, asserting that he is accepted within the conservative movement despite some skepticism about his identity as a Black conservative.
While he acknowledges that some conservatives may not fully embrace his approach, he has found support within the MAGA community and serves on the Republican National Committee’s youth advisory council. He emphasizes the importance of nuanced discussions on race, distancing himself from the rigid views often associated with the right.
In his videos, Mr. DuRousseau often employs provocative language to critique liberal ideologies, asserting that he prefers to align with conservative values while maintaining a relatable image for younger audiences.
Despite facing criticism for his views, particularly regarding the transgender community, Mr. DuRousseau maintains that his opinions are rooted in a desire to protect women's spaces and address concerns about children undergoing gender transition surgeries.
His rise as a conservative influencer has not come without personal cost, as he has experienced strained relationships with family members due to his political transformation. Nonetheless, he insists that his shift in beliefs is genuine and reflects a broader trend among young Americans seeking alternatives to mainstream liberal narratives.
Mr. DuRousseau's content blends pop culture with political commentary, appealing to a demographic that values health, wellness, and skepticism of modern institutions. He argues that the wellness movement has become politicized, highlighting concerns about the pharmaceutical industry and advocating for healthier lifestyles.
As he continues to navigate his role within the conservative movement, Mr. DuRousseau expresses a desire for more open conversations about race and politics, hoping to foster understanding across ideological divides.