The Rise of Young Politicians

Who really likes being uninformed? I'll tell you who: no one. No one likes feeling left out, clueless, or ignorant, and yet so many people of today's younger generation are just that---ignorant. Nevertheless, there are those who refuse to take on that label. There are those who are making a difference in their towns and states by not accepting the "norm" attitudes of apathy and challenging others to do the same. There are those who take pride in being politically active, learning from their experiences, and maturing in areas far beyond that of their peers. I interviewed a young politician as a part of research for this article, and I'd like to share what he said.

Thomas first became involved in politics at a young age in 2004, the year George W. Bush ran for re-election. A few days ago, a Representative in Thomas' area won the re-election campaign and offered Thomas a position as an intern in his office since Thomas had worked as a grassroots volunteer for the candidate’s campaign. It had all originally started out as simply a request for a yard sign that blossomed into a friendship and finally the position for Thomas. His volunteer work had paid off in a satisfying way, and just because he wrote a two sentence email to request the candidate's yard sign.

“I believe it is important to be politically active because you get to learn so much about politics from so many perspectives (i.e. liberal, moderate, and conservative),” Thomas said. Being politically active from his point of view means you are able to meet many politicians and grasp a well-rounded view of the political arena.

“In my own life, [being a young politician] has done things I could have never imagined,” Thomas said, “I have become friends with many politicians. I believe this is important so that you know how government works, what different people believe, and what you believe.” Thomas encouraged young people who are interested in being more active in politics, to join a campaign. He warned though, that you “must be willing to say ‘no’ to some politicians who have totally different political views than you.” You must decide what morals you stand on before volunteering for a candidate or becoming involved in a campaign.

Thomas is just one of the many young people who are raising the bar of socially acceptable behavior for young adults. He, like many others, represent the rise of America’s young politicians who are taking a stand on issues, making a difference, and actively causing their voice to be heard as informed individuals of the next generation. ♦

written by Lizzie Hottenstein, all rights reserved. Thanks to Thomas E. for letting me interview you :)