Article Summary –
The article is a personal narrative of a politically-engaged teenager who values asking hard-hitting questions to politicians. The teen describes his experiences attending political events, such as asking Joe Biden a question about impeachment, questioning Ron DeSantis about Trump’s peaceful transfer of power, and being escorted out of a multicandidate forum for being a “known disruption.” In the conclusion, the teen advocates for more youth engagement in politics and vows to continue his active participation in democracy.
Engaging Youth in Democratic Dialogue
Active youth participation in politics is vital for asking critical questions and fostering democracy. This is particularly relevant for potential young voters.
I was a politically interested 11-year-old in June 2019, from a small town in New Hampshire. My father agreed to accompany me to see any presidential candidate within an hour’s drive. By June, we had seen 13 of the 26 candidates. Joe Biden’s scheduled visit to Concord compelled us to extend our travel limit.
During the journey, I planned to ask Biden a question. I discarded my father’s suggestion of asking about Biden’s dog’s name for a more significant query. I decided to question Biden on an ongoing debate about an impeachment trial for Donald Trump.
‘Young Man!’
After Biden finished his speech, I raised my hand and asked my question. Biden, possibly surprised by my question, responded thoughtfully and comprehensively.
The following day, the Laura Ingraham show referred to me as a ‘pathetic political prop’, implying that I was coached. However, Ingraham’s disparaging comments prepared me for the harsh reality of political debate.
Confronting Ron DeSantis
In June 2023, I asked Ron DeSantis at a town hall if he thought Trump violated the peaceful transfer of power, a principle of American democracy. Despite his evasive answer and condescending comment, I was ready for any negative reaction.
DeSantis’ team reacted with hostility when I showed up at a later event. Interestingly, although Ingraham labelled me as a prop, it was DeSantis’ campaign that treated me as one.
Accusations of Disruption
I attended a multicandidate forum in October in Nashua, NH. After asking Chris Christie a well-received question, I was escorted from the event by security due to accusations of being a ‘Democrat tracker’ and a ‘known disruption’. These claims were absurd considering my genuine interest in journalism and willingness to engage with a diverse range of political views.
Facing such hostility from political operatives was startling. It indicated an authoritarian control that challenges our democratic values. It also highlighted the absurdity of politicians who view me as a threat yet have to face global leaders like Xi Jinping or Vladimir Putin.
Continuing Political Engagement
I am determined to continue advocating for transparency and accountability in politics. It is crucial that more of us, particularly young voters, get involved and question our leaders.
The preservation of our democracy depends on public attention and participation. It involves attending local town hall meetings, canvassing for inspiring political candidates, or engaging in respectful political discussions with neighbours.
For me, this means discussing politics with anyone willing to listen, encouraging young people to voice their opinions, and expanding my understanding of politics and history to pose relevant questions. Regardless of political attempts to silence me, I believe in the power of participatory democracy.
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