Rock the Vote’s Rock the Caucus at Valley High School in West Des Moines, Iowa was an event unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. When our assistant principal selected me to be a student candidate for the event’s mock caucus, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I thought, “What’s this Rock the Caucus everyone is talking about? Why was I chosen to be a part of it?”
Teaming up with Rock the Vote for Rock the Caucus ended up being a blast. Rock the Vote and the Iowa Secretary of State’s office invited all of the Republican Presidential Candidates to the event, and four campaigns ended up attending! The student candidate group, of which I was a part, had the chance to interview and escort the candidates – Michele Bachmann, Mitt Romney’s sons, Rick Santorum, and Ron Paul – to the gymnasium where the event took place. I was assigned to interview and escort Ron Paul. It was rewarding to have one-on-one time with a presidential candidate! Through this experience I met so many wonderful and important people who want to make sure young people are involved in the political process.
Rock the Caucus’ ability to rally the young voters of Valley High School was empowering. Throughout my high school career, I have never witnessed students have such an important platform to speak about the issues in their schools and communities and how to fix these issues. The four student candidates had a chance to take advantage of this opportunity. Each of us had one minute to stand up on stage and talk about three issues we would change at Valley High School.
The most shocking part of the experience was the hundreds of news reporters, paparazzi, and video cameras that arrived when they heard the candidates would be speaking to us. I had never felt so nervous and excited at the same time… it was incredible! We not only had the attention of our classmates and administration, but also the attention of the nation. This made students realize what a huge role they have in voting and politics. Whether the student candidates spoke about our school dance policy, school food, support for school activities, P.E. classes, or finals, we were able to engage students on the issues that impact them. After we spoke, each of our assigned presidential candidates addressed the student body about problems that lay beyond the halls of our high school. Everyone had a lot of fun with this part – we only see candidates speak on TV, but the fact that they were speaking at our high school was unbelievable!
After speaking about our school’s P.E. requirement, I ended up winning the student mock caucus, which was very cool. On top of that, people kept telling me they saw me on national television! It was amazing to have our speeches broadcast live to the nation.
I think Rock the Caucus really helped to make young people aware of their role in society and the importance of their voice and vote. When we realize that we have the power to voice our opinions for others to hear, it encourages us to make our voices heard. I had so much fun teaming up with Rock the Vote. This event really changed my perspective on my role as a citizen, and I look forward to participating in politics in the future.
Check out a few photos from Rock the Caucus here!
