This month will be remembered for multitude of events, but far more important than any is the 2008 presidential election. Undoubtedly, this election was one of the most pivotal elections in all of United States history. Both campaigns, McCain and Obama, fought hard for the presidency, but in the end Barack Obama took the victory. In addition to electing the first African American president, this election had a record voter turnout. Of these voters, many were first time voting high school students.Voting, being one of the major advantages of becoming a legal adult, is long looked forward to by younger citizens. Many students, however, may not know what it feels like to truly vote. Neuqua Valley Senior Brittany Grosch described her voting experience as “Surreal and incredible.” Although that opinion probably speaks for many first time voters, Senior Emerson Lee said, “It was surprisingly unfulfilling. Everyone knows that Illinois is a blue state, so it felt like my vote didn’t count.”
In such a controversial election, there were many aspects to take into account while voting. Despite the current economic situation, it did not seem to be the deciding factor for some high school voters. Senior Kevin Ramig said, “To me, their environmental views were most important.” Some students, however, were not completely focused on policy. Grosch said, “I wanted my candidate to be truthful, knowledgeable, and a good representation of America.” In contrast, Lee said, “I look at all different aspects, mainly on the issues. I do not need the president to entertain me, so their personality was not as important.” Despite what students focused on, it is clear that students put thought and reasoning into their first official ballot.
After seeing the results, students had time to think about the country’s decision. Despite personal opinions, students seem to hold one unanimous viewpoint about the outcome. Grosch said, “I pretty much knew that Obama was going to win, but it was amazing to actually see it happen.” Agreeing with Grosch, Ramig said, “I knew he would win, but not by as much as he did. We must have really wanted this.” Not disagreeing with Grosh or Ramig, Lee wondered, “If Obama spent over one billion dollars on his campaign, how well will he handle other peoples’ money?”
Also after the results were finalized, many adults had the chance to reflect on high school participation. Social Studies teacher Hugh Flanders said, “Well, I do not know the exact numbers, but my impression is that larger number of young citizens voted than usual.” In addition to the outcome, students participated in the actual campaigning. Flanders added, “There were a tremendous number of student volunteers working for both campaigns.” This student participation may be one of the main factors in the outcome of the election.
Whether they agree with the outcome or not, those who voted will always have the knowledge that they were part of arguably America’s most pivotal elections.
By Lucas Giolas, photo editor
