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Democrats, even at age 13, celebrate the victory

November 4, 2008

With each state victory for President-elect Barack Obama, the crowd at the Democratic party at the Grand Sierra Resort erupted into a series of cheers and chants, yelling for change.

“I’m feeling a lot better than I have in eight years,” said Obama supporter Janis Knight.  “Obama’s charisma, his honesty and his intelligence are very reassuring. And nothing could be worse than the leadership we’ve had in the past.”

Among the hundreds of celebrants at the Grand Sierra were patrons who weren’t even allowed to vote yet.  Thirteen-year-olds Dylan Rath and Bradley Caladianos represented the Obama campaign by wearing T-shirts and talking with Democratic voters.

“I believe in Obama’s health care plan and tax plan,” Caldianos said. “ I think he is going to be a huge change for our country. I’m so excited. My parents support Obama, but it was mine and Dylan’s idea to endorse him like this.”

Students at Squaw Valley Academy’s  U.S. government class also attended, but not for academic purposes.

“We wanted to come down and feel the energy,” said teacher Nico Thorston.

“Not only to see how it works systematically, but to see the reactions of people around us.”

Many in the class are exchange students from Asian countries. They were interested in how American democracy actually works. One student, who asked for anonymity, spoke about the differences between Democratic America and Communist China.

“It’s completely different from America,” the student said. “In China there is no choice, there is just one political party We’re supposed to memorize sayings about why China is great, why communism is great, and you can’t say anything bad about it. You’ll get in trouble if you do.”

Many UNR students turned out at the Grand Sierra in support for Obama as well. Their concerns echoed the young-voter mantra that seemed so prominent throughout the campaign: It’s time for change.

“The economy is what scares me most,” said UNR senior Roxanna Khalili.

“This recession, or what will be, has to stop. Health care is also a main issue for me, too. We need some sort of universal health care plan, and I feel that through Obama we can achieve that.”

The young vote, however, was not the only  group present at the Democratic Party. Baby boomers said Obama reminded them of a great leader past.

“It’s like seeing John F. Kennedy 40 years later,” said Obama supporter Todd Vodensteiner. “His intellect, judgment and ability to work both sides of Congress and his track record are remarkable. Obama will carry the torch that Kennedy started.”

“I can’t wait until January,” Obama supporter Lorna Hazlett said. “Obama’s confidence, liberal tone and positive attitude is exactly what this country needs.”

Story by Kelly Teemer

Written by admin · Filed Under Local Coverage 

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