Young Candidate Seeks to Make History as Vermont’s Gubernatorial Nominee
In a notable development in Vermont’s political landscape, 14-year-old Dean Roy is set to make history as the youngest gubernatorial candidate to appear on the state’s general election ballot this November. A freshman at Stowe High School, Roy has expressed ambitions for public office that began only last year, ignited by his experience as a legislative page at the Vermont Statehouse.
Breaking New Ground
Roy’s entry into politics is unprecedented in Vermont, where there are no age restrictions for gubernatorial candidates, apart from a residency requirement of four years. The Freedom and Unity party, which Roy founded, paved the way for his candidacy, distinguishing him from Ethan Sonneborn, another young candidate who sought the Democratic nomination in 2018 but did not advance to the general election.
“I don’t expect necessarily to win,” Roy articulated during a recent campaign event. “What I do expect is to start the movement, and get more young people to come in behind me and say, ‘Yeah, we also want to make change.’” His perspective reflects a growing trend among younger generations seeking to engage in the political process, prompting discussions about the role of youth in governance.
The National Context
Unlike Vermont, most other states impose minimum age limits for gubernatorial candidates. Typically, this age threshold is set at 30 years. Kansas, for instance, raised its minimum age to 25 following a surge of candidates under 18 during previous elections. This contrast highlights Vermont’s unique political framework which permits young individuals to enter the electoral fray without age-related barriers.
While Roy’s age may draw attention, experts such as Peter Teachout, a professor at Vermont Law and Graduate School, suggest that the state constitution does imply a need for candidates to be at least 18 years old to fully participate in the privilege of voting. However, Teachout has voiced skepticism about the viability of a 14-year-old in a gubernatorial race, even as he recognizes the novelty of Roy’s candidacy.
Support and Skepticism
The response to Roy’s ambitions has been mixed. Supporters, including his former history teacher James Carpenter, praise his determination and maturity. Carpenter describes Roy as an “old soul,” noting that he blends youthful optimism with a pragmatic approach rarely seen in peers of his age.
Conversely, current Governor Phil Scott, a Republican, has expressed doubt regarding the readiness of someone so young to manage the complexities of state governance. According to Amanda Wheeler, the governor’s press secretary, while Scott appreciates Roy’s enthusiasm for politics, he questions whether a teenager possesses the experience necessary to navigate the responsibilities associated with the role.
In a rebuttal, Roy maintains that age should not dictate a candidate’s capability to serve. “What I’m aiming for is that these career politicians look at me and say, ‘Oh my God, he actually has a chance to disrupt things,’” he stated, emphasizing his goal of inspiring young voters and advocating for change.
Key Issues and Future Aspirations
When discussing campaign priorities, Roy identifies housing as the most pressing issue facing Vermont today. He recognizes that balancing school responsibilities with the demands of a full-time gubernatorial position would be challenging, but he is open to innovative learning solutions such as online courses.
Roy’s candidacy not only seeks to represent the concerns of younger Vermonters but also aims to challenge what he describes as a stagnation in current political approaches. “The future is now,” he reiterated, hoping to galvanize a generation that often feels disconnected from the political process.
As Vermont prepares for an election that could redefine the trajectory of its political landscape, Dean Roy’s bid for governor has sparked conversations about age, experience, and the evolving nature of civic engagement. Whether or not he secures a victory, his candidacy stands as a landmark moment—one that embodies the aspirations of a younger demographic eager to see their voices reflected in the corridors of power.
Source: Original Reporting
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