With an historic presidential election at hand, a handful of Ojai Valley School seniors put their pens to their mail-in ballots and took part first hand — and for the first time — in United States democracy.
Seniors Chloe Warren and Carson Strassman are two of the three OVS seniors who are eligible to vote in the Nov. 3 election.
For both, this is an experience for which they have well prepared.
“I have read about the presidential candidates’ policies and watched the debates,” explained Chloe in regards to preparing for the election. “I heavily researched all the propositions to better understand their huge fiscal implications.”
Carson and his father spent time together researching what he would be voting for and supporting,
“I spent 45 minutes with my dad researching all of the propositions and deciding which ones were going to vote on,” Carson said.
Both Chloe and Carson opted for a mail-in ballot to cast their votes, and both seniors have already mailed their ballots.
Especially in the wake of the COVID19 pandemic, it has proved especially important to remain informed and up-to-date with the current happenings and events within the country and politics.
“Since the COVID-19 pandemic, I have paid much more attention to politics federally and locally,” Chloe said. “I am deeply concerned about the rising homeless populations from the aftermath of the pandemic in Southern California. I have been closely monitoring the federal government’s response to the Coronavirus.”
Having the ability and privilege to vote is very important to both Chloe and Carson.
Additionally, in today’s times, a single vote could play a crucial role in the future of the country and it can greatly affect the future of today’s youth.
That’s a responsibility Carson takes very seriously.
“I am happy that I am able to participate in this country’s democracy and have a voice, however small, to be able to work towards what I believe in,” Carson explained. “I think it is extremely important for teenagers and young adults to vote because we are the ones who will face the benefits or consequences in the future for voting for someone or something.”
Both Chloe and Carson took part in this election process and dedicated their time and effort to ensure they made an educated and well thought out decision on their vote, as well as the time spent researching in order to ensure their vote is cast in the right direction towards the future of the country.
“I feel privileged to live in a democracy where my vote matters,” Chloe said.