| Passion for senator's policies motivates volunteer (2/08) | | Print | |
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With the 2008 presidential elections fast approaching, many teens are exercising their political rights by becoming involved in campaigns. Recently, Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton found support from a vocal and politically active Lowell student.
Junior Maxwell Wallace works as a high school intern coordinator for the Clinton campaign, training and recruiting interns, making phone calls and attending campaign events. He became involved with the campaign over the summer after researching of all of the candidates. “I found that I supported her policies the most,” he said. “I wanted to not only see how political campaigns function, but work for one with a goal that I believe in — electing an experienced voice of change.” Wallace was attracted to Clinton’s policies on healthcare, the Iraq war and gay rights. “Hillary Clinton has had a long history of fighting for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered Americans,” he said. “When I graduate, I want healthcare, the least national debt possible, an end to the war on Iraq and a president who supports the rights of gay Americans. Hillary will make this happen.” Wallace brought previous experience working with gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities to his campaign work. “My internship at the Clinton office allowed me to branch out and experience something else I love,” he said. Another benefit of the job is the chance to meet political leaders. “I volunteer at events with politicians such as Clinton, California state assemblywoman Fiona Ma, and mayor Gavin Newsom,” he said. Wallace urged other students to get involved in events such as the “high school nights” that the Clinton campaign held every Thursday. “Many high school students love to help,” he said. “It’s a great chance to meet other high school students and make new friends!” These interactions have proven to be an important part of Wallace’s learning process. “Working at the campaign office allows me to be around people who love politics and gives me a chance to learn more about different viewpoints,” he said. “It’s very interesting to me why different interns and volunteers support senator Clinton. It has been very interesting talking to my friends about senator Clinton, answering their questions, and hearing how they feel about her politically. It has taught me a lot about listening.” Although his internship ended on Thursday, Feb. 7, Wallace wants to continue to support the Clinton campaign. “Of course I will continue to pursue Hillary’s cause to improve our country— everyone should,” he said. “Seeing Hillary speak about youth has given me hope that she will listen to our voices and aid our causes in the future as she has done in the past.” Wallace plans to continue his involvement in politics. “I learned so much about how the government works while interning for her campaign, but now I want to find an internship with a politician who is currently in office,” Wallace said. |
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to listen.
