Politics can seem intimidating. According to the Pew Research Center, 65% of Americans say they often feel exhausted when thinking about politics. However, I believe this mood is changing—thanks to the efforts of Gen-Z.

Since July 2025, I have had the privilege of experiencing politics firsthand by running for office in Ashland County. Let me be clear: it is naturally difficult to convince people that you are the best person for a governmental representative role; however, regardless of the results, it is so rewarding to be able to facilitate change and talk to constituents about issues that matter most to them.

My Campaign

I officially announced my candidacy for Montgomery Township Trustee on July 19. To my surprise, thousands of people from around the nation (not even remotely near my district) reacted to the announcement positively.

I was filled with gratitude.

Well wishes were received from New York to California and in between. This made me realize: America is desperate for new leadership—especially from the younger generation.

The day after the announcement, I looked at the comments in one of the local journalism outlets covering the race, and each one was filled with excitement for my campaign. This showed me that the fear of age in public offices is almost a mere myth, intended to scare younger people from creating valuable changes in their community.

Instead of age, most citizens are only concerned about a few things: “Are you competent for the job?” and, “What are your core policies?” Thankfully, with the help of social media, USPS direct mail, and door-knocking, I was able to share my policies, and my plans on implementing them.

I had three core policies: financial transparency, a new perspective and a community focus.

Every door I knocked on and every mailer I sent out received the clear message that I was ready to work in favor of the township and implement these changes for the community to thrive.

My three policies were intentionally created for everyone to understand them, understand them, regardless of whether they were receiving prior information or not. Of course, if residents wanted more information, it was readily accessible on my campaign website and mailers.

In the past six months, I would say my favorite campaign experiences always came from door-knocking. I’ll be honest; it is probably the hardest thing a traditional political campaign has to do—It requires many weekends, a lot of patience and ambition to knock on thousands of doors.

During election week, I took every opportunity possible to meet with residents. Specifically, on the day before election day, I started door-knocking at 9 a.m., took a break and attended class, then immediately went out and continued door-knocking…even skipping meals.

I made the joke to some of my peers, “…Oh, you know, just the day in the life of a regular college student: attending classes, doing homework, knocking on hundreds of doors on a single day, etc.”

On election day, I was stressed. It was the ONLY thing on my mind. No matter what I did, the thought of election day lingered. I went and voted after my last class of the day, and left campus to go set up my campaign watch party. When the polls closed at 7:30 p.m., I simply said, “God, it is all in your hands, regardless of the outcome.”

At 8:10 p.m., I received the news…I had won. I was speechless.

I remember looking around the room, surrounded by friends, family and supporters, and feeling an overwhelming sense of joy. Regardless of the potential election outcome, these people were still here.

I eventually received so many texts from people (even people I haven’t talked to in years) congratulating me on my victory, it got to the point where I could not keep up with responding: “Thank you for your support!”

I am so honored and ready to serve for the next four years.

Get involved

Let this be a sign for you to get involved with what matters most to you.

Realistically, the six months did require a lot of work, but I kept reminding myself: the only person stopping you from achieving what you want is…YOU.

I don’t typically give people unsolicited advice unless they want it; however, I highly encourage everyone to find something they’re passionate about and pursue it wholeheartedly. Of course, there are naturally going to be highs and lows on your journey to achieving that goal; however, don’t let that stop you.

When starting my campaign, I made an extensive effort to surround myself with people I trusted. I leaned on them for advice in different situations. I encourage you to do the same. It can be anyone you trust: God, friends, family, coworkers, experts in the field of your interest, etc.

In the words of Nike, “Just Do It.”

You don’t have to be an elected official to implement change

If there are changes you would like to see happen in your community, visit the respective government meetings that the change applies to and voice your concern.

Government exists for one reason: to work for the citizens of its jurisdiction. Your elected officials are in office for YOU.

If you feel called to run for office, visit the board of elections website (different in every county and state) and view the positions available in the upcoming election.

Regardless, make sure you’re registered to vote. It doesn’t matter what year it is; there are always elections.

You’ve been given the ability to freely express your opinion, thanks to the men and women who sacrificed their lives in the past 250 years. Truthfully, I believe it’s a civic duty that we should not take for granted.

Be the change you want to see.