As the clock stuck 11p.m. on Nov.4, the country made history. Barack Obama, an African-American man born in Hawaii, became President of the United States. Obama’s victory means one thing for high school students. The youth of this nation can make a difference.
The referendum questions this election also mimicked SHHS students. Question One, whether or not to eliminate the income tax, was answered “no.” Therefore, the income tax will stay. This means that the state will not need to cut funding to social programs such as schools, hospitals, and other such initiatives. The state will keep over 40% of its budget due to the rejection this question.
Question Two, whether or not to decriminalize marijuana, also returned the same result as the mock election. Now, if one is over eighteen years old and caught with an ounce of marijuana or less, one will only need to pay a $100 fine. This will allow more young people to avoid a felony charge.
The people’s reaction to Question Three, whether or not to ban dog racing, is based on opinion. Some will be happy that this will stop abuse and inhuman treatment of dogs.
Senior Molly Greaney said “I am pleased they banned dog racing because the way the dogs are treated is inhumane.”
Every result was in line with the SHHS mock election. Students elected Barack Obama, John Kerry, and Richard Neal. They voted “no” on Question One, “yes” on Question Two, and “yes” on Question Three. All of these came to pass in the nationwide and local elections.
Overall, the 2008 election brought change to both the nation and the state. With a new president and controlling party, American voters have voiced their desire for change, and have received this wish. Senior Margo Hess echoed this sentiment. “This was what I wanted, so I’m happy.”
