Young Voter Profiles: A Wisconsin Democrat

By Jocelyn Sida, September 16, 2008

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A young Wisconsin Democrat talks about the presidential election and his hopes for the future.

I met University of Wisconsin Eau Claire junior Jake Johnson at the Democratic Leadership Institute in Baraboo, Wisconsin and he agreed to answer some questions about this year's presidential election, and why he's a Democrat. At his college Johnson is a member of the marching band, forensics team, Student Senate and College Democrats. He also serves on the UW's Arts and Sciences student advisory board.

He's enjoying the atmosphere in his college town and on campus. “It's a great place for college students,” he says of his surroundings. “There's a near perfect mix between parties, being near nature and the importance of schoolwork.” Johnson talked to Wiretap about his political beliefs and where he sees himself in the future. This is the second installment in Rock The Trail and Wiretap's young voter interview series.

Rock The Trail: What political party are you affiliated with and why?

Jake Johnson: I'm a strong Democrat. I chose this party because it represents my ideas on important issues such as higher education and health care reform. Also, Democrats have a strong commitment to allowing government to work for and not against people.

How long have you been involved with politics?

JJ: I have been actively involved since 2004 when I was in my high school Democrats, as well as volunteering for a local assembly campaign.

What are the most important issues in the election for you?

JJ : Higher education and affordable health care reform are the number one issues for me.

Will the candidate's positions on these issues affect whom you vote?

JJ : Absolutely.

What are your hopes for the outcome of this historic election?

JJ : I look forward to not having to apologize for our country, and instead being proud of those leading it.

How involved are your friends with politics?

JJ : Many of my friends are volunteering for campaigns from both parties, on federal, state and local levels. People are asking questions, doing research, and talking about the political scene more than most other years. Most people who I am around are planning to vote, and to get involved actively this fall.

What do your friends think about the presidential race?

JJ : I believe that a majority of my peers are watching this election closely. Both candidates have grabbed the attention of this nation, because of not only their stark differences, but also due to their surprising similarities. I believe my peers want to be informed, and are looking for someone to persuade them.

Do you see yourself as a role model for your peers?

JJ: Yes, I think I can be. I value having a broad range of experiences and I believe I show my friends and fellow college students that there is so much to do with your time. I tell them don't hold back because we only get a few years to be in this semi-real [college] world.

What message do you want to give to young voters from around the nation?

JJ : The youth of this nation are the single largest voting block. We can determine what kind of country we want to inherit. It's crucial that more than previous years, this year we turn out and vote in record numbers. The new administration, as well as the congress is bound to the voters. We must let our voices be heard. By voting, and voting in our best interests, this great nation will go in the direction we want it to. Students can truly change the course of this country on November 4.

Were do you see yourself in 10 or 20 years?

JJ : In the next 10 to 20 years I hope to find myself working in a field I love and with a family I am happy to go home to everyday. I would love to be a journalist, hopefully related to politics. Also, I would like to think I will remain active in the political world in whatever way is possible.

Jocelyn Sida, 19, was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. in a Mexican-American home and is currently a sophomore at Northland College in Ashland, WI. where she hosts the area's only Spanish radio show. She is currently a reporter for Rock The Vote's Rock The Trail project.