In the heart of Indiana, a state known for its red-leaning political views, citizens have mostly voted in favor of Republicans since 2000, coming in at a majority of 85.7%. However, an increase in young adults is determined to make a difference; one of those young adults is history teacher Alexander Phommakhot. Amid a politically active summer this year, he was driven to bring change.
With that, he created the Young Democrats of Cass County, hoping anyone would join. It was not just formed to change the political aspect of Cass County; it is also aiming to foster a platform where young people can easily get involved, learn about politics and voice their opinions and local needs.
“The reason why I initiated the Democrats of Cass County is because I wanted to create an opportunity for the youth to be involved and to be able to dictate what happens based on what we need, based on our demographic,” Phommakhot said.
Indiana being such a red-driven state made it difficult for Phommakhot to get the gears turning when creating the group. Phommakhot found it difficult to create a group on a county level.
“Without a doubt,” Phommakhot said. “If you know anything about Logansport, Indiana, it’s predominantly a red district…a lot of conservatives.”
The Young Democrats of Cass County gives young adolescents, such as high school students, a chance to create change.
“Mr. Phommakhot, a teacher of mine who works for the Democrats of Cass County,” junior Cesar Martin-Acosta said. “ when he offered me the chance to be able to fight for something on a larger front, I took the opportunity immediately, and as I see what’s going on within our country, it worries me. So, I want to be able to create change and create a safer and happier and more friendly environment, at least within my community.”
Junior Rafael Vazquez commented on whether the Young Democrats of Cass County ever hosted an event he would attend.
“Yes, I would attend an event organized by the YDCC as I want to better educate myself when it comes to new political groups,” Vazquez said.
English teacher April Beene voiced her personal opinion on such events and what they can do.
“I think that local places and events and groups, those are where they can make the biggest difference,” Beene said. “It’s especially important to talk to people who maybe disagree with you about things that matter.”
Among the Democratic Party in Indiana, other groups want to make a change. The Cass County Democrats are a cluster of volunteers endorsing Democratic principles, motivating people to vote and working to resolve district issues, one of them being first-grade teacher Hayley Zinsmaster. Zinsmaster is a member of Logansport’s City Council representing Ward 4.
“I have learned so much by being involved with the City of Logansport,” Zinsmaster said. “I love learning new things and helping to solve problems. That is what motivated me to run for office.”
Zinsmaster was asked why she believes that it’s important for people to get involved in politics at a young age.
“Local politics affect your everyday life, probably more than most people realize,” Zinsmaster said. “Roads, parks and utilities are examples of local decisions. The sooner young people get involved, the more they can help shape their ideal future.”
History teacher Bryan Looker was asked to give one piece of advice to students who want to get into politics.
“I implore students every day to spend at least five to ten minutes listening to a trusted news source or sources, Looker said. “There is a lot going on in this country and the world, and they need to be informed. Because if you’re not informed, you can be apathetic.”
Phommakhot was asked the same thing, suggesting that students need to be vocal and be informed.
“Without a doubt, be vocal,” Phommakhot said. “Do not be afraid to represent who you are, especially when supporting all aspects of individuals. I really believe in the freedom to be who you are, and we should respect that. Be informed, take your time, and be politically active and inform yourself about what politicians are actually representing you and what they’re saying. Because some people just vote for the clout or just for the trend. Don’t do that.”
