By Jack Cahill ’17
THE ROUNDUP

While most high school students focus heavily on athletics and academics, others have a distinct interest in the political process.

Brophy already has two large political groupings, the Young Democrats and Teenage Republicans, and many members of these groups are active in politics both on and off campus.

Greyson Beck ’17 was initially quiet in the Teenage Republicans, but is now happy in an active role.

“My first year, I just wanted to find kids politically similar to me,” Beck said. “Now, the president has left, so I’m trying to mend the group to prevent disorganization. We’re looking to have presentations on political topics and encourage debate.”

Beck also expressed interest in conducting polling across campus.

“We want to sample maybe 50 to 60 students, and stand in octagon, sampling students on their preferred candidates,” Beck said. “We would work with the Young Democrats here, and keep track of student responses.”

Austin Berg ‘18, another member of the Teenage Republicans, is also particularly active in politics.

“I’m very active in the Teenage Republicans, but I attend Young Democrats meetings to encourage conversation as well,” Berg said. “I really try to avoid name calling and disrespect, as do most club members.”

Berg encourages other students to look into politics and consider getting involved.

“I think it’s a service to our country to at least be knowledgeable about what’s going on politically,” Berg said. “We shouldn’t vote without knowing who or what we’re voting for.”

Rowan O’Riley ’18, an active member of the Young Democrats, shares similar sentiments as Berg.

“I try to encourage other students to be active in politics, whether they agree with my stances or not,” O’Riley said. “Being active in a political group leads to discussion, connection, and even action. Through meetings and activism you can discuss huge issues in today’s society.”

Beck has undertaken a large effort to get involved with the re-election campaign of Senator John McCain.

“I’m doing an internship for John McCain, and I’m looking at volunteering for the Republican nominee, regardless of who it might be,” Beck said. “In my role as an intern, we do lots of phone banking and canvassing, and the Young Republicans have really incentivized me to look into being politically active off campus.”

Eric Hovagim ‘16, an active Young Democrat, has also been particularly active outside of school.

“Outside of school, the Young Dems has put together canvassing events along with volunteer opportunities in political offices,” Hovagim said. “In my personal life, I love discussing politics surrounding today’s most pivotal issues with my peers.”