Deconstructing our Democracy

Tsytsarina 2 New Trier Examiner Politics Friday, February 21, 2020 AP Government students observe caucus in Bettendorf, Iowa by Alex Rubinstein make an informed decision. Some The caucus center was electric appreciated the unique opportunity as Iowans, excited to exercise their the caucus offered to have face to voice and to fulfill their civic duty, face conversations about candidates, walked in. Supporters of specific issues, and policy. candidates stood at the doors handing “It feels like there’s very few out stickers and candy and preaching other opportunities for those kinds of why one should vote for their conversations to organically happen,” candidate in a last minute attempt to said Forrest. gain more voter support. While primary elections can be On Feb. 4, 130 New Trier very solitary, caucuses encourage students taking AP Government discussion with neighbors about traveled to Bettendorf, Iowa to why supporters favor a candidate, or observe a caucus. The excursion policy. enabled students to talk to Iowans Senior BJ Moses-Rosenthal and witness a caucus firsthand. spoke to a woman who supported AP Government teacher 130 AP Government students at the convention center where The Iowa Caucus was held NT Educational Foundation a candidate whose policy he didn’t Lindsay Arado said most Americans agree with. He was surprised how who work at night, people with overwhelming. “It was pretty hilarious to see all do not understand the complex that encounter helped him understand children, those who are traveling, and “I think that Iowa should of these random Iowans get very caucus process. not just the choices she made, but people with disabilities, to name just definitely switch to a primary worked up at the vote counter guy. “By taking our students to see how complicated voting can be. a few groups, struggle to attend,” said because of how chaotic the caucuses Pete’s team was pretty rattled about the caucuses, they have a deeper “I didn’t expect much to come Arado. are. All of the counting for viability is the whole thing, and the Biden people understanding not only of the of the encounter. However the lady The actual caucus is split into done by one person walking around tried to get me to help them until I process, but of the limitations of this spoke about how she supported the two rounds. During the first round, and physically counting each person told them I was an observer.” type of election.” candidate because of a deep personal supporters of each candidate tell caucusing for that candidate, which is Inside the caucus, supporters in Many students were surprised connection they shared in their participants about their candidate’s pretty easy to mess up,” said Siegel. each corner of the room advocated by the magnitude of the caucus. respective upbringings. I came away values, trying to persuade people In order for a candidate to for specific candidates. Senior Olivia Tussing’s first respecting the woman’s voting choice to vote for their candidate. Then be viable, they need 15% of the Tussing said, “I talked to a lot reaction was that it was chaotic and and on a larger scale now realize that participants get to pick a candidate, total amount of people caucusing of campaigners and people caucusing crowded. people support candidates for various and they physically stand against the to support them. If they do not get about who they were voting for, but “There were multiple precincts reasons and aren’t necessarily an wall near their candidate’s poster. enough people, all of that candidate’s the one that sticks out to me was a in one giant room, so it was super extension/caricature of the people The people are then counted supporters pick a different candidate Pete Buttigieg representative. I did loud and crammed full of people. they support.” by one precinct leader or a captain who was viable during the second not know much about Pete, so it was The precincts were only separated Not all students felt caucuses to determine how many votes each round of caucusing. helpful to be introduced to him and by a thin black curtain which didn’t create a democratic environment candidate received. One of the largest caucuses his policies through someone who block any sound,” added senior Zoe due to how peer pressure plays Each caucus counts the votes had 242 people participating. Each campaigns for him.” Siegel. such a large role in which candidate by hand which creates the potential candidate then needed 37 people to Outside of the main room, each Robin Forrest, who also teaches participants select. for error. The app designed to be a viable candidate. candidate had booths that gave out AP Government, said “There was a “I would like to share that the count caucus votes state-wide also Andrew Yang did not receive stickers, buttons, and candy. concert type atmosphere as people trip, while very fun, did not make malfunctioned. enough people during the first round The most surprising part for were coming into the convention me feel like our elections were very “The press that came out of Iowa to be viable, and so all of Yang’s Siegel was how supporters of a center.” secure and protected from outside after the caucuses played out with supporters had to pick a different candidate tried to lure other caucus- In order to participate, Iowans influence,” said Serrino. some problems with the reporting candidate to support during the goers to support their candidate. need to physically go to the caucus, Senior Kathryn Hemmer was of the results, could have been fuel second round. “I don’t really think being able and they must stay for the duration of more critical, “While the caucus for people looking for the caucuses “One specific moment that stuck to offer someone chocolate-covered their precinct’s caucus. The caucus in process allows voters to debate and to be eliminated, and replaced with out to me was when I diverted away pretzels should allow a candidate Bettendorf started at 7:00 PM, and share ideas, it’s an overwhelmingly something else,” said Forrest. from the main group and watched this to get an extra delegate or become lasted until 9:00 PM. archaic and ineffective system. While the caucus system enables one precinct in which the Biden team viable. Bribing people with snacks is “Generally, fewer than 18% Caucuses restrict voter privacy, conversation and collaboration to be was getting heated at the Buttigieg not very democratic,” said Siegel. of eligible voters turn out for the diminish turnout, and create voting a part of the voting process, many team for trying to claim viability The caucus system allows caucuses. It’s hard to caucus; people debacles because of their chaotic and students found the process to be unfairly,” said senior Tommy Serrino. voters to engage with others to time-consuming nature.” An inside look at New Trier’s Student Council elections What does Student Council do? What are the responsibilities of the roles? The main goal of Student Council bring the opinions Student Council creates a constitution every year. These are the roles of each candidate according and ideas of students to the administration to help to this years constitution. create a better New Trier How does Step 3.5: President: If there are more 1. Call and chair all formal meetings the election than 2 candidates, the 2. Call periodic officer meetings as needed 3. Present recommendations for the Student Council Board to consider, but cannot make formal members of student work? motions council will partake Step 1: Vice President in a preliminary round 1. Assume all responsibility of the President when they are unable to do so Members of student of voting to narrow it 2. Direct all Student Council elections council start off with down to 2 candidates 3. Run, organize and attend all advisery forums to give project updates, and organize a typical application, for each position constituencies as needed. One or the other must be conducted quarterly asking questions like 4. Record updates to the Constitution annually ‘why do you want to Treasurer run?’ Step 4 1. Record, publish, and distribute minutes at the request of Student Council members, other In the middle of second students, club sponsors and faculty Step 2: semester, candidates 2. Assume all responsibilities of the Vice-President when he/she is unable to do so They then have to begin to make posters 3. Tally the votes go out and get 50 advertising their Secretary signatures from other platform and their 1. Chair the annual Budget Day Committee hearings students, not insuring policies that students 2. Assume all responsibilities of the Secretary when he/she is unable to do so 3. Appoint students to the Budget Committee their vote but rather will see around the school 4. Keep an exact record, in writing, of all Student Council bank accounts and provide a budget that they are fit for the report to students, administrators, and faculty who ask for it role 5. Ensure the reimbursement for all Student Council expenditures Step 3: Step 6: School Culture Commissioner 1. Organize events related to the promotion of school culture Soon they will have Finally, students will 2. Assist the Treasurer with responsibilities of the Secretary when they are unavailable debates within the vote on the candidates 3. Plan and direct initiatives to enhance esprit de corps and bolster Trevian pride club, presenting the they see as most fit to 4. Meet regularly with student constituents to seek feedback and ideas related to school culture platform that they are serve and the student experience running on New Trier Examiner Politics Friday, February 21, 2020 3 compiledWho’s by Amelia Jacobsonon the ballot? Know who you’re voting for system in healthcare; pro wall; more since 2010 Bill Conway (D) US Senate Candidates tax cuts; reduce national debt by Illinois House of Education: JD Georgetown Metropolitan Water cutting spending; wants to balance University Center Reclamation Board the budget. Representative- Experience: LT of the US Navy since 2012 and a Military Intelligence Candidates (Pick 3) District 17 officer from 2017-2018; Assistant State’s Attorney in Cook County for 6 years Frank Avila (D) Education: Master’s of Finance University of Arizona Experience: Commissioner for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago since 2002. Casey Chlebek (R) Education: Bachelor’s Computer Richard “Dick” Durbin (D) Heather Boyle (D) Science University of Illinois Education: JD Georgetown Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz (D) Education: Bachelor’s Harper Platform: more jobs; less national Experience: Illinois senator since Education: JD Loyola University College. debt by hiring financial experts to 1997 and an Illinois representative in Experience: Board Member of Bob Fioretti (D) Experience: Owner and Project review of all entitlement programs; the House of Reps from 1983-1997 Glenview Education Foundation; Education: JD Northern Illinois Manager at Sanitary and Storm Water schools should have 1-year and/ Past Accomplishments: reduced the Founding member of Illinois University and a part of Des Plaines Department or 2 year job training programs for price of prescription drugs; created Unaccompanied Children’s Task Experience: 2nd Ward Alderman at of Public Works and Engineering the most popular trades for quick more jobs for Illinois; introduced Force the Chicago City Council from 2007- entrance to job market; America the Dream Act that helped lead to 2015 Mike Cashman(D) should take in more immigrants immigration reform Education: BA in History than they already do; reduce military Northwestern University spending US House of Platform: focus on awareness through

Representatives- 9th education on the environment district Eira Corral Sepulveda (D) Experience: 10 years as municipal government as Clerk for the Village of Hanover Park Yesoe Yoon (R) Platform: Climate resiliency; greater Education: Bachelor’s in Kim Foxx (D) public awareness; engagement and Communication and Media at Education: JD Southern Illinois trust Northeastern Illinois University Experience: Anchor and Host of Experience: County State’s attorney Cameron Davis (D) Global Leaders Network TV Program since 2016; Assistant State’s Attorney Experience: Great Lakes Czar for for Cook County from 2001-2013 President Barack Obama 2009-2017; Mark C. Curran JR. (R) Sargis Sangari (R) President’s liaison to congress for Education: JD IIT Chicago Education: Bachelors of Political Great Lakes; former litigator for Experience: Lake County sheriff Science DePaul University Cook County Circuit National Wildlife Federation and from 2006 to 2018 and an Attorney Experience: CEO of Near East Professor at University of Michigan General’s Gang Crime Bureau Chief Center for Strategic Engagement and Court Clerk Law School and Senior Prosecutor at Lake US Army Lieutenant Colonel Barbara Bellar (R) Platform: goal is to reduce flooding County State’s Attorney and a Special Education: JD John Marshall Law assistant to the US Attorney School Deyon Dean (D) Platform: Pro-life and Pro- Experience: licensed Attorney; Education: Bachelor’s of Business liberty Veteran Major in the US Army Administration Southern Illinois Reserve Donna More (D) University Education: JD Georgetown Experience: CEO and president Richard Boykin (D) University of Olympian Security Situations Education: JD University of Dayton Experience: Partner and President of Corporation; mayor of the Village of Experience: 1st District several firms Riverdale from 2008-2013; Associate Commissioner on the Cook County Director for the Illinois Department Janice D. Schakowsky (D). Board of Commissioners since 2014 of Human Services Education: Bachelors in Elementary Education University of Illinois Michael Cabonargi (D) Kimberly Dubuclet (D) Experience: member of the US Education: JD University of Illinois Education: MBA University of House of Representatives since Urbana-Champaign Chicago Experience: 2nd District Experience: board member of the Peggy Hubbard (R) 1998; was an Illinois Public action Commissioner on the Cook County Metropolitan Water Reclamation Experience: Navy Veteran program director for nine years Board of Review since 2011 District Board since 2018; Platfrom: focus on improving Platform: wants affordable health Dan Patlak (R) Representative in the Illinois House services towards Veterans; wants care for all Americans; helped write Iris Martinez (D) Education: Bachelor’s in Business of Representatives from 2011-2013 to lower taxes; reduce size of and pass the Affordable Care Act; Experience: Illinois State Senator in Administration Valparaiso University government; defend the second Senior Deputy Whip during her tenth the Illinois 20th Legislative District Experience: incumbent; Cook County Patricia Flynn (D) amendment; secure border and large- term since 2003 Board of Review Commissioner Experience: was a Director for scale network security; limit illegal since 2010 Chicago Gaelic Park; spent time immigration Jacob Meinster (D) in the MWRD lab and as a Experience: Law Clerk on the Pollution Control Water Sampler Wisconsin Senate Committee on Cook County Board of Judiciary and Consumer Affairs Michael Grace (D) Review Commissioner Education: Bachelor’s in Economics Andrew Tarnasiwicz-Heldut (D) 1st District Marquette University Education: JD at John Marshall Law Experience: owner of Servpro School Cook County State Industries Inc. Experience: Associate Attorney for Attorney Candidates McGuire Law since 2019 Shundar Lin (D) Patrick ‘Pat’ W. O’Brien (R) Experience: Board Member Illinois Pollution Control Board 2008-2010; Robert Marshall (R) Education: JD DePaul University retired sanitary engineer Education: MD Harvard Medical Experience: Cook County Circuit Illinois Hours of Education: Doctorate Sanitary Experience: US Air Force veteran Court judge from 2006-2015; Engineering at Syracuse University Platform: Pro-Life; Pro-wall; Pro- Representatives public attorney for Illinois Attorney Abdelnasser Rashid (D) Platform: focus on a balanced budget second Amendment right General’s office District 18 Experience: Deputy Chief of Staff for and keeping water clean Platform: Believes criminal justice is Cook County Clerk David Orr; led not political, should be law based passing legislation that helped seniors automatically apply for exemption

Christopher EK Pfannkuche (R) Tammy Wendt (D) Education: JD Loyola University Education: JD John Marshall Law To find more information on Platform: Focus on repeat offenders School any of the candidates or to to make community safer; Non- Robyn Gabel (D) Experience: Assistant State’s research local judges, check violent offenders should have ‘fresh Tom Tarter (R) Education: Bachelors Beloit college Attorney for Cook County from their website, ballotready. start’ Education: Doctorate Oregon Health Experience: Illinois General 2000-2004 com, chicagobar.com, or

Sciences University Assembly of the State Representatives cookcountycleark.com. Platform: against single-payer 4 New Trier Examiner Politics Friday, February 21, 2020 Trials and tribulations of voting in the U.S. by Emma Mansour same scale as everyone else’s when votes, especially from marginalized One of the staples of our it comes to federal elections. or underrepresented groups that VOTING democracy is the right for most This is not to say that smaller are often affected the most by Americans to vote. The perception states won’t be given the opportunity restrictions. is that each and every eligible voter to influence the vast majority of If you can’t vote for someone VOTING has an equal opportunity to influence policies; the senate exists for a who would represent you, you won’t elections, that no one person or reason. But when it comes to the be represented, and the issues that group has more power to choose person representing the country, cause this lack of representation who runs the country over another. it really makes no sense that they never get addressed because no one VOTING Yet in the status quo, many should represent certain people more in the government necessarily has Americans are limited in their than others. a vested interest. This is an endless opportunity to participate in our While the electoral college cycle that our current system really VOTING democracy. The obvious example of remains a big issue in the voting can’t solve without addressing the this is through the electoral college, process, what is perhaps even more issue of voting. who’s functionality and value has concerning are some of the smaller There may be ways around VOTING been highly contested in recent scales restrictions that impede one’s problems that allow any person to years. ability to vote. For example, in some vote. But that requires the resources The electoral college was states, you need an address to easily to know about them, and the genuine created in a bid to ensure that the vote. desire to put the effort into casting a VOTING more educated and powerful people This isn’t an issue for people vote. The burden that both of these were able to vote. To do so, electors who live in a house. Unfortunately, place on people discourages voting were chosen to proportionally not every eligible voter lives in a and likely causes a loss in faith in VOTING represent their respective states house. Not only does this make it the system. It’s hard to want to go during elections, the idea being that difficult for homeless people, but through a million hoops for a system the electors would make the best another group that is affected but that isn’t really working in your VOTING decision for their states. overlooked are native populations. favor in the first place. What this looks like now is the The territory they live on isn’t given Without voting, our government Democrats: electability is a lie candidate getting the most votes in a an address, adding yet another fails; Even now, there are huge by Eva Roytburg House in 2018. state receives the electoral votes for obstacle to the voting process for issues with voting that hinder our To the right of Sanders, the state, and the candidate that gets them. ability to have a fair, representative, Iowa’s implosion has come Elizabeth Warren does appeal the majority wins the election. This is just one example of a and fully functioning government. and gone, Sanders has won New slightly more to the moderates Though perhaps made with restriction that makes it really hard That means something needs to Hampshire, and we’re officially in and the more affluent voters. Her good intentions, in practice it gives to participate in our government. change. But change is hard and not the thick of the presidential primary backtracking on Medicare-For-All, greater weight to certain votes. For There are countless ways in which well received, especially when it season. however, has alienated some of the any of us that vote in Illinois, our different states create limitations, means changing something that has “Super Tuesday” is less than a crucial liberal electors who perceive vote will matter less than someone’s some being the location and become so ingrained in our political month away, yet there remains no the move as a lack of dedication to in Wyoming or any other small state hours of voting stations, Photo ID system. clear front-runner in the race to the the working-class. because of how many people there requirements, or limited early voting. Even so, it’s important to Democratic candidacy. In addition, she’s still seen are here versus there. Doesn’t make On the surface this is obviously understand how our system is As Democratic voters are as too progressive by some of the a lot of sense. unfair. But calling it unfair flawed and could be improved. scanning their options, it appears middle-upper class, which means The argument in favor of simplifies a problem that permeates As people who have the ability to there is one winning factor which she’s in a lose-lose balancing act that the electoral college is that smaller government policy. Without the vote with relative ease, we have a reigns above all: “electability.” is evident in her lackluster results states need it in order to be fairly ability to vote, native people aren’t responsibility to do something about Ask most Democrats what in Iowa and New Hampshire. That represented. Without the megaphone able to elect people that represent the flaws. their main voting consideration is takes us back to Bernie. And so on, that the Electoral College provides, their wants and needs. So use your power to vote. Vote and they’ll say the ability to beat This discourse about their voices may be lost among the This creates a systemic issue for people who see the problems Trump. They want someone who has “electability” does not bring a votes of Texans or Californians. that excludes all kinds of people that in our system and that will work a chance to stand up to the President, democratic voter any closer to the In reality, this doesn’t mean that don’t have easy access to voting, to create a system that works galvanize disappointed Republicans, Trump card (pun intended). It is all their voices won’t be heard; each native just being one of them. With for everyone rather than just the and appeal to centrist Democrats. just hypotheticals constructed from individual voice will be heard on the each further restriction comes fewer majority. Political electability, for the recursive guesswork, a flawed mish- most part, is a mythical concept that mosh of questions we can’t really muddles more than it clarifies. Take answer. Voting in America must work. for everyone the leaders of the Democratic field. The truth is that elections are by Michael Howie The voter who prioritizes electability decided by a ridiculous amount of most likely favors Joe Biden: a variables, and any attempt to gauge Election Day is approaching moderate, who runs on a campaign which candidate has the best chance sooner than we might think. On Nov. based on bridging a partisan divide. to beat Trump through set criteria 3, Americans across the country He also has heavy baggage from will not take most of these variables will be making their way to polling Afghanistan, a running list of gaffes, into account. stations to cast their ballots. Well, and a terrible record on the War on Take the 2016 election; ask a some Americans. Drugs. politically engaged voter why Hillary The fact is, too many Most importantly, however, lost, and they’ll tell you something Americans don’t vote. In 2016, Biden will face the same struggle about her emails, Russian hackers, a mere 55.4% of the voting age galvanizing Democrats to vote that Trump’s cable television cameos, population cast ballots, according Hillary did in 2016. His campaign is and the Rust Belt. That mixture of to a CNN study. For an election quickly losing steam with failures in happenings and random qualities carrying as much weight as the 2016 Sunday Sabbath. A handful of states have already both Iowa and New Hampshire, and made a man who was considered one election did, that number is sad. It’s Tuesday may have made sense implemented a holiday for select he is losing the moderate stage to of the most unelectable candidates the lowest since 1996, when 53.5% back then, but times have changed. employees. 13 states give their Pete Buttigieg. win the presidency, and now he’s voted. For many Americans, it’s not so government workers the day off, Buttigieg, the former mayor considered an extraordinarily tough It’s important to put American much an issue of apathy, but of according to Pew Research. of South Bend, Indiana, has competitor in 2020. voting percentages into context. fatigue. Many simply don’t have the In New York and California, garnered lots of traction in Iowa, In the primaries, there is no way The United States trails just time to vote on a work day. After a government employees can leave to and has demonstrated some pull to determine how a candidate will about every other country in voter long day, people don’t want to wait vote and can’t be docked pay. Even with affluent, educated voters who be perceived in the general election. turnout. In France’s last election, in potentially long lines at the polls. some employers have taken it upon perceive him as a fresher Biden. Sanders could muddle his leftist for example, nearly 68% of eligible Often, the lines aren’t even that long. themselves to allow their employees His lack of experience, however, policies a little, and Biden might voters submitted ballots, according In 2016, it only took an average of to vote. Patagonia, for example, will could create doubts about his announce some radical healthcare to the New York Times. In Mexico, 14 minutes to vote, according to The give their workers paid time off to competence in the general election, plan. 65% turned out. In Australia, a Washington Post. vote this November. which is a recipe for disaster in a They could be perceived as whopping 79% of the population Some Americans work multiple Of course, anything that re-election year. He has repeatedly Socialist or Centrist, and they could cast their votes. The highest voter jobs to make ends meet. They don’t increases turnout by making it polled badly with minority voters, just be seen as a plain old Democrat. turnout in the United States ever was have time to vote. They could skip easier to vote can be seen as partisan especially black voters who question So, just vote for who you like 81.8%, in 1876, but hasn’t surpassed their shift, but they put their job on because it tends to favor Democrats. his record in South Bend. This the best ideologically. Your favorite 60% since the 1968 election. the line. America’s working class is largely means he’ll probably have trouble candidate, if elected, will have about Why is the United States so far Pretty much every other country comprised of Democrats, and their with Democratic turnout in some of 8 months to placate whichever from the rest of the pack in voter votes on the weekend. Iceland? newfound time to vote would the more diverse states. disgruntled group of individuals they turnout? There are a number of Saturday. France? Sunday. Costa undoubtedly increase the Democratic That takes us further need to win for the general. reasons—they don’t think their vote Rica? Sunday. candidate’s chances of winning. left. Turnout is one of the key They’ll be surrounded matters, they encounter registration The fact of the matter is that Here’s the bottom line: The components of Sanders’ campaign, by a highly trained team of problems—but one looms far larger more people need to vote. How can right to vote is something that we which argues that the traditional professionals who will tailor their than others. Tuesday. the winner of an election be a true all take for granted. It isn’t a right Democratic electorate could campaign carefully, no matter how Election Day has been held on representation of what America in many places. It’s something that be expanded further with the “unelectable” they appear to be. a Tuesday in the United States since wants? people had to fight for. The fact that disengaged, working-class voters If you vote primarily for the 1840s. Back then, voting was The best way of addressing this barely half of us exercise that right is who would benefit from his policies. electability’s sake, you might end up not available everywhere, and many issue would be to create a federal appalling. However, it is often said that the feeling very meh about the candidate had to travel a long way just to cast holiday for Election Day. Then, We need a federal holiday that radicality of some of Sander’s and their policies. Vote to represent their ballots. Tuesday was chosen Americans who might not have the allows Americans to take the day off. policies could turn off moderate and yourself and what you value in a so people could begin their travels time to vote because of their jobs Everyone has the right to vote. middle-class voters who were key to President; that’s what democracy’s on a Monday, avoiding travel on the will have the time. the democrats winning control of the about, after all. Tsytsarina 6 New Trier Examiner Politics Friday, February 21, 2020 Canidates struggle for the electable image The issue with slacktivism by Casey Bertocchi Palestine crisis. Citing her Jewish following the Iranian Revolution. by Sofia Papakos Even something as simple faith, Schakowsky is very pro-Israel According to his campaign Aside from his PETA outburst, as volunteering your time to an With the upcoming Illinois when other Democratic candidates biography, LTC Sangari is a decorated I think Joaquin Phoenix was onto organization or issue your passionate presidential primary next month, are pro-Palestine. veteran of the United States Army something during his acceptance about and bringing your friends with the Congressional primary elections speech for the best actor Academy you. Any way you can involve as Heldut, the Democratic and has years of military experience, are often glossed over. Republicans primary challenger, is slightly more spending lots of time in the Middle Award for “Joker.” His speech was many people as you can in a positive vote for the Republican candidate, liberal than Schakowsky and a self- East. He founded the Near East a sociopolitical rant that included light, I see as activism. That makes a Democrats vote for the Democratic proclaimed Sanders supporter. A Center for Strategic Engagement, issues ranging from animal rights to difference. personal sacrifice. It’s ridiculous the amount of candidate. Chicago lawyer and the son of Polish a policy and research think tank Phoenix focused on expressing time we waste arguing with the other In the 9th district, the Democrat immigrants, He interned for both focusing on U.S. foreign and military his distaste for the egocentric side about why what they believe is usually wins. It’s been that way since Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential policy in regards to the Middle East. 1949, when Sidney Yates took office. mentality many of us have, and that wrong. It doesn’t matter that what campaign and Illinois Senator Dick His campaign website lists no we use as an excuse to ignore the they believe is based on stupidity. Our current representative, Durbin. political issues, making it nearly commonality we have with each Let them be. We aren’t going to Democratic Congresswoman Jan Heldut believes that Schakowsky impossible for constituents to access other. Including the belief that, convince anyone if we’re drowned Schakowsky, who lives in Wilmette, has been in office for too long and and analyze his political stances. although we face the same issues in our own arguments. has been in office since 1999. says that he would resign by 2032 if Jan Schakowsky is likely to collectively, we’re consumed by We have to just listen. Even if Challenged by Republican and he was re-elected for six terms. be elected. She has been the 9th ignorance in believing that we fight it’s for a minute or two, we’re lucky Democrats alike, and even Libertarian Heldut believes in student loan District’s Congresswoman for over for different causes. to have the freedom to hear different and Green Party members, she has forgiveness and lower tuition fees, 20 years and has been re-elected ten I agree, and genuinely believe perspectives. It’s a privilege that held on to her seat, usually with over which he claims that Schakowsky times. Incumbents have traditionally we’re all too caught up in the we don’t take advantage of. There’s 60% of the 9th District’s vote. does not endorse. According to his high reelection rates, but in 2018, differences that we see in each other’s honestly no harm in it, unless we’re This year Schakowsky is website, he said Schakowsky has been 8.7% of returning candidates lost their beliefs and ideologies to notice it’s too consumed in our ego. up against Democratic write- an unsuccessful Congresswoman seats, according to Ballotpedia. This all built on the same foundation of After listening, we can then feel in candidate Andrew Heldut and he pledges to be more active in is not a high percentage, but it was morals. free to respectfully rebut them with and Republican Sargis Sangari. Congress. the highest since 2012. However, the It’s the principles of wanting to our reasoning. If we want to incite better humanity and ourselves. We change, we have to do it ourselves Schakowsky, who is currently in her Heldut seems to represent 9th District is relatively predictable want to succeed as much as possible because relying on other people to eleventh term, is a member of many the polarization of the Democratic based on past trends and would most and, I would hope, help others to do start a movement takes way too long House Committees, including the Party. Elizabeth Warren and Bernie likely not diverge from them. House Budget Committee, the House the same. and usually isn’t very effective. Sanders are politically similar, with Quite frankly, the other From what I’ve noticed, it’s This goes for politicians and Energy and Commerce Committee, Bernie slightly to the left of Warren. candidates don’t stand a chance. become the barrier that has inhibited for social media. This is kind of and the Consumer Protection and The party is already split over Heldut is not extremely well-known us from progressive change. cheesy, but I try to remind myself Commerce Subcommittee, of which progressives like Sanders and Warren and a write-in candidate, which is Regardless if it’s conversations about of what Gandhi said; “Be the she is the Chair. She has done work and moderate Democrats like Pete not a successful combination. He the climate change, abortion rights, or change you wish to see in the in Congress regarding healthcare, Buttigieg and Joe Biden. also separates himself distinctly from immigration policies, it comes down world.” From making it a goal to helping to pass the Patient Protection Pitting progressives against Schakowsky and Warren, which to wanting to see improvement. stop procrastinating and study for and Affordable Care Act. each other creates a divide for could be confusing to Democratic And I don’t mean hitting the a math test to actively supporting Schakowsky has been a leftist Democrats, who have lots voters who see their similarities like button and calling it a day, movements such as March For Our Senior Chief Deputy Whip since of support but broader electability more than their differences. By but actually raising awareness. It’s Lives, it applies to every situation. 2019, assisting the Democratic concerns. Those who view Sanders setting himself apart from Warren nice to think that a click on the like Honestly, I don’t think many Congressional Whip in management and Warren as safety candidates for and Schakowsky, Heldut alienates button ignites an actual change. people, at least at New Trier, are of the floor. She specializes in senior each other may be more inclined himself as an almost non-Democratic Unfortunately, it doesn’t. going to protest every weekend. That health issues and women’s issues to vote for a centrist like Buttigieg Democrat, who is a leftist but not Commenting “I stand with ___” isn’t the problem. The problem is every time a tragedy doesn’t count there’s an overwhelming amount of and has endorsed Elizabeth Warren because his separation from the left quite a traditional liberal. as an effort to promote political or issues thrown at us that we need to for president, putting her far left doesn’t involve fine details and is less Sangari is running in a district social change. No amount of shares or worry about. politically but not a Democratic abstract. that has been Democratic for the last Socialist like Bernie Sanders. likes adequate to the awareness raised Whether it’s environmental The Republican candidate for seventy-one years. This is most likely through actual, good old fashioned or human rights issues, the newest Schakowsky has raised the 9th District is Lieutenant Colonel because the district includes parts of protesting. trend to get involved in is circulated controversy from some Democratic Sargis Sangari. Originally from Iran, the Chicago area, and cities and the For example, the Women’s in the media. And it’s impossible to voters over her views on the Israel- he moved to the United States in 1980 surrounding communities tend to March in 2017 was the largest keep up. The only way we’re really vote blue. single day protest in US history. It engaged in social media or news Though Sangari and Heldut inspired sister protests all around the media is through the updates we won’t be seriously considered by globe, from South Africa to Brazil. get on what’s going on. However, Voting FAQ: Primaries most voters, as the Democratic Personally, I think those types of I believe if we care enough about Can I register to vote? Party drifts left, some centrists and protests and sit ins, that are more certain issues, we should look If you are a U.S. citizen, a resident of an Illinois precinct for at least 30 moderate Democrats could be more direct and interactive, have clearly outside our screens to ignite the been the most influential types of change we’re looking to others to days prior to election day, and at least 18 years old by election day, you inclined to choose a conservative protests. fulfill. That’s activism. can (and should!) register to vote. In Illinois, a 17-year-old may vote in candidate in future elections. a primary if they will be 18 years old on or before the day of the general election (November 4). Our government’s manifesto of mistruths How can I register to vote? defiance. This single rip has further these addresses have always been an Prospective voters can register online, by mail, or in person at the following by Hope Talbot divided both Washington and the emotionally charged event. locations: the DMV, the County Clerk’s Office, the Board of Election On Feb. 4, members of both nation at large, and now Republicans During Obama’s 2009 State Commissioner’s Office, City and Village Offices, Township Offices, parties gathered in the House to hear want to write a formal disapproval of the Union, South Carolina Rep. the Precinct Committeeman, Schools, Public Libraries, and Military the president’s annual address to the resolution against Pelosi. So was it Joe Wilson yelled “you lie.” This Recruitment Offices. Two forms of identification are required to register in nation, but like most things involving right for Pelosi to tear up Trump’s latest address though, was really the person, one of which must display your current address. Trump, the event did not come speech? first time I think these emotions and without controversy. According to an investigation microaggressions spiraled out of Can I register on voting day? While the majority of by FactCheck.org, many of Trump’s control. Yes! Illinois allows voters to register at the polls. Make sure to bring 2 Republican senators wore dark suits, statistics were either stretched or Yes, much of Trump’s speech Forms of ID. One of these two IDs must list your current address. the Democratic women of Congress totally false. Trump claimed that was not factual, but ripping it up arrived in all white to signify their “illegal crossings” at the southwest was not helpful to anyone. While When will the primaries take place? commitment to the stand for women’s border were down 75% since she was trying to make a statement March 17, 2020. The polling hours are 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., and voters in line rights. May. Total apprehensions in 2019 about truths, Pelosi instead stooped when the polls close must be allowed to vote. Enter Trump. however, were 81% higher than what to Trump’s childish, vindictive level. As the president approached was recorded in 2016 before Trump The president feeds on drama, What should I do if I’m unavailable on voting day? the podium, both Vice President, took office. and he’s looking for anything to turn You can vote early! For the Presidential Primary Election, Early Voting will Mike Pence, and Speaker of the While Trump gloated that “our the tables on Democrats after the take place from March 2-16. Visit the Cook County Clerk website for more House, Nancy Pelosi stood to shake economy is the best it has ever been,” attempted impeachment. Pelosi gave information on locations and timing. the president’s hand. While Trump the most recent official estimate has him exactly what he wanted. greeted Pence, he dodged Pelosi’s shown that gross domestic product It’s understandable that Pelosi’s What are the voting registration deadlines? outstretched hand. grew only 2.3% in the last year, emotions got the best of her. In-Person: Election Day. By Mail: Postmarked 28 days before Election After that, things got ugly. in comparison to 2.9% in 2018 or Trump is like a virus that nobody Day. Online: 16 days prior to Election Day. It’s become tradition that the 3.8% in 2004. Democrats’ biggest can seem to get rid of and every time speaker of the house introduces issue with the speech, however, was she’s tried following procedure to What should I bring to the polling station? the president to the chamber with the when Trump claimed that healthcare take him to task, it’s come back to Illinois state law does not require registered voters to present a form of phrase “Members of Congress, I have was now “cheaper” and “better,” bite her. identification at the polls on Election Day if they are voting at the correct the high privilege and distinct honor when in fact plans created by his While the President has precinct. However, when in doubt, bring an ID! You will need an ID (with of presenting to you the President of administration cover significantly disregarded most standards of your current address) if an Election Judge challenges your right to vote, or the United States.” less care. professionalism, it’s important that you submitted a mail-in registration form that did not include an Illinois After the handshake debacle “He shredded the truth with Pelosi remembers that she represents identification/driver’s license number or Social Security number. though, Pelosi simply said, his speech, he’s shredding the Democrats in the most politically “Members of Congress, the President constitution with his conduct and I divided state the nation has ever Do I have to register with a party to vote in the primary? of the United States.” Throughout shredded his state of mind address.” known. Since Illinois uses the open primary system, voters do not have to register the address, Pelosi shook her head in Pelosi said in a statement to Fox Someone has to be the adult in with a particular party. However, by selecting the ballot of one political disagreement. News. our government. party to fill out, voters publicly state their party affiliation. This choice is At the end of the 78 minutes, While this State of the Union by no means permanent, as you can choose a different ballot at the next Pelosi stood and tore up her copy of had a strange, reality-TV element to primary election. the president’s speech in an act of it, it’s important to remember that New Trier Examiner Politics Friday, February 21, 2020 7 Daryl Morey controversy revealing of NBA’s priorities attempted to diffuse the situation. by Connor Caserio “We recognize that the views On Oct. 4, 2019, Houston expressed by Houston Rockets Rockets General Manager Daryl general manager Daryl Morey Morey unexpectedly triggered an have deeply offended many of our international controversy when he friends and fans in China, which is tweeted “Fight for Freedom, Stand regrettable,” read the NBA’s official with Hong Kong.” statement on the situation. For context, last spring, Hong “While Daryl has made it clear Kong’s pro-Beijing government that his tweet does not represent the leaders introduced legislation that Rockets or the NBA, the values of the would have allowed for criminal league support individuals’ educating suspects to be extradited to mainland themselves and sharing their views China. on matters important to them.” In the months since the In hopes of salvaging their legislation was enacted, the semi- standing in China, the NBA attempted autonomous Hong Kong has been to both support Morey and apologize embroiled with massive anti-China for his tweet with this statement. In protests. the end, though, walking such a fine In light of these ongoing line proved impossible. protests, Chinese insitutions and Many in the United States were political figures were outraged by incensed that the NBA prioritized Morey’s tweet. their financial interest in China over Hong Kong residents hold up signs in support of Daryl Morey at a rally on Oct. 15, 2019 AP Images Within two days of the tweet, Morey’s freedom of expression. In The vast majority of the to express their political opinions is disingenuous, just that the league the Chinese Basketball Association Congress, for example, the NBA time, though, we fans do not fully “like every other American,” saying does so in part because it is good for announced that it was suspending all received a rare bipartisan backlash. appreciate how much sports are like that he is proud of the NBA’s “history business. It is hard to say if the NBA relations with the Rockets. Representative Brendan Boyle any other business. We have real, of activism.” would be so supportive of its players’ Soon after, the Chinese consulate (D-PA) summed up the nation’s personal connections with teams, The NBA’s support of its and coaches’ freedom of expression in Houston released a statement attitude about the NBA’s comments making us feel more closely tied to players’ and coaches’ freedom of on political and social justice issues saying that it was “deeply shocked” on the Morey situation, tweeting them than we would with almost any expression is admirable. However, if it were not in its financial interest. by Morey’s “erroneous comments,” “Stop putting the almighty [dollar other brand. when thinking about sports from a In the Daryl Morey situation, and Chinese state-run television emoji] before human rights, for We often forget that professional business perspective, one can see that though, there are no theoreticals. halted all broadcasts of NBA games. once.” sports are a profit-driven industry, and the league has financial motivations The NBA has shown that it values its For the NBA, China’s harsh The NBA completely we rarely consider how important it for acting this way. financial interest as much as player reaction to Morey’s tweet was an mishandled this situation, and that is is for a league to maintain favorable Because the NBA’s audience activism. The league deserves to be unmitigated disaster. According to why, at the time, I was among those public relations. skews younger and more liberal condemned for being complicit with Forbes, the league’s business in China disgusted by their actions. Today, For years, I have been proud of than the population as a whole, the China’s infringement on democracy is worth about $4 billion annually. however, I am not sure the situation the NBA for allowing its players and league faces fewer consequences for and political rights in Hong Kong. The Rockets, in particular, will is so black and white. coaches to speak up on political and supporting its players’ and coaches’ However, solely condemning financially suffer as a result of this By looking at the way the NBA social justice issues, more so than any freedom of expression than leagues the NBA for its actions in the Daryl situation. The success that Hall of dealt with Morey’s tweets from a other major American sports league. with more conservative audiences Morey situation ignores the fact Fame center Yao Ming enjoyed as a different perspective, the picture In the past few years, for such as the NFL. that thousands of other American member of the team contributed to becomes more complex. example, players like LeBron James In fact, supporting its players’ companies do business in China the formation of a massive Rockets Most sports fans understand of the Los Angeles Lakers and freedom of expression on political despite it being an authoritarian state. fanbase in China, a fanbase that will that sports are a business. Sports coaches like Gregg Popovich of the and social justice issues likely Until we see those businesses now be barred from following and teams and leagues make money San Antonio Spurs have been critical bolsters the NBA’s image with many begin to prioritize political and associating with Morey’s team. from a variety of sources (tickets, of President Trump. fans. social justice over their own financial On Oct. 6, NBA Commissioner merchandise, television packages, In May 2019, Commissioner That is not to say that the NBA’s interests, the NBA will not change its Adam Silver made a statement that etc). Silver supported these players’ right support for its players and coaches ways. From one arena to another: Do political ads belong Notable sports figures who have gone into politics by Matt Murray in the Super Bowl? All photos courtesy of AP Images stock increased 5% in two weeks. by Grant Feldman Trump and Bloomberg emulated The Super Bowl has always Nike’s strategy by not only spreading been known for its commercials as their messages (Trump’s ads focused much as it is for football. on criminal justice reform and The game is the biggest the economy, while Bloomberg’s advertising event of the year, and opposed gun violence) but also by the opportunity to reach such a large getting people talking in the process. audience doesn’t come cheap (a Both ads were a departure from 60-second commercial during Super the lighter nature of Super Bowl Bowl LIV cost $10 million). commercials, which are typically 2020 marked the first year funny or heartwarming to appeal to political advertisements ran during the emotions of the audience. Jack Kemp: Quarterback Bill Bradley: Point Guard the Super Bowl as President Donald Trump is already well-known, - Spent 12 years playing professional - Won Most Outstanding Player of Trump and Democratic presidential but Bloomberg’s ad put his name in football (played in the NFL, CFL, the 1965 NCAA Tournament and Steve Largent: Wide Receiver candidate Michael Bloomberg each front of millions of Americans who and AFL) 1965 AP College Player of the Year - 7x Pro Bowler in 14 seasons with ran minute-long commercials during were less familiar with him. - Selected to 7 All-Star teams in the as a member of the Princeton Tigers the Seattle Seahawks (1976-1989) the game, which drew 102 million Bloomberg is expected to American Football League’s 10-year - Won 2 NBA championships in 12 - Retired as the NFL’s all-time leader viewers. spend $300 million of his own history seasons with the New York Knicks in receptions, receiving yards, and According to Forbes, Trump money on TV ads leading up to the - Won 2 AFL championships with the - Inducted into both the College receiving touchdowns and Bloomberg have reported net March primaries, and with a lesser- Buffalo Bills (1964, 1965) as well as Basketball and Pro Basketball Hall - Inducted into Pro Football Hall of worths of $3.1 billion and $61.5 known background than some other the 1965 AFL MVP of Fame Fame in his first year of eligibility billion respectively; and according candidates, he hopes to leave a strong (1995) to NPR, they are two of the top three impression on voters. fundraisers among candidates (the Many fans believe politics third is Democrat Tom Steyer). should remain separate from sports, The Super Bowl is an ideal time but there was no missing Trump’s and to spend big on ads, and the two Bloomberg’s ads during this year’s richest candidates did just that. Super Bowl. The ads fell at a time of Sporting events are often an particular political commotion, right escape from the constant barrage between Trump’s impeachment trial of political news, but sports have and the Iowa Caucuses. become more politicized in recent 63% of Americans believe the years. Super Bowl is an “inappropriate Bill Bradley: Senator Jack Kemp: US Representative When 49ers quarterback platform for political ads from - Spent 18 years as a New Jersey Steve Largent: US Representative - Served as a New York member of Colin Kaepernick made headlines candidates,” according to a poll from Senator (1979-1997) - Spent 8 years as Oklahoma’s 1st the U.S. House of Representatives for protesting racial inequality by data research company Morning - Campaigned for the Democratic District member in the U.S. House of from 1971 to 1989 kneeling during the national anthem, Consult. nomination in the 2000 Presidential Representatives (1995-2003) - Served as Housing Secretary in he stirred up an intense controversy. However, with the 2020 election Election against Al Gore - Came within 7,000 votes of George H.W. Bush’s cabinet Nike jumped on this controversy approaching, it is likely that we will - Currently a member of the American defeating Brad Henry in the 2002 - Running-mate of Republican Bob and ran an ad campaign featuring the continue to see political ads on TV Committee for East–West Accord Oklahoma gubernatorial election Dole in 1996 US Presidential Election polarizing quarterback, and their during sporting events. Tsytsarina New Trier Examiner Politics Friday, February 21, 2020 9 Vietnam vs. now: are we being disruptive enough? by Mattea Carberry us to the fact that we could actually various issues in society so that we be affected by some of these issues. can pursue change with unrelenting On April 15, 1967, over 500,000 The expansive reach of social vigor. If we don’t, our movements people took to the streets of New media offers the opportunity to won’t have the passion they need to York and San Francisco in protest quickly raise awareness about cause the disruption that will bring of the Vietnam war. Their passionate varying issues and garner the support about change. efforts ultimately pressured the US to needed to present those issues to Based on the current state of our withdraw from Vietnam in 1973 and those in power. various movements, it doesn’t seem they saw their peace efforts through Through platforms like Change. like we’re being disruptive enough. to the fall of Saigon in 1975. org, people are able to support issues One of America’s first mass The protesters were relentless that may not even affect them, shootings occurred in Camden, NJ in in seeing that their demands were fighting for those who may not be 1949 when a WWII veteran shot 16 met, protesting heavily for almost able to fight for themselves. Social people, killing 13. Fifty years later, two decades especially during 1965- media has the potential to bring two high school seniors shot and 1967. worldwide attention and support to killed 13 people, 12 of them being Perhaps Vietnam was a special a given cause which wasn’t possible students, at Columbine High School. case where the protestors came before. The Columbine shooting out victorious, but it’s important to Yet the onslaught of information happened over two decades ago. remember that their cause was highly can also deceive us into not being Groups such as the Million Mom unpopular – more than some of our concerned about the issues that could March demanded change in gun movements today – as many took the actually affect us. The key is just in Columbia University students occupied Hamilton Hall on April 24, 1968 AP laws then and still do now since little protesters to be unpatriotic. striking a healthy balance in regards it’s clear social media has severely protests weren’t special in the force change has taken place since then. So why is it that the issues to how social media influences our decreased our attention span. With they mustered. Much of the protest There have been numerous people protest today such as gun approach to activism. a flood of posts and notifications, centered around the draft because climate strikes all over the world, reform, abortion, and climate change Most importantly, social media it’s less likely that someone will people didn’t want themselves or their most notably the ones which took aren’t reaping the same success? doesn’t necessarily bring disruption, take the time to thoroughly learn loved ones to go to war, prompting place on Sept. 20 and 27 of 2019 The most obvious difference and one key factor that may be about an issue and then proceed to protests full of raw desperation. in which a total of 4 million people between the time of the Vietnam lacking in our movements is just that, do something about it. The most Thus, many people might participated worldwide. war and now is the rise of social disruption. the average person might do is post have engaged in this movement for But since a great number of media. There’s no doubt that it has Change only happens when something on their story, and that’s essentially self-centered reasons and climate strikers are students, they the potential to transform the way people work to disrupt the flow of where their “activism” likely ends. that’s why it garnered the support it may not have enough leverage to people are heard and thus demand public or political life. The antiwar There’s also the simple did. prompt those in power to change change. But it can also breed a lack protestors demanded the attention of argument that in-person protests But thinking about oneself policy, as a Forbes article suggested. of activism as some grow content everyone in the nation but today there are more effective than reposting in regards to various issues isn’t Students skipping school tend with voicing their support through a don’t seem to be any clear groups something or voicing your support necessarily a bad thing. It may even not to disrupt the lives of the general hashtag or repost. demanding that same attention on the through a tweet. It makes sense too. be another factor that is inhibiting the public or those in power, thus making On the one hand, social media daily. Human interactions always come effectiveness of our movements. it difficult to transfer strikes into can educate us and encourage Despite its potential benefits, across more authentic in-person and The point is, we do have to actual policy change. intervention in issues anywhere in the social media could enable a culture less so through a screen. think about ourselves. We need to In both the protest for gun world. On the other, it can desensitize of lazy activism. Right off the bat, That’s not to say the Vietnam picture ourselves falling victim to the see Vietnam pg. 10 Tinker speaks to next generation of student activists by Julia Nagel and youth to use their rights and speak up about the issues that would make life Simren Dadwani better for them. In 1965, Mary Beth Tinker, “When your rights are her siblings, and a handful of other suppressed, when you’re censored, students decided to wear black not only are you cheated but the armbands to school as a symbol of whole society is cheated,” said mourning for those who had died Tinker. in Vietnam and to advocate for a Tinker also believes that it is Christmas truce. beneficial to the mental health of Tinker was a shy 13-year-old, students to advocate for issues they unsure about whether or not she are passionate about. wanted to participate in the symbolic “It all really has to do with mental gesture. In the end, she decided to health. That’s part of the reason I take the leap and join the others. started speaking with students in the “I ended up wearing a black last 10 or 15 years, too, because I was arm band too, which was very scary a trauma nurse and I find it’s really because the [administrators] made good for your health when you speak a rule against our bands when they up and stand up about things.” heard that we were going to do this,” By taking action and joining she said. up with other young people, Tinker Tinker added that when she was stated that children and teens are able pulled out of class and told by the to meet others and feel that they’re vice principal to take the armband part of a group that’s doing something off, she complied. However, she was to make things better. still suspended for her role in the Tinker encourages students to protest. The other students who wore take action and to not be afraid to armbands were likewise punished. speak up for what they believe in. When the American Civil “Get together with a few other Liberties Union (ACLU) heard about people who also care about that issue, and then you can think about what had happened, they offered Tinker at the Journalism Education Association Conference in Washington D.C. on Nov. 22, 2019 Dadwani to help. The organization worked who might be your allies. Maybe with the students to reverse the expression. very strongly about it. It’s really young people, because of where they you have some adults or teachers to decision that the school board and “It’s made it possible for me a combination of having strong are in the development process, are be your allies, and then think about administration had made. to spend my life with students and feelings about something, and then uniquely suited to speaking out. the creative things you can do to “We went to school board young people who are advocating having examples of people who do “[Young people] have wonderful advocate for what it is you want to meetings, but they wouldn’t change for their own interests and for their something about their feelings.” qualities, you know creativity, and speak up about.” their mind. So then the ACLU said, own rights. It’s given me a way Though students now have energy, and you’re more willing Tinker believes that similar to ‘Well, we’re going to have to go to to encourage students, to be with different platforms--such as social to take risks because of your brain the 60s and 70s, students now are court.’” students, to listen to the issues that media--that they can use to advocate chemistry and your developmental growing up in a “mighty time” where The case eventually made it you care about, and to learn how you for causes they believe in, Tinker stage; you have more dopamine in many are energized to create change. all the way to the Supreme Court, are speaking up for yourselves,” said noted that there are many parallels your brains,” Tinker explained. But students can lead the charge where it was decided in favor of Tinker. between students today and those in To Tinker, the fresh perspective only if they are aware of and choose Tinker and the other plaintiffs. In this For this reason, despite her the 60s and 70s. that young people bring to the table is to exercise their rights. landmark case, Justice Abe Fortas initial hesitation to participate, Tinker “Young people were speaking also beneficial. “In order to really use your wrote in the majority opinion that said that she does not regret her up for racial equality and even for the “A lot of adults get used to rights, and make them stronger, you students and teachers do not “shed decision to don the armband. environment then, and against war, doing things a certain way, and they have to keep them active. And use their constitutional rights…at the “I think kids have a basic sense for having a say in their schools, and get discouraged about the possibility them. It’s like your muscles: if you schoolhouse gate.” of fairness, and we thought it wasn’t gender equality. All of these things of change. But that’s the power of don’t use them you can lose them. Tinker’s involvement in the fair that they had told us that we are still going on, so there are a lot of young people. You’re courageous, So when the administrators see you 1969 Tinker v. Des Moines Supreme couldn’t even express ourselves. similarities,” said Tinker. you have a sense of fairness.” using your rights, that makes your Court case spurred a lifelong passion We weren’t hurting anyone, and we Tinker’s background as a nurse Tinker strongly believes that it is rights stronger.” for advocating for students’ free weren’t disrupting school. We felt has helped to shape her view that important for society to encourage its 10 New Trier Examiner Politics Friday, February 21, 2019 Why is a Democrat the secretary of the Trevian Republicans? of the country, the club members by Caroline Bewley are operating under the assumption that President Trump will be the Junior Antigone Zervas has been Republican nominee,” explained going to the Trevian Republicans Wright. club most Tuesdays since the start `“There has been quite a of her sophomore year. This year, bit of analysis and talk about the Zervas was made secretary and has Democratic candidates and where enjoyed having a leadership role in they stand on issues along with how the club. they think each candidate would Though this isn’t an abnormal measure up to President Trump.” trajectory for any New Trier club Zervas corroborated Wrights member, Zervas’s story is notable in words, explaining that the club does that she identifies as a Democrat. an update on the election every week, “I have some centrist views,” and that the club members discuss clarified Zervas. “But I’m definitely who they believe the most formidable more liberal. For example, I support Democratic nominee would be. the second amendment, but I’m also In addition to educating its pro-choice.” members about current events, the Zervas began attending the club also finds opportunities to talk Trevian Republicans club when her about political topics with the Young politically-active friends asked her if Democrats club. she wanted to check it out. “We sometimes come together “I quickly made friends with to have a conversation—not a debate, David [Tabarez-Cisneros], the because people usually debate to current president, when I first Zervas enjoys evaluating political issues from multiple perspectives as a Democrat in Republican club Instagram win instead of enlarging their own started,” explained Zervas. viewpoint—-about political issues “It’s hard to stop going once welcome in the club. viewpoints that other members have. they would like the club discuss, facing the United States,” explained you have people you know in the “I think the students who In general, the club is pretty relaxed.” After listening to the presentation, Zervas. club.” attend want somewhere to go Wright emphasized that the club members respond to questions According to Zervas, these Besides having multiple friends where they can express their Trevian Republicans club is usually posed by the officers and and are able conversations are a great way for in the club, Zervas continues to go points of view on important issues laid-back, but admits that the to express what they feel about the students of both clubs to try to see to Trevian Republicans because she and hear from others,” explained atmosphere can depend on the topic topic. politics from a different perspective. enjoys the chance it gives her to Wright. “Sometimes this will lead being discussed that day. “Lately, we’ve talked about Currently, the heads of Young broaden her political views. to disagreement, but at others the “Some of the members may impeachment, the Coronavirus, and Democrats, Jane Rosin and Daniel “Each club meeting is a discussion helps generate discovery disagree with each other, get riled up, World War Three,” said Zervas. Austen, and Zervas are working on a chance to engage in a bipartisan of common ground.” and passionately argue their views,” “We’ve had some really in-depth joint discussion about Big Tech. dialogue, which I’ve found is a good Zervas agreed with Wright, explained Wright. “There are never conversations.” “I would definitely go to Young exercise. The conversations are fun, explaining that she and other liberal personal attacks, though.” Wright said that Trevian Democrats in addition to Trevian challenging, and they keep you up to members feel welcome in the club, According to Wright, a typical Republicans have also dedicated Republicans,” said Zervas. “But pace.” despite their differing beliefs. Trevian Republicans club meeting recent meetings to discussing the the two clubs are both on Tuesday. According to James Wright, “As secretary, I don’t feel begins with officers Zervas, David 2020 presidential election. The club Hopefully that will change in the sponsor of Trevian Republicans, like my own political values are a Tabarez-Cisneros, and Gavin Tian met the day after the Iowa caucus and future.” students of all political leanings are problem. It’s more that I provide presenting a summary of a current awaited the online results together. opposition to the more conservative event, political issue, or other topic “So far, like most of the rest Continued From Page 9 Iowa Caucus shakes up Democratic primary Vietnam vs. now: are we by Graham Ambrose Prior to the 2020 Iowa Caucus, being disruptive enough? former South Bend, Indiana mayor reform and climate change, changing deeply ingrained societal Pete Buttigieg was consistently little change has been made because norms. Slavery was closely tied to polling lower than other Democratic they simply aren’t disrupting the American culture for 200 years and Presidential candidates. However, public, or those in power. Someone thus changing that norm took a lot of after winning the most delegates at in Congress isn’t going to bat an effort. the Caucus, Buttigieg has become eye if you repost something on your The same can’t be said for a front-runner for the party’s story. an issue like gun control because nomination. And if you’re just skipping it’s something that doesn’t affect With the Democratic primaries school for a day, it’s unlikely they’ll everyone like gender and race does. set to take place in the coming notice, but if they do, they’re not Thus, it’s reasonable to demand months, New Trier students will likely to feel moved to do anything more immediate change of issues like be paying close attention to the about it. abortion, climate change, and gun campaign performance of Buttigieg That’s not to say all movements control. as well as those of his competitors. are meant to receive immediate Change is possible but not if Senior Jane Rosin, a co-head Buttigieg speaks in Des Moines during the caucus on Feb. 11 AP Images change. Issues such as women’s we stay content with the way we’re of the New Trier Young Democrats rights and the Civil Rights Movement asking for it. We need to place club, attended the Iowa Caucus to the Democratic candidates’ plans government retraining programs slowly achieved and are still striving ourselves in the issues. We need to and has been closely following the to address climate change. because they don’t work, this policy for change over numerous decades of use social media to enhance the scope candidates. She believes that their “I like the more realistic is much better than Biden’s plan, persistent fighting. and strength of in-person protests. stances on healthcare could be a approach that Warren and Sanders are which said that coal miners should What sets these movements We need to truly disrupt society and deciding factor in who wins the race. taking, which is the more aggressive learn to code.” apart from gun reform or climate make those in power listen. “I don’t have a problem with route of taxing big corporations and Another prominent issue at play change is the fact that they entailed [Joe] Biden’s single-payer healthcare establishing various infrastructures has been the business practices of plan and that plan’s representation of to protect vital environments,” Eisen big technology companies. Warren him as a more modern Democrat, said. “I don’t think this is much of and Sanders, especially, have but I don’t feel that America is a talking point for Joe Biden even criticized these companies’ treatment The New Trier News financially ready for that yet,” said though he should have some kind of of consumers and have expressed Published Fridays during the school year by the students of New Rosin. strategy due to the dire state we’re in concern about their role in the Trier Township High School, 385 Winnetka Avenue, Illinois 60093. “I also like Warren and Sanders’ right now.” economy in general. plans on national government/ Junior Antigone Zervas, “I do like [Sanders’] and Correspondence may be directed to the New Trier News single payer healthcare, but I’m not a Democratic student who also Warren’s plan regarding tech Office, Room 011, or by calling (847) 784-2278. sold on Warren’s because of her serves as secretary of New Trier’s company regulation, but I’m vagueness on how her plan is going Republican Club, has also paid close disappointed, though, that Biden All letters to the editors are welcome, though we will not print to work. I know Buttigieg is far more attention to how the candidates plan hasn’t come up with a solid plan anonymous letters. Direct these and other inquiries to our email at of a centrist and doesn’t support to address climate change. While for this,” Zervas said. “If he doesn’t [email protected] Medicaid for all, and I feel like a lot Zervas does not think that Buttigieg’s have solutions to issues that affect Editors-in-Chief...... Julia Nagel, Katy Pickens of his stances on several issues are method of addressing climate change our generation like this one, he won’t News Editors...... Hope Talbot, Alex Rubenstein, Hannah Sussman too flexible, which is what I don’t is unique among the candidates, she really get much of the younger voter Opinion Editors...... Emma Mansour, Sofia Papakos, Eva Roytburg like about him.” supports a significant portion of his base.” Features Editors...... Simren Dadwani, Amelia Jacobson, Nadia The rapidly diminishing plans. With the Iowa Caucus and other Jaikaran, Grant Feldman opportunity to address climate “I like the idea of putting a primaries and caucuses beginning change has also made it a hotly- Sports Editors...... Mattea Carberry, Connor Caserio, Matt Murray, tax on carbon emissions, especially to narrow the field of Democratic debated issue during the primary Cleo Pool since it has bipartisan approval,” said candidates, the strongest potential cycle, and many students, including Zervas. “[Buttigieg] also has a $200 challengers to President Trump have Photo Editor...... Danielle Towers junior Lucas Eisen, have formulated billion plan over 10 years to assist emerged. In the end, voters will Graphic Design Artist...... Katia Tsytsarina, Renee Zhou opinions on how the candidates and retrain displaced employees evaluate the issues and decide the Editorial Adviser...... Carlo Trovato should combat the issue. in the fossil fuel industry such as nominee. Assistant Editorial Adviser...... Megan Garton Eisen has paid close attention coal miners. While I’m not a fan of

6 TNheew N ewTrier Trier Exami Newsner P PoliolitTicsics F ridayFriday, February, February 21, 21, 2020 2020 11 From the Archives, March 23, 2018 : Following the Parkland shooting, many NT students walked out to protest the lack of gun control legislation

From the Archives June 4, 1970 : During the Vietnam War era, students throughout the country protested against US involvement in the war and the military draft.

In this article, students shared their views on the most recent protests.

From the Archives: December 15, 1989

Tsytsarina