By Lu Johns-De La Garza
In a class normally full of opinions and engaging political banter, the mood was eerily quiet on Election Day.
Our very own specialist, Professor Clinton, joined us over Zoom from Philadelphia, giving us key insights into how the night was going to run. The main points Professor Clinton discussed were; you will see exit polls but they won’t tell you much and the gender gap will have a deciding
impact on the election. In an election where most voters were eager for an early decision or predictions, this class was different. We knew this was the most historic election in our lifetimes and we were prepared to wait in silence.
On Thursday, the first class after the election, we had the distinct privilege of welcoming Minority Leader, Senator Mitch McConnell and Senator Lamar Alexander as guest speakers. Senator McConnell is the longest-standing legislator currently in Congress. With over 40 years of legislative experience, he brought a wealth of knowledge and shared his perspective on the importance of public service. For those students considering a career in government, McConnell
gave some candid advice, surprising many. Essentially saying, you will be unpopular when you’re trying to create change, and you have to be willing to take the punches. Adding, members in both parties don’t like me but in order to create change, you have to be ok with people not liking you.
With the Presidential election behind us and Congressional seats close to being decided, the Elections class looks forward to learning about the new administration’s and Congress’s plans for our country, throughout the remainder of the school year.