First hand experience for Leith students at US election

Leith Academy students Caitlin Munn (16), Katy Ewart (16), Liam Stobie (16), Morven Mackay (16). Pic: Greg Macvean

Caitlin Munn, 15, Liam Stobbie, 16, Morven MacKay, 15, and Katie Ewart, 16, won a competition to go to the United States and help with the Democrat and Republican campaigns.

On election day they were out canvassing in Florida until shortly before the polls closed, then watched with increasing surprise as the results came in.

Katie said:”It was so tight – Hillary was ahead for a bit then Trump just went further and further ahead. People obviously voted for him because they wanted change. The next four years will prove whether he can deliver that.”

During the campaign, the students were able to attend several rallies.

Caitlin said: “We went to an Obama rally where he spoke and that was incredible. We were about ten feet away from him. His speech was really inspiring, Obviously he was for Hillary but his speech was so positive about the whole election in general.”

At another rally, Bon Jovi appeared with Clinton vice-presidential candidate Tim Kane. “The atmosphere was electric,” said Liam. “I think there’s a lot more passion in their elections. You wouldn’t find Bon Jovi at a Scottish election.”

When they get back the students will launch a campaign called Cross this off your List to encourage 16 and 17-year-olds to register to vote.

Morven said: “There were quite a lot of young people involved in both the Democrat and Republican campaigns, but I think many were disappointed they could not vote at that age because the next four years will affect their lives as well.”