by Lexi Paidas ‘17

It is no secret that the amount of political discussion waxes and wanes in accordance with the presidential election years. Sherwood’s Young Democrats and Young Republicans clubs are no strangers to political topics, and have been discussing the presidential election as well as debating topics of political, economic and social interest.

Both the Young Democrats and Young Republicans are a part of larger organizations by the same name. Both clubs meet once a week to discuss current issues, plan debates, and listen to the occasional guest speaker, such as State Senator Craig Zucker who spoke last December.

The Young Republicans are sponsored by social studies teacher Daniel Soso, and led by President Mike Ricciardella, a senior. The Young Democrats are sponsored by social studies teacher Lori Roth and directed by President Dylan Richter, a senior. Members from each club often attend the other’s meetings in order to offer a different viewpoint on topics and to learn more about the other groups’ policies.

In light of the recent election, a range of discussions during each club’s meetings examined Trump’s victory and Clinton’s defeat. While members from both sides were surprised by the results, both clubs have ultimately accepted the results of the election. Both clubs see no problem with the peaceful protests, as protestors are protected by freedom of speech. However, both clubs agree that the country needs to move toward unification.

“Because we are the future of this country, I think it is important for our generation to be involved in shaping the direction our country will go over the course of the next century. We are at such a crossroads for many key issues,” said senior Olivia Henderson, an officer of the Young Democrats.

In late October, the Young Republicans and Young Democrats faced off in a debate concerning the world’s hotly debated topics. Sherwood’s debate coach, Ann Gallahan, worked with the clubs to help them with the logistics and formatting of the debate. Senior Chris Sung and Ricciardella debated for the Young Republicans, and senior Madeline Daugherty and Richter spoke for the Young Democrats. Each pair researched and formulated opinions on various topics, but neither side knew exactly what questions they would be asked.

“We try to look at every angle that they can hit us at and we come to a consensus on what we are going to say if an issue comes up. We have to always imagine what we’ll be asked,” said Ricciardella. The clubs are trying to gain support from students and the school so that they can hold another debate later this year.