Texas Boys State News

Texas Boys State 2018 Thursday and Friday Memoir: Learn By Doing By Raleigh Dewan and Soham Datar As I woke up on Thursday, the scratchy fiberglass fire blanket draped over me, it finally sunk in: Texas Boys State, the highlight of my life up to this point, was coming to a close. With a heavy heart, I exited the dorm and blended into to the mob of half-awake hungry statesmen migrating to the cafeteria. After quickly scarfing down the food, the political process began. Cities, led by their flags, departed the cafeteria and marched along the UT campus to their respective county and district conventions. After three days of campaigning, it was time for the candidate's last shot at swaying their peers, by displaying their persuasive oratory skills. At these campaign rallies, the speeches ranged from composed, logical analyses to emotionally charged exhortations. After the county’s and district’s finished their business, statesmen headed to their final dinner, an exquisite mea

Today, Wednesday, was slightly unconventional. After party platforms in the morning, everyone gathered to march united to the capitol. The march was festive and fun, featuring our Boys State band. Governor run offs were decided as the two candidates for governor were narrowed down; one for each political party- Federalist and Nationalist. The general election is getting closer as we enter our primaries tomorrow. On Friday our Governor will be determined. Once we arrived at the capitol, house and senate members got to talk with real Texas representatives! Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick spoke, offering words of encouragement and support, commending our efforts in attending Boys State, and our interests local and state government. Our media crew even had the opportunity to interview him. If you want to see the video footage visit YouTube and search Texas Boys State 2018 and choose the corresponding date- Wednesday. All of this week’s footage will be uploaded as its produced.

Here on the third day of Boys State, many have already settled in as elected officials. Those higher-level positions are still up for grabs, and campaigns have begun. With party platforms established and agendas decided political discourse has begun- controversial issues the focus- from gun control and immigration to the legalization of marijuana: all issues that we as young men find pertinent in our communities across Texas. Some of the speeches took a somber mood as we remembered the losses we saw this year in Sutherland Springs and at Santa Fe Highschool. Some took a more lighthearted approach addressing entertaining topics to stimulate their audiences and provide comedic relief. The political parties really identified where exactly they sit on the political spectrum originally only distinct by name they took up real identities: the beliefs held by those in the majority. Both parties openly consider themselves conservative. Sitting in the Federalist Party delegation I noticed

Author: Isaac Moncrief Settling in this week at Texas Boys State we have had a lot to look forward to, and a lot to reflect on. One thing is for sure: everything is moving incredibly fast. During only our first day, we elected mayors, members of the Boys State media team, and Olympiad directors to assist with athletics. Monday, the real hustle and bustle began. Our precinct, county, and state chairs - and their respective committees - have already been decided, as well as our Senators and members of House of Representatives. Those determined to serve in the other elected position are already out collecting signatures, projecting those values of leadership, honesty, and determination we’re looking for at Texas Boys State. Signatures are a crucial aspect of any campaign here at Texas Boys State. Statesmen interested in leadership positions must remain proactive, and collect signatures while staying mindful of the rules. Petitions for other elected offices are due to precinct chairmen t