Vermont's Youngest Gubernatorial Candidate: Dean Roy's Ambitious Run

Dean Roy, a 14-year-old freshman at Stowe High School, is set to make history as the first candidate under age 18 to appear on Vermont's general election ballot for governor in November. His political journey began just last year when he served as a legislative page at the Vermont Statehouse. Roy's campaign is driven by a desire to inspire other young people to engage in politics and advocate for change. He founded the Freedom and Unity party to secure his candidacy, as Vermont's constitution imposes no minimum age requirement for gubernatorial candidates, only a residency of four years.

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In contrast to Vermont, most states have established minimum age requirements for gubernatorial candidates, typically around 30 years. Kansas, for instance, enacted a law in 2018 mandating candidates to be at least 25 years old following a surge of teenage candidates. Roy's candidacy raises questions about the appropriateness of such a young individual running for a significant political office, with some experts suggesting that the state constitution's interpretation could be problematic.

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Roy's campaign has garnered mixed reactions. His former history teacher, James Carpenter, praised Roy's earnestness and curiosity, describing him as an "old soul" who blends youthful optimism with pragmatism. However, current Vermont Governor Phil Scott expressed skepticism regarding the readiness of a teenager for the responsibilities of governance, emphasizing the importance of experience and perspective in leadership roles. Scott's press secretary, Amanda Wheeler, reiterated the governor's support for youth involvement in politics but questioned the suitability of a teenager for such a significant role.

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Critics of Roy's candidacy, including legal scholars like Peter Teachout, argue that while the constitution permits his run, it raises concerns about the implications of allowing such young candidates to seek high office. Teachout pointed out that the age requirement for voting is 18, suggesting a potential inconsistency in allowing younger individuals to run for governor. Despite this, Roy remains undeterred, asserting that age should not determine a candidate's capability to lead.

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Dean Roy stated, “If I can get people to think that I am a threat to them, then I know that’s been a success. Because what I want is to show them that the youth have a voice. We’re gonna make change. The future is now.” Governor Scott acknowledged Roy's interest in public service, stating, “He believes it’s important for our youth to get involved,” while also expressing concerns about the lack of experience among young candidates.

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As the election approaches, Roy's campaign will likely continue to spark discussions about youth engagement in politics and the qualifications necessary for leadership roles. His candidacy not only challenges traditional norms but also serves as a catalyst for broader conversations about the role of young voices in shaping the future of governance in Vermont and beyond.

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