The New Powerbrokers

There is a small group of Chicagoans who are having a disproportionate effect on the primary elections. They've been on the campaign trail, they've stumped for their candidate, in some cases raised money for them, and have flipped votes no one would expect them to flip. They've already had more impact on this election than most of us who consider ourselves politically engaged.

And they're not even old enough to vote.

A group of Chicago-area high school students recently returned from campaigning in the New Hampshire primaries. They each worked for a week supporting a candidate of their choosing, 60 students variously backing 8 candidates.

They were sponsored by a group called the Mikva Challenge (www.mikvachallenge.org). The group was founded by former --- Abner Mikva. "Action civics" is the buzzword of the organization, which in addition to engaging young people in the electoral process sponsors youth groups in Chicago high schools, hosts an annual civics fair, and has helped organize a youth advisory council to Arne Duncan, CEO of Chicago Public Schools.

The students have written at length about their experiences here (http://mikvainnewhampshire08.blogspot.com/2008/01/tuesday-january-8-2008...). I'll share a few excerpts.

“When my partner and I got started, I let her canvass first, until I got the hang of it and I started having fun. I love canvassing now! The joy you feel inside when you get someone to vote for [your candidate] is amazing. I am a natural.”

"I felt so happy and started to think that our canvassing, visibility, and phone banking helped, us, high school students help a campaign. It seems so surreal and I'm honored to not only have helped a possible future president but, because we're slowly, but surely changing the thoughts about teenagers, and creating a voice.”

“Each vote matters in this process and we are all in this together seeing as how democracy is by the people, for the people. Thus I am democracy.”

Chicago is known for legendary political figures -- cigar-chomping back-room dealers that grease the wheels of the political machine. A new generation will rise to take their place, generally less white, male, and cigar-friendly than their predecessors, but no less savvy about the game of politics and a good deal more idealistic. These are the new powerbrokers, and thanks to Mikva Challenge, there'll be several that trace their politcal involvement to a streetcorner in New Hampshire.

You'll be hearing more about them as the election approaches.

Find out more at www.mikvachallenge.org