Caucus Chaos and Camaraderie: Understanding the Heartbeat of Buckeye Boys State

At American Legion Buckeye Boys State (ALBBS), the action doesn’t just happen in city buildings or during one’s campaign for office; it starts in the caucus. These lively, student-led meetings form the foundation of political life during the week, as delegates from the Federalist and Nationalist parties come together to shape policy, strategize, and pick candidates.

Caucuses are party gatherings where members meet to organize their agenda and plan their path to electoral success. Whether it’s selecting a nominee for governor or debating a party platform, the caucus room is where voices are heard and delegates interact. Delegates give speeches, campaign for support, and engage in passionate discussions that mirror the real-world political process.

Caucuses are often well-mannered, energetic, and filled with procedural learning. Delegates learn the importance of parliamentary rules, how to organize votes, and how to keep track of who’s running and who’s not. While staff members provide guidance, the students run the meetings themselves.

Robert Call, the Wiehe City Party Chairman for the Nationalist Party, stated that there has “been a good sense of leadership and also cooperation with each other.”
These caucuses are organized learning periods that take place while delegates productively work together for the common good.

Call’s secretary, Ty Ingram, who was appointed as the Nationalists City Party Secretary for the city of Wiehe, had a few things to add about causes. Ingram described the caucus environment as “respectful” as delegates “try to stay quiet.”

For them, the caucus is a highlight of the ALBBS experience. It’s where friendships are formed, ideas are challenged, and leaders begin to build their confidence for the week ahead. As the week progresses, delegates expect decisions to be made in the caucus rooms that will eventually come across every level of ALBBS government, influencing elections, legislation, and party direction.

In short, the caucus is where ALBBS comes alive. It is about more than just politics – it’s about being involved, stepping up as leaders, and discovering how to make a positive impact . Whether one is running for office or supporting the party’s vision, the caucus is the first step in creating policy.

With contributions from Trent Sammons.