Peltier Roommates Overcome Political Rivalry

After entering Buckeye Boys State as rivals from opposing parties in a contentious mayoral race, roommates Alex Miller and Topher Billups, both members of the city of Peltier, have overcome their early hostility and developed a mutual respect for each other heading into elections.

The two delegates initially found themselves at odds Sunday afternoon when they realized that they came to Boys State trying to attain the same position: mayor. When asked about the tension, Miller stated, “At first, we saw each other just as rivals to beat.”

Billups echoed the same sentiment, stating, “When I first found out that he was running for the position I was gunning for, it put some distance between us.”

Both Miller and Billups went on to discuss the aggressive campaigning they began against each other. This highlights how an already tense campaigning schedule at Boys State can be heightened when you’re competing against and living with the same person. 
Despite the early tension, the rivalry did not last long. As the week progressed, the two delegates found themselves spending more time together outside of campaign activities. Through conversations in their dorm room and on their floor, they began to see each other as more than political opponents. 

“Once we got to know each other, we realized that the election didn’t matter as much in the grand scheme of things,” Miller said about the shift in his relationship with Billups. 
As they spent more time together, the two realized they had far more in common than they initially thought. On this note, Billups said, “We actually had a lot of the same opinions about the changes we wanted for our city.” Their shared ideals highlight how Boys State party lines are often blurred due to delegates undergoing a random placement into either the Federalist or Nationalist party. 

In regards to their current relationship, Miller said, “We’re good friends now.” Billups added to this sentiment, stating, “Even though we had a rough start to our relationship, I think I’ve made a great friend now.”