Inside Tuesday’s Debate: Key Takeaways from Delegates, and Candidates

On Tuesday afternoon, delegates at American Legion Buckeye Boys State (ALBBS) gathered in Millett Hall for the annual Meet the Candidates Debate, where Federalist and Nationalist candidates for state office took the stage to present their visions for the week.

Moderated by The Hetuck correspondents Grady Heichel of Dieringer City, Evan Sagle of Peltier City, and Jay Mitnaul of Stockner City, the debate sparked conversation from both audience members and candidates, offering insight into leadership strategies, speaking in the spotlight, and political unity.

Mason Lim of Schuck City, a delegate in the audience, said the debate helped create a clear contrast between the candidates. “How are you going to organize your departments, or who are you going to appoint? What exactly are you going to do?” Lim questioned during the debate.

He emphasized clarity, organization, and empathy as key qualities he looked for, pointing to Nationalist governor candidate Dajeun Dickerson Jr. of Zulch City’s slogan—’Unity within the community’—as being inclusive of everyone at ALBBS and in line with his values.

While the debate was widely praised for its professionalism and preparation, some delegates expressed concerns over the lack of policy differences. Michael Gerthung of Peltier City noted that candidates often had similar messages.

“It just got to a point where I couldn’t tell the difference between each speech. A lot of the rebuttals had the same opening and they all got into the same point that we need to unify,” he said.

Lim agreed, adding, “The two candidates [often] were just agreeing with each other. They didn’t add any more input.”

For several positions, both Federalist and Nationalist candidates used their time to highlight shared values rather than debate differences, which some thought was a good example of unity between parties.

Others, however, saw it as a missed opportunity to draw a line between Federalist and Nationalist party platforms.

One candidate with a unique experience was Secretary of State Candidate Max Wood of Peltier City who ran unopposed after the Federalists did not nominate a candidate. While his victory was guaranteed, Wood still took the stage and used the opportunity to share his goals in his new position.

Drawing on his experience in the Ohio Music Education Association violin competitions and preparation for anticipated questions, Wood said he felt confident and prepared. He looks forward to working with business and elections, as well as learning about the inner workings of state government this week. He says he is excited to connect with the diverse group of ALBBS delegates.

As Tuesday’s elections move past and delegates settle into their roles, the debate remains a pivotal moment in the nurturing of leadership this week. Whether or not the candidates’ answers swayed results at the polls, the stage proved the growth of these delegates after just two days of the program into confident and qualified young leaders.
Regardless of the election results, the debate left a lasting impression on delegates on and off stage, helping to shape their perspectives and prepare them for the responsibilities they’ll take on this week.