Letter To The Editor: Political Leaders As Role Models

Alex Ripper

Dear Pasadena Voice editor,

My name is Alex Ripper and I’m 14 years old. I’m a Scout from Troop 441 in Pasadena, Maryland. I’m currently working on my Communications Merit Badge and one of the requirements is to write a letter to an editor about a topic of interest to me. I knew right away what I wanted to write about. In recent years, it has become obvious to me that many politicians are failing to set a positive example for the young people. The behavior shown by some of our elected officials is embarrassing and concerning, especially because of how influential and powerful their role is in shaping our country’s future.

Young people look up to political leaders as role models. They observe their actions, listen to their words, and sometimes mirror their behavior. Unfortunately, when politicians say unkind and mean things, or behave in a way that is unprofessional, or they make personal attacks on other people, they take away from the values of respect, integrity, and civility that are crucial for young people to see as role models. This negative behavior impacts the opinions of politics on young people.

The current political state, demonstrated by so many public disputes, sends a troubling message to our youth. Instead of showing us how to handle disagreements with grace and respect, some leaders prefer to name-call, be dishonest, and confront others in a negative way if they don’t agree with their opinion. This takes away public trust in our political system but also takes away from the moral expectations that young people look to for guidance.

It is so important that we hold our politicians to higher standards, as their behavior impacts not just the political landscape but also the values instilled in future generations. Leaders should be aware of the influence they have and try harder to show self-accountability, empathy, and have constructive and respectful dialogue with everyone. By doing this, they can help develop a culture of respect and integrity that will benefit our country as a whole.

One politician that I greatly respect and admire is Maryland State Delegate Nick Kipke. Delegate Kipke represents District 31 for Anne Arundel County, Maryland. I was lucky enough to meet him in person and get a tour of the Maryland state capitol. Delegate Kipke has a reputation of being a considerate and caring leader. His priorities have been crime reduction and improved policing, welfare reform, illegal immigration, and the environment and conservation. I wish more politicians followed Delegate Kipke’s example.

Our young people deserve to see leadership that reflects the best of our values. As young people, we should demand a better political environment where respect and ethical behavior are a no-brainer and where politicians are setting a positive example for generations to come.