Teenager Runs for Governor in Vermont

0:00It's March 27. You're listening to U.S. News Today, AI-powered national coverage. Fourteen-year-old Dean Roy, a freshman at Stowe High School in Vermont, is making history by running for governor. He'll be the first candidate under 18 on the state's General Election Ballot this November. After serving as a legislative page, he formed his own third party called Freedom and Unity to get there. Vermont's Constitution sets no minimum age for governor, only requiring four years of residency. That's rare. Most states demand candidates be at least 30 years old. In fact, Kansas raised this limit to 25 after several teens jumped in back in 2018. Another Vermont eighth grader tried for the Democratic nomination that year, but came in last. Reactions are mixed. Roy's former history teacher praises his earnest drive and blend of optimism with real-world ideas on issues like property taxes and health care. Current Republican governor Phil Scott welcomes young people into politics, but questions

1:02if a teenager has the experience needed to lead. A Vermont law professor points to constitutional language, tying privileges to 18-year-olds, though he agrees Roy qualifies to run. Still, no one predicts a victory for the teen. As November approaches, Roy's bit spotlights how youth can shake up stale leadership and push for fresh voices in state politics.