A 14-year-old freshman from Stowe High School, Dean Roy, is set to appear on Vermont's general election ballot for governor this November, making him the first gubernatorial candidate under 18 in the state's history.
Roy, who served as a legislative page last year, created his own political entity, the Freedom and Unity party, to qualify. Vermont's constitution has no minimum age for gubernatorial candidates, only requiring four years of residency, unlike most states which set age limits often at 30.
Acknowledging the long odds, Roy said he aims to start a movement and encourage youth involvement. He has prioritised housing as the key issue and plans to balance school with governorship through online classes.
Governor Phil Scott, through a spokesperson, commended Roy's engagement but questioned a teenager's readiness for the role. Professor Peter Teachout of Vermont Law and Graduate School noted a constitutional clause defining voter eligibility at 18, but doubted Roy's chances, calling it a provocative but unlikely endeavour.
Roy's former history teacher, James Carpenter, described him as an 'old soul' with genuine intent, blending optimism with pragmatism. Roy remains undeterred, stating he wants to show career politicians that youth have a voice and can disrupt the status quo.
