With all the talk being about Trump and the presidential election, state races have flown under the radar. There is one superstar grabbing headlines at the state level: Aaron Kanzer. The bright Democratic candidate is running against incumbent Brian Mannal in the 2nd Barnstable District (MA).

The 21 year old college student at Northeastern University is scheduled to graduate with degrees in both Economics and Political Science this Spring, all while being a vocal member of the Barnstable Housing Committee. When I asked Mr. Kanzer why he should hold this office, he said “I see myself as the candidate that will work the hardest and hold the most determination and passion for improving the wellbeing of the people of the 2nd Barnstable District. I have grown up here, attended local public schools, and have been raised within a family that has heavily involved themselves in the local community, thus I feel confident that I have the comprehension and understanding to effectively represent the 2nd Barnstable District.”

Aaron stated to me that he was running for office in this district so he can give back to the community in which he was raised. In this era of smear campaigns, Kanzer is running a campaign based off of positivity, innovation, and new ideas. Aaron says “I don’t necessarily strongly disagree with the other candidates and the role that they wish to take if elected; rather, I’m going to offer a different approach as to how I interpret what a state representative should be. It is up to me to convince the voters that my different approach is most appropriate for the current issues and concerns of the 2nd Barnstable District.”

This is clearly an inspired and unique campaign, not only because he is a 21 year old college student, but also because he is a young person returning to Cape Cod, something that rarely occurs. Aaron says that he hopes these qualities are not unique in the future. “Within almost any debate or discourse, it is essential to have as many perspectives from as many backgrounds as possible in order to arrive at the most inclusive solution. It is also important to comprehend the preferences of certain populations, such as those of younger ages, in which public policy may affect. Such debates and discourse must have some sort of involvement from younger populations if they are to be effective and sustainable solutions in the long run,” says Kanzer.

Obviously the issues come first in an election, so I asked Mr. Kanzer: Is there any legislation you would repeal? Suggest? What areas would that be in?

Aaron eloquently stated, “In regards to proposing, suggesting, repealing any legislation – my political agenda will be entirely determined by the people of the 2nd Barnstable District. I want to represent and advocate on behalf of their interests and concerns – not necessarily my own. I certainly hope to further inform the people of the district of the intricacies and complexities of certain issues, so that they can make the most informed opinions as to how they want their state representative to represent them at a state level. We have researched and drafted detailed plans of actions for many of the Cape’s pressing issues, so we can propose feasible, concrete solutions if, and only if, the people of the 2nd Barnstable District express interest in such issues being solved.”

I find it invigorating that a young person gets involved in the political process, and instead of strictly talking, offers solid, tangible solutions. For those who are unfamiliar with Cape Cod, Kanzer states that “Cape Cod is notable for its scenic views and coastal backgrounds. It’s a great place to vacation but also a wonderful place to grow up.” This is a paramount story. Personally, I am a Republican. Kanzer is a democrat. But we both have the same common goal, to improve the lives of our constituents. It is time to put politics aside, put talking aside, and come up with rational solutions; before it is too late. Too often we think of issues as partisan issues, when simply they should be viewed as American issues.

“Politics is too partisan, and sometimes patriotism is cast aside. Patriotism is honor and love of your country and your brothers and sisters. With politics I get the impression that it’s all about what’s good for the party and not necessarily what’s good for the country.”

-Ricardo Montalban