Seniors in Mrs. Laura O’Rorke’s AP Government class had a special opportunity September 19 to talk to an active member of congress, Conner Lamb.

Last school year Representative Keith Rothfus (who Lamb will be running against in November) also visited Beaver Area, showing how our school district has been great in helping us meet our elected officials.

The class of 2019 were given the chance to ask Representative Lamb questions directly. Seniors Zoltan Nemeth, Sam Baker, Mackenzie Longo, Hannah McGinnis, Seth Smallwood, and Dom Reagan all asked questions ranging from topics like gender issues, to Welfare, legalization, and many more.

“I really liked how he made sure to answer our questions fully and how open he was to taking pictures and talking to us after the group talk was over,” stated Longo.

Not only did Lamb answer questions for about half an hour, but he stuck around in the Little Theater to talk to students and shared information on how to register to vote, encouraging young people to actively participate in the political process.

“It was very informative and special to have a member of Congress visit Beaver Area High School,” said Baker.

It was especially interesting to meet Lamb because he is one of the youngest members in congress at the moment.

“I’m like an eighth grader that they let join the ninth grade early,” joked Lamb about his position with his elected peers in Washington D.C.

Though he is young, Lamb is excited to get to work and would like to see more younger faces in office to rejuvenate Congress so that “we can do what we’re supposed to do,” he stated.

“I think it’s great that in the spring that we got to hear from Congressman Rothfus and [now] Congressman Lamb. Only because of a unique scenario with accusations of gerrymandering and new districts that we had that opportunity. I’m glad that the kids were able to see both sides, and I’m really grateful for those who participated, and I thought the [students’] questions were thoughtful. Both congressmen praised the students for their thoughtful questions and articulate questioning while they visited,” stated Mrs. O’Rorke.

The 2018 midterm election takes place November 6 and will see all 435 seats in the United States House of Representatives and 35 of the 100 seats in the United States Senate contested. If you’re 18 and have yet to register to vote it’s too late for this election—registration deadline was October 9.

But don’t be discouraged: get registered before the next election. You may think your vote is not important, but guess what: it is. So take advantage of the privilege you have to vote and do it.