Aug 21, 2024 - Politics

Homework is on hold for 18-year-old DNC delegate

Tyler Buchanan

Democratic National Convention delegate Christian Pearson stands near water and a sign reading Ohio." — Christian Pearson, an 18-year-old delegate to the Democratic National Convention, in Chicago this week. Photo: Courtesy of Christian Pearson

Christian Pearson recently began his senior year at Marion Harding High School, but he's spending this week in Chicago as an Ohio delegate to the Democratic National Convention.

Why it matters: The 18-year-old is one of the youngest delegates in the country, representing a generation energized by Vice President Kamala Harris' position at the top of the Democratic ticket.

How it works: Ohio's delegation features over 100 elected officials and supporters from across the state, including Franklin County Commissioner Kevin Boyce and activist Morgan Harper.

Pearson, a self-described lifelong political junkie, saw a social media ad earlier this year seeking DNC attendees and thought it would be a "fun" experience.
Following a successful speech at a local caucus hall, he was approved as a delegate representing the 4th Congressional District, which covers all or parts of 13 counties north of Columbus.

What he's saying: Fellow classmates had an "overwhelmingly negative" view of politics early in the summer, Pearson told Axios in a July interview.

Things changed when President Biden dropped out of the race, a move Pearson described as "a very selfless decision."
An Axios/Generation Lab poll of young voters conducted shortly after Biden's decision found greater support for Harris than Biden.

What's next: Pearson hopes to pursue a career in public policy after graduating high school next spring.

He first needs to make up a week of missed homework — once all the DNC receptions conclude.

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Homework is on hold for 18-year-old DNC delegate

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