Volume 81, Issue 5
Governor Mike DeWine visits BBS
By Jack Treinish III
Each year, the Governor of Ohio visits American Legion Buckeye Boys State. Governor Mike DeWine previously visited as the Ohio Attorney General, but this was his first time as governor. Upon arrival, the Boys State government chanted, “USA!, USA!, USA!” The governor was impressed as he moved into his speech, opening with some information about himself. He then got political and talked about his recent budget project. He highlighted his “wrap-around” budget plan. This plan includes half a billion dollars to be spread throughout the state for early childhood development and education and also to battle the drug crisis. He then talked about his battle with the drug crisis and the drugs coming in from Mexico. He also talked about the schools of Ohio being in danger. He said, “Kids come into Kindergarten and they don’t know as much as the kid next to them.” DeWine said this would be included in his wrap-around budget. He then turned the speech to the delegates for questions. Benny Gentile asked a question about House Bill 6, the decision to eliminate the nuclear power plants of Ohio. Governor DeWine responded and discussed his plan to increase carbon-free power. “Clean energy such as wind and solar account for 4% of Ohio’s energy,” he said. DeWine later stated that nuclear energy from the plants account for 90% of the 4%. He also said it was a difficult decision because of the large amount of natural gas that has been discovered in eastern Ohio. Another compelling question was from Rory Bell, who asked about using an executive order to raise more money for the veterans of Ohio. Governor DeWine said that might not work because, “money often goes through the legislative branch.” He did say that he loves the veterans and is trying to make it easier for veterans to move to Ohio. “Ohio needs leaders,” he said. DeWine talked about a bill that would help nurses who are the spouses of the veterans move their license from one state to Ohio. Hetuck reporters were then able to see
Thursday, June 13th, 2019 Governor DeWine afterwards and ask a few questions. When asked, “What do you want the delegates to take away from the speech today?” he said the following: “First off, they had great questions, they may be the best group I’ve ever had. They will be great leaders.” He also said that politics can be fun, but it is what you make it. Also, he said that you don’t have to be a politician to make a difference, you can do it as a normal citizen. DeWine was also asked, “What advice would you like to give to delegates wishing to hold a job in government?” He responded by recommending to volunteer for a campaign because, “people love free work.” There is no risk if someone volunteers and is able to work for free, but everybody has political influence — politicians or private citizens. This can be as simple as voting and staying informed. When asked about the relationship between the American Legion Buckeye Boys State and the Ohio Government, he said, “The veterans have carried this on for many years.” Sadly, DeWine did not get the chance to go to Boys State, but has still made a great career in government. He thinks Boys State provides people with great opportunities. The final question asked was, “What keeps you coming back to Boys State?” He responded, “I like learning from the young people.” By surrounding himself with young people, he is able to better grasp the issues in the state. Governor DeWine understands the struggles and needs of the younger generation.
Governer Mark DeWine Talking to delegates about the importance of Eduction Photo by A ndrew Fogt