Lashonae Smith-Tannock (Leader of the Youth Opposition) and Ryan Robinson Perinchief (Youth Premier) of Youth Parliament interviewed their peers on their thoughts for the upcoming election. Here are some of the student’s feelings and hopes for the Government of Bermuda.What are youth thoughts about politics in Bermuda?“I feel that politics are very important and have a great affect over the society. The idea has to be to find ways to both lead and benefit the country.” Jade Robinson“I feel that politics is not put out in the school systems as much as it should be. When it comes time for us to vote, some of our youth are blind and don’t understand the importance and implications of voting.” Jazmyne Kristoff“The current political situation is very tense. There must be some serious changes in Bermuda’s governing. I am not necessarily speaking of a change in parties, but a change in overall ideas.” Brandon SousaWhat thoughts do you have on the upcoming election?“I have no favourite party, I simply hope that whoever is elected into power lives up to what they pledge to accomplish. In my opinion the main focus of mind should be serving Bermuda’s people and doing what is best for the country.” Antoinette Webb“The best team should win, and we should move away from the race discussion and vote for people for their ideas and not their skin colour.” Sierra Botkin“The upcoming elections offer Bermudians the opportunity to take charge of the country and ensure the Bermuda we live in is ours.” Arianna CainesDo you consider yourself well educated on politics in Bermuda? Where have you learnt your knowledge from?“I feel that I am fairly well educated on politics in Bermuda. I have mostly learnt my knowledge from Youth Parliament, newspapers and on line.” Allison Estis“I feel that I am very well educated concerning politics because I keep current and up to date by watching the news and am always conversing with reference to politics.” Kaelyn Castle“I am very much interested in global politics. I have a neutral view on Bermudian politics. I have learnt what I know through general knowledge and am learning to this date.” Torrae Thomas Wainwright“I consider myself well educated on Bermuda’s politics. I have gained my knowledge from Youth Parliament and my mother. I enjoy listening to the 7pm news to hear what is going on in our country.” Aqueelah SimmonsDo you think new voters (age 18) have a good foundation on politics and voting? If so, where do you think they get their information?“Yes they are technologically savvy so they find out what they need to know on line.” Tomas Amaral“No because in Bermuda there are so many things that could be spoken about when it comes to politics, but it seems to me that they are avoided.” Kyle Eve Townsend“Yes. The 18 year olds have learnt from school classes, conversations and news articles.” Nicholas Pell“I feel that not many young adults are really in tune with politics in Bermuda; instead they follow in their parents footsteps instead of forming their own opinions.” Zaire Bean“Personally, I don’t think they have a good foundation on politics and voting. I feel that most 18 year olds are nonchalant and have not put much thought into something as serious as voting and politics.” Aqueelah SimmonsWhat are the key issues you think the politicians will focus on in the upcoming election?“In my opinion they should focus on a sustainable source of income for Bermuda other than insurance or reinsurance industry.” Antoinette Webb“The key issues will be crime, our falling economy and the social divides within Bermuda.” Brandon Sousa“In my opinion issues will include, seniors, healthcare, finance, tourism and education.” Tomas Amaral“I think the main focus should be our economy and how the elected government can improve it.” Kaelyn Castle“I think the key issues politicians will focus on is the financial issue. I want them to commit to their solutions and be honest.” Jade Robinson“I think the issues are conscription, human rights and sexual orientation and improving our economic standing.” Sierra BotkinWhat hopes do you have for the Government that will be elected on December 17?“I hope that the new Government does not set the bar too high and things they say they will do. I want them to focus more on benefitting Bermuda’s economy and putting effort in to the youth.” Aqueelah Simmons“I hope to see the Government feel the need to start change for the better within our community. In my opinion it is impossible to grow as a country, if you do not start with the people.” Zaire Bean“I hope to see changes, positive changes that effect and help the youth to excel.” Tahirah Smith“I hope that we have change in our economy.” Allison Estis“My only hope is that it is not the best for one, it is the best for us all.” Jazmyne Kristoff